Q
How do I choose the right HPE hard drive or SSD for my server?
A
Select based on your server’s drive interface (SAS, SATA, NVMe), required capacity, performance tier, and workload profile using HPE QuickSpecs and Server Companion Guide.
Q
What is the difference between HPE SAS, SATA and NVMe drives?
A
SAS drives offer enterprise reliability and throughput, SATA drives provide cost-effective capacity, and NVMe SSDs deliver the highest I/O performance and lowest latency over PCIe.
Q
Are HPE hard drives and SSDs hot-pluggable?
A
Yes, most HPE enterprise SAS, SATA, and NVMe drives support hot-plug installation and removal in compatible server drive bays.
Q
How do I install or replace an HPE drive in my server?
A
Power down if required, unlock and slide out the drive carrier, insert the new HPE drive until it clicks, then secure the carrier and power up.
Q
How can I verify HPE drive compatibility with my server model?
A
Use the HPE Support Center’s compatibility matrix, enter your server model, and review supported drive part numbers in the QuickSpecs.
Q
What endurance ratings should I consider for HPE SSDs?
A
Check drive TBW (Terabytes Written) or DWPD (Drive Writes Per Day) to match your workload’s write intensity over the SSD’s warranty period.
Q
Do HPE hard drives and SSDs come with encryption?
A
HPE Secure Drive technology offers FIPS 140-2 validated self-encrypting drives (SEDs) that protect data at rest with AES-256 encryption.
Q
How do I update firmware on HPE drives?
A
Use HPE Smart Update Manager (SUM) or iLO firmware update repository to automate drive firmware deployment and ensure compatibility.
Q
How do I monitor health and performance of HPE drives?
A
Leverage HPE InfoSight or HPE System Insight Manager (SIM) to track drive metrics, receive predictive alerts, and schedule proactive maintenance.
Q
What warranty coverage do HPE hard drives and SSDs have?
A
HPE drives include a standard three-year limited warranty with optional extensions up to five years; check your product QuickSpecs for details.
Q
Can I use HPE SSDs in a RAID configuration?
A
Yes, HPE SSDs are fully supported in hardware RAID arrays; configure RAID levels via HPE Smart Array controllers for performance and redundancy.
Q
What are HPE’s end-of-life (EOL) policies for drives?
A
HPE publishes product lifecycle milestones in the End-of-Sale and End-of-Support notices; plan migrations before the EOL date to maintain support.
Q
Where can I purchase genuine HPE hard drives and SSDs?
A
Buy through authorized HPE resellers, channel partners, or the HPE Store to ensure genuine products and full warranty coverage.
Q
How do I ensure data security when disposing of HPE drives?
A
Use HPE Secure Erase utility or FIPS-validated SED sanitization commands to overwrite or cryptographically erase data before disposal.
Q
What performance metrics should I consider for HPE SSDs?
A
Evaluate sequential throughput (MB/s), random IOPS (4K read/write), latency (µs), and endurance (TBW or DWPD) to match application needs.
Q
Can I mix different HPE drive types in one server?
A
While physically possible, mixing interfaces or performance tiers can complicate firmware management; follow HPE compatibility guidance for optimal results.