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December 11th, 2025 09:27
Dell R640 - Diskless to Internal storage conversion
We have an old R640 that we're planning to use as a non-critical archive server for retired VMs. It came from the factory without the backplane required for front mounted drives. Does anyone have any guidance on what parts would be needed to convert it from it's current front-mounted diskless configuration to one where we can then load the front with around 8 disks that we can then set up in a RAID configuration?
Currently managed to put together that the backplane model 94J5V would be best for our uses, and that we'd also need a PERC controller and cables required to connect the backplane and card to the main board, but struggling to find information on what to do when the front of the R640 doesn't have space for drives at current - does a new front panel also need to be purchased?
Thanks.
Dell-Martin S
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December 11th, 2025 14:14
Hi,
Yes, the conversion is possible, and your parts list is mostly correct, though you’ll need more than just the backplane and PERC.
Chassis Requirements
The R640 must be an SFF chassis with the front metal cage and plastic drive window already installed.
If your chassis has a fully closed front (no 8x2.5" cage or SAS cutouts), it’s incompatible for cost-effective conversion. You’d need a donor chassis originally configured for 8x/10x 2.5" or 4x 3.5" drives.
Core Parts for 8x 2.5" SAS/SATA Setup
Front Backplane:
Part number: 94J5V (8x 2.5" SFF backplane for R640/R440).
PERC or HBA:
Options: H740P, H745, or HBA330 Mini (choose based on RAID or HBA/IT mode needs).
Drive Caddies:
Example part number: DXD9H (typical for R640 2.5" carriers).
Cables and Power
Complete cable set is required; a bare backplane won’t suffice.
Power cable: From PSU to backplane (often included in a backplane kit).
Signal cable: From mainboard to backplane (R640-specific, e.g., “MB_SIG_1 to EXP”).
SAS cables: From PERC/HBA to backplane (SFF 8643/8654, depending on variant).
Recommendation: Look for an “R640 8xSFF backplane kit” to save costs and avoid part mismatches.
Front Bezel and Plastics
No need for a new metal cage unless your chassis lacks the SFF slots.
Optional: Matching front bezel (cosmetic, not functional).
Warning: If the front is solid (no visible bays), the chassis is unsuitable for conversion.
Practical Advice
Cost Consideration: Purchasing a pre-configured used R640 (8x/10x SFF) may be cheaper than converting a diskless chassis, especially for non-critical use.
Recommendation: Compare prices of a ready-to-use system versus the total cost of individual parts before proceeding.