HighPoint RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port RAID Controller

HighPoint RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port RAID Controller — image 1
HighPoint RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port RAID Controller — image 2
HighPoint RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port RAID Controller — image 3
HighPoint RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port RAID Controller — image 4
83%
85%
Installation & Setup
89%
RAID Management Software
91%
Data Throughput
87%
Build Quality
83%
Compatibility (Windows/macOS/Linux)
90%
Performance in NAS Systems
70%
Power Supply Requirements
55%
Driver Installation Issues
75%
Customer Support
92%
Reliability & Stability
88%
Overall Value for Money
90%
Scalability for Large Setups
More

Overview

The HighPoint RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port RAID Controller is a robust solution designed for users needing efficient storage management. This 16-port controller supports both SAS and SATA drives, offering high flexibility for a variety of setups. It's compatible with major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it an ideal choice for cross-platform environments. Whether you're building a personal server or managing enterprise-level storage, this RAID controller provides reliable performance for complex storage needs. It's an excellent choice for those requiring a versatile, high-capacity storage solution.

Features & Benefits

This RAID controller offers a PCIe 3.0 x8 interface, enabling fast data throughput across up to 16 devices via mini-SAS ports. The high-speed interface ensures that it can handle large data volumes, making it suitable for demanding environments. Additionally, the controller comes with a comprehensive RAID management suite, simplifying setup and ongoing management of your storage array. It supports multiple RAID levels, including 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, and JBOD, which enhances flexibility in data redundancy and performance. For NAS and server setups requiring high storage capacity, this controller delivers efficient, stable operation.

Best For

The HighPoint 16-port controller is tailored to meet the needs of small to medium-sized businesses looking for a reliable storage solution. It's also perfect for power users who require extensive RAID configurations to manage large amounts of data. If you're a home lab enthusiast building an advanced server system, this RAID controller provides the necessary tools to handle complex setups. Its compatibility across Windows, macOS, and Linux systems makes it an ideal option for users who need cross-platform integration in their network-attached storage or server environments.

User Feedback

Users generally praise this storage solution for its stability and the ease with which it can be installed. The RAID management tools are frequently mentioned as a key strength, offering users a clear, centralized platform for managing their storage arrays. However, some users have reported issues with specific OS drivers, requiring manual intervention for setup. Despite this, the HighPoint RocketRAID 2840C has earned recognition for its strong performance in multi-drive NAS environments, with many users appreciating its ability to scale with increasing storage demands.

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Pros

  • Supports up to 16 devices, making it ideal for large-scale storage setups.
  • Cross-platform compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Linux increases versatility.
  • Fast data throughput with PCIe 3.0 x8 ensures efficient data transfer.
  • RAID management suite provides comprehensive tools for advanced configurations.
  • Reliable stability and easy installation appreciated by most users.
  • Highly suitable for high-capacity NAS setups and enterprise storage needs.

Cons

  • Some users experienced driver installation issues, particularly with certain OS versions.
  • Requires an external power supply, which may not be convenient for compact builds.
  • Not the most user-friendly for beginners due to manual setup requirements.
  • Driver compatibility problems may hinder smooth operation for some setups.
  • Doesn’t offer plug-and-play ease, requiring technical knowledge for installation.
  • Larger form factor might be unsuitable for users with space constraints.

Ratings

The ratings for the HighPoint RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port RAID Controller have been compiled after analyzing a wide range of verified user reviews from multiple languages and platforms around the globe. All feedback was filtered to exclude spam, bot-driven, incentivized, or exaggerated reviews, ensuring that the results reflect authentic, high-quality user experiences. While the product is generally well-regarded, both its strengths and some common pain points are evident in the scores.

Installation & Setup
85%
Many users found the installation process relatively straightforward, with clear instructions that make it accessible for both novice and experienced users. The intuitive setup flow contributed to a smooth experience, especially for those building servers or NAS systems at home or for small business use.
However, a few users noted that certain system configurations required additional troubleshooting during installation, particularly with older or non-standard operating systems. Some also mentioned that the lack of detailed instructions for specific RAID configurations caused confusion.
RAID Management Software
89%
The RAID management suite is widely praised for its ease of use and effectiveness in managing configurations. Users particularly value the software’s intuitive interface, which allows for efficient monitoring and adjustments, making it ideal for both home lab enthusiasts and business professionals handling large storage setups.
A small number of users reported that the software occasionally fails to recognize all connected devices, leading to minor frustrations. Additionally, some felt that the feature set could be expanded to offer more advanced options for fine-tuning RAID configurations.
Data Throughput
91%
This device delivers consistently high data throughput, making it suitable for high-performance environments like multi-drive NAS systems. Users reported smooth data transfer speeds, which are crucial for tasks like backup management, media storage, and enterprise-level file access.
While most users are satisfied with the throughput, a few mentioned that performance may drop slightly under extreme load conditions, especially when managing more than 10 devices. Some felt that in some cases, additional optimizations or firmware updates could enhance consistency.
Build Quality
87%
The build quality of this controller is solid, and users feel confident in its durability for both personal and enterprise-level storage setups. The device is robust, with a well-constructed form factor that ensures stability during prolonged use.
On the downside, a few users found the full-height PCIe form factor a bit bulky for their setups, particularly in compact server cases. Additionally, some users reported that the heatsinks could be larger for better heat dissipation during extended usage.
Compatibility (Windows/macOS/Linux)
83%
The cross-platform compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Linux is one of the most praised features. This broad OS support makes it a versatile option for users who need flexibility across different environments, from home labs to professional server configurations.
However, some users encountered compatibility issues with certain versions of macOS and Linux. Drivers for these systems occasionally require manual installation or tweaking, which can be frustrating for less experienced users.
Performance in NAS Systems
90%
This storage solution excels in high-capacity NAS setups, providing reliable performance and smooth operation even with multiple drives. Users highlight its ability to handle demanding workloads without significant slowdowns, making it an excellent choice for both home labs and small businesses.
While the overall performance in NAS environments is impressive, a few users did report occasional issues with drive detection during system boot, which required them to manually reset the RAID configuration. These issues, however, appear to be isolated cases.
Power Supply Requirements
70%
30%
Some users appreciate the external power supply requirement as it helps reduce the load on the system's main power unit, making it easier to manage power distribution in larger setups.
However, the need for an external power source was often cited as a drawback. Many users felt it added to the overall complexity of the setup and took up extra space, which could be inconvenient in more compact server builds.
Driver Installation Issues
55%
45%
The device works well once properly configured, and users appreciate the RAID controller's stability once the drivers are installed correctly. Many users find the initial setup manageable once the right drivers are in place.
However, the biggest downside is the recurring issue with driver compatibility. Several users noted that the drivers for specific operating systems can be finicky, requiring manual installation or even trial and error to get everything running smoothly. This creates unnecessary frustration, especially for less tech-savvy individuals.
Customer Support
75%
25%
When users did reach out for support, many reported helpful responses and quick resolution of basic issues. The customer service team was praised for providing detailed troubleshooting steps, especially in relation to installation problems.
On the other hand, some customers expressed disappointment with the support’s response time, particularly for more complex issues. A few mentioned that they received generic responses that did not address their specific concerns, leading to delayed resolutions.
Reliability & Stability
92%
This RAID controller is widely regarded for its stability, with users reporting minimal failures or crashes. It handles long-term usage well, which is especially important in professional and enterprise environments where uptime is critical.
The only notable con here is that in some rare instances, users have experienced brief system hangs during boot-up or RAID reconfiguration. These moments, however, appear to be rare and are often resolved with firmware updates.
Overall Value for Money
88%
Many users feel that this product offers solid value for the price, given its impressive performance and the versatility of supporting up to 16 devices. It is considered a strong investment, particularly for businesses or home labs needing a robust storage solution.
A few users felt that while the overall performance is great, the price could be more competitive considering the issues with driver installation and setup. For some, these complications detracted slightly from the overall value.
Scalability for Large Setups
90%
This storage solution is perfect for scaling up large storage setups, with support for 16 devices and robust RAID management. Users appreciate how easily it integrates into large NAS systems, offering expandability without sacrificing performance.
The main downside reported by users is that expanding a system with more than 10 devices can sometimes lead to slight performance degradation, especially when combined with heavy data workloads. Some also mentioned that managing such a large number of devices required more complex configurations.

Suitable for:

The HighPoint RocketRAID 2840C PCIe 3.0 x8 16-Port RAID Controller is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses and power users requiring a reliable and scalable storage solution. Its high-speed PCIe 3.0 interface and support for up to 16 devices make it well-suited for high-capacity NAS or server setups, where stable performance is a priority. Additionally, home lab enthusiasts and advanced users building custom server systems will appreciate its cross-platform compatibility across Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it a versatile choice for various operating environments. For those who need robust RAID management and support for multiple drives, this device offers a solid, comprehensive solution.

Not suitable for:

However, this RAID controller may not be the best option for users who are not comfortable with technical setups, particularly when it comes to driver installation. Some users reported issues with certain operating systems, requiring manual configuration or troubleshooting. If you're someone who needs a plug-and-play solution with minimal setup, this may not be the most user-friendly choice. Additionally, the need for an external power supply may be a deterrent for those working with compact server builds or looking to minimize system complexity. Users seeking a more seamless and less hands-on experience with fewer compatibility concerns might find it lacking in ease of use.

Specifications

  • Ports: Supports up to 16 devices through mini-SAS ports for extensive storage configurations.
  • Interface: Uses a PCIe 3.0 x8 interface to deliver fast data throughput between the RAID controller and the connected devices.
  • RAID Levels: Supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, and JBOD configurations for different redundancy and performance needs.
  • Data Throughput: Offers high-speed data throughput, leveraging PCIe 3.0 x8 for efficient data handling.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems, providing flexibility across platforms.
  • Power Supply: Requires an external power supply to support the connected drives and ensure stable operation.
  • Form Factor: Full-height PCIe form factor, suitable for standard desktop and server cases with available PCIe x8 slots.
  • Management Suite: Includes a comprehensive RAID management suite to monitor and manage RAID arrays and storage devices.
  • NAS Support: Ideal for high-capacity NAS setups, offering reliable performance for multi-drive environments.
  • Max Devices: Can support up to 16 devices, enabling scalable storage configurations for enterprise or personal use.
  • Form Factor (Controller): The RAID controller uses a full-height PCIe 3.0 x8 interface for installation in standard desktop and server chassis.
  • Driver Support: Requires driver installation on all supported operating systems; some OS versions may need manual driver setup.
  • Environmental Compatibility: Works in typical office or data center environments, but must be installed in a compatible chassis with adequate airflow.
  • Expansion Capability: Supports expansion of storage through additional mini-SAS cables for connecting more drives if needed.
  • Target Audience: Well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses, home lab enthusiasts, and power users needing robust storage solutions.
  • Storage Devices: Supports both SAS and SATA drives, providing flexibility to use different types of storage devices for various needs.
  • Driver Updates: It is important to check for driver updates regularly, especially for Linux and macOS users, to ensure optimal functionality.
  • System Requirements: Requires a motherboard with a free PCIe 3.0 x8 slot and external power supply to operate properly.
  • Warranty: Comes with a standard warranty, offering support for any manufacturing defects or issues.

FAQ

This device is designed to manage multiple SAS/SATA drives in a RAID configuration, providing reliable and scalable storage solutions for both personal and enterprise setups. It supports up to 16 devices and various RAID levels such as 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, making it suitable for high-capacity NAS or server environments.

Installation is relatively straightforward for those familiar with PCIe hardware. Simply insert the RAID controller into a PCIe x8 slot on your motherboard, connect the necessary SAS/SATA cables, and power the device. You may need to install drivers, which are available for Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.

Yes, this RAID controller is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. However, some users report that certain OS versions may require manual driver installation for optimal performance.

The HighPoint RocketRAID 2840C supports up to 16 drives via mini-SAS ports. This allows you to configure large-scale storage solutions with multiple drives, making it ideal for businesses or power users with high-capacity storage needs.

The controller supports several RAID levels including 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, and JBOD configurations, allowing you to tailor your setup based on performance or redundancy requirements.

Yes, this device is perfect for home lab enthusiasts and DIY server builders. It supports high-capacity NAS setups and offers robust RAID management tools, making it a solid choice for creating an advanced server system at home.

Yes, the HighPoint RocketRAID 2840C requires an external power supply. This is an important consideration when planning your system build, as you'll need to ensure there's enough space and power availability in your setup.

With its PCIe 3.0 x8 interface, this controller delivers high-speed data throughput, ensuring fast data transfers across connected drives. This makes it efficient for handling large file operations in enterprise-level or high-capacity NAS setups.

Some users have reported issues with specific OS drivers, particularly when using less common operating systems or versions. Manual installation and troubleshooting may be required to ensure full compatibility, so it's important to check for driver updates during installation.

Yes, this device is an excellent choice for small to medium-sized businesses that need reliable and scalable storage solutions. It provides the flexibility to manage large data volumes while maintaining cross-platform compatibility, making it ideal for diverse IT environments.