New Controller Advice

[helpermonkey]

I need to replace my SATA controller. I need a low profile, small card ....

 

This is my current controller: https://smile.amazon.com/IO-Crest-Controller-Non-Raid-SI-PEX40064/dp/B00AZ9T3OU/

 

This is my current mobo: https://www.asus.com/us/Motherboards/H87IPLUS/

 

I could buy that same controller again, but wondering if something newer that's out there might be worth investing in. Thoughts?

 

 

[Frank1940]

Current recommendation is to use LSI based Controllers.  You can buy these new or used (Used ones are generally OEM and come from server farms that are being updated).  A good source is E-bay.   However, vet the vendors carefully as some of the cards (particularly straight from China) are counterfeit.   For the models that you are looking for, see here:

 

      https://forums.unraid.net/topic/69018-sata-controller-replacement-question-and-advice/?tab=comments#comment-630097

 

Many of these boards will come with both low and high profile brackets.  Many of the vendors will do the Cross-flashing to the  'IT MODE'  for a slight premium. 

[helpermonkey]

Thanks so much .... I found this: https://www.ebay.com/itm/LSI-9211-8i-P20-IT-Mode-for-ZFS-FreeNAS-unRAID-Dell-H200-H310-6Gbps-SAS-HBA/264126638864?hash=item3d7f2cab10:m:m5yXhmxZXSAtBOtym2nb41Q That look right to you? I have no idea what the difference in the various models - which one would i need?

Edited May 26, 2019 by helpermonkey

[Frank1940]

That card matches the description of what you are looking for.  However, There are a couple of warning signs that I see.  The pictures actually show two different cards.  (The fourth picture is a different design...)  The description gives two different Dell part Numbers  H200 and H310.  Which would you get? The following quote is confusing

 

"Please select the Original or OEM version of the LSI 9211-8i you are interested"

 

What is going on here?   I would at least contact the vendor and get some clarification.  (Many folks consider the used cards a better choice than new cards.  Less chance of getting a counterfeit one.)  

 

While I haven't been watching prices, this price looks a bit too low.  Similar cards were about $60-$80 about a year ago.  

 

Now from the same vendor, you can get this card:

 

      https://www.ebay.com/itm/Genuine-LSI-9211-8i-P20-IT-Mode-for-ZFS-FreeNAS-unRAID-6Gbps-SAS-HBA-US-Same-Day/264126764279?hash=item3d7f2e94f7:g:Tt4AAOSwE~ZcNj8D

 

Note it says "Genuine LSI 9211-8i".  And you will note that the price is higher!