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Understanding Dell NVMe PCIe SSDs: Model Numbers, Classifications, and Key Features

Dell NVMe PCIe SSDs are the best choice if you have a compatible Dell server or storage system. With a variety of models available, it's important to select the right one to match your performance and capacity needs.


Dell NVMe PCIe SSDs - Save up to 80%

This article covers Dell NVMe PCIe SSDs, including their use cases, technology, server compatibility, and a detailed list of available models.


A high-performance Dell NVMe PCIe SSD installed in an enterprise server, showcasing cutting-edge storage technology for business applications. The image highlights the sleek M.2 and U.2 form factors, designed for seamless integration into Dell PowerEdge servers and high-performance storage systems. Featuring ultra-fast read and write speeds, low latency, and superior reliability, these NVMe SSDs are ideal for cloud computing, AI workloads, HPC clusters, and data-intensive applications. Businesses benefit from enhanced scalability, energy efficiency, and enterprise-grade security, including self-encrypting drives (SEDs). Server-parts.eu offers a wide range of Dell NVMe PCIe SSDs, making it easy to find the right model for your IT infrastructure needs.

 

Key Features of Dell NVMe PCIe SSDs


What is NVMe?

NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a high-speed storage protocol designed specifically for SSDs to overcome the limitations of traditional SATA-based drives. Unlike SATA SSDs, which were built on legacy HDD technology, NVMe operates over PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express), offering lower latency, higher bandwidth, and better parallel processing.


 

NVMe vs. SATA: Key Differences

Feature

NVMe SSD

SATA SSD

Interface

PCIe

SATA

Speed

Up to 7000MB/s (PCIe Gen4)

Max 600MB/s

Latency

Very Low

Higher

Ideal Use

AI, HPC, Databases, Servers

General Storage


 

What is PCIe?

PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is a high-speed interface used in modern computers to connect various components such as GPUs, network cards, and storage devices. NVMe SSDs take advantage of PCIe lanes, which determine their speed:


  • PCIe Gen3 vs. Gen4: PCIe Gen4 SSDs offer nearly double the bandwidth of Gen3, making them ideal for enterprise workloads.

  • Lanes (x1, x4, x8, x16): More lanes = higher speed. NVMe SSDs typically use x4 lanes for optimal performance.


 

What is M.2?

M.2 is a compact SSD form factor that replaces older SATA and mSATA drives. It allows direct connection to the motherboard, eliminating the need for cables.


 

Key Characteristics of M.2 SSDs:

  • Size Variations: M.2 SSDs come in different lengths:

    • 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, 22110 (e.g., 2280 means 22mm wide, 80mm long).

  • Connector Types: M.2 SSDs use B-Key, M-Key, or both, determining whether they support SATA, PCIe, or both.

  • Compatibility: Found in laptops, desktops, and enterprise servers due to their small size and high performance.


 

What is U.2?

U.2 is another NVMe SSD form factor, mainly used in enterprise servers and storage arrays. It resembles a 2.5" SATA SSD but operates via PCIe, making it ideal for high-capacity, high-speed storage solutions.


 

Understanding Dell NVMe PCIe SSD Model Numbers and Classifications


Dell NVMe SSDs come with specific labels that indicate their performance, workload type, and security features:

Label

Meaning

Class 35, Class 40, Class 50

Performance tiers (Class 50 is the highest)

Gen4 x4

PCIe Generation 4 with four lanes for high-speed data transfer

SED (Self-Encrypting Drive)

Supports hardware encryption for secure data storage

RI (Read Intensive), MU (Mixed Use), WI (Write Intensive)

Determines workload type

U.2

Enterprise-grade high-speed NVMe storage


 

Dell NVMe PCIe SSD Example Breakdown

A Dell SSD labeled "M.2 PCIe NVMe Gen 4x4 Class 40 2280 SED 1TB" means:


  • M.2 PCIe NVMe → NVMe SSD using the PCIe interface

  • Gen 4x4 → PCIe Gen 4 with four lanes

  • Class 40 → Mid-tier performance

  • 2280 → 22mm width, 80mm length

  • SED → Self-encrypting drive for secure data

  • 1TB → Storage capacity


 

Dell NVMe PCIe SSDs - Save up to 80%

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