Microchip 24G SAS/SATA/NVMe PCIe Gen 4 Host Bus Adapter

The Microchip 24G SAS/SATA/NVMe PCIe Gen 4 Host Bus Adapter is a purpose-built solution for high-demand data centers, enterprise servers, and storage-rich OEM deployments. Built to deliver maximum performance, this HBA combines SAS, SATA, and NVMe tri-mode functionality with the bandwidth and reliability of PCIe Gen 4, enabling dense, flexible, and future-proof storage connectivity. As part of Microchip’s SmarHBA lineage, it embraces a proven architecture designed to optimize I/O throughput, reduce CPU overhead, and simplify management in demanding environments. This card is tailored for server OEMs, storage systems integrators, and data centers seeking robust, scalable connectivity that can handle growing workloads—from big data analytics and virtualization to high-availability databases and AI-driven storage tasks.

• Tri-mode connectivity for SAS, SATA, and NVMe: Seamlessly host and manage a wide range of storage media with a single adapter. This Tri-mode capability enables compatibility with SAS backplanes, SATA drives, and NVMe-capable devices, delivering versatile deployment options across existing and new infrastructure. By consolidating drive types, it simplifies procurement, reduces rack space requirements, and helps you optimize your storage topology for performance and resilience.
• PCIe Gen 4 performance: Harness the bandwidth and efficiency of PCIe Gen 4 to maximize data throughput between the host server and attached storage devices. The Gen 4 interface provides higher aggregate transfer rates, lower latency, and improved I/O efficiency, making it suitable for latency-sensitive workloads such as real-time analytics, virtualized environments, and mission-critical databases. This adapter is engineered to minimize bottlenecks in dense server configurations while delivering predictable, enterprise-grade I/O performance.
• SmartHBA architecture for enterprise reliability: Built on Microchip’s proven 5th generation SmartHBA technology, this adapter emphasizes reliability, firmware stability, and streamlined management. The SmartHBA approach delivers intelligent handling of high-availability workloads, robust error detection, and consistent performance under sustained load. It’s designed to integrate smoothly into data centers, storage arrays, and rack-scale deployments where uptime and data integrity are paramount.
• Basic RAID capabilities for data protection: In addition to port aggregation and high-speed I/O, the card includes basic RAID features to help you protect data and optimize performance without a separate RAID controller. For many enterprise workloads, basic RAID functionality can reduce hardware sprawl while delivering redundancy and improved throughput for sequential and mixed I/O patterns. This makes the adapter an attractive option for mid-range storage arrays and OEM storage solutions that require efficient, compact tri-mode connectivity.
• Designed for server OEMs, storage systems, and data centers: This HBA targets environments that demand scalable storage backbones and flexible deployment options. Whether you’re expanding a data-center footprint, upgrading an existing server fleet, or integrating into a custom storage solution, the Microchip 24G SAS/SATA/NVMe PCIe Gen 4 HBA provides the reliability, compatibility, and performance needed for enterprise workloads. It’s particularly well-suited for environments that require support for modern backplanes, high port counts, and resilient data paths.

Technical Details of Microchip 24G SAS/SATA/NVMe PCIe Gen 4 Host Bus Adapter

• Product family: Microchip Adaptec SmartHBA 2200-series family, designed for high-density storage deployments.
• Interface: PCIe Gen 4 to maximize bandwidth and reduce bottlenecks in modern server platforms.
• Connectivity modes: SAS, SATA, and NVMe tri-mode support for broad device compatibility.
• Internal/port footprint: Supports a high-port-density configuration suitable for dense server and storage blades (typical internal port support aligned with 16i-class implementations in related models).
• RAID capability: Basic RAID functionality included to provide data protection and performance optimization without requiring a separate RAID controller.
• Form factor: Add-in PCIe expansion card designed for standard server chassis and backplane deployments (compatible with common PCIe slots in enterprise servers).
• Operating system compatibility: Broad OS support across major enterprise platforms, including Windows and Linux distributions, with testing emphasis on stability in virtualization and data-center workloads.
• Management and firmware: Enterprise-grade firmware designed for stability, with tools and updates geared toward ongoing reliability in production environments.

How to Install Microchip 24G SAS/SATA/NVMe PCIe Gen 4 Host Bus Adapter

• Prepare your system: Power down the server, unplug power cords, and ground yourself to prevent static discharge. Ensure you have a clean workspace and the necessary screws for securing expansion cards.
• Open the chassis and locate a PCIe slot: Identify a compatible PCIe Gen 4 x16 (or appropriate) slot that matches your server’s motherboard specifications and recommended slot for high-bandwidth add-in cards.
• Insert the adapter: Align the card with the slot and firmly press until it seats securely. Use the chassis bracket screw to fix the card in place for stability during operation and PCIe signaling integrity.
• Connect storage backplanes or cables: Attach SAS/SATA backplane cables or NVMe PCIe paths as required by your deployment. Ensure cables are routed to minimize bending and interference, maintaining clear airflow for thermal management.
• Power and firmware considerations: If your configuration requires additional power, connect any auxiliary power connectors per the motherboard and card documentation (if applicable). Power on the server, then boot into the operating system to verify recognition of the HBA.
• Install drivers and update firmware: Install the recommended driver package for your OS from Microchip/Adaptec, then check for firmware updates. Apply updates to ensure optimal performance, security, and compatibility with SAS/SATA/NVMe devices.
• Configure storage and RAID as needed: Use your OS storage manager or vendor management tools to configure disks, backplanes, and any basic RAID features. Validate that all attached devices are detected and performing as expected with benchmark tests or integrity checks.

Frequently asked questions

• What drives does this adapter support? The Microchip 24G SAS/SATA/NVMe PCIe Gen 4 HBA supports SAS, SATA, and NVMe devices in tri-mode operation. This enables a flexible mix of backplanes, traditional HDDs, SSDs, and NVMe-based storage in the same system.
• Does it include RAID functionality? Yes, it ships with basic RAID features to help protect data and optimize performance in compatible configurations, reducing the need for additional RAID controllers in some deployments.
• Is PCIe Gen 4 essential for use? The Gen 4 interface provides higher bandwidth and lower latency, which benefits high-throughput workloads and dense storage configurations. It remains compatible with systems that support PCIe Gen 3, but you’ll see the best results on Gen 4 capable servers.
• What operating systems are supported? This adapter is designed for broad enterprise OS support, typically including major Linux distributions and Windows Server platforms, with vendor-provided drivers and firmware available for stability in virtualization and data-center contexts.
• How upgradeable is the firmware? Enterprise adapters typically receive firmware updates to improve performance, reliability, and compatibility. It’s recommended to monitor for updates via Microchip/Adaptec tooling and apply them during maintenance windows to minimize disruption.
• Who should consider this card? Server OEMs, storage system integrators, and data centers seeking high-density, tri-mode storage connectivity with PCIe Gen 4 performance, plus reliable enterprise-grade management and basic RAID protection.