External RAID drive sleeps unpredictably on macOS
The storage setup is split into three parts: a fast SSD for current photo work, a RAID 0 external for older photos that are still opened sometimes, and a NAS that backs up both. The problem is a LaCie 2big Dock RAID external bought around 2018 or 2019. It spins down and spins back up on its own, even when macOS sleep settings say otherwise.
The desired behavior is simple: stop spinning when idle, and keep spinning while apps like Photoshop or Capture One are using it. Instead, the drive can go to sleep during active work, leaving the Mac stuck waiting until the drive wakes up again. It also randomly starts and stops while the Mac itself is asleep.
Firmware updates, driver updates, and hidden macOS sleep settings have already been searched, and many people appear unable to make this model behave in the preferred way. The real need is not a fix for the current LaCie unit, but a fast USB or RAID 0 setup whose sleep behavior is predictable on a Mac.
Key points
- The setup uses a work SSD, a RAID 0 external for older photos, and a NAS for backup.
- The LaCie 2big Dock RAID spins down and back up outside normal macOS sleep control.
- The drive can sleep while Photoshop or Capture One is still in use, causing waiting and freezes.
- The drive also starts and stops while the Mac is asleep.
- The desired re needs fast USB or plus predictable drive sleep behavior.