HPE StoreEver MSL LTO-7 Ultrium 15000 SAS Drive Upgrade Kit

Overview

The HPE N7P37A is a drive upgrade kit designed for StoreEver MSL tape libraries, providing an LTO-7 Ultrium 15000 SAS drive that enhances both storage capacity and data throughput without requiring a full system replacement. This upgrade supports up to 6 TB of native data per cartridge and delivers a sustained transfer rate of up to 300 MB per second, making it well suited for handling large backups, archives, and project files efficiently.

With a 1 GB buffer and adaptive speed control, the drive maintains smooth data streaming and reduces wear on tapes by syncing effectively with host data flow. Its SAS 6 Gb/s interface ensures fast and reliable connectivity to existing MSL library backplanes, while the standard 5.25-inch half-height form factor allows easy installation without custom hardware.

Key features

• Supports hardware-based encryption to secure sensitive data without additional software requirements
• Backward compatible with Ultrium 6 media, protecting previous tape investments
• Adaptive speed control and a large buffer help maintain consistent data flow and reduce tape wear
• Fits seamlessly into existing StoreEver MSL libraries, extending their lifespan and capabilities
• Operates reliably within typical data center temperature and humidity ranges

Key specs

• Native cartridge capacity: 6 TB
• Compressed cartridge capacity: up to 15 TB
• Sustained transfer rate: up to 300 MB/s
• Buffer size: 1 GB
• Interface: SAS 6 Gb/s
• Form factor: 5.25-inch half-height bay
• Operating temperature: 50 to 104 °F
• Operating humidity: 20 to 80 percent

Connectivity and compatibility

The drive connects via a SAS 6 Gb/s interface, which integrates smoothly with existing StoreEver MSL library backplanes. It supports both Ultrium 6 and Ultrium 7 cartridges, allowing flexible use of current and newer media. This compatibility ensures that upgrading your tape library does not disrupt your existing backup workflows or media management.

Ideal uses and environments

This upgrade kit is a strong choice for mid-sized businesses, video production studios, and research facilities that require reliable, high-capacity tape storage. It works well in data centers and archive rooms where maintaining data integrity and security is critical. The drive’s robust operating range and encryption capabilities make it suitable for environments that demand secure, long-term data retention without frequent hardware changes.