Dell EMC Storage

Dell PowerVault

The PowerVault lineup includes direct-attached storage (DAS) and entry-level SAN arrays for Dell PowerEdge server environments. PowerVault MD Series arrays provide RAID-protected storage expansion via SAS connectivity, while ME Series arrays add iSCSI and Fibre Channel SAN capabilities. PowerVault is the most cost-effective Dell storage platform for small-to-midsize deployments.

Dell Compellent SC Series

The Compellent SC Series (SC7020, SC5020, SC4020) is Dell's enterprise SAN platform with automated tiering, thin provisioning, and Live Volume for non-disruptive data migration. SC arrays support Fibre Channel, iSCSI, and SAS host connectivity with support for hybrid (HDD + SSD) and all-flash configurations. Compellent is designed for production database storage, virtualization datastores, and business-critical applications.

Dell EqualLogic PS Series

The EqualLogic PS Series is an iSCSI SAN platform with a peer storage architecture — multiple arrays pool into a single storage group with automatic load balancing. EqualLogic is straightforward to deploy and manage, making it a practical choice for environments without dedicated SAN administrators. Models include the PS4210 (hybrid and all-flash) and PS6210 series.

Choosing the Right Dell EMC Storage

• PowerVault — Budget DAS/SAN for small-to-midsize, directly connected to PowerEdge servers
• Compellent — Enterprise SAN with automated tiering for production workloads
• EqualLogic — iSCSI SAN with peer storage for simple management and scale-out

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Dell PowerVault, Compellent, and EqualLogic?

PowerVault is Dell's entry-level storage platform offering direct-attached storage (DAS) and basic SAN capabilities via SAS, iSCSI, or Fibre Channel. It is the most cost-effective option for small-to-midsize deployments. Compellent SC Series is Dell's enterprise SAN with automated tiering that moves data between SSD and HDD tiers based on access frequency, reducing storage costs while maintaining performance. EqualLogic PS Series is an iSCSI SAN with a peer storage architecture that pools multiple arrays into a single managed group with automatic load balancing — designed for environments that need simplicity over advanced enterprise features.

Can I expand a Dell storage array with additional shelves?

Yes. Dell PowerVault MD Series and Compellent SC Series arrays support expansion shelves (also called JBODs or drive enclosures) connected via SAS cables. Expansion shelves add drive capacity without replacing the base array. Each array model has a maximum number of supported expansion shelves and total drives — check the specific model documentation or contact Enterasource for expansion compatibility and available shelves.

Do refurbished Dell storage arrays include controllers and drives?

Configuration varies by listing. Some arrays are sold as complete systems with controllers, drives, and expansion shelves. Others are sold as chassis-only for custom configurations. Each listing specifies exactly what is included. Enterasource can also configure arrays to order with specific drive types (SAS HDD, SAS SSD, NVMe), capacities, and RAID levels. Contact our team for custom storage configurations.

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