Lenovo ThinkSystem SR550/SR590/SR650 3.5" SATA/SAS 12-Bay Backplane Kit

Maximize storage capacity and streamline drive maintenance in Lenovo ThinkSystem servers with this 3.5" SATA/SAS 12-Bay Backplane Kit. Engineered to integrate seamlessly with the ThinkSystem SR550, SR590, and SR650 platforms, this backplane delivers reliable, scalable storage for demanding enterprise workloads. Whether you’re expanding capacity, upgrading performance, or provisioning a robust storage array, this kit helps you deploy a flexible, high-density solution that fits into leading data center environments.

Designed for enterprise reliability, the 12-bay backplane supports hot-swappable 3.5" SATA and SAS drives, enabling you to swap drives without powering down the system. It’s built to align with Lenovo’s rigorous quality standards, delivering consistent performance, streamlined cable routing, and solid airflow management to keep drives cool under heavy I/O. With compatibility across multiple ThinkSystem servers, it’s a practical upgrade path for organizations pursuing scalable storage growth, simplified maintenance, and improved operational efficiency.

• High-density storage expansion: 12 bays in a 3.5" form factor for dense enterprise deployments
• Broad drive compatibility: supports both SATA and SAS 3.5" hard drives and solid-state drives
• Designed for Lenovo ThinkSystem SR550, SR590, and SR650 servers to ensure seamless integration
• Hot-swap capable: minimize downtime during drive replacements and upgrades
• Optimized for enterprise workloads: reliable performance, streamlined maintenance, and scalable capacity

Technical Details of Lenovo ThinkSystem SR550/SR590/SR650 3.5" SATA/SAS 12-Bay Backplane Kit

• Drive Bays: 12 x 3.5" backplane capable (SATA/SAS)
• Interface: SATA/SAS backplane designed for integration with Lenovo ThinkSystem SR550, SR590, and SR650 servers
• Backplane Type: 12-bay 3.5" hot-swappable capable backplane for enterprise storage
• Form Factor: 3.5-inch drive bays compatible with standard enterprise drives
• Compatibility: Optimized for Lenovo ThinkSystem SR550, SR590, and SR650 server platforms

how to install Lenovo ThinkSystem SR550/SR590/SR650 3.5" SATA/SAS 12-Bay Backplane Kit

Follow these general steps to install the backplane kit in compatible Lenovo ThinkSystem servers:

• Power down the server, unplug power cables, and discharge any residual static electricity. Use an anti-static wrist strap to protect components.
• Open the server chassis and locate the existing drive cage or backplane assembly. Remove any existing components if you are upgrading from a previous configuration.
• Carefully align the 12-bay backplane with the chassis rails and slide it into the drive bay area, ensuring a secure fit and proper connector alignment with the system board or backplane interconnects.
• Connect the SATA and SAS interconnect cables from the server’s storage controller or backplane adapter to the backplane’s corresponding ports. Confirm all cables are seated firmly and routed to avoid obstruction to fans or airflow.
• Reinstall drive sleds (if required) and attach any retaining hardware. Close the chassis, reconnect power, and boot the server. Enter the RAID or BIOS configuration utility to configure the new backplane and drives as needed for your storage layout.
• Verify drive detection, ensure all 12 bays are recognized, and perform a baseline health check. Update firmware if necessary to maintain compatibility with the server platform and storage controllers.

Frequently asked questions

• What drives are supported with this backplane kit? — The backplane supports standard 3.5" SATA and SAS drives commonly used in enterprise storage arrays. Check your server’s compatibility matrix for specific drive models and firmware requirements.
• Is the backplane hot-swappable? — Yes. The design enables drive removal and replacement without powering down the server, minimizing downtime in production environments.
• Which Lenovo ThinkSystem models are compatible? — This backplane kit is designed for Lenovo ThinkSystem SR550, SR590, and SR650 servers. Always verify compatibility with your exact server SKU and firmware version before purchase.
• Does the kit include cables, sleds, or mounting hardware? — Specific inclusions vary by vendor and listing. Refer to the product packaging or the official catalog for precise contents. In many cases, storage interconnect cables and drive sleds are required but may not be included.
• Do I need to update firmware when installing the backplane? — It is recommended to check for firmware updates for the backplane, the RAID controller, and the server BIOS to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the new hardware.