Description
More Information ON THE HPE 726736-B21
In the dynamic world of information technology, storage controllers play a crucial role in managing and optimizing data storage. One such notable storage controller is the HPE 726736-B21 P440, known for its advanced features and capabilities. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the HPE 726736-B21 P440 Smart Array RAID Storage Controller, breaking down its key components and functionalities in simple English.
Smart Array RAID Technology
The term “Smart Array” refers to the intelligent RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) technology employed by the HPE 726736-B21 P440. RAID is a method of combining multiple disk drives into a single logical unit to improve performance, data integrity, or both. The Smart Array technology enhances this concept by intelligently managing the array for optimal performance and fault tolerance.
Overview of the HPE 726736-B21 P440
The HPE 726736-B21 P440 is a storage controller designed to enhance data storage performance and reliability. Let’s delve into its various components and understand how they contribute to its overall functionality.
Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe)-3.0 x8 Interface
The HPE 726736-B21 P440 utilizes the PCIe-3.0 x8 interface, which represents the third generation of the Peripheral Component Interconnect Express standard. This interface ensures high-speed communication between the storage controller and the server, enabling efficient data transfer.
Serial-Attached SCSI (SAS) and Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) Support
This storage controller supports both SAS and SATA, two widely used storage technologies. SAS is known for its high-performance capabilities, making it suitable for enterprise environments. SATA, on the other hand, is more cost-effective and is commonly used in a variety of applications. The flexibility to support both technologies makes the HPE 726736-B21 P440 versatile and adaptable to different storage needs.
Flash-Backed Write Cache (FBWC)
The inclusion of a Flash-Backed Write Cache is a significant feature that enhances the reliability of the storage controller. FBWC is a type of cache memory that uses flash technology to store data temporarily in the event of a power failure. This ensures that critical data being written to the storage array is not lost, contributing to data integrity and system stability.
Detailed Examination of Key Features
Now that we’ve covered the basic components, let’s take a closer look at some of the key features that set the HPE 726736-B21 P440 apart in the world of storage controllers.
Performance Optimization with PCIe-3.0 x8 Interface
The PCIe-3.0 x8 interface plays a crucial role in optimizing the performance of the storage controller. The third generation of PCIe offers higher data transfer rates compared to its predecessors, ensuring that the controller can handle large volumes of data with minimal latency. This is particularly important in environments where high-speed data processing is essential, such as in data centers and enterprise servers.
Versatility in Storage Options with SAS and SATA Support
The ability to support both SAS and SATA technologies makes the HPE 726736-B21 P440 a versatile solution for various storage requirements. SAS, with its dual-port architecture and robust performance, is ideal for mission-critical applications that demand high reliability and speed. On the other hand, SATA provides a cost-effective solution for less demanding storage needs, making the controller suitable for a wide range of use cases.
Enhanced Data Integrity with Flash-Backed Write Cache (FBWC)
Data integrity is a critical aspect of storage management, and the FBWC feature in the HPE 726736-B21 P440 contributes significantly to this aspect. In the event of a power failure or unexpected shutdown, the Flash-Backed Write Cache ensures that data in the process of being written to the storage array is preserved. This feature adds an extra layer of protection to prevent data loss and maintain the reliability of the storage system.
Intelligent RAID Management with Smart Array Technology
The Smart Array RAID technology embedded in the HPE 726736-B21 P440 sets it apart as an intelligent and efficient storage solution. RAID configurations are essential for organizations seeking to balance performance, redundancy, and capacity in their storage infrastructure. The Smart Array technology goes beyond traditional RAID setups by dynamically optimizing the array based on usage patterns, ensuring that the storage system adapts to changing workloads for optimal efficiency.
Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios
Understanding the features of the HPE 726736-B21 P440 is crucial, but knowing how to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios is equally important. Let’s explore some common use cases and deployment scenarios where this storage controller excels.
Data Centers and Enterprise Servers
In the fast-paced environment of data centers and enterprise servers, performance and reliability are paramount. The HPE 726736-B21 P440, with its PCIe-3.0 x8 interface and support for both SAS and SATA, is well-suited for these environments. It can handle the high data transfer rates required for demanding applications while providing the flexibility to accommodate various storage needs.
Mission-Critical Applications
Applications that are mission-critical, such as databases and virtualization platforms, demand storage solutions that prioritize data integrity and performance. The dual-port architecture of SAS and the Flash-Backed Write Cache feature make the HPE 726736-B21 P440 an excellent choice for such applications, ensuring that data is both secure and accessible in high-stakes scenarios.
Mixed Workload Environments
In environments with a mix of workloads, ranging from high-performance tasks to more routine operations, the Smart Array technology in the HPE 726736-B21 P440 shines. Its ability to dynamically optimize RAID configurations based on workload patterns ensures that resources are allocated efficiently, delivering a balanced performance across different tasks.
Scalability and Future-Proofing
As organizations grow and their storage needs evolve, scalability becomes a crucial consideration. The HPE 726736-B21 P440 is designed with scalability in mind, allowing organizations to expand their storage infrastructure seamlessly. The PCIe-3.0 x8 interface provides a future-proof solution, ensuring compatibility with upcoming technologies and standards.
Features and Benefits
- The 726736-B21 HPE P440 2GB 2Port 26 Channel PCI-E 3.0 x8 SAS SATA FBWC Smart Array RAID Storage Controller is a high-performance and reliable option for enterprise-class storage systems.
- Some of the key features of this controller include:
- 2GB of DDR3 cache memory: This provides improved performance and data protection in the event of a disk failure.
- 2 SAS and 2 SATA ports: These ports support data transfer rates of up to 12GBPS, allowing for fast data transfer speeds.
- 26-channel architecture: This allows for high-speed data transfer and increased storage capacity.
- Flash-backed write cache (FBWC): This feature improves write performance and data protection by caching data in non-volatile memory.
- RAID support: The controller supports RAID levels 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, and 60, allowing for a variety of configuration options to meet the needs of different applications.
- PCI-E 3.0 x8 interface: This provides high-speed data transfer and improved performance.
- Some of the benefits of this controller include:
- Improved performance: The 2GB of cache memory and 26-channel architecture provide fast data transfer speeds and increased storage capacity.
- Reliability: The FBWC feature improves data protection and write performance, reducing the risk of data loss in the event of a disk failure.
- Flexibility: The controller supports a wide range of RAID levels and SAS and SATA hard drives, allowing for flexibility in terms of storage options.
- Scalability: The controller supports up to 256 SAS or SATA hard drives, allowing for large-scale storage systems with high capacity and performance.
Performance and Scalability
- The 726736-B21 HPE P440 2GB 2Port 26 Channel PCIE 3.0 x8 SAS SATA FBWC Smart Array RAID Storage Controller is a high-performance and scalable option for enterprise-class storage systems. The controller features 2 SAS ports and supports RAID levels 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, and 60, allowing for a variety of configuration options to meet the needs of different applications.
- The controller also features an onboard 2GB DDR3 cache memory, which provides improved performance and data protection in the event of a disk failure. The controller supports SAS and SATA hard drives, and solid-state drives (SSD) with 12GBPS data transfer rates, allowing for fast data transfer speeds.
- The controller also offers advanced RAID features such as RAID-level migration, online RAID-level migration, and global hot spare, to improve data availability and reduce downtime. It also supports Flash Backed Write Cache (FBWC) which enhances the write performance by caching the write data in the flash memory.
- In terms of scalability, the 726736-B21 supports up to 256 SAS or SATA hard drives, allowing for large-scale storage systems with high capacity and performance. Additionally, the controller supports multiple RAID arrays and virtual drives, enabling the creation of multiple logical drives within a single physical drive.
General Information about this HPE P15848-001
- Manufacturer: HPE
- Model Number or SKU# 726736-B21
- Product Type: Smart Array 12GBPS
- Product Name: Controller
Technical Details 726736-B21
- Interface Type: SATA 6Gbps / SAS 12Gbps
- Buffer Size: 2 GB
- Channel Qty: 26
- Data Transfer Rate: 1.2 Gbps
- Supported Devices: Disk array (RAID)
- Transfer Rate: 12Gb/s SAS per physical link; 6Gb/s SATA per physical link; PCI Express Gen3 x8 link width
- Ports (Internal): 8 physical links across 2 x4 ports
- Cache: 2GB Flash-backed write cache
- RAID levels: 0, 1, 10, 5, 50, 6, 60, 10 ADM
Outline, the HPE 726736-B21 P440 Smart Array RAID Storage Controller is a powerful and versatile solution for organizations seeking to optimize their data storage infrastructure. From its high-speed PCIe-3.0 x8 interface to the intelligent Smart Array RAID technology, each component contributes to the controller’s overall performance and reliability.
By understanding the features and functionalities of the HPE 726736-B21 P440 in simple English, organizations can make informed decisions regarding its deployment. Whether in data centers, enterprise servers, or mixed workload environments, this storage controller offers a robust solution that can adapt to evolving storage needs.
Through proper installation, configuration, and ongoing optimization, organizations can unlock the full potential of the HPE 726736-B21 P440, ensuring a secure, efficient, and scalable storage solution for their critical data. As technology continues to advance, storage controllers like the HPE 726736-B21 P440 play a vital role in shaping the future of data storage and management.
