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April 2nd, 2025 15:26
Convert ME5024 from iSCSI to SAS
We have an ME5024 connected to 2 PowerEdge R650 servers via iSCSI. We would like to convert this to SAS direct attach. Is it possible?
The servers have a "PERC H355 Controller Front", so not sure if we need to add anything there. For the ME5024, I imagine we'll need to add "12Gb SAS 8 Port Dual Controller"?
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DELL-Chris H
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April 2nd, 2025 20:35
Unimatter933f77,
You wouldn't be able to convert the ME5024, you would need to return it and purchase one with SAS Controllers. Also, if you were to do that you would need to add a SAS HBA to the host like HBA355e or if a new server H465e, as seen on page 29 here.
Let me know if this helps.
Origin3k
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April 2nd, 2025 21:13
The ME5 also supports iSCSI Direct Attached. We have such a (VMware vSphere) setup on a customer site where not budget was left for S5212F or similar.
Runs great and without problems.
Whats the reason why you think to switch from iSCSI to SAS?
Regards,
Joerg
unimatter933f77
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April 2nd, 2025 21:25
@DELL-Chris H Thanks that helps.
unimatter933f77
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April 2nd, 2025 21:37
@Origin3k We also have direct attached iSCSI. We replaced an old MD3400 and two 10-year old PowerEdge servers that were SAS direct attached. With the new hardware, performance and reliability are degraded. For example, the ME5024 connection goes down if there is any type of brief network disruption, taking down our cluster.
DELL-Joey C
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April 3rd, 2025 01:20
Hi,
Yeah, SAS direct attached will not be affected when there is a network disruption. To have a high availability to the storage, you might need to cable the storage to 2 switch for redundancy. Here's the best practice documentation: https://infohub.delltechnologies.com/it-it/l/dell-powervault-me5-series-vmware-vsphere-best-practices/san-attached-storage/. Please ignore the port picture, it is an error in the port type, but the cabling method is correct for high availability.
Origin3k
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April 3rd, 2025 05:19
@unimatter933f77 , @DELL-Joey C
how can a direct connection from a Server to a SAN without a using a Fabric effect by a network interruption?
Regards,
Joerg
DELL-Joey C
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April 3rd, 2025 07:56
Hi,
Understood that concept. I assumed that the configuration is going through a fabric or switch as mentioned there is any type of brief network disruption. Not to sure what disruption would that be, I would guess a device reboot.