Second M.2 PCIe NVME for Optiplex 5000 MFF

Question

Hi All,

I have a new Optiplex 5000 Micro Form Factor with a M.2 2280 512GB PCIe NVMe Class 40 Solid
State Drive.

I haven't opened the casing yet, but I think from reading that there should (?) be a second M.2 PCIe slot to add a second identical drive.

Can anyone confirm is that is true, and whether or not it is simply a case of opening, removing the holding screw for the first SSD, plugging in the new one and screwing them both down? I.e., I want to have 2 drives for a total of 1TB storage.

Any problems with this approach?

I'd like to purchase this:

https://www.dell.com/en-au/shop/dell-m2-pcie-nvme-gen-4x4-class-40-2280-solid-state-drive-512gb/apd/AC037408/storage-drives-media#compatibility_section

I used to put PCs together almost 20yrs ago, so it's been a while and PCIe wasn't really a thing back then.

Many thanks in advance!

sam55todd · Accepted Answer

There are two M.2 slots on 5000 MFF model but ... second slot is for WLAN (WiFi or LTE/GSM module), not for NVMe drive, therefore only one M.2 for is designed for storage.
It has a placeholder for third NVMe (storage) connector but it's not soldered on this model unfortunately.
This model also has single SATA connector (not two) which is slower than NVMe storage but is an option nonetheless.
You can check service manual on "page 49" for more details about on-board connectors or "page 14" of intstall&specification document on supported storage options (quoted below):
---
● One M.2 2230 slot for WiFi and Bluetooth card
● One M.2 2230/2280 slot for SSD
● One SATA slot for 2.5-inch HDD
---

Khis · Answer

Sorry, I thought the 2 slots were in the same location, like RAM modules I used to install.

If I look at the 5090 MFF or 7090MFF motherboard photos there seems to be 2 discreet M.2 slots for SSDs, so it it as simple as leaving the first (SSD-0?) in place and adding the second (SSD-1) alongside it? Is this also the case on the new 5000?

Many thanks!

bradthetechnut · Answer

If SATA port can take 2.5' HDD, then it should be able to take 2.5' SATA SSD.

Khis · Answer

Thank you!

I just opened it and realised you are correct. I assumed there would be 2 - my bad.

Does it matter what type of 2.5" SSD you use in the blue caddy? Any compatibility issues?

Also, if I wanted to upgrade the ram (currently 16GB 1R8 pc4 3200AA SA2 13), does it need to be a Dell part or is another supplier ok? Dell memory seems to be very expensive?

I presume it's SODIMM (Not UDIMM)? Would it be this one?

https://www.dell.com/en-au/shop/dell-memory-upgrade-16gb-1rx8-ddr4-sodimm-3200mhz/apd/ab371022/memory

Many thanks!

bradthetechnut · Answer

https://www.crucial.com/compatible-upgrade-for/dell/optiplex-5000-micro

bradthetechnut · Answer

Crucial is also a good brand for RAM. Guaranteed to work in Dell's and has a lifetime warranty. Make sure all specs are he same as the RAM you have - speed, capacity, volts, etc. This applies whether adding RAM or replacing all of it. You're right about MFF's taking SODIMM RAM. Chances are RAM will be a bit expensive. It's still a bit expensive for my 2014 7010.

No capability issues I know of with SSD's. Go with well known name brand vs. off brand. Crucial, WD, PNY, are just a few good brands. If you go WD, get at least blue. Green is a little slower. I think warranty is better on the blue also. Be sure to compare warranties on whichever brand you choose.

TheBrit565cbbd5 · Answer

Not tried this but if you put your second NVME SSD into an M2 to PCIe adapter you can plug that into an open PCIe slot.

Logically that should work but it will depend on how many data lines the board supports ... so maybe it wont.

(You can buy an adapter for under $10)

bradthetechnut · Answer

No PCIe slots for PCIe cards on the micro.

Optiplex Desktops

Second M.2 PCIe NVME for Optiplex 5000 MFF

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