Introduction to the Hikvision DS-VE11D-C 1U Rackmount Server and its key features
The Hikvision DS-VE11D-C (DS-VE11D-C/HW01(C))is a compact 1U single‑socket rack server designed for organisations that need reliable compute and storage in a dense rack footprint. Engineered primarily for video storage and data‑centre management, the unit ships in typical factory configurations with an Intel Xeon E‑series processor, 16 GB of DDR4 memory and two 1 TB SATA system drives. Remote administration is provided through iDRAC9 Enterprise, making fleet management, monitoring and troubleshooting straightforward for integrators and IT teams.
At a suggested price point of around $3,995 (cost price example $3,354.35), the DS-VE11D-C positions itself as a practical choice for CCTV archive servers, small‑to‑medium application servers and edge/branch data‑centre nodes where rack density, manageability and cost are priorities.
Detailed specifications and the benefits they deliver
- 1U rackmount, single CPU socket:A slim, space‑efficient chassis that allows high-density deployments across racks. Ideal where rack space is at a premium.
- Compact footprint:Typical dimensions (482.0 × 42.8 × 598.64 mm) and ~12.2 kg net weight enable easy integration into standard 19" racks.
- Intel Xeon E‑series (example E‑2324G):A server‑class processor family that balances per‑core performance and power efficiency for general‑purpose workloads, such as video indexing, databases and light virtualization.
- Cores/threads and frequency:Example configuration shows 4 cores; regional SKUs may vary. This makes the server well suited to single‑threaded and moderately multithreaded tasks typical in edge and archive environments.
- Default memory:1 × 16 GB UDIMM DDR4 (3200 MT/s) offers a solid starting point for OS and application needs.
- Expandable:Support for up to 4 UDIMMs and up to ~128 GB (depending on SKU) gives room to grow – useful when running virtualization, analytics or larger caching layers.
- Factory drives:2 × 1 TB SATA HDDs are typical for system and immediate storage needs; the chassis supports 3.5" HDD expansion depending on model.
- Controller & RAID:PERC H355 LP (factory) supports RAID 0/1 for basic redundancy and performance. If you need more advanced RAID levels or more drives, the platform accepts alternate controllers that unlock higher‑level RAID features.
- Max capacity:Supports large 3.5" drives (up to 22 TB per bay, model dependent) which is advantageous for long‑term video archive retention.
- LOM ports:2 × 1 GbE LOM for standard networking connectivity; suitable for many camera ingest and storage topologies or for management/replication links.
- Management:iDRAC9 Enterprise provides remote KVM, power control, firmware updates and diagnostics — essential for distributed deployments where physical access is limited.
- Expansion:Up to 2 × PCIe x8 semi‑height Gen4 slots (model dependent) allow add‑on NICs, accelerators or storage controllers.
- Power supply:Single PSU options typically range from 250 W to 450 W depending on SKU; auto 100–240 VAC input supports global deployment.
- Operating conditions:Typical operating temperature ratings and storage ranges make the server suitable for standard data‑centre or conditioned edge rooms. Ensure installation in an earthed rack and adequate cooling.
- Software integration:Works with Dell‑style tools such as OpenManage and integrates into Microsoft System Center, VMware vCenter, Red Hat Ansible and other common monitoring suites for smoother operational workflows.
Use cases and scenarios where the DS-VE11D-C excels
- CCTV and video archive servers:The server is tailored for security and surveillance workloads — high capacity 3.5" drive support, RAID options and dense 1U packaging make it suitable for storing large volumes of recorded footage while saving rack space.
- Edge and branch data centres:For organisations deploying compute and storage at many sites, the combination of compact size and iDRAC remote management reduces onsite maintenance and supports rapid rollouts.
- General purpose application server:Web services, small databases, file servers and application hosts that require moderate CPU performance and expandability can run reliably on this platform.
- Integrators and managed service providers:The server’s remote management features and compatibility with common management ecosystems make it straightforward to monitor, patch and troubleshoot remotely — reducing operational overhead.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
In the crowded 1U rack server category, buyers typically compare options across a few axes: cost, manageability, storage capacity and expandability. The Hikvision DS-VE11D-C is competitive in these dimensions but sits in a particular niche.
- Against entry‑level OEM 1U servers:The DS-VE11D-C matches many baseline features — single‑socket Xeon options, DDR4 memory and onboard RAID. Where it stands out is its factory focus on video storage and bundled management (iDRAC9 Enterprise), which can simplify deployment for surveillance integrators.
- Compared to higher‑end 1U models:Some competitors offer more PCIe lanes, higher core‑count CPUs, dual‑socket designs or hot‑swap front bays in the same 1U height. If you need substantial expansion, GPU acceleration or heavy virtualization, larger or more premium models from other vendors may be preferable.
- Value proposition:With a suggested price around $3,995, it occupies a middle ground: more capable and manageable than bare‑bones whitebox systems, but more cost‑effective than fully loaded enterprise 1U servers that include dual power supplies, hot‑swap drive cages and higher‑end controllers.
Customer feedback and typical reviewer observations
Official, named customer testimonials for this specific Hikvision SKU are not provided in the product brief. However, based on typical feedback patterns for similar 1U, single‑socket storage servers, buyers and integrators commonly note:
- Positives:Ease of remote management via iDRAC, solid value for surveillance storage roles, compact rack density and straightforward integration with common monitoring tools.
- Considerations:Regional SKU variance (CPU, PSU and OS) means purchasers should verify the exact model label to confirm specs before ordering. For heavier workloads, customers often upgrade RAID controllers, memory or add expansion cards.
If you require validated customer stories, ask your supplier for reference deployments or case studies showing the DS-VE11D-C in CCTV archive or edge scenarios.
Conclusion: Why the DS-VE11D-C is a compelling choice
The Hikvision DS-VE11D-C 1U rack server is a focused, practical platform for organisations that prioritise rack density, remote manageability and storage capability — particularly in CCTV/video archive and edge data‑centre contexts. With server‑class Intel Xeon E‑series processors (regional SKUs vary), expandable DDR4 memory, PERC H355 RAID support and iDRAC9 Enterprise management, it addresses the common operational needs of integrators and IT teams without the premium cost of high‑end enterprise systems.
Before purchase, confirm the regional SKU on the unit label (CPU model, PSU rating and factory OS can differ), and plan for installation by a qualified technician to ensure correct earthing and cooling. For deployments that require modest to moderate compute, substantial local storage and remote administration, the DS-VE11D-C is a strong contender — offering a balance of capability, manageability and cost efficiency.
