Description
More Information for the Broadcom 9361-4I PCI-E 4-Ports Card
In the realm of data storage and management, RAID controllers play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and performance of storage systems. One such notable RAID controller is the “Broadcom 9361-4I,” a robust and high-performance controller designed to meet the demands of modern storage environments. This controller boasts key features such as a 1GB cache, SAS 12GBPS, SATA 6GBPS, and
PCI-E connectivity with 4 ports. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of the Broadcom 9361-4I RAID controller, exploring its features, benefits, and applications.
Understanding RAID Controllers
RAID, which stands for Redundant Array of Independent Disks, is a technology that combines multiple disk drives into a logical unit to improve data storage performance, reliability, or a combination of both.
RAID controllers are integral components that manage the data storage process, ensuring efficient utilization of multiple drives.
Key Features of Broadcom 9361-4I RAID Controller
- 1GB Cache: The Broadcom 9361-4I RAID controller is equipped with a substantial 1GB cache. Cache memory enhances the speed of data access by storing frequently used data temporarily. This feature contributes significantly to the overall performance of the storage system, especially in scenarios involving frequent read and write operations.
- SAS 12GBPS: Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) is a high-speed data storage interface designed for enterprise-level storage applications. The Broadcom 9361-4I supports SAS 12GBPS, providing a substantial data transfer rate. This ensures that data can be moved swiftly between the RAID controller and connected storage devices, optimizing performance in demanding environments.
- SATA 6GBPS: Apart from SAS compatibility, the Broadcom 9361-4I RAID controller supports SATA 6GBPS. SATA (Serial ATA) is a widely used interface for connecting storage devices. The 6GBPS data transfer rate ensures that the controller can handle high-throughput data, making it versatile for various storage setups.
- PCI-E 4-Ports: The connectivity of the Broadcom 9361-4I is facilitated through the PCI Express (PCI-E) interface, providing a high-bandwidth connection between the RAID controller and the motherboard. With 4 ports, this RAID controller can accommodate multiple drives, offering flexibility in configuring RAID arrays to suit different storage needs.
Benefits of Using Broadcom 9361-4I RAID Controller
- Improved Data Redundancy: One of the primary advantages of using a RAID controller is the ability to implement data redundancy through RAID levels like RAID 1 or RAID 5. The Broadcom 9361-4I, with its 4 ports and support for various RAID levels, allows users to configure redundant arrays, ensuring data integrity even in the event of drive failures.
- Enhanced Performance: The 1GB cache, SAS 12GBPS, and SATA 6GBPS feature collectively contribute to a substantial boost in overall storage system performance. Whether it’s handling large databases, virtualization workloads, or high-throughput applications, the Broadcom 9361-4I is designed to deliver optimal performance.
- Scalability: The 4 ports provided by the Broadcom 9361-4I allow for scalability in storage configurations. Users can connect multiple drives and scale their storage capacity based on evolving needs. This scalability is particularly beneficial in enterprise environments where data storage requirements tend to grow over time.
- Data Security and Integrity: In addition to performance benefits, the Broadcom 9361-4I prioritizes data security and integrity. RAID configurations such as RAID 1 mirror data across drives, providing a level of fault tolerance. This is crucial for preventing data loss in the event of drive failures, contributing to a more reliable storage infrastructure.
Applications of Broadcom 9361-4I RAID Controller
- Enterprise Storage Solutions: The Broadcom 9361-4I is well-suited for enterprise-level storage solutions where performance, scalability, and data integrity are paramount. Its compatibility with SAS and SATA interfaces makes it versatile for various storage environments, including servers and data centers.
- Virtualization Environments: Virtualized environments, where multiple virtual machines share a common physical infrastructure, often demand high-performance storage solutions. The Broadcom 9361-4I’s robust features make it a suitable choice for handling the storage requirements of virtualized environments efficiently.
- High-Throughput Applications: Applications that require rapid data access and transfer, such as video editing or high-performance computing, can benefit from the Broadcom 9361-4I RAID controller. Its 1GB cache and high-speed interfaces ensure that data can be processed and transferred swiftly, meeting the demands of these resource-intensive applications.
- Small to Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs): The Broadcom 9361-4I is also relevant for small to medium-sized businesses looking for a reliable and cost-effective storage solution. Its scalability allows businesses to start with a smaller storage configuration and expand as their data storage needs grow.
High Reliability
The Broadcom 9361-4I is a storage controller that is designed to provide high reliability.
One of the key features that contributes to the reliability of the controller is its support for RAID levels. The controller supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, and 60, which allows multiple hard drives to be combined into a single logical unit and provides data redundancy and improved performance. This can help protect data in the event of a drive failure or other hardware failure.
Additionally, the controller supports advanced features such as Self-Encrypting Drive (SED) and Secure Erase, which can help protect data from unauthorized access and ensure that data is securely erased when a drive is retired or replaced.
The controller also supports SAS-3, which can help ensure that data is transmitted reliably and with low latency. The controller also includes 1 GB of cache memory, which can be used to accelerate read and write operations, this cache memory is battery-backed and thus it can flush the data in the event of a power failure.
It’s important to note that the actual reliability of the controller will depend on the specific configuration of the server or workstation it is installed in, as well as the type and capacity of the storage devices it is connected to. Additionally, the reliability of the controller will be affected by the specific workloads running on the server or workstation and the performance requirements of the applications.
Scalability
The scalability of the Broadcom 9361-4I storage controller depends on a few factors, including the specific configuration of the server or workstation it is installed in, as well as the type and capacity of the storage devices it is connected to.
In terms of the controller itself, it features four internal SAS/SATA ports, which allow for connecting multiple storage devices. It also supports data transfer rates of up to 12 Gbps SAS and 6 Gbps SATA, which makes it compatible with a wide range of SAS and SATA hard drives and solid-state drives. The controller also includes 1 GB of cache memory, which can be used to accelerate read and write operations.
The scalability of the overall storage system is more complex and it depends on the storage array and the storage architecture. The Broadcom supports RAID levels which allows multiple hard drives to be combined into a single logical unit and provides data redundancy and improved performance. This allows for adding more drives to increase storage capacity.
The Broadcom storage controller is scalable in the sense that it allows connecting multiple storage devices and supports RAID levels, allowing for adding more drives to increase storage capacity. However, to ensure scalability on the overall storage system, it should be used in conjunction with a scalable storage array and architecture.
General Compatibility
The Broadcom 9361-4I storage controller is designed to be compatible with a wide range of servers and workstations. It is based on the PCI-E 4.0 interface and features four internal SAS/SATA ports, which allow for connecting multiple storage devices. It also supports data transfer rates of up to 12 Gbps SAS and 6 Gbps SATA, which makes it compatible with a wide range of SAS and SATA hard drives and solid-state drives.
In terms of operating system compatibility, the controller supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and VMware. This allows it to be used in a variety of different environments, including enterprise data centers, cloud deployments, and other high-performance computing applications.
The controller also supports advanced features such as SAS-3 and Self-Encrypting Drive (SED), which can be used with compatible storage devices to provide enhanced data security and reliability. It also has a wide range of RAID support, which allows it to be used in various RAID configurations, offering data protection and improved performance.
It’s important to note that while Broadcom is designed to be compatible with a wide range of servers and workstations, the specific compatibility will depend on the hardware and firmware of the host system, as well as the operating system and any other software that is running on the system. It’s recommended to check the manufacturer’s documentation for specific compatibility information and to consult with the manufacturer or a qualified IT professional to ensure compatibility before installing the controller.
General Information about this Broadcom 9361-4I
- Manufacturer: Broadcom
- Part Number or SKU# 9361-4I
- Product Name: Controller
- Product Type: SAS-SATA
Technical Information of PCI-E Controller Card
- Raid-On-Chip Controller: LSISAS3108 Dual Core Raid On-Chip (RoC)
- Cache Protection: Optional Cachevault Flash Module (LSICVM02)
- Physical Dimensions: 6.6 x 2.536 inches (Low-Profile)
- Host Bus Type: X8 Lane PCI Express® 3.0
- Cache Memory: 1GB 1866MHz DDR3 SDRAM
- Internal Ports: 4
- Data Transfer Rates: Up to 12GB/s per port
- Devices Supported: Up to 128 SAS and/or SATA Hard Drives and SSDs
- Internal Connectors: 1 HD Mini-SAS SFF8643 (Horizontal Mount)
- MTBF: >1,343,187 Hours
- Operating Temperature: Maximum Ambient – Controller Card: 55°C; With Optional Cachevault Accessory (LSICVM02): 55°C
- Operating Voltage: +3.3V, +12V
Finally, the Broadcom 9361-4I RAID controller stands as a formidable solution for storage management, catering to the diverse needs of modern computing environments. Its robust features, including a 1GB cache, SAS 12GBPS, SATA 6GBPS, and 4 ports, make it a versatile choice for applications ranging from enterprise storage solutions to virtualized environments. By understanding its key features, benefits, applications, and proper installation and maintenance procedures, users can harness the full potential of the Broadcom 9361-4I RAID controller to optimize their storage infrastructure. As technology continues to advance, RAID controllers like the Broadcom 9361-4I remain integral components, ensuring the efficient and reliable storage of valuable data in today’s dynamic computing landscape.
