Expansion Question

gt2416

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This has probably been asked numerous times but here goes.
I need to expand my TrueNAS build, I have another server with harddrives in it,
In my main box I have a LSI 9300-8e card to receive storage from the other server,
my question is, in the other server what card do I need ?
If I buy a LSI 9300 4e4i card, will this work or do I need to buy a SFF - 8088 to SFF 8087 adaptor ?
I don't want to buy the HP HBA card that's recommended on these forums because that's really old and this is for work so I can't buy used hardware.

I already have a HP p222 card that I put in HBA mode, but my main server doesn't seem to recognize it when connected through the LSI 9300-8e.
Thanks!
 

sretalla

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I think you're not grasping the concept of attaching External Storage.

The other side won't be a server, it should be a Storage Shelf or SAS Enclosure which will present its backplane via an External SAS port (which would match the port on your 9300-8e). https://docs.broadcom.com/doc/1235239

The cable type should be Mini-SAS HD External as indicated in the document.
 

gt2416

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I don’t have a additional sas, we have another server with a ton of Harddrives so I need to use that. I know that I don’t need to boot an OS on it, just need to get past post screen. I want to make it work like a external sas.
 

sretalla

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I want to make it work like a external sas.
OK, so you need to do your research on that... I don't think you can do it, but I have nothing against you trying.

Let us know if you find a way.
 

sretalla

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gt2416

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Yep exactly ! I saw that post before, and it uses the HP expander card which is ok but couldn't find info if it works with the 9300-8e (it SHOULD tho). I wanted to know if people had some other card they know that works with the the 9300-8e or if I could use a 9300-4i4e. Ill do some testing when I get back to work and keep this thread posted.
 

HoneyBadger

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The other "server" as stated doesn't need to be a "server" at all. And you don't want it to have any logic in how it will handle the drives.


What you want is something like Supermicro's "JBOD board" that literally just handles power button and fan duties.


Couple this with a modern SAS expander than can get power from a Molex plug, like the Intel RES2SV240.


And make the final connection by using a passive adapter like this one.


Cable it all together and hey, you made yourself a JBOD. Of course, you'd have to find the newer versions if you want to stick with SAS3 and its default miniSAS-HD style of plug; but if you're okay with the slower speeds, you just need the single set of cables from your HBA to the external connectors on the JBOD.
 

gt2416

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Thanks ! That intel card is what I need
 
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