FOSA SATA/SAS Array Card PCIe X8 6Gb/s Controller RAID Card for LSI 9260 8i M5015 46M0851

FOSA SATA/SAS Array Card PCIe X8 6Gb/s Controller RAID Card for LSI 9260 8i M5015 46M0851 — image 1
FOSA SATA/SAS Array Card PCIe X8 6Gb/s Controller RAID Card for LSI 9260 8i M5015 46M0851 — image 2
FOSA SATA/SAS Array Card PCIe X8 6Gb/s Controller RAID Card for LSI 9260 8i M5015 46M0851 — image 3
FOSA SATA/SAS Array Card PCIe X8 6Gb/s Controller RAID Card for LSI 9260 8i M5015 46M0851 — image 4
FOSA SATA/SAS Array Card PCIe X8 6Gb/s Controller RAID Card for LSI 9260 8i M5015 46M0851 — image 5
FOSA SATA/SAS Array Card PCIe X8 6Gb/s Controller RAID Card for LSI 9260 8i M5015 46M0851 — image 6
FOSA SATA/SAS Array Card PCIe X8 6Gb/s Controller RAID Card for LSI 9260 8i M5015 46M0851 — image 7
FOSA SATA/SAS Array Card PCIe X8 6Gb/s Controller RAID Card for LSI 9260 8i M5015 46M0851 — image 8
88%
91%
Performance
96%
Ease of Installation
89%
Compatibility with Controllers
85%
RAID Functionality
87%
Space-Saving Design
88%
Reliability for Heavy Workloads
90%
Hot Swap Feature
84%
Rebuild Recovery
92%
Ease of Use
78%
Customer Support
86%
Build Quality
90%
Price vs. Value
More

Overview

The FOSA SATA/SAS Array Card PCIe X8 6Gb/s Controller RAID Card for LSI 9260 8i M5015 46M0851 is a powerful storage expansion solution for systems requiring high-performance data management. This RAID controller card is designed to support up to 32 drives, including both SSD and hard drives, making it a versatile choice for large-scale storage setups. With PCIe X8 interface support, it’s ideal for data-intensive applications that demand fast and stable connections. Compatible with LSI 9260-8i and M5015 controllers, this card is a reliable option for those looking to enhance their storage capacity and speed.

Features & Benefits

This RAID controller card offers both 3Gb/s and 6Gb/s SATA and SAS speeds, ensuring optimal performance for demanding tasks. The card also supports hot swap, allowing users to replace drives without downtime, and it automatically recovers during RAID rebuilds. Its low-profile MD2 form factor is perfect for environments with limited space, such as 1U and 2U server racks. Additionally, it enables online capacity expansion and RAID level upgrades, making it highly adaptable as storage needs grow over time.

Best For

This product is best suited for users who need to expand storage in their server or desktop systems, especially those working with large datasets or demanding workloads. IT professionals managing high-performance data environments will find it particularly valuable, as it offers both speed and reliability. The card’s RAID functionality also makes it ideal for anyone looking to scale up storage without compromising on performance, especially for large-scale setups where reliability and uptime are critical.

User Feedback

The reviews for this SAS array card are generally positive, with many users highlighting the ease of installation and setup. It has proven to be a reliable option for managing heavy workloads, especially in server environments. However, there have been some concerns about compatibility with older systems, which could lead to occasional setup challenges. Despite this, the card is appreciated for its consistent performance, and users have praised its ability to handle complex RAID configurations with minimal fuss.

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Pros

  • This RAID controller card is easy to install, with minimal setup required even for users without extensive technical experience.
  • It supports both 3Gb/s and 6Gb/s speeds, providing fast data transfer rates for demanding applications.
  • Ideal for users in space-constrained environments, thanks to its low-profile design that fits 1U and 2U racks.
  • The card is highly reliable, handling heavy workloads and ensuring consistent performance over extended periods.
  • Hot swap functionality is a standout feature, allowing users to replace drives without shutting down the system.
  • The device's compatibility with LSI 9260-8i and M5015 controllers ensures broad system support for storage expansion.

Cons

  • Users with older systems may face compatibility issues, as some configurations do not support the card properly.
  • Installation can be complex for those unfamiliar with RAID setups, requiring some technical knowledge for full functionality.
  • While compact, the card may not be suitable for users who need a high number of ports or more advanced features.
  • Some users report the need for additional software drivers to optimize performance, which may not be readily available.
  • The card is primarily designed for large-scale applications, making it excessive for those with simple storage needs.
  • Certain users have experienced slow RAID rebuild times, which can be a downside during system recovery.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from a range of global sources, including multiple languages and platforms, we've gathered insights on the FOSA SATA/SAS Array Card PCIe X8 6Gb/s Controller RAID Card for LSI 9260 8i M5015 46M0851. Spam, bot-generated, and incentivized reviews have been filtered out to ensure authenticity. Both strengths and challenges are reflected in the feedback, providing a well-rounded picture of the product's real-world performance.

Performance
91%
Users report that this RAID controller card offers consistent, high-speed performance across a variety of data-intensive applications. Many are impressed by its ability to handle up to 32 drives with minimal lag, making it a great choice for large-scale storage setups.
A few users have mentioned that while the performance is excellent for the most part, occasional performance drops can occur when dealing with extremely high data loads. Some also noted that it may struggle with certain complex RAID configurations.
Ease of Installation
96%
Buyers rave about how easy this device is to install. The setup process is straightforward, with many noting that it required little technical expertise to get up and running, even in more complex server environments. The plug-and-play nature is a standout feature.
Despite the generally positive feedback, a small group of users did find the installation manual lacking in detail, which led to some frustration. However, this was an isolated issue, with the majority finding installation smooth and intuitive.
Compatibility with Controllers
89%
This SAS array card is highly praised for its compatibility with LSI 9260-8i and M5015 controllers. Users in enterprise environments appreciate the seamless integration and the fact that they can easily expand their existing systems without worrying about compatibility issues.
A few users pointed out that while compatibility is generally strong, there are occasional hiccups when trying to use this card with older or non-standard hardware. This can require additional troubleshooting for certain setups.
RAID Functionality
85%
This RAID controller excels in its core functionality, allowing users to manage and configure complex RAID arrays with ease. Features like RAID level upgrades and online capacity expansion are particularly appreciated for enhancing data management.
While most users are happy with the RAID functionality, there are some complaints about the limited RAID level options available, particularly in more advanced configurations. Some also mentioned occasional software glitches during RAID rebuilds.
Space-Saving Design
87%
The low-profile MD2 form factor is ideal for users working with tight server spaces, such as 1U or 2U environments. Many buyers found it easy to fit into compact setups without compromising on performance.
However, a small number of users felt that the card's compact size might compromise airflow in certain configurations, especially in high-performance systems where cooling is critical. Some also noted that space constraints limited the card's overall versatility.
Reliability for Heavy Workloads
88%
Many users highlight this device's reliability under heavy workloads, such as when managing large data sets or high-traffic environments. It delivers consistent, steady performance even during extended use, which is crucial for enterprise and server setups.
Though generally reliable, some users mentioned that under extreme workloads, the card can become less responsive, especially if running multiple RAID rebuilds or dealing with large-scale data transfers simultaneously. This issue, though not widespread, is worth considering for demanding applications.
Hot Swap Feature
90%
The hot swap capability is a standout feature, allowing users to replace drives without shutting down the system. This functionality is particularly valuable in environments that require minimal downtime and ensure uninterrupted service.
A few users reported that the hot swap feature occasionally doesn't recognize new drives on first attempt, requiring a reboot to fully integrate the new hardware. While this isn't a dealbreaker, it can be inconvenient in time-sensitive scenarios.
Rebuild Recovery
84%
Buyers appreciate the automatic recovery feature during RAID rebuilds, as it minimizes system downtime and ensures data integrity. This functionality is essential for those managing critical data and systems that cannot afford prolonged disruptions.
Some users pointed out that the rebuild recovery process can be slower than expected, especially when handling large amounts of data. This can lead to extended wait times during crucial rebuild operations, which might impact performance in high-demand environments.
Ease of Use
92%
Users consistently mention how intuitive this storage expansion solution is, especially in user-friendly environments. The straightforward interface and manageable setup process allow even less experienced users to handle advanced storage tasks with ease.
Despite its ease of use for most, some users found the accompanying software to be clunky or difficult to navigate, especially when it comes to advanced RAID configurations. While not a common issue, it can be frustrating for users seeking a smoother experience.
Customer Support
78%
22%
While the product generally performs well, users note that customer support is responsive when needed. They found the team helpful in resolving issues related to setup and troubleshooting, particularly with installation-related questions.
Several buyers were dissatisfied with the responsiveness of customer support, especially when dealing with hardware issues or more complex inquiries. The response time was cited as slow in some cases, leaving users without quick resolutions.
Build Quality
86%
The build quality of this device is generally regarded as solid, with many users praising its durable design that withstands long-term use in demanding environments. The sturdy construction ensures longevity in enterprise-grade settings.
A few users did mention that the physical card could feel somewhat light and flimsy compared to higher-end enterprise solutions. This hasn't caused any major issues, but it has raised some concerns about its long-term robustness in certain setups.
Price vs. Value
90%
Many users find the value for money excellent, especially when considering the high-performance features and ease of use it offers at this price point. Buyers feel they get a good balance of quality and capability without breaking the bank.
A small group of users felt that the price could be slightly lower considering some of the occasional performance and compatibility issues they faced. While the card delivers solid value overall, some see it as a bit expensive for those only needing basic RAID functionality.

Suitable for:

This RAID controller card is ideal for IT professionals and businesses that need to expand storage in high-performance server environments. With support for up to 32 drives, including SSDs and hard drives, it is especially beneficial for users working with data-intensive applications or requiring large-scale storage solutions. The card's compatibility with LSI 9260-8i and M5015 controllers makes it a great option for those looking to upgrade or expand their existing systems. Its high-speed capabilities (3Gb/s and 6Gb/s) make it suitable for environments that demand consistent, high-bandwidth performance, such as data centers or enterprise servers. Additionally, users in tight spaces, like 1U and 2U environments, will appreciate its space-saving design, making it a good fit for compact systems where performance is still a top priority.

Not suitable for:

While this device excels in enterprise-level applications, it may not be the best choice for casual users or those looking for a simple, plug-and-play solution. Home users or small businesses with minimal storage needs may find the card overkill, especially given its focus on high-bandwidth applications. Additionally, some users have reported minor compatibility issues with older systems, so those with legacy hardware may face challenges when trying to integrate this card. Its setup is more complex than simpler storage expansion options, which could be a downside for those who don't have the technical expertise or need for extensive RAID configurations. Finally, users who require absolute ease of use or a more affordable, entry-level solution might be better suited with a simpler RAID card.

Specifications

  • Interface: Uses PCIe X8 interface for high-speed data transfer and integration with compatible systems.
  • Max Drives Supported: Supports up to 32 drives, allowing for extensive storage expansion in data-intensive environments.
  • Drive Compatibility: Compatible with both SATA and SAS drives, offering flexibility in storage configurations.
  • Speed: Supports 3Gb/s and 6Gb/s speeds for both SATA and SAS drives, ensuring fast data transfer rates.
  • Form Factor: Low-profile MD2 form factor, ideal for space-constrained environments such as 1U and 2U racks.
  • RAID Support: Provides RAID support, enabling users to configure redundant or performance-oriented storage arrays.
  • Hot Swap: Supports hot swap functionality, allowing drives to be replaced without shutting down the system.
  • RAID Level Upgrade: Enables RAID level upgrades, offering the flexibility to adjust storage configurations as needs evolve.
  • Automatic Recovery: Features automatic recovery during RAID rebuilds to minimize downtime and data loss risks.
  • Capacity Expansion: Supports online capacity expansion, allowing users to add new drives or extend existing arrays without system interruption.
  • Controller Compatibility: Compatible with LSI 9260-8i and M5015 RAID controllers, ensuring broad compatibility with various systems.
  • Dimensions: Measures 6.69 x 4.72 x 0.79 inches, making it compact enough for use in low-profile setups.
  • Weight: Weighs 4.6 ounces, ensuring it remains lightweight for easy installation and handling.
  • Recovery Type: Supports automatic drive recovery during RAID rebuilds, ensuring that data integrity is maintained during failures.
  • Application Use: Designed for high-bandwidth, data-intensive applications such as server environments and enterprise storage solutions.

FAQ

This device is designed for expanding storage in high-performance systems. It allows you to connect up to 32 SATA or SAS drives and is ideal for data-intensive applications like servers or workstations. It supports both SSDs and hard drives, making it versatile for various use cases.

Installation is straightforward: insert the card into an available PCIe X8 slot in your system and ensure it is securely connected. Once installed, you’ll need to configure RAID settings through the BIOS or RAID management software. The card supports both 3Gb/s and 6Gb/s speeds, so ensure your drives are compatible for optimal performance.

This RAID card supports both SATA and SAS drives, which gives it flexibility for various setups. You can use it with SSDs for high-speed performance or traditional hard drives for larger storage needs. However, it's important to check your system's requirements and compatibility with the LSI 9260-8i or M5015 controllers to ensure seamless operation.

RAID rebuild refers to the process of restoring data from a failed drive onto a new one in a RAID array. This card supports automatic recovery during rebuilds, which means it can restore your data without manual intervention. This feature is particularly useful for users with high availability needs, reducing system downtime.

Yes, the FOSA RAID card is designed with a low-profile MD2 form factor, making it ideal for 1U and 2U environments where space is limited. Its compact design ensures that you can add storage without sacrificing valuable rack space.

Yes, the card enables online capacity expansion, allowing you to add additional drives or expand RAID volumes without needing to shut down the system. This is particularly useful for users who need to scale their storage solutions on the fly without disrupting operations.

Some users have reported compatibility issues with older systems, especially if the system’s firmware or hardware is not fully compatible with the LSI 9260-8i or M5015 controllers. It’s advisable to check your system’s compatibility before purchase to avoid potential issues.

The FOSA RAID card supports up to 32 drives, which gives you plenty of capacity for large-scale storage systems. This makes it ideal for data centers or IT professionals managing multiple hard drives or SSDs in high-performance environments.

While this card is capable of handling large storage arrays and high-demand environments, it might be overkill for simple home setups. It's designed for users who need advanced RAID functionality and scalable storage solutions, such as in servers or workstations, rather than for casual home use.

If the card doesn’t appear in your system after installation, first ensure it’s properly seated in the PCIe slot. Then, check for any necessary driver or firmware updates for your system. If the issue persists, verify that your system is compatible with the card and its controller models (LSI 9260-8i and M5015).