Interface Card Adaptec SmartRAID 3102E-8i

The Adaptec SmartRAID 3102E-8i is an entry-level low-profile PCIe interface card designed for SAS and SATA storage connections. It delivers up to 12 Gbit/s transfer rates, supports essential RAID levels (0, 1, 1 ADM and 10 ADM) and is certified by CE, FCC and UL. With an MTBF of 1,370,000 hours, this interface card is suited for deployments that require reliable hardware RAID functionality and basic caching without the advanced cache backup or higher RAID level features of full-featured adapters.

Advantages

The SmartRAID 3102E-8i provides cost-effective hardware RAID offload, low-profile PCIe compatibility for compact systems, and support for both SAS and SATA drives. It offers solid reliability as indicated by a high MTBF and carries common regulatory certifications. The adapter supports caching capabilities suitable for smaller deployments while avoiding the complexity and cost of full cache backup solutions.

Suitable for

• Small server and workstation storage expansions
• Environments requiring basic hardware RAID (RAID 0, 1, 1 ADM, 10 ADM)
• Systems with limited space needing a low-profile PCIe card
• Deployments using a mix of SAS and SATA drives

Key specifications

• Model: Adaptec SmartRAID 3102E-8i (MPN: 2304200-R)
• Host interface: PCIe (low-profile)
• Output interface: SATA, SAS
• Maximum data transfer rate: 12 Gbit/s
• Supported RAID levels: 0, 1, 1 ADM, 10 ADM
• Internal: Yes
• MTBF: 1,370,000 hours
• Certifications: CE, FCC, UL

How to use

Install the SmartRAID 3102E-8i into an available low-profile PCIe slot on the host system. Connect SAS or SATA drives to the adapter’s internal ports and configure RAID arrays through the adapter’s firmware/management utility during system boot or via the vendor management software. Ensure driver and firmware versions are current according to ADAPTEC documentation to enable full functionality and compatibility.

Recommendations

Use this adapter in deployments that need reliable, entry-level hardware RAID and basic caching. For systems requiring advanced cache backup, higher RAID levels, or enterprise features, consider ADAPTEC’s full-featured RAID adapters instead.