Hi, The upcoming Linux kernel 2.4 will include a mechanism for character based disk i/o. Although my favourite DBMS does not yet include support for raw devices under Linux, it is at least announced. My question is: Is Linux software RAID compatible with character based disk i/o? Can I use an md device as a raw device (not creating a filesystem on it)? Or will I have to buy one of those ultra-expensive RAID controllers? Thanks. -- Christoph Terhechte <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> "Toto? - I have a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore."