1. Introduction
The HPE MR408i-o Gen11 Storage Controller is a high-performance, versatile PCIe Gen4.0 storage controller designed for data centers. Based on Broadcom MegaRAID technology, it provides robust data management, performance, and security for mission-critical applications. This controller supports various RAID levels and HBA/pass-through modes, offering flexibility for diverse server environments.
2. Safety Information
Observe the following safety precautions during installation and operation:
- Always disconnect power from the server before installing or removing any components.
- Wear an anti-static wrist strap to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage to the controller and other server components.
- Handle the controller by its edges; avoid touching the components or connectors directly.
- Ensure proper ventilation within the server chassis to prevent overheating.
- Refer to your server's documentation for specific installation guidelines and safety warnings.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- HPE MR408i-o Gen11 Storage Controller
- Documentation (Quick Start Guide, Warranty Information)
- Any included cables (e.g., SlimSAS cables, if applicable to your specific SKU)
If any items are missing or damaged, contact your vendor or HPE support immediately.
4. Product Overview
The HPE MR408i-o Gen11 Storage Controller features a PCI Express 4.0 x8 host interface, supporting Serial ATA/600 and 12Gb/s SAS drives. It includes 4GB of Flash Backed Cache for data protection and enhanced performance. The controller is equipped with one 1x8 LP SlimSAS connector for internal drive connectivity.
Figure 4.1: HPE MR408i-o Gen11 Storage Controller (Main View). This image displays the primary components and connectors of the controller card.
Figure 4.2: HPE MR408i-o Gen11 Storage Controller (Angled View). This image provides an alternative perspective of the controller, highlighting its form factor and additional details.
5. Setup
5.1. Hardware Installation
- Power down the server and disconnect all power cables.
- Open the server chassis according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Locate an available PCI Express 4.0 x8 slot on the server motherboard.
- Carefully insert the HPE MR408i-o controller into the PCIe slot, ensuring it is fully seated. Secure the controller with the retention mechanism or screw.
- Connect the internal drives (SAS or SATA) to the 1x8 LP SlimSAS port on the controller using appropriate cables. Refer to your server's documentation for internal cabling routes.
- Close the server chassis and reconnect power cables.
5.2. Driver Installation
After hardware installation, power on the server. The operating system may automatically detect the new hardware. If not, or for optimal performance, install the latest drivers from the HPE support website. Drivers are available for:
- Windows Server
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux
- SuSE Linux Enterprise Server
- Ubuntu Linux
- VMware ESXi
- CentOS
6. Operating
6.1. RAID Configuration
The HPE MR408i-o controller supports various RAID levels to optimize data redundancy and performance:
- RAID 0: Striping (performance, no redundancy)
- RAID 1: Mirroring (redundancy, no striping)
- RAID 5: Striping with distributed parity (performance and redundancy)
- RAID 6: Striping with dual distributed parity (enhanced redundancy)
- RAID 10: Mirrored stripes (performance and redundancy)
- RAID 50: Striped RAID 5 sets (higher performance and capacity than RAID 5)
- RAID 60: Striped RAID 6 sets (higher performance and capacity than RAID 6)
Configuration is typically performed through the controller's BIOS utility during server boot-up or via a software management utility provided by HPE or Broadcom (MegaRAID Storage Manager). Consult the software documentation for detailed instructions on creating and managing RAID volumes.
6.2. HBA / Pass-Through Mode
The controller can also operate in HBA (Host Bus Adapter) or pass-through mode, allowing the operating system to directly manage individual drives. This mode is often preferred in virtualized environments or software-defined storage solutions. Refer to the controller's configuration utility to enable or disable HBA mode.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your storage controller:
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check the HPE support website for the latest firmware updates for your controller. Firmware updates can provide performance enhancements, bug fixes, and compatibility improvements.
- Driver Updates: Ensure your operating system drivers for the controller are up-to-date.
- System Monitoring: Utilize server management tools to monitor the health and status of your RAID arrays and individual drives.
- Environmental Control: Maintain a stable operating environment with appropriate temperature and humidity levels to prevent hardware degradation.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your HPE MR408i-o controller, consider the following steps:
- No Detection: Ensure the controller is properly seated in the PCIe slot and that the server's BIOS/UEFI settings are configured to detect PCIe devices. Verify power connections.
- Drive Issues: Check drive cables and power connections. Verify that drives are compatible with the controller. Use the controller's management utility to check drive status.
- RAID Array Failure: If a drive in a redundant array fails, replace it promptly. The controller should automatically begin rebuilding the array. Monitor the rebuild process through the management utility.
- Performance Problems: Ensure drivers and firmware are up-to-date. Check for any background processes consuming resources. Verify drive health.
- Operating System Errors: Consult the operating system's event logs for error messages related to the storage controller.
For persistent issues, gather system logs and contact HPE technical support.
9. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model | MR408i-o |
| Host Interface | PCI Express 4.0 x8 |
| Controller Type | Serial ATA/600, 12Gb/s SAS |
| RAID Supported | Yes |
| RAID Levels | 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, 60 |
| Data Backup Type | Flash Backed Cache |
| Cache Memory | 4 GB |
| Total SAS Ports | 1 |
| SAS Connector Details | 1x8 LP SlimSAS |
| Device Supported | Server |
| Operating System Support | Windows Server, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, SuSE Linux Enterprise Server, Ubuntu Linux, VMware ESXi, CentOS |
| Product Dimensions | 9.9 x 8.8 x 2.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 4.4 pounds |
| Manufacturer Part Number | P58335B21 |
| Item Model Number | 0190017623740 |
10. Warranty and Support
This HPE product is covered by a limited warranty. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official HPE website. For technical assistance, driver downloads, firmware updates, and additional support resources, please visit the HPE support portal:
