HPE ProLiant DL380p Gen8 (G8) Server

Description

When it was released, HPE's ProLiant DL380p Gen8 server set the data center standard for 2U, 2-socket rack servers. The design features flat cabling and clear baffles over the components for easy access to parts for replacing or upgrading. HPE's new SmartDrive tray carrier design incorporates LED lights to give Administrators an easy way to check HD status. A new FlexibleLOM allows for easy network connectivity upgrades without taking any PCIe slots. Even at a lower-spec configuration, this ProLiant server will provide SMBs and data centers with the performance and reliability they need.

Performance

A maximum of two processors can be installed, either the Intel E5-2600 or E5-2600 v2 family processors. V2 processors provide a 35% performance increase from the previous generation. Furthermore, HPE's ProLiant Gen8 servers implemented an updated processor installation with a Smart Socket Guide which makes for easy installation and reduces the risk of damaging the CPU.

Memory

HPE introduced their SmartMemory with the ProLiant Gen8 series. HPE SmartMemory is tested and qualified by HPE to deliver the highest level of performance and bandwidth. Each processor controls four memory channels with three DIMMs each for a total of 12 DIMMs per processor, or 24 DIMMs with dual processors. The system supports unbuffered (UDIMM), registered (RDIMM), and load-reduced (LRDIMM) memory modules. Using LRDIMM, the system is capable of supporting a maximum of 768GB using 24 x 32GB memory modules. Memory speeds of up to 1066 MHz are supported on HPE's Gen8 servers, but this capability is dependent on the processor model, memory type, and memory configuration. Mixing different types of memory modules is not supported.

Storage

Depending on the desired configuration, the HPE DL380p Gen8 server can support 8 SFF, 16 SFF, 25 SFF, 8 LFF, or 12 LFF hot plug drive bays. Both the 8 SFF and 8 LFF configurations support an optional optical drive. The 16 SFF configuration requires the addition of a second controller for the second drive cage, whereas both the 12 LFF and 25 SFF configurations include a built in expander that is driven by the embedded controller. This server can support a maximum storage capacity of 270TB outfitted with 25 SFF drives, or 288TB with 12 large form factor hard drives installed.

Expansion

A maximum of six PCIe 3.0 expansion slots are available, but in order to activate all PCIe slots the second processor must be installed and an additional Power Cord Option is required.

Management

This server features extensive Management Engine. A comprehensive set of embedded features come standard on all ProLiant Gen8 servers thanks to the embedded management capabilities of HPE's integrated lights out (iLO) 4.0. The dedicated iLO port allows users to manage the ProLiant server without taking one of the four 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports offered on-board. iLO Advanced, allows for remote server management, reducing the time to resolution. HPE's Smart Update reduces deployment time by securely and systematically updating the server infrastructure. Integrated Lifecycle Automation features preemptive health monitoring and alerting as well as automated firmware and system software maintenance.

Summary

HPE's Gen8 servers are the first in the ProLiant series to include HPE's 3D array of temperature sensors, providing better cooling and better energy consumption. HPE's SmartMemory was also introduced improving performance by 16.6% over standard memory modules. With enhanced configuration options, a multitude of management tools that are easier to access, and its customer-inspired design, gives HPE's ProLiant DL380p Gen8 server an edge over the competition.