Dell PERC H700 XXFVX Integrated RAID Controller Card 512MB

Overview of Dell XXFVX Controller

Manufacturer Details

• Brand: Dell
• Part Number: XXFVX
• Type: RAID Controller

Technical Specifications of PERC H700 Controller Card

Interface and Performance

• RAID Levels Supported: 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, 60
• PCI-Express Support: Gen 2.0
• Host Interface: 6GB/s SAS (SAS 2.0)
• Performance: Double throughput capability compared to 3GB/s models

Storage and Compatibility

• Maximum Hard Drive Support: Up to 16 drives
• Backward Compatibility: Compatible with 3GB/s SAS drives
• Cache Module: 512MB
• Support for Large Drives: Handles individual logical hard drives exceeding 2TB
• Self-Encrypting Drive Support: Compatible with self-encrypting drives (SED)
• SSD Compatibility: Supports solid-state drives (SSD)

Additional Features

• Enhanced Data Throughput: Improved performance with advanced cache and interface technology
• Flexible Storage Options: Versatile support for various RAID configurations and drive types
• Reliability: Built for high-demand environments with robust support for encryption and large storage needs

Cache

The Dell XXFVX PERC H700 Integrated RAID Controller Card features an impressive cache size of 512MB. This cache is an essential component of the RAID controller card that plays a crucial role in enhancing the performance and reliability of the storage system. In this section, we will explore the benefits and importance of this cache feature for users.

Improved Performance

One of the key advantages of having a large cache size like 512MB is the significant boost it provides to the overall performance of the RAID controller card. The cache acts as a temporary storage space for frequently accessed data, allowing for quick retrieval and reduced latency. When data is requested, the controller can quickly fetch it from the cache instead of accessing the slower mechanical disks, resulting in faster data transfer speeds and improved system responsiveness.

Enhanced Data Read Speeds

With a larger cache, the Dell XXFVX PERC H700 Integrated RAID Controller Card can store a greater amount of frequently accessed data. This means that when a read request is made, there is a higher chance that the requested data is already present in the cache. As a result, data read speeds are significantly improved, contributing to faster application load times and seamless multitasking capabilities.

Accelerated Write Operations

In addition to improving read speeds, the large cache size also benefits write operations. When data needs to be written to the storage system, the RAID controller can initially store it in the cache before flushing it to the disks. This write-back caching technique helps to reduce latency and eliminates potential bottlenecks by allowing the controller to handle multiple write requests simultaneously. As a result, users experience faster data write speeds and improved overall system performance.

Data Protection and Reliability

The cache feature of the Dell XXFVX PERC H700 Integrated RAID Controller Card also plays a vital role in ensuring data protection and system reliability. The cache acts as a buffer between the host system and the disk drives, allowing for advanced data management techniques such as parity calculations and error correction. By temporarily storing data in the cache, the controller can verify its integrity before committing it to the disks, minimizing the risk of data corruption or loss.

Battery Backup Unit (BBU)

To further enhance data protection, the Dell XXFVX PERC H700 Integrated RAID Controller Card is equipped with a Battery Backup Unit (BBU). This BBU ensures that even in the event of a power failure, the cached data is preserved and safely written to the disks when power is restored. The BBU provides critical backup power to maintain cache integrity, reducing the risk of data loss and ensuring system reliability.

Interface

Another important feature of the Dell XXFVX PERC H700 Integrated RAID Controller Card is its interface, which utilizes SAS-SATA technology. Let's explore the benefits and importance of this interface for users.

Flexibility and Compatibility

The SAS-SATA interface offers excellent flexibility and compatibility options for users. By supporting both Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) and Serial ATA (SATA) drives, this interface allows users to choose from a wide range of storage options based on their specific needs and budget. Whether it's high-performance SAS drives or cost-effective SATA drives, the Dell XXFVX PERC H700 Integrated RAID Controller Card can seamlessly integrate with both types, providing users with greater flexibility in designing their storage infrastructure.

High Data Transfer Rates

The SAS-SATA interface excels in delivering high data transfer rates, ensuring that users can leverage the full potential of their storage devices. SAS drives offer faster data transfer speeds compared to SATA drives, making them ideal for applications that demand high-performance storage solutions. By utilizing the SAS-SATA interface, the Dell XXFVX PERC H700 Integrated RAID Controller Card enables users to harness the speed and efficiency of SAS drives while also supporting SATA drives for more cost-effective storage options.

Improved Scalability

With the SAS-SATA interface, the Dell XXFVX PERC H700 Integrated RAID Controller Card offers improved scalability for future storage expansion. The interface supports multiple SAS and SATA devices, allowing users to connect a larger number of drives to their RAID controller. This scalability ensures that as the storage demands grow, users can easily expand their storage capacity by adding more drives without compromising performance or reliability.

Hot-Swappable Drives

Another advantage of the SAS-SATA interface is its support for hot-swappable drives. Hot-swapping allows users to replace or add drives without shutting down the system, minimizing downtime and maximizing data availability. This feature is particularly valuable in mission-critical environments where uninterrupted operation is essential. With the Dell XXFVX PERC H700 Integrated RAID Controller Card's SAS-SATA interface, users can confidently hot-swap drives, ensuring continuous operation and seamless storage management.

In conclusion, the Dell XXFVX PERC H700 Integrated RAID Controller Card's cache and interface features are instrumental in delivering enhanced performance, data protection, scalability, and flexibility. The 512MB cache size significantly improves read and write speeds while ensuring data reliability. The SAS-SATA interface provides compatibility with a wide range of storage devices, high data transfer rates, improved scalability, and support for hot-swappable drives. These features make the Dell XXFVX PERC H700 Integrated RAID Controller Card an excellent choice for users seeking optimal performance and reliability for their storage systems.