LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card. This card is designed for high-performance storage solutions, particularly in environments utilizing ZFS, TrueNAS, or unRAID operating systems.

Image: The LSI 9300-16i 16-Port 12Gb/s SAS Controller HBA Card, showing its PCIe interface and multiple SAS ports.

Setup and Installation

1. Physical Installation

Power Off System: Ensure your computer or server is completely powered off and disconnected from the power source.
Open Chassis: Open the computer or server chassis to access the motherboard.
Locate PCIe Slot: Identify an available PCI Express (PCIe) slot. This card typically requires a PCIe x8 or x16 slot for optimal performance.
Insert HBA Card: Carefully align the LSI 9300-16i card with the chosen PCIe slot and press firmly until it is securely seated.
Secure Card: Secure the card with the retention clip or screw provided by your chassis.
Close Chassis: Close the chassis and reconnect the power.

2. Firmware Considerations (IT Mode)

The LSI 9300-16i is often used in "IT Mode" (Initiator-Target Mode) for direct drive access, which is preferred for software RAID solutions like ZFS, TrueNAS, and unRAID. This card is typically shipped with P16 IT Mode firmware. Verify the firmware version upon installation.

Firmware Version: While P16 is common, specific revisions (e.g., 0.10.0 or 0.12.0) may vary. Major functionality typically remains consistent between minor revisions.
Boot Services: The card may include boot services firmware. If you are not booting from drives connected to this HBA and wish to reduce boot time, you may consider disabling or removing the boot services image. Consult Broadcom documentation or community guides for this advanced procedure.

3. Operating System Integration

This HBA card is compatible with various operating systems, including ZFS-based systems, TrueNAS, and unRAID. Drivers are often integrated into modern kernels, allowing for plug-and-play functionality. For specific driver requirements or advanced configurations, refer to your operating system's documentation.

Operation

1. Connecting Storage Devices

Connect your SAS or SATA drives to the HBA card using appropriate SAS breakout cables. The 9300-16i features 16 internal ports, typically provided via four SFF-8643 connectors, each supporting four drives.

Cable Type: Use SFF-8643 to SFF-8643 (for SAS backplanes) or SFF-8643 to 4x SATA (for individual SATA drives) cables.
Drive Recognition: After connecting drives and powering on the system, your operating system should detect the connected storage devices.

2. Heat Management

The LSI 9300-16i HBA card can generate significant heat, especially under heavy load. Adequate airflow within your chassis is crucial for stable operation and longevity. Server-grade chassis typically provide sufficient cooling. For desktop or less-ventilated environments, consider additional cooling solutions.

Recommended Cooling: Install a dedicated fan (e.g., 80mm fan) directed at the HBA's heatsink or utilize a PCI expansion slot fan to improve airflow.
Temperature Monitoring: Monitor the card's temperature if possible, ensuring it remains within operational limits.

Maintenance

1. Firmware Updates

Periodically check for updated firmware from Broadcom (LSI) or reliable community sources (e.g., TrueNAS forums). Firmware updates can improve compatibility, performance, and stability. Note that the 16i model may require specific firmware versions distinct from 8i models, and often involves updating two internal controllers.

Procedure: Firmware updates typically involve booting into a DOS or UEFI environment with a flashing utility. Follow official guides carefully to avoid bricking the card.
Backup: Always back up critical data before performing firmware updates.

2. Physical Inspection

Occasionally inspect the card for dust accumulation on the heatsink and ensure all cable connections are secure. Clean dust with compressed air.

Troubleshooting

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
Card not recognized by motherboard/OS.	Improperly seated in PCIe slot. Faulty PCIe slot. BIOS/UEFI settings. Defective card.	Reseat the card firmly. Try a different PCIe slot. Check motherboard BIOS/UEFI for PCIe settings (e.g., bifurcation, CSM support). Test the card in another system if possible.
Drives disappear or I/O errors occur.	Outdated or corrupted firmware. NVDATA mismatch (common with refurbished cards). Overheating. Faulty cables or drives.	Update firmware to the latest stable IT Mode version. Ensure adequate cooling. Inspect/replace SAS cables. If NVDATA mismatch is confirmed (e.g., via `sas3flash -list`), consider returning the card as this is often unfixable by end-users.
Card runs excessively hot.	Insufficient chassis airflow. Heavy drive load.	Install a dedicated fan for the HBA. Improve overall chassis airflow.
Slow boot times.	Boot services firmware enabled.	If not booting from HBA-connected drives, consider disabling or removing the boot services image (advanced procedure).

Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	LSI
Model Number	9300-16i
Hardware Interface	SAS (12Gb/s)
Ports	16 Internal
Operating System Compatibility	ZFS TrueNAS, unRAID, Windows Server, Linux
Product Dimensions (LxWxH)	6.6 x 4.4 x 1 inches
Item Weight	9 ounces
Compatible Devices	Server, Storage Device

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided by your specific vendor or contact the manufacturer, LSI (now Broadcom), directly. Support resources, including drivers and firmware, are often available on the Broadcom website.

For community-based support and advanced configurations, forums dedicated to ZFS, TrueNAS, and unRAID often provide valuable insights and assistance from experienced users.