Questions about HP Proliant DL380e Gen8

[mangorosi]

Hi all,

I am new to the world of home lab so sorry if my questions sound whack.

I already have an old PC running as my home server, this is it so far.

Unfortunately, I am slowly running out of storage and am looking for a backup server to add to the rack (someone on that post commented that it doesn't look like a server rack but I checked the description and dimensions and can confirm it can fit full-sized servers and they can be properly mounted).

So I am looking for refurbished servers and came across the HP Proliant DL380e and see that it has SAS interface (most refurb servers I see are the same). I did some research and see that I could use SATA drives with an adapter for each but I have two questions.

- Will they physically fit?

- Will there be any issues if I use SATA? I saw an article when people said that if I used SATA instead the firmware will not read them properly and force the fans to be on full tilt nonstop.

- Is this server with 2 x E5-2450 16 Core, 8gb RAM (2 4gb dimms), No HDD, P420/1GB Raid Controller, 1 PSU worth 225 AUD? (168.72 USD)?

[Xenador77]

If I remember correctly, the Gen8 380e is SATA only without an advanced license to upgrade the Raid controller (Smart Storage array); that's the case for the 360e at least, but double-check.

I recommend going with a G8 380p instead, the cost difference is usually negligible, and the capability/performance difference is huge (in my opinion). The e in 380e stands for economy, as in cheap version, whereas the p in 380p stands for performance, as in out-performs the cheaper alternative.
The 380p can use both/either SAS/SATA drives and comes in 2 flavors of drive cage, 2.5inch (laptop HDD size) and 3.5inch (Desktop HDD size), no adapter required. The physical SAS connector (the part that connects the drive to the cage/server) is compatible with both SAS and SATA, but there are sometimes software/firmware limitations imposed by vendors, preventing the use of one or the other without paying them ransom first  until you purchase a license to do so

If you do use SATA drives, or SAS drives that aren't approved/certified by HP to be "compatible" with the server, it will make the fans operate at 100% the entire time it is on, it's pretty loud, so much so that I named my G8 380p JumboJet. If you are keeping your server in a garage, basement, or in any other place not usually occupied it isn't a big deal, but if you are in an apartment or have the server in your bedroom, it'll no longer be possible to have a conversation at a normal inside volume. 

[Marcsmith]

Regarding the HP Proliant DL380e server, here are some answers to your questions:

Physical Compatibility: The HP Proliant DL380e server is typically designed to accommodate both SAS and SATA drives. It should have both SAS and SATA drive bays available, allowing you to install either type of drive. However, it's essential to check the specific model and configuration you are considering to ensure compatibility.

SATA Compatibility and Fan Speed: Using SATA drives with an adapter should generally work fine in a server designed for SAS drives. While some older servers may have had firmware issues with SATA drives, it's less common with modern servers. As long as you have the necessary adapters and cabling, SATA drives should work without causing fan speed or firmware-related problems. However, it's always a good idea to check the server's specifications and consult user forums or documentation to ensure compatibility. 

Pricing: The price you mentioned for the HP Proliant DL380e server seems reasonable. However, the value can vary based on factors such as the condition of the server, additional features or upgrades, and the market demand in your region. It's worth comparing prices with other sellers or checking for similar models to ensure you are getting a fair deal.