Hp 610679 002 Mds 824C Bladesystem Fabric Switch

How Much Does HP 610679-002 MDS 8/24C BladeSystem Fabric Switch Cost in 2026?

In 2026, the HP 610679-002 MDS 8/24C BladeSystem Fabric Switch is typically available in the used/refurbished market at a price range of $156. This price is based on a B-grade condition unit, which is the most common tier available through secondary markets. Refurbished units from vendors like Covalent Materials and Axus Technology typically fall within this range, with minimal variation based on the unit’s age and wear. New units, if still available, command significantly higher prices, often 40–60% more than used options.

The cost of failure for a defective or underperforming unit can be substantial. A failed switch in a production environment can lead to extended downtime, with average losses estimated at $2,500 to $5,000 per hour, depending on the criticality of the system. It’s also worth noting that units with more than 10,000 operational hours are more likely to fail prematurely, so always verify the unit’s usage history with the seller.

HP 610679-002 MDS 8/24C BladeSystem Fabric Switch Specifications and Compatible Tools

The HP 610679-002 MDS 8/24C BladeSystem Fabric Switch is a 24-port Fibre Channel switch designed for high-density storage networking in blade server environments. It typically supports up to 8 Gbps Fibre Channel speeds and is commonly used in HP BladeSystem c-Class enclosures. The unit is typically rated for 10,000–12,000 operational hours, though this can vary based on environmental conditions and usage patterns.

This switch is compatible with HP BladeSystem c7000 enclosures and typically works with HP ProLiant BL460c and BL680c blades from 2008–2012. Incompatibility can occur with newer models, such as the HP ProLiant BL660c Gen8, due to firmware and protocol differences. Installing an incompatible switch can result in communication failures and system instability, potentially causing hours of downtime and requiring emergency replacement.

What to Check Before Buying a Used HP 610679-002 MDS 8/24C BladeSystem Fabric Switch in 2026

1. Verify Operational Hours: Units with more than 10,000 hours of use are at higher risk of failure. Use a Fibre Channel diagnostic tool like HP’s SAN Diagnostics Utility to check the switch’s health.

2. Firmware Version: Ensure the firmware is compatible with your existing infrastructure. A mismatch can lead to interoperability issues and system crashes.

3. Physical Inspection: Look for signs of overheating, such as discolored PCBs or warped components. A unit with a warped backplane should be rejected outright.

4. Test with a Loopback Adapter: Perform a basic loopback test to confirm port functionality. A failed port can reduce the switch’s value by 30–50%.

5. Check Production Year: Units produced before 2010 may have lower build quality and are more prone to early failure. Avoid units older than 12 years unless you have a specific need and can verify their condition.

Purchasing a faulty unit can result in a total loss of the investment and up to 8 hours of downtime during replacement and reconfiguration.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the HP 610679-002 in a modern data center?
A: Yes, but only in legacy environments. The switch is compatible with HP BladeSystem c7000 enclosures and works best with systems from 2008–2012. Newer systems may require firmware updates or additional adapters to function.

Q: How long can I expect the HP 610679-002 to last in a production environment?
A: With proper maintenance and under normal conditions, the switch typically lasts 5–7 years. Units with more than 10,000 operational hours should be closely monitored or replaced.

Q: Should I buy a used HP 610679-002 or a new one?
A: If your system is compatible and you can verify the unit’s condition, a used switch is a cost-effective option. New units are rarely available and can cost 40–60% more.

Q: What is the difference between the HP 610679-002 and the HP 610679-003?
A: The HP 610679-003 is a 16-port variant and lacks the 8 Gbps support found in the 610679-002. The 002 model is preferred for high-density environments.

Q: How often should I perform maintenance on the HP 610679-002?
A: Every 6–12 months, depending on usage. High-traffic environments should schedule maintenance every 6 months to prevent port degradation and overheating.