There are different ways to setup/configure backup applications to work with Direct Attached Drobos such as the Drobo Mini, 5D and the new Drobo 3rd Generation. This KB will attempt to guide you through the features supported by your Drobo.
Drobo 3rd Generatiion, Drobo 5D and Drobo Mini
The new Drobo 3rd Generation introduced a special volume that can be created after the user has initialized the Drobo for the first time, named the Time Machine/Backup Volume. In order for this feature to be available on the Drobo 5D and Drobo Mini, firmware 3.1.1 and Drobo Dashboard 2.6.2 must be installed.
This volume allows users to dedicate such new space to better work with backup applications such as OS X Time Machine or Microsoft Windows Backup and Restore. Below is a list of benefits introduced with the new Backup Volume
Please note that Drobo Dashboard 2.6.2 or newer is required. Be sure to read the release notes and to stay up to date with the latest Drobo Dashboard software by visiting the Drobo Downloads page.
Drobo and DroboS (1st and 2nd Generations)
If you have an older Drobo, such as the Drobo and Drobo S (1st and 2nd Generations), and you want to use Time Machine on Mac OS X Lion and above, follow the steps below.
Warning! Reformatting a Drobo device with Drobo Dashboard erases all data. Be sure you either save your data to another location before following this procedure or that you perform this procedure on empty drives. (This applies even if you are adding additional drives to your Drobo device; there should be no data on the Drobo device.)
Important Notes!
Note(s):
Warning! Reformatting a Drobo device with Drobo Dashboard erases all data. Be sure you either save your data to another location before following this procedure or that you perform this procedure on empty drives. (This applies even if you are adding additional drives to your Drobo device; there should be no data on the Drobo device.)
Please ensure that your Drobo is using the latest Dashboard and firmware
Using a sparse file bundle to setup Time Machine disables the abitility to "Enter Time Machine." This feature enables you to browse the backups within OS X.
To read and apply the actual how-to document, CLICK HERE
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The information contained herein is subject to change without notice.
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