Microchip Adaptec HBA 1100-8i

The Microchip Adaptec HBA 1100-8i is a high-performance 12 Gbps host bus adapter designed for dense, data-intensive server environments. With eight internal SAS/SATA ports, a PCIe Gen 3 x8 interface, and a compact MD2 low-profile form factor, it delivers scalable storage connectivity for modern data centers, servers, and enterprise storage arrays. Built on Microchip’s SmartIOC 2100 SAS/SATA engine and backed by the hardened Smart Storage stack, the 1100-8i combines speed, reliability, and ease of management to meet the demanding requirements of today’s workloads.

• Eight internal SAS/SATA ports: Connect up to eight drives in a compact, space-efficient card configuration for dense server deployments and scalable storage pools. This enables flexible JBOD or RAID-ready configurations without sacrificing drive Bay density.
• 12 Gbps per-port performance: Each SAS/SATA port supports up to 12 gigabits per second, delivering fast, reliable data transfer for read/write-intensive workloads, databases, virtualization, and media-rich applications. The high-throughput ports help minimize bottlenecks in media streaming, backups, and large-scale analytics.
• PCIe Gen3 x8, low-profile MD2 form factor: A wide, Gen3 x8 PCIe connection ensures ample bandwidth to the CPU and memory subsystem, while the MD2 low-profile design fits in compact server chassis and dense blade environments.
• SmartIOC 2100 SAS/SATA engine: The onboard SmartIOC 2100 controller provides robust I/O processing, efficient command queuing, and enhanced error handling, contributing to lower CPU utilization and steadier performance under heavy I/O loads.
• Unified hardened Smart Storage stack: Powered by Microchip’s trusted storage software stack, the 1100-8i benefits from years of field-tested reliability used on over 30 million servers worldwide. This translates into predictable performance, easier deployment, and streamlined maintenance for data centers, OEMs, and enterprise storage solutions.

Technical Details of Microchip Adaptec HBA 1100-8i

• Form Factor: MD2 low-profile (half-height)
• Slot Interface: PCIe Gen3 x8
• Internal Ports: 8 SAS/SATA ports
• Maximum Data Rate: Up to 12 Gbps per port (SAS/SATA)
• Supported Protocols: SAS 12Gb/s and SATA 6Gb/s
• Controller: Microchip SmartIOC 2100
• Target Use Case: Host Bus Adapter (HBA) for internal drive connectivity in servers and storage arrays
• Software/Management: Compatible with Adaptec Storage Manager and the hardened Smart Storage stack for configuration, monitoring, and firmware updates

How to install Microchip Adaptec HBA 1100-8i

Installing the Adaptec HBA 1100-8i is a straightforward process designed for technicians and IT admins working in data centers and server rooms. Begin with proper static electricity precautions, then follow these steps to ensure a secure, reliable installation:

1) Power down the server and disconnect it from all power sources. Remove the chassis cover and, if applicable, slide the server to a clean, static-free work area.

2) Identify an appropriate PCIe x8 slot with sufficient clearance for the low-profile MD2 card. If your server uses a riser or a mezzanine card, verify that there is no spacing conflict and that the slot is enabled in the system BIOS.

3) Remove the slot cover or blanking plate for the chosen PCIe slot to expose the mounting opening. Align the HBA’s connector edge with the PCIe slot and press firmly to seat the card securely in place. Use a screw to fasten the bracket to the chassis, ensuring the card is stable and properly grounded.

4) Connect the eight internal SAS/SATA cables from the server’s drive bays or backplane to the HBA ports. Route cables neatly to avoid obstruction with fans, heatsinks, or other components. Ensure all connections are fully seated and secured.

5) Reinstall the chassis cover, reconnect power, and boot the server. During POST, verify that the system recognizes the Adaptec HBA 1100-8i as a PCIe device. If needed, enter the BIOS/UEFI to confirm I/O settings and ensure the HBA is enabled and prioritized correctly.

6) Install or update the latest driver and firmware for the HBA. Use Adaptec Storage Manager or your preferred management tool to initialize drives, configure pass-through or RAID settings as required by your storage architecture. Apply any available firmware updates to maximize stability and performance.

7) Create your storage configuration in the host operating system or storage management software. The 1100-8i is designed to be flexible—supporting JBOD, pass-through, or integration with software RAID solutions—so you can tailor your storage topology to match workloads, performance goals, and redundancy requirements.

Note: Always follow your vendor’s guidelines for rack placement, cooling considerations, and power distribution. In dense deployments, ensure adequate airflow around the HBA and connected drives to sustain sustained peak performance and reliability over time.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Adaptec HBA 1100-8i used for? It is an 8-port internal SAS/SATA host bus adapter designed to connect drives inside servers and storage arrays. It delivers high-throughput 12 Gbps per port and fits in a compact MD2 low-profile form factor, making it suitable for dense data-center deployments and enterprise storage solutions.
• What types of drives does it support? The card supports SAS and SATA drives connected via its internal ports. It enables flexible configurations with SAS 12Gb/s and SATA 6Gb/s drives inside servers or storage backplanes.
• Does this HBA provide hardware RAID? The Adaptec HBA 1100-8i is primarily a host bus adapter that offloads I/O processing and drives connectivity. RAID functionality, if required, is typically provided by software RAID within the operating system or a separate hardware RAID controller. Adaptec Storage Manager can assist with management and monitoring where supported.
• How do I install or configure this card? Install the card in a PCIe x8 slot, connect drives to the internal ports, boot the system, and install the latest driver and firmware. Then use the management software to configure pass-through, JBOD, or software RAID according to your storage design.
• What environments is the 1100-8i best suited for? It is ideal for enterprise servers, data centers, OEM storage solutions, and any workload that requires robust, scalable internal drive connectivity with high-throughput SAS/SATA I/O.