IBM FlashSystem Parts

How to find the correct IBM FlashSystem replacement or expansion part, starting with the exact model and FlashCore Module generation rather than a generic part search.

What part number does a specific IBM FlashSystem need? Almost every FlashSystem parts question is really a FlashCore Module question, and the same nominal capacity can carry several different valid part numbers depending on which generation and which frame it is going into. Starting from the model and machine type, not the capacity alone, is what keeps a parts order from bouncing back as incompatible.

Step 1Confirm the exact FlashSystem model and machine type

Step 2Confirm which FCM generation that model supports

Step 3Match capacity to the correct part number and feature code

Step 4Verify frame or drawer configuration before ordering

FlashCore Module 4 can be intermixed with FCM3 in the same array, but the array runs at FCM3-level functionality until every module is FCM4. Mixing generations further back, or mixing any FCM with FCM5's EDSFF media, is not possible at all.

For the full generation-by-generation FlashCore Module compatibility table, see IBM FlashCore Module Generations: FCM1 to FCM5. For model-specific machine types, start at the FlashSystem model directory.