PowerVault MD1400 - Disk array DELL - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Disk Array Enclosure
Brand	Dell
Model	PowerVault MD1400
Form Factor	2U Rackmount
Drive Bays	12
Supported Drive Types	3.5-inch SAS/SATA (up to 6 Gbps)
Interface	SAS 6 Gbps (12 Gbps with appropriate HBA)
Power Supply (AC)	600 W (redundant, hot-pluggable)
Power Supply (DC)	700 W (redundant, hot-pluggable)
Voltage (AC)	100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz, autoranging
Voltage (DC)	–(48–60) V DC
Heat Dissipation (AC)	2047 BTU/hr (redundant 600W)
Heat Dissipation (DC)	2388 BTU/hr (redundant 700W)
Maximum Operating Temperature	35°C (95°F)
Dimensions (H x W x D)	8.68 cm (3.42 in) x 48.26 cm (19 in) x 75.53 cm (29.74 in)
Weight (empty)	Approximately 12.7 kg (28 lb)
Hot-Swappable Components	Drives, power supplies, cooling fans
Cooling	Advanced air cooling with hot-swappable fan modules
Management	Front panel LEDs and optional modular disk storage manager (MDSM)
Rack Support	Dell ReadyRails II (optional sliding rails)
Maintenance	Tool-less drive and PSU replacement; cable securing strap
Compliance	Safety, EMC, and regulatory certifications

Frequently Asked Questions - PowerVault MD1400 DELL

How do I install the PowerVault MD1400 in a rack?

First, assemble the rail kit according to the included rack installation instructions. Slide the enclosure onto the rails and secure it. Ensure the rack is stable and grounded. Refer to the Rack Installation Guide for detailed steps.

What drives are compatible with the MD1400?

The MD1400 supports 3.5-inch SAS and SATA drives with up to 6 Gbps speed. For optimal performance, use Dell Enterprise-class drives. Check the Dell support site for the latest compatibility matrix.

How do I connect the MD1400 to a Dell server?

Use a qualified SAS cable (e.g., SFF-8088 to SFF-8088) to connect the enclosure to a Dell server with a compatible SAS HBA. For redundancy, connect both I/O modules if available. Ensure the server is powered off during connection.

Can I replace a power supply while the system is running?

Yes, the MD1400 supports hot-swappable, redundant power supplies. To replace a failed unit, release the latch, slide the old PSU out, and insert a new one. The system continues operating normally.

How do I interpret the front panel LEDs?

The front panel includes power (steady green), drive activity (blinking green), and fault (amber) LEDs. A steady amber indicates a component failure. Refer to the Owner's Manual for full LED descriptions.

What is the maximum ambient temperature for operation?

The maximum operating ambient temperature is 35°C (95°F). For expanded temperature ranges and configurations, visit dell.com/support/manuals.

How do I secure the power cables to prevent accidental disconnection?

Bend the power cable into a loop and attach it to the cable strap provided on the PSU handle. This prevents strain on the connector and accidental unplugging.

Where can I find the latest firmware and drivers?

Always check for updates at dell.com/support. Download and install the latest enclosure firmware, SAS expander firmware, and system management software for optimal performance.

How do I install the optional bezel?

Align the bezel with the front of the enclosure and snap it into place. Use a lock (if equipped) to secure it. The bezel is optional and provides a professional look.

What safety precautions should I follow when servicing the MD1400?

Always follow the safety instructions provided with the system. Disconnect power before removing covers, use ESD protection, and avoid contact with hot surfaces. For detailed safety information, see the Safety and Regulatory document.

USER MANUAL PowerVault MD1400 DELL

Dell Storage MD1400 and MD1420 Enclosures Getting Started Guide

Notes, Cautions, and Warnings

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.

WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

Copyright © 2014 Dell Inc. All rights reserved. This product is protected by U.S. and international copyright and intellectual property laws. Dell™ and the Dell logo are trademarks of Dell Inc. in the United States and/or other jurisdictions. All other marks and names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies.

2014 - 08

Rev. A01

Installation And Configuration

WARNING: Before performing the following procedure, review the safety instructions that came with the system.

Unpacking A Rack System

Unpack your system and identify each item.

Assemble the rails and install the system in the rack following the safety instructions and the rack installation instructions provided with your system.

Diagram of a mechanical assembly with a highlighted component and directional arrow (no text or symbols)

Figure 1. Installing the System in a Rack.

Connecting The Power Cable(s)

Illustration of a server rack with an open socket and a speech bubble containing a plug icon (no text or symbols present)

Figure 2. Connecting the Power Cable(s)

Connect the system's power cable(s) to the system and, if a monitor is used, connect the monitor's power cable to the monitor.

Securing The Power Cable(s)

Illustration of a server rack with a cable being inserted, showing ports and connections (no text or symbols)

Figure 3. Securing the Power Cable(s)

Bend the system power cable(s), as shown in the illustration, and attach to the cable strap.

Plug the other end of the power cable(s) into a grounded electrical outlet or a separate power source such as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) or a power distribution unit (PDU).

Turning On The System

Front view of a server rack with ports and indicator lights, no visible text or symbols

Figure 4. Turning on the System

Press the power button on the system. The power indicator should light.

Installing The Optional Bezel

3D diagram of a server rack with a lock and mounting bracket, showing internal components and a close-up inset (no text or symbols)

Figure 5. Installing the Optional Bezel

Install the bezel (optional).

Complete The Operating System Setup

If you purchased a preinstalled operating system, see the documentation associated with the operating system. To install an operating system for the first time, see the installation and configuration documentation for your operating system. Be sure the operating system is installed before installing hardware or software not purchased with the system.

NOTE: See dell.com/ossupport for the latest information on supported operating systems.

Dell Software License Agreement

Before using your system, read the Dell Software License Agreement that came with your system. You must consider any media of Dell-installed software as BACKUP copies of the software installed on your system's hard drive. If you do not accept the terms of the agreement, call the customer assistance telephone number. For customers in the United States, call 800-WWW-DELL (800-999-3355). For customers outside the United States, see dell.com/support and select your country or region from the top left of the page.

Other Information You May Need

WARNING: See the safety and regulatory information that shipped with your system. Warranty information may be included within this document or as a separate document.

Your product documentation includes:

Owner's Manual

Provides information about system features and describes how to troubleshoot the system and install or replace system components. This document is available online at dell.com/support/manuals.

Rack

Describes how to install your system into a rack. This document is shipped with your rack solution.

Installation

Instructions

Deployment

Guide

Provides information about cabling your system and the installation and initial configuration of your system. This document is available online at dell.com/support/manuals.

NOTE: Always check for updates on dell.com/support/manuals and read the updates first because they often supersede information in other documents.
NOTE: When upgrading your system, it is recommended that you download and install the latest BIOS, drivers, and systems management firmware on your system from dell.com/support.

Obtaining Technical Assistance

If you do not understand a procedure in this guide or if the system does not perform as expected, see your system Owner's Manual. Dell offers comprehensive hardware training and certification. See dell.com/training for more information. This service may not be offered in all locations.

Technical Specifications

NOTE: The following specifications are only those required by law to ship with your system. For a complete and current listing of the specifications for your system, go to dell.com/support.

Power

AC Power Supply (per power supply)
Wattage 600 W
Heat dissipation	2047 BTU/hr (redundant, 600 W power supply)
NOTE: Heat dissipation is calculated using the power supply wattage rating.
Voltage	100–240 V AC, autoranging, 50/60 Hz
NOTE: This system is also designed to be connected to IT power systems with a phase to phase voltage not exceeding 230 V.
DC Power Supply (per power supply)
Wattage 700 W
Heat dissipation	2388 BTU/hr (redundant, 700 W power supply)
NOTE: Heat dissipation is calculated using the power supply wattage rating.
Voltage –(48–60) V DC

Temperature

Maximum operation ambient temperature 35°C

For information on supported expanded operating temperature range and configurations, see dell.com/support/manuals.