Description
Product Overview of L3 Cache 2U Rack-mountable Server Adapter
The HP Proliant DL385p G8 Entry Model Server, identified by product number 710723-001, is a robust 2U rack-mountable server designed to meet the demanding needs of modern businesses. In this detailed review, we will explore the key features and specifications of this server, with a focus on its hardware components, performance capabilities, and suitability for various business applications.
Key Specifications of Smart Array Ethernet Server Processor: AMD Opteron 6320 8-Core 2.8GHz
The heart of the HP Proliant DL385p G8 is its powerful AMD Opteron 6320 processor. With 8 cores running at a clock speed of 2.8GHz, this processor delivers a balance of performance and efficiency, making it suitable for a wide range of computing tasks.
Memory: 4GB RAM
The server comes equipped with 4GB of RAM, providing a baseline for smooth multitasking and efficient data processing. While this may be sufficient for certain applications, businesses with more demanding workloads may consider upgrading the RAM for enhanced performance.
Storage: 8 SFF SAS-SATA SSD HDD Bays
Storage is a critical aspect of any server, and the DL385p G8 doesn’t disappoint. With 8 Small Form Factor (SFF) bays supporting SAS, SATA, and SSD drives, the server offers flexibility in storage options. This is particularly beneficial for businesses with diverse storage needs, allowing them to configure the server to meet specific requirements.
Graphics: Matrox G200
The Matrox G200 graphics card ensures reliable and efficient visualization, catering to tasks that involve graphical processing. While not a high-end GPU, it is well-suited for the server’s intended purposes, which primarily involve data processing and server management.
RAID Controller: Smart Array P420i with ZM RAID 0/1
Data protection is paramount in server environments. The Smart Array P420i RAID controller with Zero Memory (ZM) configuration supports RAID 0 and 1, offering businesses options for data striping or mirroring. This redundancy is crucial for safeguarding critical data and ensuring uninterrupted business operations.
Network Connectivity: 1Gb 4-Port 331FLR Ethernet Adapter
The DL385p G8 comes with a 1Gb 4-port Ethernet adapter, specifically the 331FLR model. This allows for high-speed data transfer and efficient communication within the network. The multiple ports enhance network redundancy and can be advantageous in load-balancing scenarios.
Form Factor: 2U Rack-Mountable
Designed to optimize space utilization, the 2U rack-mountable form factor of the DL385p G8 is ideal for data centers where floor space is at a premium. The server’s compact design doesn’t compromise performance, making it a practical choice for businesses with spatial constraints.
Performance and Scalability
The performance of the HP Proliant DL385p G8 is a result of the synergy among its hardware components. The AMD Opteron 6320 processor, coupled with the Smart Array P420i RAID controller and ample RAM, ensures efficient data processing and storage management.
Scalability Options
Businesses experiencing growth can appreciate the server’s scalability. The 8 SFF drive bays allow for easy expansion of storage capacity, accommodating increasing data volumes. Additionally, the server’s architecture supports RAM upgrades, providing flexibility for future scalability as computing requirements evolve.
Use Cases and Applications
The DL385p G8’s versatile specifications make it suitable for a variety of business applications.
Virtualization
With its multi-core processor and robust memory support, the server is well-suited for virtualization tasks. Businesses looking to optimize server resources and enhance efficiency through virtualization can benefit from the DL385p G8.
Data Management
The server’s storage options, including support for SSDs, make it an excellent choice for data-intensive applications. Whether it’s a database server or a data analytics platform, the DL385p G8 can handle the demands of managing and processing large datasets.
Networking and Communication
The 4-port Ethernet adapter ensures seamless communication within the network, making the server suitable for tasks that involve high data transfer rates. This is particularly advantageous for businesses with a focus on network-centric operations.
Small to Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs)
The compact design, coupled with its performance capabilities, makes the DL385p G8 an attractive option for small to medium-sized businesses. It offers a balance between processing power and space efficiency, catering to the needs of growing enterprises.
Management and ReliabilityIntegrated Lights-Out (iLO) Management
The DL385p G8 features HP’s Integrated Lights-Out (iLO) management, providing remote management capabilities. System administrators can efficiently monitor, manage, and troubleshoot the server from anywhere, enhancing overall system reliability and reducing downtime.
Redundancy Features
The inclusion of RAID 0 and 1 support, coupled with the 4-port Ethernet adapter, adds redundancy to critical components. This ensures data availability and minimizes the risk of system failures, contributing to the server’s overall reliability.
Energy Efficiency
Efficiency is a key consideration in modern data centers. The DL385p G8 is designed with energy efficiency in mind, with features such as dynamic power capping to optimize power usage based on workload. This not only reduces operational costs but also aligns with environmental sustainability goals.
Expansion and Connectivity
Expansion and connectivity refer to the ability of a computer system to connect to and utilize external devices and peripherals. In the case of the HPE Proliant Dl385p G8 Entry Model server, there are several options available for expanding and connecting external devices.
Expansion slots are available on the motherboard of the server, which allows for the installation of additional components such as network interface cards (NICs), storage controllers, and graphics cards. The server includes a total of seven PCIe 3.0 expansion slots, which provide high-speed connectivity for a variety of devices.
Additionally, the server features several USB ports, including four USB 2.0 ports and two USB 3.0 ports, which allow for the connection of external devices such as keyboards, mice, and storage devices. There are also two Ethernet ports, which enable the server to connect to a network for remote management and access.
Other connectivity options available on the HPE Proliant Dl385p G8 Entry Model server include serial ports, VGA ports, and a dedicated iLO management port. These additional connectivity options make it easier for system administrators to monitor and manage the server remotely.
Operating System and Software
The HPE Proliant Dl385p G8 Entry Model server can support a wide range of operating systems and software, providing flexibility for different business needs.
The server is compatible with various versions of Microsoft Windows Server, including Windows Server 2012, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2019. It also supports a range of Linux distributions, including Red Hat Enterprise Linux, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server, and Ubuntu Server.
Additionally, the server includes several software tools designed to simplify server management and deployment. For example, HPE Intelligent Provisioning is a built-in tool that simplifies server deployment by automating the process of configuring the operating system, drivers, and firmware.
The HPE Systems Insight Manager is another software tool included with the server, which provides a centralized dashboard for monitoring server health, performance, and alerts. This tool can help administrators identify potential issues before they become major problems and can provide valuable insights into server usage and capacity.
Other software tools available on the HPE Proliant Dl385p G8 Entry Model server include HPE iLO Management, which provides remote access to the server’s management interface, and HPE Smart Storage Administrator, which allows for easy management of the server’s storage resources.
General Information for Proliant Entry Model Rack Server
- Manufacturer: HPE
- Part Number or SKU# 710723-001
- Product Name: ProLiant DL385p G8 2U Rack Server Entry Model
- Device Type: Server
- Server Type: ProLiant DL385P
Processor and chipset of Smart Array Ethernet Server Adapter
- Processor Type: AMD Opteron 6320 / 2.8GHz
- Multi-Core Technology: 8-Core
- CPU Socket Type: Socket G34
- 64-Bit Computing: Yes
- Installed Qty: 1
- Max Supported Qty: 2
- Upgradability: Upgradable
- Chipset Type: AMD SR5690/SP5100
Cache Memory
- Cache Memory Type: L3 Cache
- Installed Size: 16 MB
- Cache Per Processor: 16 MB
Memory
- Installed Size: 4 GB
- Maximum Size: 768 GB
- Technology: DDR3 SDRAM
- Memory Speed: 1333 MHz
- Memory Specification Compliance: PC3-10600
- Form Factor: DIMM 240-Pin
- Features: Registered, HP SmartMemory
- Configuration Features: 1 x 4 GB
- RAM Supported: PC3-12800 – 384 GB – Registered PC3-10600 – 768 GB – Load-Reduced PC3-10600 – 128 GB – Unbuffered – Advanced ECC
Storage & Storage Controller
- Hard Drive: None (Ships Standard, includes 6 SFF hard drive blanks)
- Internal Storage: 8 SFF SAS/SATA/SSD HDD Bays
- Optical Drive Bay: Optional Slim Optical Bay (SATA DVD-RW/ROM Optical Drive)
- Storage Controller: HP Smart Array P420i/ZM (RAID 0/1)
- Controller Interface Type: SATA-300 / SAS 2.0
Display & Graphics Controllers
- Integrated Matrox G200 Video Standard
- 1280 x 1024 (32 BPP)
- 1920 x 1200 (16 BPP)
- HP iLO 4 on System Management Memory
- 16 MB Flash
- 256 MB DDR3 with ECC (112 MB after ECC and video)
Network & Communication
- Interface (Bus) Type: PCI Express 2.0 x4
- Ethernet Ports: 4 x Gigabit Ethernet
- Ethernet Controller: HP 331FLR
- Data Link Protocol: Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet
- Remote Management Controller: Integrated Lights-Out 4
- Features: Wake On LAN (WOL), PXE Support
- Compliant Standards: IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.1Q, IEEE 802.3ab, IEEE 802.1p, IEEE 802.3ad (LACP)
In general, the HP Proliant DL385p G8 Entry Model Server (710723-001) presents a compelling solution for businesses seeking a versatile, scalable, and reliable server for various applications. With a powerful AMD Opteron processor, ample memory, flexible storage options, and robust management features, it strikes a balance between performance and efficiency. Whether used for virtualization, data management, networking, or in small to medium-sized business environments, the DL385p G8 offers a robust and scalable solution. As businesses continue to evolve, having a server that can adapt to changing computing needs is crucial, and the DL385p G8 stands out as a reliable and efficient choice.
