Lenovo ThinkSystem RAID 940-8i 8GB Flash PCIe Gen4 12Gb Adapter

The Lenovo ThinkSystem RAID 940-8i is a high-performance RAID-on-Chip (ROC) adapter designed to deliver enterprise-grade reliability, scalability, and speed for data-center servers. Built around PCIe 4.0 with 12Gbps SAS connectivity, this controller connects the host server to internal drives with exceptional throughput, low latency, and uncompromising data protection. Engineered for demanding workloads such as database acceleration, virtualization, analytics, and mission-critical applications, the ThinkSystem RAID 940-8i blends robust cache, RAID versatility, and advanced management into a single, compact PCIe card that fits seamlessly into Lenovo ThinkSystem servers as well as compatible enterprise platforms. With 8GB of flash-backed write cache (FBWC), RAID-on-Chip logic, and a rich set of reliability, availability, and serviceability (RAS) features, this adapter is designed to minimize downtime while accelerating read and write operations across drive arrays.

• Exceptional performance and connectivity: PCIe Gen4 interface with 12Gbps SAS support provides fast, predictable data transfer between the host server and internal drives, helping to maximize IOPS and bandwidth for mixed read/write workloads.
• Comprehensive RAID support: Offers a full suite of RAID levels—0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, 60—to tailor data protection and capacity to your workload, from simple speed to multi-drive resilience and rapid rebuilds after disk failures.
• 8GB flash-backed write cache (FBWC): Delivers enhanced write performance and protection against data loss during power interruptions, improving consistency and reducing rebuild times in large arrays.
• Robust management and reliability: Integrated RAS features, firmware update capabilities, and seamless management through Lenovo ThinkSystem tools, including XClarity Controller integration for proactive health monitoring and remote administration.
• Broad server compatibility and easy deployment: Designed for Lenovo ThinkSystem servers and other enterprise platforms that support PCIe 4.0 ROC cards, with straightforward installation and ongoing support for firmware updates and compatibility.

Technical Details of Lenovo ThinkSystem RAID 940-8i

• Product type: RAID-on-Chip (ROC) PCIe 4.0 SAS RAID controller
• Form factor: PCIe card compatible with standard server PCIe slots
• Interface: PCIe Gen4 with robust SAS connectivity for internal drive backplanes
• Storage interface: 12Gbps SAS (SAS-3) bandwidth to drives
• Cache memory: 8GB flash-backed write cache (FBWC) for data protection and accelerated writes
• RAID levels supported: 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, 60
• Internal ports: 8 SAS/SATA channel connections to drive trays or backplanes (depending on system configuration)
• Management and monitoring: integrated with Lenovo XClarity Controller and ThinkSystem software for health monitoring, alerts, and updates
• Reliability features: RAID-on-Chip architecture with protection features, cache protection, scrub/rebuild controls, and alerting capabilities
• Power and heat: designed for data-center environments with efficient power usage and thermal management suitable for dense server configurations

how to install Lenovo ThinkSystem RAID 940-8i

• Prepare the server: Power down the system and unplug from power. If you are working in a data-center rack, ensure you follow your facility’s ESD precautions and labeling guidelines.
• Remove the chassis access panel and locate an available PCIe slot that matches the card’s interface. The ThinkSystem RAID 940-8i typically fits PCIe 4.0 x8 or higher slots; verify slot compatibility in your server’s maintenance manual.
• Insert the RAID controller into the PCIe slot firmly, ensuring the connector seats completely. Secure the card with the chassis screw to prevent movement during operation.
• Connect internal SAS/SATA cables: attach each drive backplane or directly linked drives to the 8 internal SAS ports on the card, following the server’s cabling plan. Route cables neatly to avoid blocking fans or obstructing airflow.
• Power up the server and enter the RAID configuration utility: on boot, access the on-board ROM/BIOS prompt (often via a dedicated hotkey displayed during POST). Use the RAID utility to create and configure arrays, assign cache policies, and enable FBWC protections if offered by your firmware.
• Install or update firmware and management software: download the latest firmware and drivers from Lenovo’s support site and apply them through the server’s management interface or a connected management station. Enable monitoring via XClarity for proactive alerts and health checks.
• Configure volumes and initialize arrays: create logical drives with appropriate stripe sizes and RAID levels, assign names, and set up hot-spare policies if your configuration requires them. Run consistency checks and verify data integrity after initialization.
• Validate performance and reliability: perform basic I/O benchmarks (read/write tests) and monitor temperature, fan speeds, and power consumption. Ensure the system alerts are configured to notify administrators in case of drive failures or degraded arrays.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What workloads is the Lenovo ThinkSystem RAID 940-8i best suited for?
  A: It is well-suited for data-intensive server environments such as databases, virtualization clusters, business intelligence workloads, and high-throughput file services where fast, reliable RAID performance and robust data protection are essential.
• Q: How much cache does it include and what protection does FBWC provide?
  A: The card includes 8GB of flash-backed write cache (FBWC). FBWC protects cached data during unexpected power interruptions, helping to prevent data loss and maintain data integrity while improving write performance and smoother rebuilds.
• Q: Which RAID levels are supported?
  A: The controller supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, and 60, offering a spectrum of performance and protection options for various application requirements and drive configurations.
• Q: Is this card compatible with non-Lenovo servers?
  A: Yes, it is designed to work in enterprise servers that support PCIe 4.0 ROC cards and SAS backplanes. Always verify driver and firmware compatibility with your specific server model and operating system.
• Q: How do I manage the card afterward?
  A: Management is integrated with Lenovo ThinkSystem software and XClarity Controller. You can monitor health, configure arrays, apply firmware updates, and receive proactive alerts through a single, centralized interface.
• Q: Do I need a driver to use the RAID 940-8i?
  A: Operating systems such as Windows and Linux typically include support for these devices, and Lenovo provides drivers and management software to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.