LSI Logic CacheVault Accessory Kit for MegaRAID 9361 Series - Data

In this review of the LSI Logic CacheVault accessory kit for the MegaRAID SAS 9361 series, the bottom line is straightforward: this kit is for system administrators and IT professionals who need reliable flash cache protection against unexpected power or server failures. The review finds the kit notable because it provides a dedicated flash module and power module designed to preserve cache contents, reducing the risk of data loss and improving recovery confidence in servers using the 9361-4i, 9361-8i and 9380-8E controllers. For anyone running hardware RAID with write-back cache, the CacheVault accessory is a practical insurance policy.

Key Features

• Flash based cache protection: The Cachevault Flash Module stores volatile cache contents so data can be recovered after a power or server failure.
• Dedicated power module: The Cachevault Power Module supplies emergency power to flush cache to nonvolatile storage when AC power is lost.
• Compatibility: The kit is built for MegaRAID SAS controllers including the 9361-4i, 9361-8i and 9380-8E, which simplifies deployment in existing systems using those controllers.
• Included cabling: Remote control cable extenders in 3in, 10in and 24in lengths are provided to adapt the module placement inside varied chassis layouts.
• Complete accessory pack: The kit ships with the CVFM04 flash module, CVPM02 power module and mounting clip so it is ready for installation without ordering extra parts.

Who It's For

This kit is aimed at IT teams running servers with MegaRAID SAS 9361 or 9380 controllers who use write-back cache and want to protect in-memory cache contents from unexpected outages. It is well suited to data centers, virtualization hosts and database servers where preserving pending writes is critical to avoiding corruption or lengthy rebuilds.

It is not intended for users without compatible MegaRAID controllers or for basic desktop RAID setups that do not use a flash-backed cache architecture. Small home users with minimal uptime needs or systems already protected by other UPS and backup strategies may find the kit unnecessary.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides hardware-level protection for flash type cache data, reducing the risk of write-back data loss.
• Includes both the Cachevault Flash Module and Power Module for a complete solution out of the box.
• Multiple remote control cable lengths make installation flexible inside different server chassis.
• Designed specifically for common MegaRAID controllers, simplifying compatibility concerns.

Cons

• Only applicable to specific MegaRAID controller models, so it is not a universal cache protection solution.
• The kit does not replace a full backup or UPS strategy and should be used as part of broader data protection practices.

Specifications

Product type	CacheVault accessory kit
Compatible controllers	MegaRAID SAS 9361-4i, 9361-8i, 9380-8E
Flash module model	CVFM04
Power module model	CVPM02
Included cables	3in, 10in and 24in remote control cable extenders
Included hardware	Cachevault Flash Module, Cachevault Power Module, remote cables, CVPM clip

Our Verdict

The LSI Logic CacheVault accessory kit is a focused, practical add-on for administrators who need to protect write-back cache on MegaRAID SAS controllers. It is good value for environments where cache integrity matters because it bundles both flash and power modules plus cables, allowing quick installation and dependable protection against power or server failures. Those with unsupported controllers or who rely solely on software backups should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which controllers does this kit support?
The kit supports MegaRAID SAS controllers including the 9361-4i, 9361-8i and 9380-8E.

What comes in the box?
The box includes the CVFM04 Cachevault Flash Module, CVPM02 Cachevault Power Module, 3in, 10in and 24in remote control cable extenders and a CVPM clip.

Does this replace backups or a UPS?
No. The kit protects cache contents during power or server failures but should be used alongside regular backups and proper power protection strategies.