HPE P21868-B21

Overview

The HPE P21868-B21 is a boot drive that combines two 32GB microSD cards configured in a hardware RAID 1 mirror within a compact USB form factor. It provides a dedicated and redundant boot device designed to isolate the operating system from primary data storage on HPE servers. This setup simplifies system backups, upgrades, and disaster recovery by ensuring continuous operation even if one microSD card fails. The included 2280 M.2 NVMe SSD supports Gen3 PCIe, maintaining performance while fitting into tight rack spaces.

Key features

• Hardware RAID 1 configuration on two microSD cards offers data redundancy and system reliability.
• Preconfigured and ready to use, enabling quick installation by simply plugging into a USB port.
• Includes a 2280 M.2 NVMe SSD module that provides Gen3 PCIe support for enhanced performance.
• USB 2.0 compliance ensures compatibility with a wide range of HPE server platforms.
• Compact design preserves valuable front-bay space for additional application data drives.
• Maintains system uptime by allowing replacement of a failed microSD card without OS reinstallation.
• Lightweight at 0.4 kg, making it easy to handle and install in dense server environments.
• Backed by a one-year limited warranty for peace of mind in enterprise deployments.

Key specs

• Capacity: 32GB usable as a single mirrored volume
• Storage media: Two 32GB microSD cards in RAID 1
• Additional storage: 2280 M.2 NVMe SSD included
• Interface: USB 2.0 compliant
• PCIe support: Gen3 via NVMe module
• Dimensions: 2.01 cm x 6.3 cm x 0.94 cm
• Weight: 0.4 kg
• Compatibility: HPE Compute Mainstream Platforms
• Warranty: One-year limited

Connectivity and compatibility

This boot drive is designed to fit seamlessly into HPE server environments, supporting a broad range of mainstream platforms. Its USB 2.0 interface ensures easy integration without requiring specialized ports or adapters. The Gen3 PCIe support through the included NVMe SSD module provides the necessary performance headroom for modern server workloads while maintaining compatibility with existing infrastructure.

• USB 2.0 interface for universal server compatibility
• Gen3 PCIe support via 2280 M.2 NVMe SSD for enhanced data throughput
• Compatible with VMware ESXi, Linux distributions, and Windows Server operating systems
• Fits into standard USB slots on HPE Compute Mainstream Platforms

Ideal uses and environments

This boot drive is well suited for virtualized hosts, branch-office servers, and edge computing systems where maintaining uptime is critical. Its redundant RAID 1 setup ensures that the operating system remains accessible even during hardware failures, reducing downtime and maintenance efforts. The compact size and plug-and-play design make it a practical choice for dense rack environments and remote locations where hands-on intervention is limited.

Administrators looking for a reliable, easy-to-deploy boot solution that isolates the OS from data storage will find this product a strong fit for their server infrastructure.

Orders are processed within 2 business days, which includes verification, packing, and dispatch. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on destination, total weight, and selected speed. Free shipping applies to carts over $100 (excluding heavyweight items). All available options and final pricing are clearly shown before payment so you can choose the service that best fits your needs.

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Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery. Items must be unused, in the same condition received, with tags, manuals, accessories, and original, unaltered packaging. Any item kept will be deducted from the refund. Start a return by sending us an email. Items sent back without approval may be refused or returned to the sender.

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After inspection, refunds are issued to the original payment method; allow 5–7 business days for the credit to post. Shipping, handling, customs duties, and import taxes are nonrefundable. If an item is used, incomplete, or not in original condition, a 30% restocking fee may apply. Direct exchanges are not offered; purchase the replacement and return the original for a refund.

We act solely as a reseller. Any product warranty is provided and administered by the manufacturer, not by our store. That means eligibility, coverage, and outcomes are determined by the manufacturer’s policy for each brand and model. Before purchasing, we recommend reviewing the warranty terms on the manufacturer’s website or in the product documentation to confirm what is covered and for how long.

If you need warranty service, please file the claim directly with the manufacturer. They may require proof of purchase, the product serial number, original packaging, photos, or basic troubleshooting. Some brands ask you to register the product or obtain a case number before shipping it for repair or replacement. We don’t submit or approve claims, but we can point you to the correct support links and contact details.

Keep your invoice and packaging in a safe place, and report any functional issues to the manufacturer as soon as they appear. If you’re unsure whether a problem is covered, the manufacturer’s support team can confirm next steps and timelines. While we cannot intervene in decisions or outcomes, we’re happy to provide purchase documentation or guidance so you can move through the warranty process smoothly.

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