HPE ProLiant DL380 Gen11 12EDSFF Drive Cage Kit

The HPE ProLiant DL380 Gen11 12EDSFF Drive Cage Kit is the essential upgrade for data centers seeking maximum NVMe storage density within a single, reliable server platform. Engineered for the DL380 Gen11 chassis, this drive cage kit unlocks expansive front-end storage by housing up to 12 EDSFF drives in a compact, scalable configuration. By integrating seamlessly with the Gen11 architecture, it delivers not only expanded capacity but also improved bandwidth and lower latency for compute-heavy workloads such as virtualization, databases, AI inference, and analytics. Designed with enterprise workloads in mind, the kit emphasizes reliability, serviceability, and streamlined maintenance—so you can scale storage without sacrificing uptime or manageability.

Whether you are consolidating workloads in a modern data center, optimizing a private cloud, or building a high-performance infrastructure for edge deployments, the 12EDSFF Drive Cage Kit provides a factory-ready path to higher I/O throughput and faster data access. It is constructed to endure the rigors of 24/7 operation, with attention paid to cooling, airflow, and vibration dampening to maintain drive health and performance under sustained load. The kit’s front-loading design simplifies installation, while the rigid mounting system keeps drives securely seated during routine maintenance or replacement. With this cage kit, organizations can realize the benefits of NVMe's low-latency characteristics and the reliability guarantees expected from HPE hardware—delivering a more responsive, scalable, and future-proof infrastructure.

In addition to capacity expansion, the 12EDSFF Drive Cage Kit supports efficient cabling and airflow routing within the DL380 Gen11 chassis, helping to maintain optimal temperatures even as storage density increases. This is critical for workloads that require consistent, high-throughput access to data. The kit is also compatible with HPE management ecosystems, allowing you to monitor drive health, predict failures, and perform firmware updates in a controlled, unified fashion. Operators will appreciate the improved deployment speed and the straightforward, tool-friendly design that minimizes downtime during expansion or replacement. For IT teams tasked with growing storage without introducing complexity, this cage kit is a practical, future-ready choice that aligns with HPE’s engineering philosophy of reliability, performance, and ease of service.

• High-density storage expansion: 12 EDSFF drive slots enable significant NVMe storage capacity in a compact front-end cage, ideal for data-intensive workloads and rapid data access.
• Optimized for DL380 Gen11: specifically designed and tested to integrate with HPE's Gen11 architecture, ensuring compatibility with current firmware, management tools, and support ecosystems.
• Robust, tool-friendly design: sturdy chassis with straightforward drive trays and secure latching supports quick upgrades and maintenance windows, reducing downtime.
• Thermal efficiency for sustained performance: engineered airflow pathways and mounting geometry preserve drive health and performance under heavy I/O and long-running tasks.
• Enterprise-grade reliability and serviceability: built to meet data center requirements with durable construction, clear labeling, and easy replacement options to minimize production impact.

Technical Details of HPE ProLiant DL380 Gen11 12EDSFF Drive Cage Kit

• Product Type: Drive Cage Kit for HPE ProLiant DL380 Gen11
• Drive Support: 12 EDSFF drive slots
• Front-Mount Drive Cage: Yes, compatible with front chassis bays of the DL380 Gen11
• Compatibility: HPE ProLiant DL380 Gen11 servers and compatible expansion environments
• Construction: Durable metal chassis with precision-machined mounting hardware
• Cooling Considerations: Integrated design to support favorable airflow and minimize thermal buildup in high-density configurations
• Tray/Carrier: 12 EDSFF drive trays included or compatible with standard EDSFF trays (kit variant dependent)

Notes

Technical specifications are aligned with HPE's standard drive cage offerings for the DL380 Gen11 family. Exact part numbers, UPCs, SKUs, and firmware compatibility should be verified against the vendor's official specifications prior to purchase to ensure seamless integration with your server configuration and BIOS/firmware versions.

How to install HPE ProLiant DL380 Gen11 12EDSFF Drive Cage Kit

• Prepare the workspace: Power down the DL380 Gen11 server, unplug all power and data cables, and discharge static electricity using proper grounding practices. Have an antistatic mat and wrist strap ready to protect components.
• Access the chassis: Remove the server’s access panel or open the front bezel per the DL380 Gen11 service manual. Ensure there is clear space for the new drive cage to be installed and that airflow paths will not be obstructed.
• Remove existing cages or slots (if upgrading): If you are replacing an existing cage or reconfiguring drive bays, carefully detach the current components according to the guidance provided by HPE documentation, keeping track of screws and spacers.
• Install the drive cage kit: Align the 12EDSFF drive cage with the front chassis mounting points. Secure the cage using the provided hardware, ensuring that all mounting screws are tightened to factory recommendations to prevent vibration or misalignment.
• Install drive trays and populate drives: Attach EDSFF drives to their respective trays, then seat the trays into the cage. Ensure each drive is properly seated and that any required leverage tabs or locks are engaged. If the kit includes cables or midplane connections, connect them according to the DL380 Gen11 hardware guide.
• Close the chassis and reconnect: Reinstall any removed covers or bezels, reconnect all power and data cables, and reattach the server to the rack if applicable. Power up the system to validate basic boot functionality.
• Configure in firmware: Enter the system BIOS/UEFI or hardware management console (iLO/AMP) during boot. Detect the new drives, verify drive health, set RAID or storage pools as required by your workload, and apply any firmware or management updates recommended by HPE.
• Validate operation: Boot into your operating system or hypervisor, verify that all 12 EDSFF drives are recognized, and run a quick storage health check to confirm performance targets and reliability metrics are met.
• Document and monitor: Record the kit’s part number, firmware levels, and any configuration specifics. Set up ongoing monitoring to track drive temperatures, SMART attributes, and drive health through your usual management workflows.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is included with the HPE ProLiant DL380 Gen11 12EDSFF Drive Cage Kit? A: The kit provides the front-drive cage hardware designed for 12 EDSFF drives, along with the necessary mounting trays and hardware required for installation in compatible DL380 Gen11 servers. Some variants may include drive trays; verify the exact contents with the supplier.
• Q: Is this kit compatible with all DL380 Gen11 configurations? A: Compatibility is intended for HPE ProLiant DL380 Gen11 servers configured to accept 12 EDSFF drives in the front cage. Always confirm the specific chassis revision and firmware requirements before purchase to ensure proper fit and operation.
• Q: Do I need additional adapters or midplane replacements? A: Depending on your DL380 Gen11 model and existing configuration, you may need compatible midplane assemblies or adapters. Check the hardware compatibility list and consult HPE documentation or support for guidance.
• Q: Can the drives be hot-swapped? A: The drive cage kit is designed to support enterprise deployment scenarios where hot-swapping, when permitted by your server configuration, can minimize downtime. For exact hot-swap capabilities, refer to the DL380 Gen11 hardware guide and your storage controller’s compatibility.
• Q: How does this kit impact cooling and airflow? A: The cage is engineered to maintain appropriate airflow to dense drive configurations. Proper cable management and clearance around the front of the chassis help prevent thermal bottlenecks and sustain performance under load.
• Q: Where can I find the exact part number and UPC/SKU? A: Exact part numbers and UPC/SKU details are listed in the vendor’s specifications for the DL380 Gen11 12EDSFF Drive Cage Kit. Cross-check with your procurement source to ensure you’re ordering the correct variant for your server model and firmware.