IBM RAID cards for Power7 systems provide dependable storage control with RAID capabilities optimized for the Power7 server generation. These PCIe-based SAS RAID adapters support key RAID levels including RAID 0, 5, 6, 10, and system-level mirroring, delivering solid data protection and availability for legacy enterprise environments.
With models offering optional integrated write cache (for improved write performance), hot-swap support, and compatibility with internal/external SAS/SATA drives (HDD and early SSD), these adapters enable flexible storage expansion and redundancy. They integrate with Power7 servers running AIX, IBM i, or Linux, and support high-availability configurations in compatible setups.
Common models include PCIe Gen2 SAS RAID adapters (e.g., feature codes such as 5900/5901 for basic RAID, or cached variants like 5903/EL50), providing 6 Gb/s SAS performance suited to Power7's PCIe slots. These cards are suitable for databases, virtualization, ERP systems, and other workloads requiring reliable storage in aging Power7 infrastructure.
IBM Power7 RAID cards are backed by a 60-day warranty, ensuring quality and dependable performance for legacy systems.
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Interface | PCIe Gen2 x8 (model-dependent) |
| SAS Ports | Typically 4–8 internal/external ports (model-dependent) |
| RAID Levels Supported | 0, 5, 6, 10, mirroring |
| Cache | Optional write cache (e.g., 512 MB on cached models) |
| Data Transfer Rate | 6 Gb/s SAS (per port) |
| Supported Systems | IBM Power7 servers (e.g., 8202-E4B, 8205-E6B, 8231-E2B, 9117-MMB, 9179-MHB) – check specific feature codes |
| Operating Systems | AIX (6.1/7.1), IBM i (6.1/7.1), Linux (RHEL 5+/6+, SLES 10+/11+) |
| Form Factor | PCIe low-profile or full-height adapter |
| Warranty | 60 days |
IBM RAID cards are compatible with IBM Power7 servers and operating systems:
Requires compatible PCIe slots, system firmware, and appropriate cabling/backplanes.