836261-001 – HPE Smart Array P816i-a SR Gen10 AROC (16 Internal Lanes / 4GB FBWC) 12G SAS Controller RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, 60 Mixed Mode & Advanced Data Encryption Support

Overview on HPE Smart Array P816i-a SR Gen10 AROC

The HPE Smart Array P816i-a SR Gen10 is an enterprise-class “Type-a” modular RAID controller designed specifically for HPE ProLiant Gen10 servers. It provides a high-density storage solution by offering 16 internal SAS lanes, allowing for direct connection to a large number of drives without occupying a standard PCIe expansion slot. This Adaptive RAID On Chip (AROC) design preserves valuable PCIe space for other components while delivering elite storage performance.

Because it supports both 12Gb/s SAS and 6Gb/s SATA technologies, it offers the flexibility needed for various enterprise applications. Consequently, it is an ideal choice for database management, messaging, and general-purpose server workloads.

Enterprise Performance and Caching

This controller is built to accelerate data access and improve application responsiveness. Specifically, it includes the following:

• 4 GB Flash-Backed Write Cache (FBWC): Improves data reliability and reduces latency in write-intensive applications like databases.

• HPE Smart Array SR SmartCache: This included feature accelerates access to data on HDDs by caching “hot” data onto lower-latency SSDs.

• HPE SSD Smart Path: Enhances read performance from SSDs by creating a more direct I/O path between the controller and the drives.

• Mixed Mode Support: Allows the controller to operate in RAID and HBA (pass-through) modes simultaneously on a single card.

Advanced RAID Levels and Data Security

The P816i-a supports a wide range of RAID configurations to ensure data redundancy and performance. Specifically, it supports:

• Full RAID Suite: Includes RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, 60, as well as 1 ADM and 10 ADM (Advanced Data Mirroring).

• HPE Smart Array SR Secure Encryption: Protects data-at-rest on any drive attached to the controller through an optional license.

• FIPS 140-2 Level 1 Compliance: Meets high-level security standards for sensitive enterprise data environments.

• Data Integrity Features: Utilizes HPE SmartSSD Wear Gauge to monitor SSD health and prevent unexpected drive failures.

Form Factor and Installation

The “Type-a” modular form factor is a key advantage for compact server layouts. Because it installs into a dedicated storage slot, it does not use a PCIe slot in the rear of the server. This controller is widely compatible with the HPE ProLiant DL360 Gen10 and DL380 Gen10 series, as well as various Apollo Gen10 nodes. Note that an HPE Smart Storage Battery or energy pack is required to support the Flash-Backed Write Cache features.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

• Controller Type: RAID Controller (P-class / Performance)

• Internal Lanes: 16 SAS/SATA lanes across 4 x4 internal Mini-SAS ports

• Data Transfer Rate: 12Gb/s SAS per lane; 6Gb/s SATA per lane

• Cache: 4 GB 72-bit wide DDR4-2100 FBWC

• Host Interface: PCI Express 3.0 x8

• Max Logical Drives: Supports up to 64 logical drives

• Max Physical Drives: Supports up to 238 physical drives

Conclusion

The HPE Smart Array P816i-a SR Gen10 AROC is a powerful and efficient storage controller for modern data centers. It combines 16 lanes of high-speed SAS connectivity with a massive 4GB cache and built-in SmartCache technology. Moreover, its modular form factor ensures maximum server density. Therefore, it is a smart investment for any organization needing elite performance and advanced data protection in an HPE Gen10 environment.