logistics of creating new raid array

[J-Will]

I have two 1tb WD green drives, right now it is possible to combine the data on to one of the drives.

Is it possible for me to buy two more 1tb WD Green drives, create a Raid 1+0 array (with the new drives), transfer all the data from the filled drive(s) to the new array, and expand the array with the two current drives?

This seems like it would be an easy, cost effective solution to fit my needs. I was also looking at this controller card: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16816115026 I know it is not a true hardware based solution, but again cost effective.

 

[BENN0]

With the two new drives + one existing empty drive you could set up a 3 drive RAID5 array. Move all your data to the array and expand the 3 drive array to a 4 drive array.
Or would you like to have all 4 drives in a RAID1+0 eventually? Not sure if that is possible. It will also depend on the capabilities of your RAID controller.

 

[J-Will]

I think for my situation, a RAID 1+0 array is the best fit. I want redundency, but this also gives a performance increase to an already 'slow' model of drives. Plus I am worried about a two drive failure. However, if it is easier to expand a RAID 5 array, then this may be the route to take.