Dell PowerVault

Dell PowerVault Models: ME5, ME4, and MD Series

PowerVault arrays span three product generations. The ME-series is Dell’s current platform; the MD-series is legacy but widely deployed and still supported by Dell SAS HBAs.

Dell PowerVault ME5 — Current Generation (32G FC / 25GbE iSCSI / 12G SAS)

The PowerVault ME5 is the current-generation Dell storage array supporting three connectivity options: 32G Fibre Channel, 25GbE iSCSI, and 12G SAS DAS. The ME5012 holds up to 12 x 3.5" LFF drives; the ME5024 holds up to 24 x 2.5" SFF drives. PowerVault Manager provides a browser-based management interface with snapshot, replication, and thin provisioning features. The ME5 is Dell’s recommended platform for new PowerVault deployments and integrates directly with PowerEdge servers via the Dell OpenManage ecosystem.

Dell PowerVault ME4 — Previous Generation (12G SAS)

The ME4 is the predecessor to the ME5, using 12G SAS connectivity only (no FC or iSCSI). ME4012 (12 x 3.5" LFF) and ME4024 (24 x 2.5" SFF) configurations are available. The ME4 is a cost-effective option for organizations needing straightforward DAS expansion for their PowerEdge server fleet. 12G SAS provides up to 12 Gb/s per lane for predictable, low-latency direct-attached performance.

Dell PowerVault MD Series (Legacy DAS)

The legacy MD-series includes the MD3220 (24 x 2.5" SFF), MD3420 (24 x 2.5" SFF, dual controller), and MD3620f (24 x 2.5" SFF, Fibre Channel). MD-series arrays connect via SAS or Fibre Channel and are fully functional for existing deployments. Parts availability remains good in the refurbished market, making MD-series arrays a viable option for capacity expansion in existing PowerVault environments.

PowerVault with Dell PowerEdge: Capacity Expansion

Dell PowerVault arrays are designed for tight integration with PowerEdge servers. A single PowerEdge host with a dual-port SAS HBA (e.g., HBA330) can connect to multiple ME4 or ME5 expansion enclosures, scaling raw storage capacity from a few terabytes to hundreds of terabytes in direct-attached configurations. iSCSI-connected ME5 arrays can serve multiple hosts over a standard Ethernet network, providing entry-level SAN functionality without Fibre Channel infrastructure.

What is the difference between Dell PowerVault ME4 and ME5?

The ME5 is the current generation, adding 32G Fibre Channel and 25GbE iSCSI connectivity options alongside 12G SAS DAS. The ME4 supports 12G SAS DAS only. Both share the same drive bay configurations (12 x 3.5" LFF or 24 x 2.5" SFF). Choose the ME5 if you need iSCSI or FC SAN connectivity; the ME4 is the lower-cost option for pure DAS deployments.

Does Dell PowerVault work with non-Dell servers?

PowerVault ME-series arrays use standard SAS and iSCSI protocols, so they are compatible with any server equipped with a compatible SAS HBA or iSCSI initiator. Fibre Channel configurations require standard FC HBAs. Management via the PowerVault Manager browser interface works regardless of the connected server vendor. Full Dell OpenManage integration is only available with Dell PowerEdge hosts.

What warranty covers Dell PowerVault arrays from Enterasource?

All Dell PowerVault systems include a 2-year Enterasource warranty covering controller and hardware failures. Extended options up to 5 years are available.