Description
Product Overview for the HPE 836260-002 PCI Express Controller
In the fast-paced world of information technology, storage solutions play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of data-intensive applications. One such critical component is the 836260-002 HPE Smart Array P408i-A PCI Express 3.0 x8 SAS Modular Controller. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of this controller, exploring its features, benefits, and how it contributes to an efficient and reliable storage infrastructure.
Understanding the Basics
The 836260-002 HPE Smart Array P408i-A is a PCI Express 3.0 x8 SAS (Serial Attached SCSI) Modular Controller designed by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE). Let’s break down its key components to gain a better understanding of its capabilities.
- PCI Express 3.0 x8 Interface: The “PCI Express 3.0 x8” specification denotes the controller’s interface, which determines how it connects to the server’s motherboard. The “PCI Express 3.0” signifies the third generation of the PCI Express standard, offering increased data transfer rates compared to its predecessors. The “x8” indicates the number of data lanes, with eight lanes providing ample bandwidth for high-speed communication between the controller and other system components.
- SAS Technology: “SAS” stands for Serial Attached SCSI, a technology that enables the connection and communication between storage devices and the controller. SAS provides advantages such as high data transfer rates, scalability, and improved reliability compared to its predecessor, Parallel SCSI.
- Modular Controller: The term “Modular Controller” suggests that the 836260-002 is designed with modularity in mind. This feature allows for flexibility in configuring and expanding storage solutions based on specific business needs. It can be part of a modular storage system, providing seamless integration with other components.
Features and Specifications
Now that we have a foundational understanding, let’s explore the detailed features and specifications that make the 836260-002 HPE Smart Array P408i-A a standout choice for storage infrastructure.
- RAID Support: The controller supports RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configurations, allowing users to optimize storage performance, reliability, and capacity. RAID levels such as 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, and 60 are often supported, providing a range of options for different use cases.
- Data Transfer Rates: With its PCI Express 3.0 x8 interface, the controller offers high data transfer rates. This is crucial for applications that demand quick access to large volumes of data, such as databases, virtualization, and high-performance computing.
- Cache Memory: The presence of cache memory enhances the controller’s performance by temporarily storing frequently accessed data. This minimizes latency and optimizes data throughput. The 836260-002 may feature a specific amount of cache memory, contributing to its efficiency in handling data-intensive workloads.
- SAS Connectivity: Equipped with SAS technology, the controller provides reliable and high-speed connectivity to SAS hard drives and other compatible storage devices. This ensures seamless data flow and minimizes bottlenecks in the storage subsystem.
- Scalability: Modularity and scalability go hand in hand. The 836260-002 allows for easy scalability, making it suitable for businesses with evolving storage requirements. Whether an organization needs to expand its storage capacity or enhance performance, the modular design of this controller facilitates such adjustments.
Benefits of Using the 836260-002 HPE Smart Array P408i-A
Now that we’ve explored its features, let’s delve into the tangible benefits that users can expect from implementing the 836260-002 HPE Smart Array P408i-A in their storage infrastructure.
- Improved Performance: The combination of PCI Express 3.0 x8, cache memory, and SAS connectivity translates to improved storage performance. Applications that rely on quick data access and transfer, such as databases and virtualization environments, can benefit significantly from the enhanced performance offered by this controller.
- Enhanced Data Protection: RAID support is a key feature that contributes to enhanced data protection. By implementing RAID configurations, users can safeguard their data against disk failures, ensuring business continuity and minimizing the risk of data loss.
- Flexibility in Configuration: The modular nature of the 836260-002 allows for flexible storage configurations. IT administrators can tailor the storage infrastructure to meet specific business needs, whether prioritizing performance, capacity, or a balance between the two.
- Seamless Integration: Designed by Hewlett Packard Enterprise, the controller seamlessly integrates with HPE servers and storage solutions. This integration simplifies deployment and management tasks, providing a cohesive and efficient storage environment.
- Future-Proof Scalability: As businesses evolve, so do their storage requirements. The 836260-002’s modular design ensures that organizations can scale their storage infrastructure to accommodate future growth. This future-proof scalability is a crucial aspect for businesses looking to invest in long-term, sustainable storage solutions.
Applications
- Enterprise Servers: The HPE Smart Array P408i-A controller is designed for enterprise-level servers where high-performance storage and data protection are essential. It finds applications in data centers and business-critical environments.
- Cloud Computing: In cloud computing environments, where rapid data access and reliability are paramount, the P408i-A controller proves to be a valuable component. Its modular design and advanced features make it well-suited for cloud infrastructure.
- Big Data and Analytics: The controller’s high data transfer rate and RAID support make it suitable for big data and analytics applications. It ensures efficient storage and retrieval of large datasets, supporting data-driven decision-making processes.
- Virtualization: Virtualized environments benefit from the P408i-A controller’s performance optimization and flexibility. It supports the storage needs of virtual machines, contributing to the overall efficiency of virtualized infrastructures.
General Information about this HPE 836260-002
- Manufacturer: HPE
- Part Number or SKU# 836260-002
- Product Type: SAS Controller
- Product Name: Controller
Technical Specifications
- Device Type: Storage Controller (RAID) – Plug-in Card
- Host Bus: PCI Express 3.0 x8 Lane Width
- Data Transfer Rate: 12Gb/s SAS per lane; 6Gb/s SATA per lane; PCI Express 3.0 x8 lane width
- Interface: SATA 6Gb/s / SAS 12Gb/s
- Form Factor: Type-a Modular Controller
- Ports (Internal): 8 SAS lanes across 2 x4 Mini-SAS ports
- Cache (Buffer): 2 GB Flash-Backed Write Cache
- Supported Devices: Hard Drive, Disk Array (RAID)
- Servers Supported: HPE ProLiant DL360 Gen10; HPE ProLiant DL380 Gen10; HPE ProLiant ML350 Gen10; HPE ProLiant XL450 Gen10
- Additional Features: HPE Smart Array SR Secure Encryption (optional license); HPE Smart Array SR SmartCache (optional license)
- Certifications: FIPS 140-2 Level 1 Implementation Under Test with expected validation in 2018
- Channel Qty: 8
- SATA Speed: 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, 60, 1 ADM, 10 ADM
- RAID Level: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, RAID 50, RAID 60, RAID 1 ADM, RAID 10 ADM
- Maximum LUNs: 64
Expansion & Connectivity
- Interfaces: 2 x SATA 6Gb/s / SAS 12Gb/s (internal)
Miscellaneous
- Compliant Standards: FIPS 140-2 Level 1
Software / System Requirements
- OS Required: Microsoft Windows Server, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, CentOS, Oracle Solaris, Citrix XenServer, Oracle Linux, ClearOS, VMware vSphere (ESXi), Microsoft Windows Hyper-V Server
Compatibility Information
- Designed for HPE ProLiant DL Series: DL360 Gen10, DL360 Gen10 Base, DL360 Gen10 Entry, DL360 Gen10 High Performance, DL360 Gen10 Low, DL360 Gen10 Performance, DL380 Gen10, DL380 Gen10 Base, DL380 Gen10 Entry, DL380 Gen10 High Performance, DL380 Gen10 Performance Servers
- Designed for HPE ProLiant XL Series: XL450 Gen10 Server
Outline, the 836260-002 HPE Smart Array P408i-A PCI Express 3.0 x8 SAS Modular Controller stands as a robust solution for organizations seeking efficient, scalable, and high-performance storage solutions. With its RAID support, modular design, and seamless integration with HPE infrastructure, this controller addresses the evolving needs of modern businesses.
As technology continues to advance, storage solutions like the 836260-002 play a vital role in supporting the growing demands of data-centric applications. By understanding its features, benefits, and deployment considerations, organizations can make informed decisions to optimize their storage infrastructure and contribute to the overall success of their IT operations.