Microchip Technology SmartRAID 3258Up-32i/e RAID controller PCI Express x16 24 Gbit/s

Microchip Technology SmartRAID 3258Up-32i/e is a high-performance RAID adapter with a PCIe® Gen4 x16 host interface and Tri-mode support for SAS, SATA and NVMe devices. Built on Microchip's 5th generation SmartROC 3200 controller, the adapter provides up to 32 media-facing ports and 24G SAS/SATA/NVMe connectivity, delivering increased bandwidth and reduced latency for server, storage system and data center deployments.

Advantages

The SmartRAID 3258Up-32i/e combines a Gen4 x16 host interface with Microchip DirectPath and Dynamic Channel Multiplexing (DCM) technologies to maximize throughput and link efficiency for expander-attached drives. It supports native HBA modes for lowest-latency PCIe storage, hardware-based Trusted Platform security, and Controller-Based Encryption (maxCrypto) for SAS, SATA and NVMe media, plus management of Self-Encrypting Drives (SEDs). Standards like PLDM/Redfish Device Enablement, Intel Virtual Pin Port (VPP) and Universal Backplane Management (UBM) simplify integration and system management.

Suitable for

• Enterprise servers and storage arrays requiring high I/O throughput
• Data center installations demanding low latency NVMe and mixed media support
• OEM storage solutions and system integrators needing broad management standards

Key specifications

• Interface: PCIe Gen4 x16 host interface
• Media support: Tri-mode (SAS, SATA, NVMe)
• Media-facing ports: up to 32 ports (internal variants)
• Link speed: 24 Gbit/s (24G SAS/SATA)
• Supported RAID levels: 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, 60
• Controller: Microchip SmartROC 3200 (5th generation)
• Security: Hardware Trusted Platform, Controller-Based Encryption (maxCrypto), SED management

How to use

Install the SmartRAID 3258Up-32i/e into a PCIe Gen4 x16 slot on a compatible server motherboard. Connect SAS/SATA or NVMe devices to the adapter using compatible backplanes or direct cabling according to the system design. Configure RAID arrays or native HBA mode through the vendor management utilities or standard interfaces (PLDM/Redfish) and apply encryption or SED management as required. Update firmware and drivers per Microchip guidance before placing the system into production.

Recommendations

For optimal performance, pair the adapter with a Gen4-capable host platform and use high-quality 24G SAS infrastructure or NVMe devices. Enable native HBA mode for memory-based PCIe storage where lowest latency is required, and use Microchip’s management tools and firmware updates to maintain security and compatibility.