PM8252B-F3EI

Overview

The PM8252B-F3EI is a SmartIOC 2200 storage controller featuring an 8 × 8 tri-mode configuration with no integrated encryption. It utilizes a 16b DDR4 memory interface and is packaged in a 25 mm × 25 mm form factor. The device supports up to x16 PCIe Gen 4 host connectivity and provides 32 lanes of storage connectivity for NVMe, SAS-4, and SATA media. Key capabilities include Dynamic Channel Multiplexing (DCM) for bandwidth aggregation, hardware root-of-trust security, and support for RAID levels 0, 1, 10, and 5.

Feature Summary

• Supports automatic detection and link speed negotiation for PCIe, SAS, and SATA via Universal Backplane Management.
• Integrates Switchtec technology for low-latency NVMe connectivity with flexible port bifurcation down to x1.
• Provides hardware root-of-trust with Secure Boot and Secure Update features for firmware integrity.
• Enables efficient bandwidth aggregation for lower-speed drives over SAS-4 links using Dynamic Channel Multiplexing.

Applications

• Enterprise server storage backplanes
• Hyperscale server architectures
• Dense cloud storage environments
• Mixed NVMe/SAS storage topologies

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix against official Microchip documentation to confirm the exact feature set, particularly regarding encryption capabilities and package dimensions. Ensure compatibility with the target server's PCIe generation and BIOS/UEFI requirements before procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this model for configurations requiring 8 downstream ports with 8 lanes each. Choose alternative part numbers if hardware encryption or higher lane counts are required. Confirm that the 25 mm × 25 mm package fits the mechanical constraints of the intended chassis design.

Part Context

This component belongs to the SmartIOC 2200 family, designed as a versatile IO storage controller for next-generation data centers. It bridges high-performance NVMe media with traditional SAS/SATA drives, offering unified management through standard interfaces and software tools.

Replacement Considerations

Consult the official datasheet for direct pin-compatible or functionally equivalent substitutes within the SmartIOC 2200 series. Verify that any replacement maintains the required lane count and encryption status.

FAQ

Does the PM8252B-F3EI support hardware encryption?

No, the PM8252B-F3EI does not include integrated encryption. Encryption-capable variants are designated with an 'e' suffix, such as the PM8253B-F3EI.

What RAID levels are supported by this controller?

The controller supports cacheless RAID levels 0, 1, 10, and 5.

How does Dynamic Channel Multiplexing benefit storage performance?

DCM aggregates bandwidth for lower-speed drives (SAS/SATA) when connected over SAS-4 links, providing near 100% efficiency to targets.