Lenovo ThinkSystem ST250 V2 3.5" SATA 8-Bay X30/X40 Simple Swap Bracket Kit

The Lenovo ThinkSystem ST250 V2 3.5" SATA 8-Bay X30/X40 Simple Swap Bracket Kit is a purpose-built expansion solution designed to unlock maximum storage density in ThinkSystem ST250 V2 servers. Built for reliability, serviceability, and efficiency in modern data centers, this bracket kit enables administrators to deploy and maintain eight hot-swap 3.5" SATA drives with ease. It is optimized for Lenovo’s X30/X40 simple swap configurations, delivering a tool-less enclosure system that minimizes downtime during drive replacement and maintenance. Whether you are expanding a virtualization cluster, provisioning a high-performance database, or scaling a private cloud, this bracket kit provides a robust, scalable path to larger storage footprints without sacrificing server throughput or airflow. With Lenovo’s engineering behind it, you gain consistent compatibility, strong chassis integrity, and the confidence that the drive caddies and trays fit precisely within the ST250 V2 architecture. In short, it’s a centralized, eight-drive solution that blends seamless integration with straightforward maintenance for data centers, remote offices, and edge deployments that demand reliable storage expansion alongside Lenovo reliability.

• High-density eight-bay design: This bracket kit converts the front of the ST250 V2 into a compact, dense storage solution capable of accommodating eight 3.5" SATA drives. It is engineered to maximize raw capacity while maintaining a slim form factor, making it ideal for scaling storage without enlarging the server footprint. The eight-drive configuration is a practical choice for large databases, mixed workloads, and virtualized environments that rely on reliable, cost-efficient SATA storage.
• Tool-less, simple swap functionality: The Simple Swap concept is central to this kit, enabling quick drive replacement with minimal downtime. Drive trays lock into place with intuitive latching mechanisms, and the design reduces the number of tools required during maintenance. This translates to faster replacement cycles, less service interruption, and improved uptime for production systems that must stay online during upgrades or repairs.
• Rugged build quality and optimized cooling: Constructed with a durable steel chassis and precisely engineered drive trays, the bracket kit supports robust operation in demanding data-center environments. Integrated airflow channels and well-planned cable routing help preserve thermal performance, ensuring drives stay within safe operating temperatures and reducing the risk of throttling during heavy workloads.
• Seamless compatibility with ThinkSystem ST250 V2 and X30/X40 configurations: This bracket kit is designed to fit Lenovo ThinkSystem ST250 V2 servers and to work with X30/X40 simple swap configurations, providing a reliable path for administrators who upgrade or diversify their storage footprint within a familiar Lenovo ecosystem. The compatibility helps streamline procurement, reduces integration risk, and ensures consistent performance across Lenovo’s server lineup.
• Comprehensive kit with essential mounting hardware: The package includes eight drive trays, mounting brackets, and the necessary hardware to install eight drives in a single, integrated solution. It’s designed to minimize the number of separate parts required, aiding in faster deployment and simpler inventory management for IT teams.

Technical Details of Lenovo ThinkSystem ST250 V2 3.5" SATA 8-Bay X30/X40 Simple Swap Bracket Kit

• Product type: Bracket kit and drive cage accessory designed for the Lenovo ThinkSystem ST250 V2 servers, enabling an eight-bay 3.5" SATA drive configuration.
• Drive bays: 8 x 3.5" SATA drive bays within a single, integrated bracket system designed for front-access installation in the ST250 V2 chassis.
• Drive interface: SATA, suitable for common enterprise storage drives and HDDs used in data-center deployment scenarios.
• Compatibility: Specifically engineered for Lenovo ThinkSystem ST250 V2 servers and the X30/X40 Simple Swap drive configurations to ensure a precise fit and reliable operation.
• Material and construction: Durable steel chassis with precision-milled drive trays to provide structural integrity, secure mounting, and long-term reliability in server environments.
• Cooling and airflow: Designed to support proper airflow across all drives, with attention to thermal management to minimize hot spots and sustain performance during sustained workloads.
• Installation type: Rack-mount form factor compatible with standard data-center racks, with tool-less drive trays and straightforward mounting hardware for efficient deployment and maintenance.
• Warranty and support: Backed by Lenovo’s warranty and service options aligned with ThinkSystem components, offering dependable support for critical storage infrastructure.

How to install Lenovo ThinkSystem ST250 V2 3.5" SATA 8-Bay X30/X40 Simple Swap Bracket Kit

• Power down the server: Ensure the ST250 V2 is fully powered down and unplugged from all power sources before beginning any installation work to avoid electrical hazards or data loss.
• Access the chassis: Remove or loosen the front bezel as required to access the drive bays and interior drive cage area. Confirm there is adequate clearance for bracket installation and drive cable routing.
• Prepare the backplane and drive trays: If not pre-assembled, align the eight 3.5" drive trays with the bracket kit’s tray guides. Verify that each drive tray slides smoothly and that the locking mechanisms engage properly.
• Install the bracket into the chassis: Slide the bracket assembly into the front of the ST250 V2 chassis, aligning with the chassis rails or mounting points. Secure the bracket firmly using the provided screws or fasteners, ensuring the bracket is level and stable to prevent vibration or misalignment.
• Mount drives and connect cables: Install eight SATA drives into the drive trays, securing them with the trays’ locking mechanisms. Route SATA data and power cables neatly to avoid interference with fans and airflow. Use cable ties or guides to maintain clean airflow channels and prevent tangling during maintenance.
• Secure and reseat the bezel: Once all drives are mounted and cables are organized, reattach the front bezel and confirm that all drive trays are accessible and functional. Power on the server and enter the BIOS/UEFI or storage controller configuration to recognize the new drives and assign logical drive letters or RAID configurations as required by your deployment.
• Test and monitor: After the first boot, verify that all eight drives are detected by the system and that they are reporting healthy SMART attributes if supported. Run a quick performance and stability check to ensure the storage configuration meets your workload requirements.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: Is the ST250 V2 bracket kit compatible with all Lenovo ThinkSystem ST250 V2 configurations? A: It is designed for the ST250 V2 chassis with X30/X40 Simple Swap drive configurations, delivering eight 3.5" SATA bays in a single bracket. Always verify chassis compatibility with your specific model and firmware version.
• Q: Does this kit support hot-swapping? A: The kit is designed to facilitate easy drive swaps, but hot-swapping capabilities depend on the server’s backplane and drive enclosure integration. Ensure your ST250 V2 backplane supports hot-swappable 3.5" drives and configure RAID or storage pools according to your environment.
• Q: What kind of drives can be used with this bracket? A: The bracket supports standard 3.5" SATA drives. For best results, use enterprise-grade SATA drives that are rated for 24/7 workloads and matched in size, speed, and features to maintain balanced performance across all bays.
• Q: What is included in the package? A: The kit includes eight drive trays, the bracket assembly, and the necessary mounting hardware to install eight 3.5" drives in a ThinkSystem ST250 V2 chassis. Some configurations may also include screws or adapters as required by the backplane setup.
• Q: How do I ensure proper cooling with eight drives? A: Proper cable management, airflow-friendly drive placement, and ensuring unobstructed fans are essential. The bracket’s design emphasizes efficient airflow channels to minimize hot spots and support stable performance under load.