Question : Problem: Array Disk 0:2 is offline Need assistance with Hard Drive Swap and Dell Open Manage Array Manager

I have a server that is out of warranty and Dell will not help.  I have three Disks and one is bad. I have a replacement but want to make sure I proceed without doing irreparable damage. I need some help in walking me through the process of doing a swap.  I've never had to do this before and our business partner that managed this server is no longer with us.  We forgot to extend the warranty as a result and Dell is not helping us.  

ARRAY DISK: 0:2 is offline.  

EVENT ID: 510
SOURCE Perc2PRO

1. We have three disks and I'm not sure what RAID LEVEL we are at.  How can I verify?
2. Is it safe to re-boot the server? I'm not sure if there is a specific disk that will not allow you to re-boot the server if it goes bad.  I was considering imaging the server before I attempt to replace the hard drive but the software will require a re-boot.  

Please help!

Answer : Problem: Array Disk 0:2 is offline Need assistance with Hard Drive Swap and Dell Open Manage Array Manager

If the disks are hotswap, which they should be on a PE2500, this is an easy process. Pull the failed drive with the system hot, insert the replacement drive, a rebuild should kick off automatically. If it does not, you can force a rebuild by right clicking the drive in Array Manager and choosing "Rebuild".

And yes, you can reboot if you need to. The only risk at this point is if you have a 2nd drive failure.

As for Dell support, they should and will help you if you call. If they deny you assistance, demand you speak to their manager. Dell's policy on out of warranty enterprise systems is "best effort", warranty status does not affect phone based technical support. They just can't ship you replacement parts on their buck. As for extending the warranty, at the maximum possible extension of 5 years past purchase date this system would almost certainly still be out of warranty.