Dell PowerVault Storage Arrays – new and refurbished

FAQ

What is the difference between the Dell PowerVault MD series and the ME series?

The MD series (e.g. MD1200, MD3200, MD3600F) are older generations that are often available as refurbished, ex-lease equipment. They use SAS 6Gb/12Gb interfaces, and FC in selected models. The ME series (e.g. ME4024, ME5012, ME5024) are newer solutions that support SAS SSDs and 10/25GbE iSCSI connectivity. The right choice depends on the performance you need and your budget.

Is it worth buying a refurbished Dell PowerVault array instead of a new one?

If the array is meant for backup, archiving or extending storage space for servers, a refurbished MD series model is often perfectly adequate and costs noticeably less than a new one. A new PowerVault ME makes sense when you need newer interfaces, such as 25GbE, or SAS SSDs. Before buying, check the configuration and warranty period in the product description.

Which RAID levels do Dell PowerVault arrays support?

Depending on the controller, PowerVault arrays support RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50 and 60. The specific levels depend on the model and the installed controller, so check the specification of your chosen array before buying. Drives and power supplies are hot-swappable, which helps limit downtime.

What is a Dell PowerVault array used for?

It is most commonly used as storage for backups and archives, storage for virtual machines, and capacity expansion for Dell PowerEdge servers. It also works well for storing CAD files, video material and databases. The arrays are compatible with VMware, Hyper-V and Citrix environments.

What capacity do PowerVault arrays offer, and can they be expanded?

Hardware Direct offers arrays with capacities from 24 TB to over 200 TB. They can be expanded further, and drives and power supplies are hot-swappable. Capacity and the maximum number of drives depend on the model, e.g. 2.5" or 3.5" enclosures, so check the product page for details.