CFMWR Dell 1TB 7.2K RPM Near-line SAS 12GBPS 2.5Inch Hard Disk Drive.

Dell CFMWR 1TB Near-Line SAS Enterprise Hard Drive

Designed for demanding server and storage environments, the Dell CFMWR hard disk delivers dependable capacity, stable throughput, and seamless hot-plug functionality for Dell PowerEdge and PowerVault systems. This enterprise-class drive is engineered to support continuous workloads while maintaining consistent performance.

Core Product Specifications

• Manufacturer: Dell
• Model / SKU: CFMWR
• Drive Category: Near-line SAS hard disk drive
• Total Storage Space: 1TB usable capacity

Drive Architecture & Design

Form Factor & Installation

• Compact 2.5-inch chassis optimized for dense server configurations
• Hot-swap and hot-plug support for uninterrupted system uptime
• Supplied with Dell-compatible drive tray for quick deployment

Interface & Connectivity

• SAS interface with 12Gbps bandwidth
• Single high-speed SAS port for reliable data transmission
• Compatible with 2.5-inch hot-plug bays

Performance Characteristics

Speed & Throughput

• Rotational speed of 7,200 RPM for balanced performance and efficiency
• External data transfer rate up to 1200 MB/s
• Optimized for near-line workloads and business-critical data access

Operational Benefits

• Consistent read/write operations for server and storage arrays
• Reduced latency compared to legacy SATA alternatives
• Stable performance for virtualization, file sharing, and backup tasks

Reliability & Enterprise Readiness

• Built for 24/7 data center operations
• Enhanced error correction and data integrity features
• Ideal for scalable storage infrastructures

Dell PowerEdge Server Compatibility

• PowerEdge FC Series: FC630, FC830
• PowerEdge M Series: M520, M520v, M610, M610x, M620, M620v, M630, M710, M710HD, M820v, M830, M910
• PowerEdge R Series: R210, R210 II, R320, R330, R420, R430, R510, R520, R530, R610, R620, R630, R710, R715, R720, R720xd, R730, R730xd, R810, R815, R820, R910, R920, R930
• PowerEdge T Series: T320, T420, T430, T610, T620, T630, T710
• PowerEdge VRTX platform

PowerVault Storage System Support

• PowerVault MD1220, MD3060e
• PowerVault MD3200, MD3220, MD3220i
• PowerVault MD3400, MD3420, MD3460
• PowerVault MD3800f, MD3800i
• PowerVault MD3820f, MD3820i
• PowerVault MD3860f, MD3860i

Use Case Applications

• Enterprise file servers and shared storage pools
• Virtual machine data repositories
• Backup, archival, and near-line data workloads
• Business-critical applications requiring dependable capacity

Enterprise Near-line SAS Hard Disk Drive Category Overview

The Dell CFMWR 1TB 7.2K RPM Near-line SAS 12Gbps 2.5 Inch Hot-plug Hard Disk Drive with tray represents a specialized segment within enterprise storage hardware that is engineered to balance capacity, reliability, and cost efficiency for data center and server environments. This category focuses on near-line SAS hard disk drives that are positioned between high-performance mission-critical drives and large-capacity archival storage, making them ideal for workloads that require consistent access, predictable latency, and enterprise-grade durability without the premium cost of ultra-high-speed solutions. Near-line SAS drives are commonly deployed in rack servers and storage arrays where scalability, serviceability, and compatibility with enterprise backplanes are essential.

Within modern IT infrastructures, near-line SAS hard disk drives serve as the backbone for applications that depend on reliable data access over extended periods. These drives are designed to operate continuously in demanding environments, supporting 24x7 workloads typical of enterprise servers such as Dell PowerEdge and Dell PowerVault systems. The category is defined by stringent firmware tuning, vibration tolerance, error correction capabilities, and compatibility with SAS controllers that differentiate it from consumer or desktop-grade storage products. As data volumes continue to grow across industries, the role of near-line SAS storage remains critical in achieving a balance between performance and cost per terabyte.

Positioning of 2.5 Inch Near-line SAS Drives in Enterprise Storage

The 2.5 inch form factor near-line SAS hard disk drive category is particularly relevant in dense server and storage environments where space optimization and airflow efficiency are critical considerations. Compared to traditional 3.5 inch drives, 2.5 inch near-line SAS drives allow for higher drive density within a chassis, enabling organizations to scale capacity without increasing rack footprint. This category supports modern data center design principles by delivering efficient storage density while maintaining enterprise reliability standards.

In environments such as virtualization clusters, private clouds, and shared storage platforms, 2.5 inch near-line SAS drives are frequently chosen for their balanced performance characteristics. The Dell CFMWR 1TB 7.2K RPM drive fits squarely into this category, offering sufficient rotational speed to ensure steady data throughput while prioritizing reliability and endurance. The compact form factor also contributes to improved thermal management, which is essential for maintaining consistent performance and extending hardware lifespan in high-density server deployments.

Near-line SAS Interface and 12Gbps Connectivity

The near-line SAS interface is a defining characteristic of this category, delivering enterprise-grade connectivity and reliability that surpasses consumer SATA-based solutions. SAS, or Serial Attached SCSI, is engineered for multi-drive environments and supports advanced features such as dual-port connectivity, full-duplex communication, and enhanced error detection. The 12Gbps SAS interface represents a significant advancement over earlier generations, enabling higher data transfer rates and improved overall system responsiveness when integrated with compatible controllers and backplanes.

In practical terms, the 12Gbps SAS interface allows near-line drives like the Dell CFMWR to handle concurrent read and write operations more efficiently in multi-user environments. This is particularly beneficial in shared storage scenarios where multiple virtual machines or applications access the same storage pool simultaneously. The category is optimized for predictable performance under load, ensuring that enterprise workloads experience minimal latency fluctuations even during peak usage periods.

Dual-Port Capability and Enterprise Redundancy

One of the key differentiators of near-line SAS hard disk drives is their dual-port capability, which is integral to enterprise redundancy and high availability architectures. This feature allows a single drive to be connected to two independent SAS paths, enabling failover and load balancing within storage arrays. In the context of Dell PowerEdge and PowerVault systems, dual-port near-line SAS drives contribute to resilient storage designs that minimize downtime and protect against single points of failure.

The category emphasizes data integrity and uptime, which are essential requirements for enterprise IT operations. Dual-port SAS connectivity ensures that even if one controller or path encounters an issue, data access can continue uninterrupted through an alternate path. This level of resilience is a defining attribute of near-line SAS storage and is a key reason organizations select this category for business-critical applications.

7.2K RPM Performance Characteristics

The 7.2K RPM rotational speed is a hallmark of near-line hard disk drive categories, offering a balance between performance, energy efficiency, and longevity. While higher RPM drives deliver lower latency, they also consume more power and generate additional heat. The near-line 7.2K RPM category is engineered to provide consistent throughput suitable for sequential workloads, backups, file sharing, and data repositories without the overhead associated with higher-speed enterprise drives.

For many enterprise use cases, the performance characteristics of 7.2K RPM near-line drives are more than sufficient. Applications such as file servers, collaboration platforms, and content repositories benefit from steady read and write performance rather than ultra-low latency. The Dell CFMWR drive exemplifies this category by delivering reliable access speeds while maintaining operational efficiency in always-on server environments.

Workload Optimization and Predictable Throughput

Near-line SAS drives in the 7.2K RPM category are optimized for workloads that involve large data transfers and sustained access patterns. This includes scenarios such as data warehousing, backup targets, and secondary storage tiers in tiered architectures. The firmware and caching algorithms used in this category are designed to smooth out performance variations, ensuring predictable throughput even as workloads fluctuate.

Predictability is a critical factor in enterprise storage planning. By choosing near-line 7.2K RPM drives, organizations can accurately model performance and capacity requirements, reducing the risk of bottlenecks or underutilized resources. This category provides a stable foundation for scalable storage architectures that support long-term growth.

1TB Capacity and Data Management Use Cases

The 1TB capacity point represents a versatile option within the near-line SAS hard disk drive category. It provides ample storage for a wide range of enterprise applications while maintaining manageable rebuild times in RAID configurations. This capacity tier is often selected for environments that require a balance between granularity and scalability, allowing administrators to fine-tune storage pools according to workload requirements.

In Dell PowerEdge and PowerVault deployments, 1TB near-line SAS drives are commonly used in RAID arrays that support shared storage, departmental file servers, and application data stores. The capacity aligns well with enterprise backup strategies, enabling efficient data protection without excessive overhead. This category supports both scale-up and scale-out architectures, making it adaptable to evolving IT needs.

RAID Compatibility and Rebuild Efficiency

Near-line SAS drives in the 1TB category are particularly well-suited for RAID configurations where reliability and rebuild performance are critical considerations. Compared to higher-capacity drives, 1TB disks typically offer faster rebuild times, reducing exposure to risk during drive replacement events. This characteristic is especially valuable in environments with strict uptime requirements.

The Dell CFMWR drive, as part of this category, integrates seamlessly with Dell RAID controllers and management tools, enabling proactive monitoring and efficient maintenance. RAID compatibility ensures data redundancy and protection, reinforcing the role of near-line SAS drives as dependable components in enterprise storage infrastructures.

2.5 Inch Form Factor and Hot-Plug Design

The 2.5 inch form factor is a defining feature of this near-line SAS hard disk drive category, supporting compact server designs and efficient use of chassis space. This form factor is widely adopted in modern enterprise servers due to its balance of capacity density and thermal efficiency. Smaller drives allow for improved airflow within server enclosures, which contributes to overall system stability and longevity.

Hot-plug capability is another essential attribute of this category, enabling drives to be inserted or removed without powering down the system. This feature supports non-disruptive maintenance and rapid replacement in the event of drive failure. The inclusion of a compatible tray further enhances serviceability, ensuring proper alignment and secure installation within Dell PowerEdge and PowerVault systems.

Operational Efficiency and Serviceability

Hot-plug near-line SAS drives are designed to minimize operational disruptions in enterprise environments. Administrators can replace or upgrade drives while systems remain online, preserving application availability and reducing maintenance windows. This capability is especially important in data centers where downtime can have significant financial and operational implications.

The category emphasizes standardized trays and connectors that streamline installation and maintenance processes. By using drives with pre-installed trays, organizations can reduce deployment time and ensure compatibility with existing server infrastructure. This focus on serviceability is a key advantage of enterprise-grade near-line SAS storage.

Reliability, Endurance, and Enterprise Firmware

Reliability is a cornerstone of the near-line SAS hard disk drive category, with design considerations that prioritize long-term operation under continuous workloads. Enterprise-grade firmware distinguishes these drives from consumer alternatives by incorporating advanced error correction, vibration compensation, and workload management features. These enhancements ensure consistent performance and data integrity even in densely populated server environments.

The Dell CFMWR drive benefits from firmware tuning that aligns with Dell server and storage platforms. This integration enables optimized performance, accurate health reporting, and compatibility with management tools such as Dell OpenManage. The category is engineered to meet rigorous quality and reliability standards required for enterprise deployments.

Mean Time Between Failures and Continuous Operation

Near-line SAS hard disk drives are rated for high mean time between failures, reflecting their suitability for 24x7 operation. This metric is critical for organizations that rely on continuous data access and cannot afford frequent hardware replacements. The category is designed to withstand the mechanical stresses associated with constant rotation and sustained workloads.

By selecting near-line SAS drives, enterprises gain confidence in the longevity and stability of their storage infrastructure. This reliability translates into lower total cost of ownership over the drive lifecycle, as reduced failure rates and predictable maintenance requirements simplify operational planning.

Compatibility with Dell PowerEdge and PowerVault Systems

Compatibility is a defining attribute of the Dell near-line SAS hard disk drive category, ensuring seamless integration with PowerEdge servers and PowerVault storage arrays. Drives like the CFMWR model are validated for use within specific Dell platforms, guaranteeing proper fit, firmware alignment, and management integration. This validation process reduces the risk of incompatibility issues and ensures optimal performance.

In enterprise environments, platform compatibility simplifies procurement, deployment, and support processes. Using certified near-line SAS drives enables organizations to maintain consistent configurations across their infrastructure, facilitating streamlined management and troubleshooting. This category supports Dell’s ecosystem approach, where hardware, firmware, and management tools work together cohesively.

Enterprise Management and Monitoring Integration

Near-line SAS drives designed for Dell platforms integrate with enterprise management solutions that provide real-time monitoring, alerts, and predictive failure analysis. This integration empowers IT teams to proactively address potential issues before they impact operations. Health metrics, performance data, and lifecycle information are readily accessible through centralized management interfaces.

The category emphasizes transparency and control, enabling organizations to optimize storage utilization and plan for future expansion. By leveraging integrated management capabilities, enterprises can maximize the value of their near-line SAS storage investments.