HPE 800GB SAS-12Gbps SSD: Powering Write-Intensive Workloads for ProLiant Gen8/Gen9 Servers

Introduction to the HPE 800GB SAS-12Gbps SSD

The HPE 800GB 2.5-inch Small Form Factor (SFF) SAS-12Gbps Smart Carrier (SC) Write Intensive (WI) Solid State Drive (SSD) is a high-performance storage solution designed for HPE ProLiant Gen8 and Gen9 servers. Engineered to handle demanding write-intensive workloads, this SSD combines speed, reliability, and advanced features to meet the needs of enterprise environments. This article provides a comprehensive overview of its specifications, features, compatibility, benefits, and ideal use cases, offering valuable insights for IT professionals and decision-makers.

Purpose and Scope

This article aims to detail the technical specifications, performance metrics, and practical applications of the HPE 800GB SAS-12Gbps SSD, focusing on its role in enhancing server performance for write-intensive tasks. It covers compatibility with ProLiant Gen8 and Gen9 servers, deployment considerations, and the drive’s value proposition for enterprise data centers.

Technical Specifications

The HPE 800GB SSD is built to deliver robust performance and endurance. Below are its key technical specifications, which highlight its suitability for enterprise-grade applications.

Hardware Specifications

Device Type: Solid State Drive - Hot-Swap

Capacity: 800 GB

Form Factor: 2.5-inch Small Form Factor (SFF)

Interface: SAS-12Gbps (Serial Attached SCSI, 12 Gb/s)

NAND Flash Memory Type: Multi-Level Cell (MLC)

Plug Type: Hot-Pluggable

Carrier Type: HPE Smart Carrier (SC)

Height: 15 mm (0.6 inches)

Bytes per Sector: 512

Performance Metrics

Drive Writes Per Day (DWPD): 25.0

Drive Transfer Rate: 12 Gb/s (external)

Maximum Sequential Read Throughput: 1000 MiB/s

Maximum Sequential Write Throughput: 580 MiB/s

Random Read IOPS (4KiB, Q=16): 92,000

Random Write IOPS (4KiB, Q=16): 82,000

Maximum Random Read IOPS (4KiB): 134,000 @ Q64

Maximum Random Write IOPS (4KiB): 82,000 @ Q16

Random Read Average Latency: 120 μs

Random Write Average Latency: 45 μs

Mixed Workload (70% Read / 30% Write, 4KiB, Q=32): 103,000 IOPS

Mixed Workload (50% Read / 50% Write, 4KiB, Q=32): 87,000 IOPS

Power Consumption

Idle: 2.07 W

Random Read/Write: 3.40 W

Sequential Read: 5.63 W

Sequential Write: 8.59 W

Maximum: 9.00 W

Key Features

The HPE 800GB SSD incorporates advanced features that enhance its performance, reliability, and manageability, making it a strategic choice for enterprise environments.

Digitally Signed Firmware

The SSD features Digitally Signed Firmware (DS), which protects against unauthorized modifications and ensures secure operation. This is critical for organizations with strict compliance and security requirements.

Smart Carrier Technology

HPE’s Smart Carrier includes integrated LED indicators for status and health monitoring, simplifying drive management. It integrates seamlessly with HPE’s Integrated Lights-Out (iLO) tools, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing downtime risks.

High Endurance for Write-Intensive Workloads

With a DWPD rating of 25.0, the SSD is optimized for write-intensive applications, offering exceptional endurance for tasks that require frequent data writes, such as logging or caching.

Hot-Swap Capability

The hot-pluggable design allows for seamless drive replacement without server downtime, ensuring continuous operation in mission-critical environments.

Compatibility with HPE ProLiant Servers

The HPE 800GB SSD is designed for compatibility with a wide range of HPE ProLiant Gen8 and Gen9 servers, making it a versatile option for organizations with mixed server environments.

Supported Server Models

The SSD is compatible with numerous ProLiant server models, including but not limited to:

DL Series: DL180 Gen9, DL20 Gen9, DL360p Gen8, DL388 Gen9, DL560 Gen8/Gen9, DL580 Gen8/Gen9

ML Series: ML110 Gen9, ML150 Gen9, ML310e Gen8

BL Series: BL420c Gen8, BL460c Gen8/Gen9, BL660c Gen8

XL Series: XL230a Gen9, XL250a Gen9

WS Series: WS460c Gen9

Synergy and Storage Arrays

The SSD also supports select HPE Synergy compute modules and storage arrays, such as the D3700 and StoreEasy 1830/1840. For specific compatibility, IT administrators should verify with HPE’s compatibility matrix or consult with a vendor.

Benefits for Enterprise Environments

The HPE 800GB SSD offers several advantages that enhance data center performance, reliability, and efficiency.

Superior Performance

The SAS-12Gbps interface provides double the bandwidth of SATA-6Gbps drives, delivering faster data transfers and lower latency. High IOPS and throughput make it ideal for write-intensive workloads.

Enhanced Reliability

MLC NAND flash and a high DWPD rating ensure long-term reliability, while Digitally Signed Firmware and Smart Carrier technology enhance data integrity and manageability.

Energy Efficiency

With a maximum power consumption of 9.00 W, the SSD is energy-efficient, reducing operational costs and supporting sustainable data center practices.

Simplified Maintenance

Hot-swap capability and integration with HPE iLO tools streamline maintenance, minimizing disruptions and improving operational efficiency.

Ideal Use Cases

The HPE 800GB SSD is optimized for write-intensive workloads, making it suitable for a variety of enterprise applications.

Transactional Databases

The high random write IOPS (82,000) and low latency (45 μs) make this SSD ideal for transactional databases, such as those used in e-commerce, financial services, or ERP systems, where frequent data writes are common.

Caching and Logging

The SSD’s high endurance and write performance support caching and logging applications, ensuring fast data access and reliable write operations for mission-critical systems.

High-Performance Computing (HPC)

In HPC environments, the SSD’s SAS-12Gbps interface and high IOPS provide the performance needed for compute-intensive tasks, such as simulations and scientific research.

Virtualization

While primarily designed for write-intensive tasks, the SSD’s balanced performance supports virtualized environments, enabling smooth operation of virtual machines with minimal latency.

Deployment Considerations

To maximize the benefits of the HPE 800GB SSD, IT administrators should consider the following deployment guidelines.

Compatibility Verification

Before deployment, verify compatibility with your server model using HPE’s documentation or by consulting with a trusted vendor. This ensures seamless integration and optimal performance.

Firmware Updates

Ensure the SSD’s firmware is up to date to benefit from the latest performance enhancements and security patches. HPE’s iLO tools can facilitate firmware management.

Workload Optimization

Align the SSD’s deployment with write-intensive workloads to leverage its high DWPD rating and performance capabilities. For mixed-use or read-intensive tasks, consider alternative HPE SSD models.

Monitoring and Maintenance

Utilize HPE Smart Carrier and iLO tools to monitor drive health and performance, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing the risk of unexpected failures.

Conclusion

The HPE 800GB 2.5-inch SFF SAS-12Gbps Smart Carrier Write Intensive SSD is a powerful and reliable storage solution for HPE ProLiant Gen8 and Gen9 servers. With its high performance, robust endurance, and advanced features like Digitally Signed Firmware and Smart Carrier technology, it is an excellent choice for write-intensive enterprise applications. By verifying compatibility, optimizing workloads, and leveraging HPE’s management tools, IT teams can deploy this SSD to enhance data center performance, reliability, and efficiency, making it a strategic investment for modern enterprise environments.

Future Outlook

As data centers continue to evolve, the HPE 800GB SSD remains a relevant choice for organizations with Gen8 and Gen9 infrastructure, offering a cost-effective way to boost performance without requiring a full server refresh. For newer deployments, IT professionals may also explore HPE’s Gen10-compatible SSDs for enhanced features and scalability.