Cache batteries on Sun 25xx arrays

I have a number of the old Sun 2530 disk arrays, and a batch that we bought 3 years ago have started to come up with the fault LED lit.

These arrays have cache batteries, and the batteries need replacing sometimes to ensure they're operating correctly. Originally, this was a simple 3 year timer. After 3 years, a timer expires and it generates a fault to let you know it's time to put in new batteries.

Current Oracle policy is different: rather than relying on a dumb timer and replacing batteries as a precaution, the systems are actually capable of monitoring the health of the batteries (they have built in SMART technology). As a result, they will only send out new batteries if there's actual evidence of a fault.

This is actually good, as it means we don't have to take unnecessary downtime to replace the batteries. (And it eliminates the risk of the battery replacement procedure accidentally causing more problems.)

Now, the management software version we have (6.xx) doesn't report the SMART status (but will report if a real failure occurs). So you can't see predictive failure, but if CAM just says "near expiration" then it's just the precautionary timer.

So, the solution is to check and reset the timer.

Go to CAM. (The exact location of the relevant menu item may vary depending on which version of CAM you've got, so you may have to go looking.)

Expand the Storage Systems tree

Select the array you want to fix

Click on service advisor

In the new window that pops up, verify that it's actually picked up the correct array. The name should be at the top of the expanded tree in the left-hand panel.

Under Array Troubleshooting and recovery, expand the Resetting the Controller Battery Age item.

Click on each battery in turn and follow the instructions.

This also applies to the 6x80 arrays as well, as I understand it, but I don't have any of those.

If you search for "2500 battery" on My Oracle Support, you'll find all this documented.