345-BJCQ Dell 960 GB PCI-E Gen4 NVMe Read Intensive U2 2.5 Inch SSD.

Dell 345-BJCQ — 960GB PCIe Gen4 NVMe U.2 (2.5") Data Center SSD

Product overview and positioning

The Dell 345-BJCQ is a high-density, enterprise-grade solid state drive engineered for data center workloads that demand consistent read performance and low latency. This 960GB U.2 (2.5-inch) drive uses PCI Express 4.0 x4 NVMe to deliver accelerated access to large datasets while maintaining the endurance and reliability expected in server-class deployments.

Key specifications

• Manufacturer: Dell
• Part Number / SKU: 345-BJCQ
• Capacity: 960 GB
• Interface: PCIe Gen4 ×4 (NVMe)
• Form Factor: 2.5-inch U.2 (SFF)
• Device type: Internal solid state drive (enterprise)
• Optimised for: Read-intensive data center applications

Performance characteristics

Designed for read-heavy environments, the 345-BJCQ leverages PCIe 4.0 bandwidth to reduce queuing delays and accelerate I/O-bound services such as large-scale databases, content delivery, analytics, and virtualization. The NVMe protocol enables parallelism across CPU cores and brings markedly higher IOPS and lower latency versus SATA-based storage when paired with compatible server platforms.

Why PCIe Gen4 NVMe matters

• Higher throughput per lane compared to PCIe Gen3, improving sequential read/write speeds for large transfers.
• Lower end-to-end latency thanks to NVMe command set and optimized driver stacks.
• Scales better in multi-drive configurations common in modern racks and high-density servers.

Enterprise-grade features

The drive includes firmware and hardware protections suitable for mission-critical deployments: power loss protection, advanced wear-leveling algorithms, and enterprise SMART telemetry for proactive monitoring. These features help maximize uptime and simplify lifecycle management across fleets of servers.

Reliability & durability

• Enterprise-class endurance tuning to balance capacity and service life for read-dominant workloads.
• Robust error-correcting capabilities and firmware controls to maintain data integrity.
• Support for standard management interfaces and SMART attributes for health reporting.

Deployment and expansion

The 345-BJCQ is intended for internal installation in 2.5-inch U.2 bays and fits seamlessly into Dell PowerEdge systems that expose NVMe lanes and U.2 connectors. Its dual PCIe Gen4 ×4 interface options enable flexible integration into modern server architectures and high-performance storage arrays.

Connectivity & bay compatibility

• Interface: 2 × PCI Express 4.0 ×4 (NVMe-capable)
• Compatible bay: 1 × internal 2.5-inch U.2 bay

Supported Dell PowerEdge systems

The following PowerEdge servers are verified compatible with this U.2 NVMe drive. These models are commonly used in enterprise racks and high-density compute nodes where low-latency storage is a priority.

Rack and tower servers

• PowerEdge R440, R640, R650, R650xs, R660xs, R670, R740xd, R7425, R750, R750xa, R750xs
• PowerEdge R7515, R7525, R760, R760xa, R7625, R770, R840, R940, R940xa, R960

High-density and specialized systems

• PowerEdge C6420, C6525, C6615, C6620
• PowerEdge T550, T560
• PowerEdge R6615, R6625
• PowerEdge Xe9640, Xe9680, XR7620

Ideal use cases

The Dell 345-BJCQ excels where predictable read performance matters more than raw write throughput. Typical deployments include:

• Database query acceleration (OLAP/analytics)
• Content delivery and media streaming caches
• Virtual desktop infrastructure (read-heavy VM boot storms)
• Search indexes and metadata stores
• Read-optimized software-defined storage tiers

Benefits for operations teams

• Reduced query and response times for critical applications.
• Simplified capacity planning with a standardized 2.5" U.2 form factor.
• Lower operational risk through enterprise-grade telemetry and firmware safeguards.

Dell 345-BJCQ 960 GB PCI-E Gen4 NVMe SSD Overview

The Dell 345-BJCQ 960 GB PCI-E Gen4 NVMe Data Center Read Intensive U2 2.5 Inch Solid State Drive (SSD) is engineered for enterprise-grade performance and reliability. Designed specifically for Dell PowerEdge servers, including 14g, 15g, 16g, and 17g generations, this SSD provides a high-speed storage solution optimized for read-intensive workloads. Its PCIe Gen4 interface ensures maximum bandwidth and ultra-low latency, making it ideal for applications that demand rapid data access and consistent throughput.

Advanced Storage Technology for Enterprise Environments

This SSD leverages Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) technology, which delivers significant improvements over traditional SATA and SAS drives. The NVMe protocol minimizes input/output overhead, reduces latency, and maximizes the performance potential of modern multicore CPUs.

• PCIe Gen4 Interface: Doubles the bandwidth compared to Gen3, enabling faster data transfer rates.
• 2.5-Inch U.2 Form Factor: Compatible with standard server bays and Dell PowerEdge carriers for easy installation.
• Read-Intensive Optimization: Ideal for workloads like database queries, analytics, and content delivery.
• Durable NAND Flash: High-quality 3D NAND ensures consistent performance and longevity.

Compatibility Across Dell PowerEdge Servers

The Dell 345-BJCQ SSD is meticulously designed to integrate seamlessly with Dell PowerEdge servers. Its compatibility spans multiple generations, including 14g through 17g, ensuring long-term flexibility and simplified IT infrastructure management.

Supported PowerEdge Models

• 14th Generation Dell PowerEdge servers
• 15th Generation Dell PowerEdge servers
• 16th Generation Dell PowerEdge servers
• 17th Generation Dell PowerEdge servers

Plug-and-Play Installation

Equipped with a carrier, the SSD can be installed directly into the server bays without the need for additional adapters or modifications. This ensures minimal downtime during upgrades or replacements, maintaining business continuity in data centers.

Performance Characteristics of Dell 345-BJCQ SSDs

The Dell 345-BJCQ 960 GB SSD is engineered for high throughput and low latency, meeting the rigorous demands of enterprise applications.

High-Speed Data Transfer

• Sequential Read Speeds: Up to 6,500 MB/s
• Sequential Write Speeds: Up to 3,000 MB/s
• Random Read IOPS: Up to 750,000
• Random Write IOPS: Up to 140,000

These speeds ensure that large datasets, database queries, and virtual machine workloads can be processed efficiently, reducing bottlenecks and improving overall server performance.

Read-Intensive Endurance and Reliability

Read-intensive workloads require storage devices capable of sustaining high read operations while maintaining longevity. The Dell 345-BJCQ SSD offers:

• Endurance: Designed to handle read-heavy operations efficiently
• High Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF): Minimizes risk of downtime
• Data Integrity Features: Includes ECC (Error Correction Code) and power-loss protection

Advanced Features of Dell 345-BJCQ NVMe SSD

Enterprise-Grade Security

Security is paramount in modern data centers. The Dell 345-BJCQ SSD provides multiple security mechanisms to safeguard data:

• Self-Encrypting Drive (SED) support for data protection at rest
• TCG Opal compliance for secure storage management
• Instant secure erase capabilities for rapid decommissioning

Power Efficiency and Thermal Management

Efficient power consumption and thermal management are critical for data center operations. This SSD features:

• Optimized power draw for read-intensive workloads
• Enhanced heat dissipation via 2.5-inch form factor and carrier design
• Lower operating temperatures to extend lifespan and maintain consistent performance

Durability and Longevity

The Dell 345-BJCQ SSD employs enterprise-grade components to ensure maximum reliability over extended periods of operation. Key durability features include:

• High-quality NAND flash for improved write cycles
• Advanced wear-leveling algorithms to prevent premature drive wear
• Robust firmware designed for continuous enterprise workloads

Use Cases for Dell 345-BJCQ SSD

This SSD is particularly well-suited for scenarios requiring high-speed read performance and reliability:

Database and Analytics

Large databases and analytics platforms benefit from reduced query times and faster access to stored data.

Virtualization and Cloud Infrastructure

Supports multiple virtual machines running concurrently without bottlenecks, enhancing cloud service delivery.

Content Delivery Networks (CDN)

Ideal for caching high-demand content, providing faster delivery to end-users and reducing latency.

High-Performance Computing (HPC)

Read-intensive workloads in HPC environments, including simulation and modeling applications, gain significant performance advantages.

Why Choose Dell 345-BJCQ SSDs for Data Centers

Performance and Reliability Combined

This SSD offers a perfect balance of high-speed read performance and enterprise reliability, making it a trusted choice for IT professionals managing critical workloads.

Key Advantages

• Seamless integration with Dell PowerEdge servers
• Optimized for read-intensive data center applications
• Durable and secure storage for long-term use
• Power-efficient design reduces operational costs

Future-Proofing Your Storage Infrastructure

With PCIe Gen4 capabilities and enterprise-grade features, this SSD provides the scalability and performance required to meet growing storage demands in modern data centers. Organizations can confidently deploy this storage solution, knowing it supports both current and future workloads efficiently.

Technical Specifications

Form Factor and Interface

• Form Factor: 2.5-Inch U.2
• Interface: PCIe Gen4 NVMe
• Capacity: 960 GB
• Drive Type: Read-Intensive SSD

Performance Metrics

• Sequential Read: Up to 6,500 MB/s
• Sequential Write: Up to 3,000 MB/s
• Random Read IOPS: Up to 750,000
• Random Write IOPS: Up to 140,000

Reliability and Endurance

• MTBF: Enterprise-grade reliability
• Endurance: Suitable for read-heavy workloads
• Data Protection: ECC, power-loss protection, and firmware-level safeguards

Environmental Specifications

• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 70°C
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 85°C
• Shock and Vibration: Enterprise-grade standards for rugged data center environments

Conclusion

The Dell 345-BJCQ 960 GB PCI-E Gen4 NVMe SSD is a high-performance, enterprise-grade storage solution ideal for data centers requiring read-intensive storage. Its compatibility with multiple generations of Dell PowerEdge servers, advanced NVMe technology, power efficiency, and robust security features make it a dependable choice for mission-critical workloads. Whether used for database acceleration, virtualization, content delivery, or high-performance computing, this SSD ensures consistent performance, reliability, and longevity in demanding enterprise environments.