P18436-X21 HPE 1.92TB SATA 6GBPS Mixed Use Hot Plug SFF SSD

The HPE P18436-X21 represents a high-performance storage solution engineered for enterprise environments requiring consistent performance across mixed workloads. This 1.92TB SATA SSD delivers the optimal balance between read-intensive and write-intensive operations, making it suitable for diverse application scenarios.

Mixed Use SSD Technology

Mixed Use SSDs occupy the crucial middle ground between Read-Intensive and Write-Intensive storage classifications. Unlike read-optimized drives that prioritize cost-effectiveness for predominantly read operations, or write-optimized drives designed for extreme write endurance, Mixed Use SSDs provide balanced performance characteristics suitable for environments with significant both read and write operations.

NAND Flash for Mixed Workloads

Utilizing enterprise-grade MLC or enterprise 3D TLC NAND technology, Mixed Use SSDs like the P18436-X21 implement advanced wear-leveling algorithms, over-provisioning strategies, and error correction technologies to maintain data integrity across the drive's operational lifespan.

Form Factor and Physical Specifications

2.5-inch Small Form Factor (SFF) Advantages

The 2.5-inch SFF design provides significant density advantages over traditional 3.5-inch drives, allowing organizations to maximize storage capacity within limited rack space. This form factor has become the standard for modern enterprise storage systems and servers.

Hot Plug Capability

Hot plug functionality enables drive replacement, addition, or removal while the system remains operational. This feature is critical for maintaining system availability in 24/7 enterprise environments, allowing for proactive maintenance and capacity expansion without service interruption.

Interface Technology: SATA 6Gbps

The SATA 6Gbps interface provides a maximum theoretical bandwidth of 600MB/s, which the P18436-X21 leverages to deliver consistent data transfer rates. While newer interfaces like NVMe offer higher performance, SATA remains highly relevant for many enterprise applications due to its cost-effectiveness, compatibility, and sufficient performance for numerous workload types.

Specifications and Capabilities

The HPE P18436-X21 delivers consistent performance under sustained workloads, with typical sequential read speeds approaching 550MB/s and sequential write speeds of approximately 520MB/s. Random performance typically reaches 90,000 IOPS for read operations and 30,000 IOPS for write operations, depending on queue depth and block size. The P18436-X21 is rated for significant total bytes written over its operational lifespan, typically expressed in drive writes per day (DWPD) or terabytes written (TBW). Mixed Use drives generally offer endurance ratings between 1-3 DWPD, meaning the entire drive capacity can be written between 1-3 times per day over the warranty period.

Compatibility

The P18436-X21 is qualified for use across HPE's server portfolio, including ProLiant, Apollo, and Synergy systems. HPE provides firmware and driver compatibility through their SPP (Service Pack for ProLiant) updates. When used with HPE Smart Array controllers, the P18436-X21 benefits from enhanced management capabilities, including advanced caching algorithms and comprehensive health. While optimized for HPE environments, the P18436-X21 maintains standard SATA interface compatibility with third-party systems, though some advanced management features may require HPE-specific infrastructure.

Firmware

HPE delivers regular firmware updates that address performance optimizations, security vulnerabilities, and compatibility improvements. These updates are validated for stability within HPE server ecosystems.

Mixed Use vs. Write-Intensive SSDs

Write-Intensive SSDs offer maximum endurance for write-heavy applications but command a significant price premium. The P18436-X21 provides a cost-effective balance for workloads that don't require extreme write capabilities.