WD Ultrastar DC SN655 WUS5EA138ESP7E4 3.84 TB NVMe SSD – Read Intensive, PCIe 4.0, U.3 15mm

Designed for cloud-scale data centers and enterprise servers, the WD Ultrastar DC SN655 delivers dependable, high-capacity storage with strong read performance for data-intensive workloads. This 3.84 TB NVMe SSD is purpose-built for read-heavy applications such as database caching, analytics acceleration, streaming workloads, and content delivery networks. Built to meet the demanding needs of modern data centers, the SN655 combines PCIe 4.0 performance with enterprise-grade reliability, data protection features, and a compact U.3 form factor at 15 mm height. Whether deployed in hyperscale architectures, virtualized environments, or high-traffic enterprise platforms, this drive is engineered to unlock faster insights while helping optimize total cost of ownership through efficiency and endurance tailored for read-intensive workloads.

• The SN655 delivers strong read performance for data-intensive workloads, enabling faster query responses, real-time analytics, and cache-heavy applications. Its PCIe 4.0 NVMe interface provides the bandwidth needed to accelerate data access paths, reducing latency and improving throughput for read-dominant processes across cloud and server environments.
• Massive capacity in a single drive—3.84 TB—allows you to consolidate data and reduce drive sprawl. This makes it ideal for large-scale databases, big data analytics, and multi-tenant workloads where space efficiency and scalable capacity matter for both performance and cost management.
• Enterprise-grade reliability features, including end-to-end data protection and robust error detection, help safeguard data integrity under sustained workloads. Power loss protection (PLP) and advanced error correction contribute to steady operation in dense data-center backplanes and during power interruptions, minimizing data risk and drive rebuild times.
• Efficient thermals and energy-conscious design support dense server configurations. The SN655 is optimized for sustained performance in read-heavy environments, delivering consistent throughput without excessive heat generation, which helps maintain data-center performance and energy efficiency over longer duty cycles.
• Flexible deployment with U.3 15 mm internal form factor and PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe interface enables compatibility with a wide range of enterprise backplanes and servers. This makes the SN655 suitable for modern hyper-converged infrastructure, virtualization hosts, and cloud-native platforms that demand rugged, scalable storage inside established data-center ecosystems.

Technical Details of WD Ultrastar DC SN655

• Capacity: 3.84 TB
• Form factor: U.3, 15 mm internal
• Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
• Workload profile: Read Intensive enterprise SSD
• Protection features: End-to-end data protection and power loss protection (PLP) with robust ECC
• Target environment: Data center, cloud, and server infrastructure with backplane-based NVMe storage

how to install WD Ultrastar DC SN655

Installing the WD Ultrastar DC SN655 is straightforward in compatible servers and backplanes that support U.3 NVMe drives. Follow these general steps to ensure a smooth deployment:

• Power down the server or storage appliance and unplug from power. Ground yourself to prevent static discharge.
• Identify an available U.3 NVMe drive slot or backplane bay that supports 15 mm high drives. Confirm there is adequate clearance and cooling for sustained operation.
• Insert the SN655 into the designated U.3 slot, aligning the connector with the backplane. Secure the drive with the appropriate mounting screw or retention mechanism as dictated by your chassis design.
• Reconnect power and any required backplane cables. Power on the system and enter the BIOS or server management interface to verify that the drive is detected.
• In the operating system, initialize and format the drive as you would with other NVMe storage. Use your standard storage management tools to create volumes, assign arrays, or integrate with your hyper-converged infrastructure.
• Update to the latest firmware using WD enterprise tools if available, and monitor drive health and performance through the server’s management software or WD management utilities. Consider enabling features like TRIM/SOLID health monitoring and setting appropriate alert thresholds for endurance and temperature.

Notes: Always consult your server or backplane documentation for supported drive heights, backplane compatibility, and required firmware for optimal performance. Proper airflow and cooling are important to maintain the drive’s performance and reliability in high-density deployments.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the WD Ultrastar DC SN655? It is a 3.84 TB NVMe SSD designed for enterprise and data-center use with a read-intensive workload profile, built on PCIe 4.0 technology and U.3 form factor for flexible server deployment.
• What workloads is SN655 best suited for? The SN655 excels in read-heavy scenarios such as database caching, real-time analytics, content delivery networks, high-traffic web services, and other data-intensive applications where rapid data access and low latency are critical.
• Is the SN655 hot-swappable? When installed in a compatible server backplane or storage chassis that supports hot-swapping, the drive can be swapped without powering down the entire system. Always follow your server’s maintenance procedures and safety guidelines during replacement.
• What compatibility should I check before buying? Ensure your server or backplane supports U.3 15 mm drives and PCIe 4.0 NVMe interfaces. Verify firmware compatibility and any enclosure-specific requirements to maximize performance and reliability.
• What is the warranty and support for this drive? WD Ultrastar enterprise drives come with a professional enterprise warranty and support program. Warranty terms vary by region and model, so consult WD’s official documentation or your distributor for precise coverage details.
• How can I optimize performance and endurance? Use a compatible NVMe driver, maintain adequate cooling, keep firmware up to date, and monitor drive health with enterprise management tools. For read-heavy workloads, ensuring a consistent power and thermal environment helps sustain peak throughput over time.