Description
Lenovo ThinkSystem V3 2U 4x2.5" SAS/SATA Rear Backplane Option Kit
The Lenovo ThinkSystem V3 2U 4x2.5" SAS/SATA Rear Backplane Option Kit is an essential upgrade for data centers seeking to maximize drive density, minimize maintenance downtime, and streamline storage deployment within ThinkSystem V3 2U chassis. Engineered for reliability and designed to integrate seamlessly with Lenovo’s ThinkSystem storage ecosystem, this rear backplane enables rapid drive replacement and scalable performance for demanding workloads including virtualization, database operations, analytics, and dense application environments. By consolidating four hot-swap 2.5" SAS/SATA drive bays behind the motherboard tray, the kit delivers a compact, efficient storage interface that improves serviceability, reduces cabling clutter, and preserves optimal airflow—critical factors in sustaining high I/O throughput and consistent latency under heavy load. The ThinkSystem V3 backplane is built to Lenovo’s enterprise standards, combining robust electrical and mechanical design with precise connector alignment to ensure dependable operation across extended service lifecycles. Whether you are expanding existing storage capacity, replacing aging backplanes, or aligning your server with a new storage strategy, this option kit provides a reliable, future-proof path for growing data requirements while preserving the integrity of your ThinkSystem platform.
- High-density storage expansion: Four 2.5" SAS/SATA drive bays in a rear 2U form factor offer dense capacity within a compact chassis footprint, enabling you to scale storage without sacrificing valuable rack space.
- Enterprise-grade reliability: Built to Lenovo’s exacting standards, the backplane employs proven materials and meticulous signal routing to support steady, high-throughput data transfer under sustained workloads.
- Hot-swap drive capability: Designed for use in compatible ThinkSystem systems, the bays support hot-swapping, allowing drive replacement or upgrades without full system downtime and minimizing maintenance windows.
- Seamless integration with Lenovo storage ecosystem: The backplane is engineered to work with Lenovo RAID controllers and server midplanes, delivering reliable drive detection, straightforward management, and smooth firmware coordination within the ThinkSystem environment.
- Optimized cooling and airflow: The rear backplane layout preserves airflow within the 2U chassis, helping to maintain drive temperatures and overall system reliability in densely populated racks and long-running workloads.
Technical Details of Lenovo ThinkSystem V3 2U 4x2.5" SAS/SATA Rear Backplane Option Kit
- Backplane type: Rear 2U backplane designed for four 2.5" drives
- Drive interfaces supported: SAS and SATA
- Drive bays: 4 x 2.5" bays configured for hot-swappable operation (rear backplane)
- Form factor compatibility: Designed for Lenovo ThinkSystem V3 2U server chassis
- Kit contents: Backplane assembly with mounting hardware and required connectors; some configurations may require additional cables compatible with the chassis; verify SKU specifics for included items
how to install Lenovo ThinkSystem V3 2U 4x2.5" SAS/SATA Rear Backplane Option Kit
- Power down the server, unplug from power sources, and ground yourself to prevent static discharge before handling components.
- Remove the server cover and locate the rear backplane area within the ThinkSystem V3 2U chassis, ensuring you have clear access to the four drive bays and the SAS/SATA interconnects.
- Disconnect any existing drive cables from the current backplane, noting which connector corresponds to each drive bay for correct reassembly.
- Position the new rear backplane so that its mounting holes align with the chassis and securely fasten it using the supplied mounting hardware. Ensure the backplane is seated firmly and that there is no undue tension on the connectors.
- Connect the SAS/SATA cables from the server’s RAID controller or midplane to the backplane as required by your configuration. Route cables to minimize interference with fans and airflow, keeping them tidy and secured.
- Reinstall drives into the four bays, ensuring they engage properly with the backplane connectors. Reassemble the chassis, reconnect power, and boot the server. Enter the RAID controller or BIOS management utility to verify that all four drives are detected, configured correctly, and healthy. If needed, perform a controller-level configuration, RAID initialization, or drive preconditioning per your storage policy.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the Lenovo ThinkSystem V3 2U 4x2.5" SAS/SATA Rear Backplane Option Kit used for? It is a rear backplane kit designed to add four 2.5" SAS/SATA drive bays to compatible Lenovo ThinkSystem V3 2U servers, enabling scalable storage expansion, easier drive replacement, and improved drive management in enterprise environments.
- Is this backplane compatible with all ThinkSystem V3 models? The kit is intended for ThinkSystem V3 2U chassis configurations. Always verify compatibility with your exact server model andSKU, as backplane interfaces and mounting points can vary across chassis revisions.
- Can drives be hot-swapped with this backplane? Yes. When installed in a compatible ThinkSystem system, the four 2.5" bays support hot-swapping, allowing drive replacement without powering down the server and helping to minimize maintenance windows.
- Does the kit include cables? The kit typically includes the backplane assembly and mounting hardware; some configurations may require additional SAS/SATA cables or adapters depending on the chassis and RAID controller. Check the SKU details for exact contents.
- Is installation suitable for non-technical users? Installation is intended for qualified IT personnel or technicians familiar with enterprise server hardware. Follow the server maintenance manual and safety guidelines. If in doubt, contact Lenovo support or a certified service provider for installation assistance.
- What benefits does this backplane provide beyond increased drive count? Beyond increasing drive density, the rear backplane supports streamlined drive maintenance, reduces cable clutter, and maintains effective airflow within a dense 2U chassis. It also helps ensure consistent drive-to-controller signaling, contributing to reliable performance in enterprise workloads.
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