HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 8SFF x1 U.3 BC Mid Tray Basic Drive Cage Kit

The HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 8SFF x1 U.3 BC Mid Tray Basic Drive Cage Kit is a high-density storage expansion designed for DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 servers. It delivers eight hot-swappable 2.5-inch SFF drive bays in a robust mid-tray configuration, optimized for U.3 backplane compatibility to support NVMe, SAS, and SATA drives according to your storage strategy. Engineered by HP for enterprise reliability, this kit provides a streamlined, serviceable path to increased capacity, performance, and scalability without introducing complex redesigns to your server chassis.

Whether you are scaling for virtualization, database acceleration, or data-intensive analytics, this drive cage kit helps you maximize IOPS, improve throughput, and maintain efficient airflow within your server. The mid-tray design simplifies maintenance by allowing quick drive replacements and upgrades with minimal downtime, while the durable construction ensures long-term resilience in demanding data-center environments. This kit is an essential upgrade for organizations seeking to extract more value from their existing DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 hardware without compromising on reliability or serviceability.

• High-density storage expansion: Eight hot-swappable SFF bays maximize capacity in a compact mid-tray footprint, enabling dense storage configurations in DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 servers while preserving airflow and cable management for optimized cooling and performance.
• U.3 drive interface support: Designed to work with U.3 backplanes, offering flexibility to deploy NVMe, SAS, or SATA drives based on controller support and workload needs, unlocking faster data access and richer storage tiering options.
• OEM-grade mid tray and drive cage: Precisely engineered by HP to align with the DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 chassis, ensuring a secure fit, reliable backplane connectivity, and streamlined installation with minimal adjustments required.
• Easier maintenance and upgrade path: The mid-tray configuration facilitates drive hot-swap procedures and future capacity upgrades, reducing downtime and simplifying routine servicing for IT teams managing large-scale deployments.
• Enterprise-ready reliability: Built with sturdy materials and HP's proven hardware design, this kit supports consistent performance under demanding workloads and includes alignment with HP warranty and support options for enterprise environments.

Technical Details of HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 8SFF x1 U.3 BC Mid Tray Basic Drive Cage Kit

• Compatibility: Intended for HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 servers, to enable 8SFF drive configurations via a U.3 backplane
• Drive Bays: 8 x 2.5-inch SFF bays, arranged on a mid-tray for efficient density and straightforward cabling
• Drive Cage Type: Basic mid-tray drive cage assembly designed to support 8 SFF drives and backplane interfaces
• Interface: U.3 compatibility to accommodate NVMe, SAS, and SATA drive options based on controller capabilities
• Included: Mid-tray and basic drive cage assembly with mounting hardware; drives and backplanes not included

How to install HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 8SFF x1 U.3 BC Mid Tray Basic Drive Cage Kit

Before you begin, power down the server, unplug all power cords, and follow proper electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions to protect sensitive components.

Step 1: Access the server front and remove the existing drive cage or front bezel as required by your chassis configuration. Keep track of mounting screws and hardware for reassembly.

Step 2: Inspect the DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 mid-chassis area to locate the eight SFF drive bays and backplane interfaces. Confirm that the backplane is compatible with U.3 connections and verify controller support for the intended drive type.

Step 3: Align the 8SFF mid-tray with the server’s drive bays. Gently slide the tray into the chassis until it seats firmly and the mounting points engage with the chassis rails. Do not force the tray; if resistance is felt, recheck alignment and connector orientation.

Step 4: Attach the basic drive cage assembly to the mid-tray as required, ensuring proper alignment with the backplane connectors. Secure the assembly with the supplied screws or fasteners, following the chassis’ hardware guidelines to avoid overtightening.

Step 5: Connect the U.3 cables or backplane interface to the appropriate controller or backplane header. Ensure each bay’s connector is securely seated and that cables are routed to maintain airflow and minimize interference with other components.

Step 6: If your configuration includes additional power or data cabling for the backplane, attach these connections per the server’s installation manual. Recheck all connections to prevent loose cables that could impede fan operation or cause signal interference.

Step 7: Reassemble any removed covers or rails, then reconnect power. Boot the server and enter the system BIOS or the storage controller configuration utility to verify that all eight bays are recognized and properly mapped. If necessary, update firmware to the latest release to ensure compatibility with U.3 drives and the backplane.

Step 8: In the operating system, perform a storage that checks to confirm drive visibility, initialize drives if required, and configure any desired RAID or storage pools according to your workload needs. Verify performance with a short benchmark or I/O test to ensure the new storage path meets your SLA expectations.

Step 9: Document the installation, including drive layout, controller settings, and firmware versions. This documentation supports future maintenance, upgrades, and audits, helping keep your environment consistent across deployments.

Frequently asked questions

• What is included in this kit? The kit includes the mid-tray with a basic drive cage designed for eight 2.5-inch SFF drives. It does not include the actual drives, backplanes beyond what is necessary for the cage, or external cables beyond what is required for basic installation in compliant systems.
• Is this compatible with all DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 configurations? It is intended for use with HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen10 Plus v2 servers that support 8 SFF configurations via a U.3 interface. Always verify compatibility with your exact SKU, chassis, and firmware version to ensure proper fit and operation.
• Can I use NVMe drives with this cage? Yes, provided your server’s backplane and storage controller support U.3 NVMe drives. The kit provides the physical mid-tray and cage; the actual drive type must be supported by your controller and backplane configuration.
• Do I need special tools to install? In most cases, standard server maintenance tools are sufficient. The kit includes mounting hardware, but you may need a basic screwdriver and following your data-center’s safe-handling procedures to complete installation.
• Does this kit include cables? The basic drive cage kit includes the mid-tray and cage assembly with mounting hardware. Backplane, data cables, and drive media are not typically included and must be sourced separately according to your configuration.
• What is the warranty? Warranty terms vary by region, purchase channel, and SKU. Check HP’s official warranty policy for your specific order to understand coverage, service levels, and any required registration or support agreements.