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user1034912
Asked: 2019-12-01 14:44:31 +0800 CST

Can we upgrade Dell's basic Server R240 (which still uses HDD 7200RPM) to an SSD?

  • 772

Today I was shopping for the most basic dell rack server which is the R240.

Ironically, they are still using HDD 7200 RPM, with no option for SSD in their selection; and we're approaching 2020!

https://www.dell.com/en-au/work/shop/servers-storage-and-networking/poweredge-r240-rack-server/spd/poweredge-r240/4er2401101auoo_vi_vp

My question is simple

  1. Why is this so? (optional)
  2. Can I buy a cheap SSD (like the cheap 1TB 2.5" SSD on ebay) and swap them on the R240?

Thanks

dell-poweredge

5 Answers

  1. Best Answer

    On Dell's R210, R220 and T130 I've successfully used Sandisk's consumer grade SSDs for years. I've done this with PERC's H410 and H710 controllers.

    It will be a matter of controller and controller's firmware more than server brand/model.

    Also, you'll probably have issues to find disk trays. I ended up buying it used on a famous refurbished hardware shop.

    And regarding the optional first question, Dell sells servers equipped with SSDs for sure, maybe you should look to more expensive models.

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  2. Yes, you can swap HDDs <-> SSDs the way you want. Moreover, it's OK to use non-Dell branded SSDs inside Dell servers, you won't receive support (of course!) and some functions won't work like LEDs, iDRAC etc, but in general it's a way to go.

    • 9

  3. Yes you can, but test the drives beforehand. If you will not be using server grade SSD drives, focus on Samsung PRO drives as they are very reliable. Latest EVOs are also OK, but they have lower read/write lives.

    I have successfully upgraded some servers with PRO drives. RAID1 worked OK.

    *Some RAID controllers can be stupid and cause drives to fall out of alignment.

    • 0

  4. I had the same problem - ordering a DELL R240 with SSD drives. Switching the configuration to "hot plug hard drives" made SSD drives available.

    This gem was hiden on page 19 in the manual: https://i.dell.com/sites/csdocuments/Product_Docs/en/poweredge-r240-technical-guide.pdf

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  5. We purchased 4 units of Dell R240 with Kingston KC600 2TB SSD, everything works fine, but the SSD can't detected by the PERC RAID controller after reboot, what a disappointed Dell product ??

    Exactly same issue here: https://www.dell.com/community/PowerEdge-Hardware-General/PowerEdge-T130-SSD-not-found-failed-after-reboot/td-p/7493630

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