Lenovo ThinkSystem RAID 9350-8i 2GB Flash PCIe 12Gb Adapter

The Lenovo ThinkSystem RAID 9350-8i is a high-performance hardware RAID controller designed to accelerate data-intensive workloads in data centers, enterprises, and demanding server deployments. With a 12 Gb/s SAS backbone, PCIe 3.0 x8 interface, and 2 GB of built-in flash cache, this plug-in card delivers rapid read/write responses, improved IOPS, and dependable data protection for virtualized environments, databases, and large-scale storage arrays. Built to integrate seamlessly with Lenovo ThinkSystem servers and a broad range of PC and Linux platforms, the 9350-8i combines enterprise-grade reliability with flexible RAID configurations to optimize storage performance while minimizing latency. The dual Mini-SAS HD x4 (SFF-8643) connectors support up to eight SAS ports, enabling efficient connections to backplanes and expansion enclosures, and its robust hardware RAID engine handles multiple RAID levels with minimal CPU overhead. For IT teams seeking resilient storage with straightforward management, the ThinkSystem 9350-8i stands out as a scalable, easy-to-deploy solution that enhances data protection, uptime, and operational efficiency.

• Ultra-fast 12 Gb/s SAS performance paired with a PCIe 3.0 x8 host interface to deliver high bandwidth and low latency for databases, virtualization, and large file workloads.
• 2 GB of flash-based cache accelerates common read/write workflows, boosting random IO performance and reducing latency for mixed-read/write operations across RAID arrays.
• Comprehensive hardware RAID support with levels 0, 1, 5, 10, 50, 60 and JBOD, enabling flexible data protection schemes and optimized capacity planning for diverse workloads.
• 8 total SAS ports accessible through two Mini-SAS HD x4 (SFF-8643) connectors, with 8 internal SAS ports ideal for direct connection to backplanes, storage enclosures, and expansion shelves.
• Broad OS and platform compatibility including PC and Linux environments, with plug-in PCIe form factor designed for Lenovo ThinkSystem servers and a wide range of industry-standard servers for versatile deployment.

Techncial Details of Lenovo ThinkSystem RAID 9350-8i 2GB Flash PCIe 12Gb Adapter

• Model: ThinkSystem RAID 9350-8i
• Interface: PCIe 3.0 x8
• Storage Interface: 12 Gb/s SAS
• Cache: 2 GB flash cache
• Connectors: 2x Mini-SAS HD x4 (SFF-8643)
• Internal Ports: 8 SAS ports (internal)
• RAID Levels: 0, 1, 5, 10, 50, 60; JBOD
• Compatibility: PC, Linux; compatible with Lenovo ThinkSystem servers
• Form Factor: PCIe plug-in card
• Target Use: Enterprise storage, data centers, virtualization environments

How to install Lenovo ThinkSystem RAID 9350-8i

• Power down the server and unplug all cables, then open the chassis to access the PCIe expansion slots.
• Identify an available PCIe 3.0 x8 slot that matches the card’s interface requirements and ensure adequate clearance for backplane cables.
• Insert the 9350-8i into the PCIe slot firmly until it is fully seated, then secure the card with the appropriate screw or retention mechanism.
• Connect the storage backplane or expansion enclosure using the two Mini-SAS HD x4 (SFF-8643) cables to the card’s connectors, ensuring proper alignment and secure attachment.
• Reassemble the chassis, reconnect power, and boot the system. Enter the RAID controller BIOS or management interface during POST to configure the desired RAID levels and array layout.
• Install any required management software or drivers as indicated by Lenovo for your operating system, then create and monitor logical drives, optimize cache settings, and set alerting policies for proactive maintenance.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Lenovo ThinkSystem RAID 9350-8i used for? It is a hardware RAID controller designed to accelerate SAS storage with robust RAID level options, cache acceleration, and compatibility with Lenovo ThinkSystem servers and other PC/Linux environments, making it ideal for databases, virtualization, and enterprise storage deployments.
• What performance benefits does the 2 GB flash cache provide? The 2 GB flash cache helps speed up read and write operations by caching frequently accessed data and write-back operations, reducing latency and increasing IOPS for mixed workloads and virtualized environments.
• Which RAID levels are supported? The controller supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, 50, 60, as well as JBOD for direct-disk access without RAID, giving administrators flexibility in data protection and performance tuning.
• How many SAS ports does it have? The card provides 8 internal SAS ports through two Mini-SAS HD x4 (SFF-8643) connectors, enabling efficient connections to backplanes or expansion enclosures.
• Is this card compatible with operating systems other than Windows? Yes. It is designed for PC and Linux platforms, and is commonly used with Lenovo ThinkSystem servers as well as other brands that support standard PCIe RAID controllers.