Lenovo ThinkSystem SR530 Server

Description

Featuring easy access to upgrades and serviceable parts, the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR530 server supports dual Intel Xeon Scalable CPUs ideal for small businesses and large enterprises. These processors leverage up to 768GB of memory and up to 8x drives bays compatible with SATA or SAS drive formats. Although the 1U server supports up to 3x PCIe slots, it does not offer GPU support.

Performance

Powered by dual Intel Xeon Scalable processors from either the 1st generation, codenamed Skylake, or 2nd generation, codenamed Cascade Lake, the Lenovo SR530 server supports CPUs from the Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum families with a thermal design power (TDP) of up to 125W. Designed to handle a wide range of workloads, the TDP limits will allow for processors with up to 22 cores and 44 threads per CPU. While 1st Gen CPUs are compatible, 2nd Gen CPUs deliver a 36% total performance improvement, faster memory at up to 2933MHz, plus more storage capacity. Intel Xeon Scalable processors provide industry-leading reliability, management, and security, as well as cost-optimized performance and flexibility for future growth.

Memory

Each Intel processor has 6x memory channels, with one DIMM per channel, for a total of 12x active memory module slots with both CPUs installed. At maximum capacity, the server supports a total of up to 768GB of memory with speeds of up to 2933MHz. As mentioned in the previous sections, Lenovo deploys its own memory modules called TruDDR4 memory, which uses the highest-quality components sources from Tier 1 DRAM suppliers, but other manufacturers are also supported.

Storage

Depending on the chassis configuration, the system has several storage options to meet the demands of any workload within a variety of industries. The server offers flexible storage configurations with 8x 2.5” SATA or SAS hot-swap drive bays, 4x 3.5” SATA or SAS hot-swap drive bays, or 4x 3.5” SATA simple-swap drive bays. In addition to the main drive bays, the server can be configured with one or two internal M.2 SATA SSDs to boot the operating system freeing up other front drive bays.

Expansion

Although the ThinkSystem SR530 features up to 3x PCIe adapter slots, it does not support any GPUs. Instead, the platform supports two riser sockets where Riser 1 supplies slots 1 and 2, and Riser 2 supplies slot 3. The number of accessible PCIe slots is determined by the number of riser cards installed and whether the second processor is installed. The Lenovo server also has an optional LOM card slot supporting variable ports and network connection speeds. Multiple RAID options deliver added configuration flexibility.

Management

Either Lenovo’s ThinkShield or XClarity Controller can be used to manage this system. Lenovo ThinkShield is a thorough security feature that extends through the supply chain and the device's complete lifecycle. Similarly, the XClarity Controller is commonly embedded in every ThinkSystem server, storage, and network. It has an uncluttered graphical user interface, industry-standard Redfish-compliant REST APIs, and can launch in half the time of previous generation servers, with firmware updates up to six times faster.

Summary

The Lenovo ThinkSystem SR530 server can be the core of any business since it is designed to handle a wide range of workloads such as IT infrastructure, collaboration, and entry cloud. Featuring dual first- or second-generation Intel Xeon Scalable processors, this server delivers up to 22 cores and 44 threads per CPU, plus up to 768GB of memory when all 12x DIMMs are populated, and SFF/LFF drive options.