IBM DS3500 Express is the latest entry-level storage system released by IBM. This system uses 6Gbps SAS technology, has higher performance, concurrent iSCSI/SAS or FC/SAS host connectivity, stronger scalability and enhanced features.
The DS3500 is an entry‑level storage system that offers 6 Gbps SAS technology, concurrent iSCSI/SAS or FC/SAS host connectivity, and scalability for mixed workloads and virtualization. It includes management software with support for Microsoft and VMware solutions and features energy‑efficient operation.
The hardware consists of a base board with two 6 Gbps SAS host ports, optional daughter cards for iSCSI or FC, and support for Simplex and Duplex configurations. The controller uses a PowerPC 440 ROC 800‑MHz processor and provides up to 1,024 logical drives, >2 TB LUN size, and RAID levels 1,3,5,6,10. Management software comparisons show capabilities such as up to 112 drives for RAID 10/0 and 30 drives for RAID 3/5/6.
| Host ports | 2 × 6 Gbps SAS |
|---|---|
| System configurations | Simplex and Duplex |
| Processor | PowerPC 440 ROC 800‑MHz |
| Maximum logical drives | 1,024 |
| Maximum LUN size | >2 TB |
| Supported RAID levels | 1,3,5,6,10 |
| Maximum RAID 10/0 drives | 112 drives |
| Maximum RAID 3/5/6 drives | 30 drives |
The DS3500 provides two 6 Gbps SAS host ports on the base board and can add a daughter card for 1 Gbps iSCSI or 8 Gbps FC connectivity.
The system can handle up to 1,024 logical drives with LUN sizes greater than 2 TB.
It uses a PowerPC 440 ROC 800‑MHz processor.
RAID 10/0 can use up to 112 drives, while RAID 3/5/6 can use up to 30 drives.