Dell PowerEdge R740XD2 Servers

High-Density Storage Built for Data-Driven Workloads

The Dell PowerEdge R740xd2 is an enhanced 2U, dual-socket rack server tailored for environments requiring exceptional storage capacity and versatility, especially in software-defined storage and hyper-converged scenarios. This server allows administrators to configure a mix of high-capacity HDDs for bulk data and high-speed NVMe or SSDs for caching or tiered storage. The server also includes multiple PCIe slots and optional GPU support, enabling flexible expansion for compute or acceleration needs.

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1 option available for your build

  • 24-Bay 3.5" Chassis

    This server is a high-capacity, storage-optimized system, supporting up to twenty-four 3.5" drives, which make it ideal for data-intensive workloads such as video storage, backup, and archival. It differs from the standard R740XD by offering greater internal storage density, a deeper chassis, and enhanced cooling—tailored for environments that prioritize capacity over compute.

    Call 1-800-778-1545 for Availability

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The Dell PowerEdge R740XD2 is a high-capacity 2U rack server purpose-built to deliver dense, scalable storage with enterprise-class performance and availability. Designed to address the growing demands of unstructured data, video surveillance, content delivery, and backup environments, the R740XD2 offers up to 26 hot-swappable 3.5” drives within a compact chassis. With support for dual Intel Xeon Scalable processors and extensive memory and I/O capabilities, it combines compute power and storage flexibility in one platform. The server's expanded internal storage reduces the need for external JBODs while maintaining performance for nearline workloads. Its high-density design, intelligent management features, and exceptional expandability make it a strategic asset for data-intensive applications that require reliable, scalable, and efficient infrastructure.

Performance

The PowerEdge R740XD2 is powered by dual 1st or 2nd Gen Intel Xeon Scalable processors with up to 28 cores each, enabling powerful compute capabilities for managing heavy data streams and parallel processing tasks. This allows the server to support real-time data ingestion, analytics, and high-throughput file systems without compromising responsiveness. The server supports up to 165W CPUs per socket and includes advanced cooling to handle sustained workloads, making it suitable for large-scale content indexing, file archiving, and surveillance video storage. With robust core density and consistent processing performance, the R740XD2 serves both compute-heavy and I/O-bound applications.

Memory and Scalability

The Dell PowerEdge R740XD2 offers up to 16 DDR4 DIMM slots, supporting up to 1TB of ECC RDIMM or LRDIMM memory. With speeds up to 2933 MT/s, the server is optimized for high memory bandwidth, crucial for file caching, deduplication, and real-time data access. ECC memory ensures mission-critical data integrity, preventing corruption from disrupting services or compromising information. The memory architecture provides the flexibility to scale with growing data sets while maintaining smooth performance. Whether supporting a high number of concurrent users or buffering large video datasets, the R740XD2 delivers consistent, scalable memory throughput.

Storage Flexibility

One of the R740XD2’s standout features is its ultra-dense storage capacity in a 2U chassis:

  • Supports up to 24 x 3.5” front-access hot-swappable drives
  • 2 additional rear 3.5" hot-swappable drives for increased capacity or tiered storage
  • Support for SATA, SAS, and Nearline SAS HDDs or SSDs, with capacity per drive up to 22TB (or more with newer media)

This design allows for up to 576TB of raw storage capacity in a single server, reducing rack footprint while scaling for archival and content-heavy applications. PERC RAID controllers (H740P or HBA330) ensure high performance and fault tolerance, while the BOSS-S1 module allows for redundant M.2 boot drives. Optional encryption and Secure Erase capabilities also support compliance and data lifecycle management. The R740XD2 is perfect for businesses handling large video archives, backup repositories, or cloud-scale object storage.

I/O and Expandability

The server features up to 5 PCIe Gen 3.0 slots, enabling connectivity for additional RAID cards, network adapters, or cache accelerators. One of the slots supports a full-height GPU or FPGA for hardware acceleration in specific analytics or AI-driven workloads. With support for Broadcom, Intel, and Mellanox NICs, businesses can deploy high-speed networking up to 25GbE for faster data access and replication. Dual embedded LOM ports and a modular NIC (NDC) offer redundancy and bandwidth flexibility. The R740XD2 also includes USB 3.0 ports and an internal USB for boot media or license keys.

Virtualization and Workload Optimization

While the R740XD2 is optimized for storage-heavy workloads, it also supports virtualization platforms such as VMware, Hyper-V, and KVM, making it suitable for running VMs or containers that require large local data stores. It’s a strong candidate for backup-as-a-service (BaaS), video-on-demand hosting, and file streaming environments that demand fast data access and low latency. Its high internal capacity simplifies VM deployment without needing external storage arrays. Whether deployed as a cold storage target or edge content delivery node, it efficiently consolidates data while maintaining performance predictability.

Management and Automation

The R740XD2 includes iDRAC9 with Lifecycle Controller, delivering secure, agent-free server management with advanced automation. Dell OpenManage Enterprise centralizes hardware monitoring, firmware updates, and configuration compliance, streamlining lifecycle tasks. RESTful API support (Redfish), scripting integrations, and mobile access via Quick Sync 2 enable hands-off administration. iDRAC’s telemetry streaming and alerting provide deep insights for preventive maintenance and optimization. These tools ensure operational continuity, even across distributed or edge environments with limited on-site IT staff.

Energy Efficiency

Despite its storage density, the R740XD2 maintains power efficiency with options for 495W, 750W, and 1100W hot-plug redundant PSUs. Features like dynamic power capping, thermal-aware system design, and high-efficiency fans ensure optimal cooling without excessive energy draw. Its dense configuration means fewer overall systems are needed, further reducing power and cooling overhead. The server’s energy-conscious engineering lowers TCO, especially in environments that scale to dozens or hundreds of nodes.

Reliability and Availability

To protect mission-critical data, the R740XD2 supports redundant power supplies, hot-swappable drives and fans, and optional dual SD card redundancy for hypervisor failover. Predictive failure analysis and proactive alerting notify administrators before faults occur, reducing downtime risk. Chassis intrusion detection, Secure Boot, and System Lockdown enhance platform security. With Dell’s comprehensive ProSupport services, businesses get fast, expert resolution to maximize uptime. These reliability features make the R740XD2 a trusted platform for environments where data durability and service continuity are non-negotiable.

Key Features at a Glance:

  • Compute Power: Dual Intel Xeon Scalable processors with up to 28 cores per CPU
  • Memory Capacity: Up to 1TB DDR4 ECC RAM across 16 DIMM slots
  • Storage Options: Up to 26 x 3.5” drives (24 front + 2 rear), with up to 576TB raw capacity
  • I/O Expandability: Up to 5 PCIe Gen 3.0 slots; NDC and GPU support
  • Virtualization Ready: Compatible with major hypervisors; ideal for backup, surveillance, and content hosting
  • Management Tools: iDRAC9 with Lifecycle Controller, OpenManage Enterprise, Quick Sync 2
  • Energy Efficiency: Platinum-rated PSUs and intelligent cooling for reduced power consumption
  • Reliability: Redundant components, proactive diagnostics, secure firmware, and resilient system architecture

Business Value

The Dell PowerEdge R740XD2 delivers exceptional value for enterprises needing large-capacity storage without compromising performance or manageability. It consolidates storage and compute in a single, compact platform—eliminating the need for additional enclosures or external storage. Designed for data-rich environments such as video surveillance, object storage, content distribution, and backup, the R740XD2 reduces complexity and rack space while improving service delivery and cost efficiency. Its flexible configuration options, advanced management tools, and enterprise-class reliability make it a smart choice for modern IT infrastructure. For organizations looking to future-proof their storage strategy while controlling TCO, the R740XD2 is a powerful, scalable, and resilient solution.

The Dell PowerEdge R740XD2 is a high-capacity 2U rack server purpose-built to deliver dense, scalable storage with enterprise-class performance and availability. Designed to address the growing demands of unstructured data, video surveillance, content delivery, and backup environments, the R740XD2 offers up to 26 hot-swappable 3.5” drives within a compact chassis. With support for dual Intel Xeon Scalable processors and extensive memory and I/O capabilities, it combines compute power and storage flexibility in one platform. The server's expanded internal storage reduces the need for external JBODs while maintaining performance for nearline workloads. Its high-density design, intelligent management features, and exceptional expandability make it a strategic asset for data-intensive applications that require reliable, scalable, and efficient infrastructure.

Performance

The PowerEdge R740XD2 is powered by dual 1st or 2nd Gen Intel Xeon Scalable processors with up to 28 cores each, enabling powerful compute capabilities for managing heavy data streams and parallel processing tasks. This allows the server to support real-time data ingestion, analytics, and high-throughput file systems without compromising responsiveness. The server supports up to 165W CPUs per socket and includes advanced cooling to handle sustained workloads, making it suitable for large-scale content indexing, file archiving, and surveillance video storage. With robust core density and consistent processing performance, the R740XD2 serves both compute-heavy and I/O-bound applications.

Memory and Scalability

The Dell PowerEdge R740XD2 offers up to 16 DDR4 DIMM slots, supporting up to 1TB of ECC RDIMM or LRDIMM memory. With speeds up to 2933 MT/s, the server is optimized for high memory bandwidth, crucial for file caching, deduplication, and real-time data access. ECC memory ensures mission-critical data integrity, preventing corruption from disrupting services or compromising information. The memory architecture provides the flexibility to scale with growing data sets while maintaining smooth performance. Whether supporting a high number of concurrent users or buffering large video datasets, the R740XD2 delivers consistent, scalable memory throughput.

Storage Flexibility

One of the R740XD2’s standout features is its ultra-dense storage capacity in a 2U chassis:

  • Supports up to 24 x 3.5” front-access hot-swappable drives
  • 2 additional rear 3.5" hot-swap drives for increased capacity or tiered storage
  • Support for SATA, SAS, and Nearline SAS HDDs or SSDs, with capacity per drive up to 22TB (or more with newer media)

This design allows for up to 576TB of raw storage capacity in a single server, reducing rack footprint while scaling for archival and content-heavy applications. PERC RAID controllers (H740P or HBA330) ensure high performance and fault tolerance, while the BOSS-S1 module allows for redundant M.2 boot drives. Optional encryption and Secure Erase capabilities also support compliance and data lifecycle management. The R740XD2 is perfect for businesses handling large video archives, backup repositories, or cloud-scale object storage.

I/O and Expandability

The server features up to 5 PCIe Gen 3.0 slots, enabling connectivity for additional RAID cards, network adapters, or cache accelerators. One of the slots supports a full-height GPU or FPGA for hardware acceleration in specific analytics or AI-driven workloads. With support for Broadcom, Intel, and Mellanox NICs, businesses can deploy high-speed networking up to 25GbE for faster data access and replication. Dual embedded LOM ports and a modular NIC (NDC) offer redundancy and bandwidth flexibility. The R740XD2 also includes USB 3.0 ports and an internal USB for boot media or license keys.

Virtualization and Workload Optimization

While the R740XD2 is optimized for storage-heavy workloads, it also supports virtualization platforms such as VMware, Hyper-V, and KVM, making it suitable for running VMs or containers that require large local data stores. It’s a strong candidate for backup-as-a-service (BaaS), video-on-demand hosting, and file streaming environments that demand fast data access and low latency. Its high internal capacity simplifies VM deployment without needing external storage arrays. Whether deployed as a cold storage target or edge content delivery node, it efficiently consolidates data while maintaining performance predictability.

Management and Automation

The R740XD2 includes iDRAC9 with Lifecycle Controller, delivering secure, agent-free server management with advanced automation. Dell OpenManage Enterprise centralizes hardware monitoring, firmware updates, and configuration compliance, streamlining lifecycle tasks. RESTful API support (Redfish), scripting integrations, and mobile access via Quick Sync 2 enable hands-off administration. iDRAC’s telemetry streaming and alerting provide deep insights for preventive maintenance and optimization. These tools ensure operational continuity, even across distributed or edge environments with limited on-site IT staff.

Energy Efficiency

Despite its storage density, the R740XD2 maintains power efficiency with options for 495W, 750W, and 1100W hot-plug redundant PSUs. Features like dynamic power capping, thermal-aware system design, and high-efficiency fans ensure optimal cooling without excessive energy draw. Its dense configuration means fewer overall systems are needed, further reducing power and cooling overhead. The server’s energy-conscious engineering lowers TCO, especially in environments that scale to dozens or hundreds of nodes.

Reliability and Availability

To protect mission-critical data, the R740XD2 supports redundant power supplies, hot-swappable drives and fans, and optional dual SD card redundancy for hypervisor failover. Predictive failure analysis and proactive alerting notify administrators before faults occur, reducing downtime risk. Chassis intrusion detection, Secure Boot, and System Lockdown enhance platform security. With Dell’s comprehensive ProSupport services, businesses get fast, expert resolution to maximize uptime. These reliability features make the R740XD2 a trusted platform for environments where data durability and service continuity are non-negotiable.

Key Features at a Glance:

  • Compute Power: Dual Intel Xeon Scalable processors with up to 28 cores per CPU
  • Memory Capacity: Up to 1TB DDR4 ECC RAM across 16 DIMM slots
  • Storage Options: Up to 26 x 3.5” drives (24 front + 2 rear), with up to 576TB raw capacity
  • I/O Expandability: Up to 5 PCIe Gen 3.0 slots; NDC and GPU support
  • Virtualization: Compatible with major hypervisors; ideal for backup, surveillance, and content hosting
  • Management Tools: iDRAC9 with Lifecycle Controller, OpenManage Enterprise, Quick Sync 2
  • Energy Efficiency: Platinum-rated PSUs and intelligent cooling for reduced power consumption
  • Reliability: Redundant components, proactive diagnostics, secure firmware, and resilient system architecture

Business Value

The Dell PowerEdge R740XD2 delivers exceptional value for enterprises needing large-capacity storage without compromising performance or manageability. It consolidates storage and compute in a single, compact platform—eliminating the need for additional enclosures or external storage. Designed for data-rich environments such as video surveillance, object storage, content distribution, and backup, the R740XD2 reduces complexity and rack space while improving service delivery and cost efficiency. Its flexible configuration options, advanced management tools, and enterprise-class reliability make it a smart choice for modern IT infrastructure. For organizations looking to future-proof their storage strategy while controlling TCO, the R740XD2 is a powerful, scalable, and resilient solution.

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