Выбор подходящего SAS-контроллера для вашего серверного сборки
Hi all!
I am currently in the process of upgrading my server system and would like to discuss the various options for choosing SAS controllers (Host Bus Adapters or HBAs). Given the importance of reliable data transfer and storage, choosing the right SAS controller is key for any serious server build, whether it is a home lab, a small business server, or a more complex enterprise solution.
Key points:
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Interface Compatibility : When choosing a SAS controller, it is important that it is compatible with your motherboard's PCIe slots. Most modern HBAs use PCIe 3.0 x8 or x16 interfaces, but you need to make sure that they match the available slots in your system.
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Bandwidth : SAS controllers come in a variety of configurations, typically supporting 4, 8, 16, or 24 ports. Depending on your storage needs, you'll need to decide how many drives you plan to connect and whether you need a controller with 6 Gbps or 12 Gbps throughput. The latter is preferred for SSDs and high-performance tasks.
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RAID Support : Some HBAs have built-in RAID support, while others are pure pass-through controllers. If you need RAID capabilities, you need to decide between hardware RAID, which is managed by the controller, or software RAID, which is managed by the operating system. This decision can impact performance, reliability, and cost.
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Firmware and Driver Support : It is also important to check for firmware updates and driver support, especially for your operating system. Some HBAs are better supported on Linux, while others may have more robust drivers for Windows Server environments.
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Brand and model recommendations :
- LSI MegaRAID & LSI 9207-8i : Popular options due to their balance between performance and reliability.
- Dell PERC H310 : Known for its cost-effectiveness, especially when flashed in IT mode.
- Adaptec 8805 : Offers high RAID performance but at a higher price.
- Broadcom 9300-8i : A great option for high-performance environments, especially with SSDs .
My configuration:
For reference, I currently use the LSI 9207-8i controller in my main server, which contains a mix of HDDs for bulk storage and SSDs for mission-critical workloads. I find that this model offers the best balance between cost, performance, and support. However, I am considering upgrading to a 12Gbps controller to ensure longer system longevity.
Questions for the community:
- What SAS controllers do you use and what are your impressions of their performance?
- Have you noticed significant performance differences between hardware RAID and software RAID in your configurations?
- Are there any new models or brands I should consider for a high performance server environment?
I look forward to your thoughts and recommendations!
Sincerely,