Can you "convert" an MSA2012fc to a MSA2024/2324fc?

[Paul_637]

We have a number of MSA2012fc's deployed (mostly individually rather than in a fabric) but I'm looking to overcome restrictions to LFF drives if possible as we currently have a significant number spare for various reasons.

So, is it remotely possible to purchase a "bare" 2x24 chassis and move the two FC controllers from an existing 2012 into it, and get it going (with suitable disks)?

What would be even better is if we can then purchase "suitable" controllers to convert the old MSA2012 chassis into an expansion tray and drive that with the 2x24 "head unit"?

I wanted to check if this is technically possible first. It's possible (likely?) that it'll simply be cheaper to purchase a standard 2324fc but these controllers don't come cheap so it would be surprising to me.

What I want to end up with is a cost-effective way of being able to use both SFF & LFF disks in a given MSA setup.

Regards,

Paul

[Daniel Bernardo]

you can buy both controller of MSA G3 an convert your msa into a G3 easy. But your backend still works at 3GB/s.

regards.

[Paul_637]

Thanks for the response, however, it's the chassis that I'm most interested in replacing, and keeping the existing controllers (the expensive bits!).

[Patrick Terlisten]

Hello Paul,

AFAIK the controller enclosure isn't sold separately.

Regards,
Patrick

[Ted Buis · Accepted solution]

Normally, the MSA2012fc is the first generation array of the MSA2000 and uses the AJ744A controller. The MSA2324fc is the second generation controllers which is part number AJ798A. So you can never put the AJ744A in the MSA2324fc. The controllers are the same for the MSA2312fc (G2) and the MSA2324fc (G2). You can buy just the AJ949A controller-less chassis for the MSA2312fc (G2). If you really do have the MSA2012fc G2 which should be called the MSA2312fc but isn't always in the literature, then it should be the AJ798A controller and it is possible.

[Paul_637]

Many thanks for the detailed reply, most useful!

Because they are 150 miles away, the only way I'm able to establish that the ones we have are not G2 models is by the web interface which, according to the HP cookbook for the MSA2k series has been updated and looks quite different.

I guess they're going to have to live with what they've got and ensure that, if they ever buy any more, they make them 2024's!

Paul