Hp Hp Am867B Storageworks 88 San Switch — Storage Networking Switch for Data Centers (HP)

How Much Does HP AM867B Storageworks 8/8 SAN Switch Cost in 2026?

The HP AM867B Storageworks 8/8 SAN Switch typically costs between $62 and $62 in 2026, depending on the condition and vendor. Used or refurbished units are commonly available through vendors like Axus Technology and Ferrotec, with prices reflecting a 40–60% discount compared to new units, which can exceed $150. These savings are significant for data centers and IT departments that need to maintain or expand their storage infrastructure without a large capital outlay.

However, the cost of failure must be considered. A defective or underperforming switch can lead to extended downtime, with costs often exceeding $1,000 per hour in mission-critical environments. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure the unit has been thoroughly tested and certified. Units in condition grade B are generally acceptable for non-critical applications, but for high-availability environments, a higher-grade unit is recommended. Always verify the seller's testing procedures and return policies before purchasing.

HP AM867B Storageworks 8/8 SAN Switch Specifications and Compatible Tools

The HP AM867B Storageworks 8/8 SAN Switch is a 1U rack-mountable switch designed for fiber channel storage networks. It typically supports up to 8 ports at 1 Gbps, with a maximum of 8 ports expandable through stacking. The switch is commonly used in storage area networks (SANs) for connecting servers and storage devices. It was manufactured between 2005 and 2008 and is generally rated for up to 100,000 RF hours of operation.

This switch is compatible with HP StorageWorks directors and switches from the same era, such as the HP StorageWorks 24/24 SAN Switch (part number HP P8000). However, it is not compatible with newer 4 Gbps or 8 Gbps fiber channel switches due to protocol and port speed differences. Using an incompatible switch can lead to performance degradation or complete network failure, costing up to $2,500 in troubleshooting and downtime.

Verify with the seller for firmware compatibility and ensure the unit has been updated to the latest supported version. Always check for physical damage and ensure all ports are functional.

What to Check Before Buying a Used HP AM867B Storageworks 8/8 SAN Switch in 2026

1. Verify Production Year: Ensure the unit was manufactured between 2005 and 2008. Units older than 2004 may have exceeded their expected lifecycle and may be prone to failure.

2. Test Port Functionality: Use a fiber channel loopback tester to verify all 8 ports are operational. A single failed port can render the switch unusable in a production environment.

3. Check Firmware Version: Ensure the firmware is at least version 5.0. Units with firmware below 4.5 may not support modern storage protocols and could fail in a live environment.

4. Inspect for Physical Damage: Look for signs of overheating, bent connectors, or corrosion. Units with physical damage are more likely to fail within the first 30 days of use.

5. Reject If: The unit has not been tested under load or lacks a valid test report. Units that haven't been stress-tested are at a 20–30% higher risk of failure.

Buying a faulty switch can lead to a minimum of $1,200 in downtime and repair costs. Always request a detailed inspection report and a return policy that covers at least 30 days.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the HP AM867B with a newer 4 Gbps SAN switch?
A: No. The HP AM867B is a 1 Gbps switch and is not compatible with 4 Gbps or higher switches. Attempting to mix speeds can lead to data loss and network instability, costing up to $3,000 in downtime.

Q: Should I buy a used HP AM867B if I need high availability?
A: Not recommended. This switch is typically rated for 100,000 RF hours and is best suited for non-critical or legacy environments. For high-availability setups, consider a newer model with at least 200,000 RF hours.

Q: How long can I expect a used HP AM867B to last?
A: With proper maintenance, a used HP AM867B can last 5–7 years in a non-critical environment. However, units over 10 years old are at a 50% higher risk of failure.

Q: What’s the difference between the HP AM867B and the HP P8000?
A: The HP P8000 is a 24-port switch, while the AM867B is an 8-port switch. The P8000 supports 1 Gbps and is generally more robust. The AM867B is suitable for smaller SANs or as a backup unit.

Q: What if the seller doesn’t provide a test report?
A: Reject the unit. A test report is essential to verify functionality and avoid the risk of a $1,500+ failure in production.