Not everyone needs maximum expansion right away - in our server configurator for the PowerVault ME5, you can freely choose the storage array variant, controllers, power options, and accessories. PowerVault ME5012, ME5024, or ME5084? Compare the differences and decide whether capacity, speed, or both matter most. The configuration is clear, fast, and gives you full control.

Dell PowerVault ME5 storage array - flexible models, fast interfaces, real savings

When you choose Dell PowerVault ME5, you have three main variants available:

• PowerVault ME5012 - 12 x 3.5" bays for customers who prioritize capacity,
• PowerVault ME5024 - 24 x 2.5" bays, ideal for high-performance SSD drives,
• PowerVault ME5084 - an enterprise-class solution with 84 bays for large data volumes.

On top of that, you have full freedom to choose controllers: from 4x10GbE Base-T iSCSI to 4x16/32Gb/s FC, plus 4x12Gb/s SAS and even 4x10/25GbE SFP28 iSCSI. This lets you match the communication protocol to real needs - whether you care most about throughput or cost optimization.

SSD, SAS and HDD drives - configure PowerVault ME5 precisely down to the TB

In the configurator, you get access to a full range of drives:

• SSD SAS 24Gb/s and 12Gb/s - 960 GB, 1.92 TB, 3.84 TB, 7.68 TB (2.5”),
• hard drives SAS 2.5” and 3.5” - from 1.2 TB up to 24 TB, also available in 10K and 7.2K RPM options.

This means you can build a hybrid array that combines fast SSDs for critical data with high-capacity HDDs for archiving or storage for backups. You have full control over the number and type of drives - you decide on both capacity and performance.

Cables, rails, SFP modules - PowerVault ME5 accessories with no quality compromises

What is often underestimated, we treat as a priority at Hardware Direct. We provide you with:

• power cables: C14/C13, CEE7/7, C20 - various lengths, including shielded versions,
• Dell ReadyRails and bezels for mounting in a rack cabinet,
• SFP+ and SFP28 optical modules - including 10Gb/s, 16Gb/s and 25GbE LC-LC MM.

These aren’t “extras” - they are components that determine the reliability and operational safety of the entire array. You can select everything during configuration - with no risk of mismatch.

FAQ

What interfaces does the Dell PowerVault ME5 array support?

ME5 arrays support iSCSI (10GbE, 25GbE), SAS (12Gb/s), and FC (16Gb/s and 32Gb/s). You can choose the right controller during configuration depending on your company’s network architecture.

3What’s the difference between PowerVault ME5012, ME5024 and ME5084?

The models differ in chassis size and the number of drive bays: the ME5012 has 12x3.5”, the ME5024 has 24x2.5”, and the ME5084 offers as many as 84 bays for very large-scale environments.

Can you combine SSD and HDD drives in one configuration?

Yes, you can build a hybrid array using SSDs as cache or for high-priority data processing, and HDDs as a lower-cost storage tier.

What are the power options for PowerVault ME5?

By default, the ME5084 2200W AC power supply is available, providing sufficient power even under full load with both SSD and HDD drives installed.

Are cables and mounting rails included?

Some options (e.g., ReadyRails or power cables) must be selected separately in the configurator. This gives you full control over what you actually need.