My concern is about SAS disk cloning /imaging.
Most of the Raid controllers on servers do not allow direct disk access without initializing disk first which wipes out all data (In case individual disks are to be cloned / imaged)
I am looking for a decent entry level SAS non raid card which will not initialize disk and I can clone it directly.
Card should support latest generations of SAS disks ( 4 port will be enough) . Can someone pls. recommend most suitable budget friendly card ( Max $250)

Thank you.

I have some of these in a few workstations. There are probably newer models around, but they work great in HBA IT-mode
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/163830415233

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Digitalsupport Data Recovery
https://digitalsupport.dk

Thanks digisupport.
This seems to be a good deed indeed , price is reasonable and card is with cables too.

Hi digisupport
I am also looking for a entry level SAS HBA card. The card you suggested is definately low cost but its also bit too old ( release date 2015)
Again some new gen drives (10GB) may not get supported.
Can you pls. suggest any alternate comparatively newer card.
Dr-Kiev / fzabkar can you pls. suggest since you work on raid almost everyday.
Thanks

Hi all
Will this card enough to access all latest gen. SAS disks without initilization by card ( direct access to disk )
Its only $210 .It supports 12GB SAS drives .If it is suitable for SAS cloning or Dat Recovery then I will buy it as I am stuck up with a case.

https://www.cnet.com/products/microsemi ... ie-3-0-x8/

I remember that i had a trouble experience with one of those cheap cards before... (once only)
it ID drives without any problems,, but when the time comes to Dumping it dumps with some sort of Data Shifts..

I did not notice it, but someone here noticed it when i was sharing the output results with him

Conclusion, better invest some extra $$ and get something that Really Works.. (my advice, take it or leave it)

good luck

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Kuwait Data Recovery - UNIX GTC
The only reason for time is so that everything doesn't happen at once. By: Albert Einstein

Hi einstein9
Thank You so much for very important advice . Here we are dealing with already failed device so our equipment must be capable to address the issue .
I have postponed decision to purchase the card and will wait for more funds. I am dumping adaptech and will check with LSI megaraid.
Actually the issue is lot of cards are old and outdated but again are sale so I am confused which is new and old .(some of them are released in 2015)
I want latest generation of HBA which will ne able to image any current generation SAS disk
Thanks again.

I have tested many of them, i actually dont like any kind of Adaptec, and have some troubles with Areca HBA cards. Lsi is my favorite brand for now.

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Angel Data Recovery

Its Final - For DR purpose and in general LSI is the best. Final words in Raid is obviously from Dr- Kiev since he has done PHD in Raid Recoery.

Thank you Dr-Kiev ,your right advise might save thousands of $ from those who are upgrading there Raid cards.