RAID Controller HPE SmartArray P408i-a SR Gen10

The HPE Smart Array P408i-a SR Gen10 controller delivers enterprise-class storage performance and efficiency without using a PCIe expansion slot. Designed for HPE ProLiant Gen10 servers, it provides 12 Gb/s SAS connectivity over eight internal SAS lanes, supports both SAS and SATA drives, and enables Mixed Mode operation to run RAID and HBA simultaneously. The controller includes 2 GB Flash-Backed Write Cache (FBWC) and optional features such as HPE SSD Smart Path, SR SmartCache, and SR Secure Encryption to address demanding data workloads while keeping drives secure and reliable.

Advantages

The controller increases throughput and reduces latency for database, messaging, and other server applications by providing 12 Gb/s SAS connectivity and 2 GB FBWC. It improves SSD read performance via HPE SSD Smart Path and can cache hot HDD data onto SSDs with the SR SmartCache option. Built-in security options protect data-at-rest on any attached drive and the design supports long-term retention and data integrity with Flash-Backed Write Cache and SSD wear monitoring. As a type-a modular controller, it occupies a dedicated storage slot so it does not consume a PCIe expansion slot.

Key specifications

• Interface: PCIe 3.0 (controller installed in dedicated storage slot; does not use PCIe expansion slot)
• SAS speed: 12 Gb/s
• Internal SAS lanes: 8
• Drive support: SAS and SATA drives
• Cache: 2 GB Flash-Backed Write Cache (FBWC)
• Mixed Mode: supports RAID and HBA concurrently
• Optional features: HPE SSD Smart Path, SR SmartCache (optional license), SR Secure Encryption (optional license)
• Compatibility: HPE ProLiant Gen10 servers; supported by HPE Smart Storage Battery (sold separately)

How to use

Install the Smart Array P408i-a SR Gen10 controller into the server’s dedicated storage slot following HPE installation instructions. Connect SAS or SATA drives to the internal SAS lanes. Use the UEFI storage configuration tool or HPE Smart Storage Administrator (SSA) to create and configure RAID volumes, enable Mixed Mode if needed, and apply optional features such as SR SmartCache or SR Secure Encryption. For remote or scripted configuration, use iLO RESTful interfaces to automate array setup and management.

Recommendations

For optimal performance, pair the controller with 12 Gb/s internal storage devices and, where applicable, enable HPE SSD Smart Path or SR SmartCache for mixed SSD/HDD environments. Use the HPE Smart Storage Battery for supported cache protection and maintain firmware and SSA tools at current versions to ensure compatibility and security.