HPE Smart Array E208i-p SR Gen10 (8 Internal Lanes/No Cache) 12G SAS PCIe Plug-in Controller

Overview

The HPE 804394-B21 is a Smart Array controller designed to optimize internal storage management in HPE Gen10 servers. It provides eight internal SAS lanes with transfer speeds up to 12 Gb/s for SAS drives and 6 Gb/s for SATA drives, enabling fast and flexible data handling. This controller supports multiple RAID levels and offers simultaneous RAID and HBA modes, making it a versatile solution for various storage needs without onboard cache complexity.

Key features

• Eight internal SAS lanes through two Mini-SAS connectors for flexible drive configurations
• Support for RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 to balance performance and data protection
• PCIe 3.0 x8 interface ensures high-speed connectivity with the server
• Simultaneous RAID and HBA modes allow mixed storage environments
• Optional encryption license provides data-at-rest security when needed
• Standard PCIe plug-in card design simplifies installation and integration
• Compatible with multiple server operating systems including VMware and Windows Server

Key specs

• Interface: PCIe 3.0 x8
• SAS transfer rate: up to 12 Gb/s
• SATA transfer rate: up to 6 Gb/s
• Number of internal lanes: 8
• RAID levels supported: 0, 1, 5, 10
• Cache: none (no onboard cache)
• Connector type: 2 Mini-SAS
• Compatible servers: HPE ProLiant Gen10

Connectivity and compatibility

This controller connects via a PCIe 3.0 x8 slot, providing ample bandwidth for demanding storage tasks. It supports both SAS and SATA drives, allowing you to mix and match storage types within your server. The dual Mini-SAS connectors facilitate straightforward cabling to internal drives. Compatibility with major server operating systems such as VMware and Windows Server ensures it fits well into diverse IT infrastructures.

Ideal uses and environments

The HPE 804394-B21 is well suited for IT professionals managing HPE ProLiant Gen10 servers who require reliable and efficient internal storage control without the complexity of onboard cache. It works well in data centers and enterprise environments where flexible RAID configurations and fast data transfer are essential. The optional encryption feature makes it a strong choice for setups where data security is a priority.