I'm in the process of ordering a PowerEdge R7615 server from Dell, but I'm facing some challenges. Our organization requires self-encrypting disks (SEDs) due to our security policies and cross-OS support requirements. However, Dell has informed me that they have low inventory or that SEDs are completely unavailable in sizes 1.6TB, 3.2TB, 3.84TB, and 7.68TB. The only available option is an 800GB drive, which doesn't meet our needs. I'm beginning to wonder if this is a strategy to delay our order until after January 1st, when new RAM pricing kicks in. Has anyone else experienced similar issues?
7 Answers
Honestly, SEDs aren't super popular these days due to the limited availability of NAND. It’s no surprise that they're low on the manufacturing list. If your quote looks good, I’d suggest holding onto it and just waiting for the shipment, if you can.
Right? I’ve never seen SEDs in high demand either. We need to adjust our expectations!
I've never really run into many people using SEDs either. It’s likely just a combination of low demand and high production constraints.
I doubt Dell is trying to stall you intentionally. They likely just don’t have the drives available right now. It's a bummer, but if that's the configuration you need, your best bet might be to explore other vendors for the time being.
For what it's worth, more federal clients are using SEDs because they simplify compliance with security requirements. But yeah, finding them has been challenging lately. Don’t overlook the option of checking other suppliers too; you might have better luck!
Yeah, the SED situation for the latest generation is a bit of a mess. They shifted focus from SAS SSDs to NVMe and that probably has affected their availability. I had to source SEDs from HPE because Dell just didn't have any when we needed them. Plus, keep in mind that January is usually crazy for them due to end-of-year processes, which can lead to longer lead times.
It sounds like they're just being transparent about their stock levels. You have a quote which should be valid for a bit, and they might ship once they get the parts in. If you need it sooner, you could consider swapping in some other components that are currently in stock, but yeah, supply chain issues are definitely making it tricky right now.
True, supply chains are a real mess right now. I think quotes might be changing to shorter lifespans due to this too.
Exactly! I've had similar issues with other parts; it's frustrating.
I've been hearing about these shortages for a while; you’re definitely not alone.