System and method for optically coupling component service interfaces

摘要

A computer hard disk drive for a use in a redundant array of independent disk drives (RAID) is mounted in a drive carrier for insertion into a drawer in a storage subsystem. The drive carrier has a conventional drive connector on one end for interfacing with the host computer, and an aesthetic bezel on an opposite end. The disk drive has an external optical source and sensor extending from the drive circuit card. The optical source and sensor are located adjacent to the bezel. The bezel is provided with an small optical service interface hole that aligns with the optical source and sensor for accessing them therethrough. The interface hole allows a technician to monitor the drive via the optical source and sensor while the drive is in operation, or to service the drive without removing it from the subsystem drawer.