Absolutely, you can reconfigure your Dell R710 to support 6×3.5" drives while hanging onto your existing 4×2TB RAID array—here's a breakdown of what's possible and exactly what you'll need to pull it off:

Is the conversion feasible? #

The Dell R710 chassis was designed to support both 8×2.5" and 6×3.5" drive bay layouts, so this swap is totally doable without replacing the entire server case. Your existing 3.5" RAID drives will work seamlessly once the correct hardware is in place.

Required Components #

You'll need a few specific Dell OEM parts (generic alternatives can cause compatibility issues, so stick to official parts where possible):

• 6×3.5" Drive Trays (Caddies): Your existing 4×2TB drives likely already have these, but you'll need 2 more to fill all 6 bays. Look for Dell part numbers X968D or 0X968D—these are the standard 3.5" SAS/SATA trays for the R710.
• 6×3.5" Drive Backplane: The 8×2.5" backplane that came with your server won't fit 3.5" drives. You'll need the official Dell 6×3.5" SAS/SATA backplane, most commonly part number NHG29 or 0NHG29. Double-check your R710's exact model variant, but this is the go-to part for most units.
• Optional: Data Cable Kit: Some R710 models require a new data cable to connect the 3.5" backplane to the RAID controller. The standard part here is YMXG2 or 0YMXG2. If your existing cable fits the new backplane's connectors, you can skip this, but it's wise to have one on hand just in case.

Step-by-Step Notes & Critical Tips #

1. Backup First, Always: Even though we're keeping your RAID array, any hardware swap carries a tiny risk of data disruption. Take 10 minutes to back up your 4×2TB drives to an external storage device before touching anything.
2. Safe Disassembly: Power off the server, unplug all cables, and remove the top cover. Disconnect the existing 2.5" backplane from the RAID controller and power supply, then unscrew it from the chassis.
3. Swap the Backplane: Secure the new 3.5" backplane in the chassis with the same screws, then connect the power and data cables (use the new cable if your old one doesn't fit).
4. Install Drives: Slide your existing 4×3.5" drives (in their trays) into the first 4 bays, then add your 2 new trays (with drives if you have them) into the remaining slots.
5. Verify Health: Boot up the server and press Ctrl+R during POST to enter the RAID controller utility. Confirm that your existing RAID array is detected and marked as healthy. The empty bays (or new drives) should show up as unconfigured, ready for setup if you want to expand the array later.

One quick check: Make sure your RAID controller (like the common PERC H700) supports 3.5" SAS/SATA drives—almost all R710 controllers do, but if you have a rare model, double-check its specs to be safe.

内容的提问来源于stack exchange，提问作者Derek