NetApp DS4243 – 12×3.5″ Disk Shelf Installation

NetApp DS4243 – 12×3.5″ Disk Shelf Installation

Overview

The NetApp DS4243  is a high-performance disk shelf designed to expand storage capacity and enhance the flexibility of NetApp storage systems. With support for up to 12 x 3.5-inch drives in a dense and efficient form factor, the DS4243 is ideal for enterprises that require scalable and reliable storage expansion for demanding workloads. Known for its seamless integration into NetApp FAS and V-Series environments, the DS4243 supports both SAS and SATA drives, offering a cost-effective balance of performance and capacity.

Whether you’re building out storage for virtualization, backup, file services, or cloud infrastructure, the NetApp DS4243 delivers the performance, reliability, and scalability needed to support growing data environments.

Key Features of NetApp DS4243

High-Density Storage Expansion

The NetApp DS4243 supports 12 x 3.5″ large-form-factor (LFF) drives, providing up to multiple terabytes of raw storage in a compact enclosure. It is engineered for organizations needing to expand storage without overhauling their infrastructure.

Seamless Integration

The DS4243 is designed to integrate easily with NetApp storage controllers, enabling plug-and-play compatibility with NetApp’s Data ONTAP operating system. This results in faster deployment and less configuration time.

Flexible Drive Options

You can choose between SATA and SAS drives, depending on your performance or cost-efficiency needs. This flexibility allows you to customize the storage tier to suit your environment, whether it’s for primary storage, archival, or secondary backups.

Redundant Components

To maximize uptime and resilience, the NetApp DS4243 includes dual I/O modules, redundant power supplies, and hot-swappable fans. This makes it ideal for mission-critical environments where continuous availability is essential.

Typical Use Cases

• Data Center Storage Expansion: Seamlessly increase capacity for NetApp FAS and V-Series systems.

• Backup and Archiving: Store large datasets efficiently with cost-effective SATA drives.

• Virtualized Environments: Provide high-speed storage for VMware, Hyper-V, or KVM platforms.

• Cloud Infrastructure: Extend storage capabilities for hybrid or private cloud deployments.

• Enterprise File Services: Handle growing unstructured data with reliable and scalable disk storage.

Technical Specifications

• Drive Bays: 12 x 3.5″ LFF drive bays (supports SATA or SAS drives)

• Form Factor: 4U rackmount

• Maximum Raw Capacity: Up to 144 TB (with 12 x 12 TB drives)

• Connectivity: Dual SAS I/O modules, 3 Gb/s SAS interface

• Cooling: Redundant hot-swappable fans

• Power Supplies: Dual redundant, hot-swappable

• Weight: Approx. 60–75 lbs (fully loaded)

• Power Requirements: 100–240V AC, auto-sensing

• Operating Temp: 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F)

Benefits of NetApp DS4243

Cost-Effective Scalability

The DS4243 provides a simple, efficient way to expand your existing NetApp infrastructure without needing new controllers or complex configurations. It’s especially beneficial for businesses anticipating rapid data growth.

Streamlined Deployment

Thanks to its compatibility with NetApp storage systems, the DS4243 offers a streamlined installation process. Simply rack the shelf, connect it to the host controller, power it on, and configure the drives from your NetApp management interface.

Energy Efficiency

Despite its high capacity, the DS4243 is designed to operate with reduced power consumption, which helps lower data center energy costs over time.

Enterprise-Grade Reliability

With its redundant components, hot-swap support, and seamless integration with NetApp data protection features, the DS4243 ensures that your data remains accessible and protected even in the event of component failures.

Installation Notes

Installation of the NetApp DS4243 is straightforward, especially when working within existing NetApp environments. The process includes:

1. Rack Mounting: Secure the 4U chassis in the rack using included rail kits.

2. Drive Population: Insert supported 3.5″ SATA or SAS drives.

3. Cable Connections: Connect SAS cables between the I/O modules and your NetApp controller.

4. Power Up: Attach and power on using redundant power supplies.

5. Software Configuration: Use NetApp System Manager or CLI tools to detect, configure, and assign the new storage.