Installing Dell PowerStore 500T is a streamlined process when using authorized suppliers like WECENT. Start by unboxing the enclosure, verifying components, and preparing rack space. Mount the unit on rails, connect power and network cables, install NVMe drives, and power on. Configuration is completed via PowerStore Manager, ensuring optimal performance for enterprise workloads in 1–2 hours.
What Is PowerStore 500T?
PowerStore 500T is a high-performance, all-NVMe storage appliance from Dell, designed for enterprise data centers. It offers dual controllers, 25 NVMe drive bays, and supports 10/25GbE or Fibre Channel connectivity for unified block, file, and VMware environments.
WECENT supplies authentic PowerStore 500T units with full Dell warranties, ensuring reliable deployment for virtualization, AI workloads, and databases. Its low-latency design and inline data reduction provide businesses with efficient storage scaling and non-disruptive upgrades.
| PowerStore 500T Key Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Form Factor | 2U Rack |
| Drive Bays | 25 x NVMe |
| Max Raw Capacity | 307TB |
| Connectivity | 10/25GbE, 16/32Gb FC |
| Controllers | Dual Active/Active |
What Are Pre-Installation Requirements?
Before installation, ensure a 2U rack space, dual 800W power supplies, stable network connectivity, and trained personnel. Environmental conditions should be 5–35°C with <80% humidity. Download the latest PowerStoreOS and review Dell’s planning guide.
Required tools include a #2 Phillips screwdriver, antistatic wrist strap, and lift assistance for the 50+ kg enclosure. WECENT recommends verifying host, switch, and cable compatibility, creating a Dell support account, and implementing ESD protection throughout the installation.
How Do You Unbox and Inspect PowerStore 500T?
Carefully remove the packaging and check the Quick Start Guide, rails, cables, and drive bezel. Inspect for damage and report issues immediately to WECENT. Place components on a static-free surface.
Verify NVMe drives (U.2 PCIe Gen4 SSDs up to 15.36TB each). WECENT offers genuine Dell NVMe drives and pre-configured kits for rapid deployment. Record serial numbers to activate warranties.
How Do You Rack Mount PowerStore 500T?
Install rails by aligning front and back rack ears, secure with screws, and slide the enclosure until latched. Use two people for safety due to the 55kg unit weight. Support legs can be extended if floor-standing temporarily.
Attach cable management arms for organized SAS/iSCSI/FC connections. Dell specifies rack depths of 19–32 inches. WECENT’s team provides professional rack installation following TIA-942 standards. Test rail movement before final insertion.
What Cables Are Needed for PowerStore 500T?
Connect two redundant power cables, management Ethernet to a switch, and host I/O via 10/25GbE SFP28 or 32Gb FC SFPs. Use SAS cables for NVMe expansion, up to three per appliance. Label Node A/B management ports and host ports.
WECENT supplies certified Dell cables and transceivers, including custom lengths. Confirm Fibre Channel polarity to avoid connection faults.
| Cable Types for PowerStore 500T | Quantity | Length Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Power (C13-C14) | 2 | 2-3m |
| Management Ethernet (Cat6) | 2 | 1-5m |
| iSCSI/FC (SFP+) | 8–16 | 1–25m |
| NVMe Expansion SAS | 4 per enclosure | 0.5–2m |
How Do You Install Drives and Bezel?
Power off the unit before inserting NVMe drives. Open the carrier latch, align notches, insert drives, and close the latch. Populate drives left-to-right for optimal cooling; a minimum of six drives is required for cluster formation. Snap on the front bezel.
LED indicators: Green = OK, Amber = Fault. WECENT provides certified NVMe SSDs for read-intensive or ultra-endurance workloads. Drives automatically balance across nodes after boot.
How Do You Power On and Initial Boot?
Connect power and press the front power buttons on both nodes. Allow 5–10 minutes for fans and LEDs to stabilize. The LCD panel displays boot progress, and cluster formation occurs automatically if cabling is correct.
Default management IP is DHCP or 192.168.0.1/24. WECENT supports remote boot verification and troubleshooting using node LED indicators.
How Do You Configure PowerStore Manager GUI?
Access the management interface via https://management_IP, set admin credentials, configure support accounts, network settings, and licenses. Enable NTP and SMTP, and create storage pools. Discover clusters using Unisphere or CLI.
The setup wizard assists with cluster naming, DNS, and host connections. Update to the latest PowerStoreOS for security. WECENT provides pre-imaged systems and 24/7 configuration support.
What Are Common Installation Troubleshooting Tips?
If there’s no power, check PSU LEDs and power cords. Cluster formation issues may require verifying iSCSI/FC links or rebooting nodes. Drive faults can be resolved by reseating or replacement. Network troubleshooting includes pinging management ports. Firmware mismatches require USB updates. WECENT diagnostic kits solve the majority of onsite issues.
How Does WECENT Enhance PowerStore Deployments?
WECENT customizes PowerStore 500T with OEM branding, bundled GPUs, and optimized racks. Their 8+ years of experience ensure smooth integration and minimal downtime, supporting wholesalers and enterprises with scalable storage solutions.
WECENT Expert Views
“PowerStore 500T delivers unmatched NVMe efficiency and enterprise scalability. At WECENT, we handle end-to-end deployments, from rack installation to cloud integration. Clients benefit from reduced total cost of ownership and optimized performance through volume pricing and tailored maintenance agreements. Using genuine Dell hardware via WECENT ensures operational continuity and peak reliability.”
— Li Wei, WECENT Senior IT Architect
Conclusion
Successful PowerStore 500T installation follows sequential steps: unbox, inspect, rack, cable, install drives, power on, and configure. Partnering with WECENT guarantees authentic hardware, professional installation, and ongoing support. Businesses should schedule a consultation, validate IOPS performance, and implement proactive monitoring for sustained enterprise performance.
FAQs
What rack size fits PowerStore 500T?
2U standard 19″ rack with 24–36″ depth.
Can WECENT install PowerStore 500T remotely?
Yes, using secure VPN and Dell ProSupport integration.
How many NVMe expansions are supported?
Up to three NVMe expansion enclosures, totaling 100 bays.
Is PowerStore 500T compatible with VMware?
Fully certified for vSphere and native vSAN.
What warranties are available through WECENT?
Full Dell manufacturer warranty plus extended options.