Controllers, Cache Modules & Caddies on Dell EMC Storage
When a storage array gets sold, most people talk about the drives. The offer, though, often moves on smaller parts: the controllers, a few cache modules, the I/O cards and the caddies. Get those wrong and you lose money without noticing.
Send the model and photos to +971 52 857 3495, or start on our server and storage selling page.
The Cache Modules People Shred
On some PowerStore models, a few slots hold cache modules, not data drives. Treat them differently from the rest.
Look at the drive row on a PowerStore. Most slots hold normal SSDs for user data. On several models, a few slots are used for NVMe cache modules instead. They look like drives, so a team pulling “all the drives” for shredding can take them too.
That is a costly slip. The modules belong to the appliance, and the array may not be complete without them. Some smaller models handle cache differently, so check your model’s slot map in Dell’s PowerStore platform guide before anyone touches a slot.
Tip: photograph the drive row before pulling anything. If a cache module goes missing, you will want proof of what was there.
Controllers
Two working controllers are worth more than one. Check that both are present and healthy.
Unity XT calls them Storage Processors, and PowerVault calls them Controller A and B. Dual-controller units suit buyers who need the array to keep running if one controller fails. A single-controller enclosure has fewer buyers.
Controllers also carry a battery or similar part to protect cache during a power loss. If a fault light shows on it, say so. A replacement can mean a deduction. Dell lists the Unity XT details on its manuals page, and the PowerVault ME5 pages cover that line.
I/O Cards
Fitted Fibre Channel and Ethernet cards add value. Pulling them out leaves a plain, less useful array.
Buyers want the connectivity already in place. A controller with its 16Gb or 32Gb Fibre Channel module, or a 25GbE card, is easier to sell than one with empty slots. Leave the optics seated where they were. Note each card’s model from its label.
Caddies
Storage caddies are specific to the array. A server tray will not stand in for them.
Unity, PowerStore and PowerVault each use their own trays, and some large drives use a small interface board attached to the tray. Do not separate the pieces. If you throw the trays away after pulling drives, the buyer has to source them, and that cost comes off your offer.
What to Keep With the Array
| Part | Keep it? | What goes wrong if you don’t |
|---|---|---|
| Cache modules | Yes | Array incomplete, offer drops |
| Both controllers | Yes | Fewer buyers, lower offer |
| I/O cards and optics | Yes, fitted | Less useful connectivity |
| Empty caddies | Airflow and completeness | Buyer has to source them |
| Blank fillers | Yes | Airflow and completeness |
| User data drives | Your choice | See our wipe or pull guide |
Before You Send Details
Take a front photo, a rear photo and a close-up of each controller and card. Mention any fault lights. If your team is planning a data wipe or a drive pull, read our wipe or pull guide first. For overall model value, see the SAN storage guide. Clearing a full cage? Our decommissioning guide covers the exit.
Mixed clearances can use office IT equipment buyback. Terms are on our inspection and payment page Email: info@selltechdubai.com
