Intel 8 Port SAS Controller

Overview

The Intel RS25GB008 is an 8-port SAS controller designed to provide high-speed external connections for servers, storage enclosures, and workstations. It supports data transfer rates of up to 6 Gb/s per port through a PCIe x8 Gen3 interface, making it well suited for environments that require fast and reliable access to multiple drives. This controller is ideal for expanding storage capacity in data centers, virtualization clusters, or media production setups.

With support for up to 1,024 devices via SAS expanders, the RS25GB008 allows for scalable storage solutions while maintaining direct visibility of each drive to the operating system. Its LSI2308 IO processor ensures efficient bus management with minimal CPU load, helping maintain system performance during heavy workloads.

Key features

• Eight external SAS or SATA ports enable connection to multiple enclosures or individual drives, expanding storage flexibility.
• Supports up to 1,024 devices when paired with SAS expanders, allowing for large-scale storage arrays and JBOD configurations.
• 6 Gb/s per port data transfer rate ensures smooth handling of demanding applications such as databases and media workflows.
• PCIe x8 Gen3 interface provides compatibility with modern server backplanes and high throughput.
• Powered by the LSI2308 IO processor, which reduces CPU overhead and maintains consistent data throughput.
• Low-profile MD2 design includes both full-height and low-profile brackets, fitting a variety of server and workstation cases.
• Compatible with major operating systems including Windows, Linux, Nexenta, and VMware, supporting diverse IT environments.
• Quick start guide included to simplify installation and driver setup, with SAS cables supplied separately for flexible cabling options.

Key specs

• Number of ports: 8 external SAS/SATA
• Data transfer rate: 6 Gb/s per port
• Interface: PCIe x8 Gen3
• Processor: LSI2308 IO controller
• Device support: Up to 1,024 devices with SAS expanders
• Form factor: Low-profile MD2 with full-height and low-profile brackets included
• Operating system compatibility: Windows, Linux, Nexenta, VMware

Connectivity and compatibility

This controller connects through a PCIe x8 Gen3 slot, providing ample bandwidth for multiple high-speed drives. The eight external SAS or SATA ports allow direct attachment of storage enclosures or individual drives, making it a versatile choice for expanding existing storage infrastructure. It supports a wide range of operating systems commonly used in enterprise and virtualization environments, ensuring seamless integration into diverse IT setups.

Installation and setup

Installation is straightforward with included full-height and low-profile brackets, allowing the card to fit in various server and workstation chassis. The quick start guide offers clear instructions for slot placement and driver installation, minimizing setup time. Users supply standard mini-SAS cables to connect drives or enclosures, providing flexibility in cabling and configuration.

Ideal uses and environments

The RS25GB008 is well suited for data centers expanding their disk shelves, labs building clusters that require individual drive control, and post-production suites managing high-capacity JBOD arrays. Its ability to handle large numbers of devices and maintain low CPU overhead makes it a strong choice for environments where reliable, scalable storage connectivity is critical.