Depends on the potential of the existing equipment and timely modernization while maintaining the existing components. More often than not, additional investments for the maintenance of the device are spent on the purchase, which allows ensuring the speed of the server and is one of the most important ones necessary for the stable operation of any server. The total amount of memory is selected depending on the tasks that you plan to solve. Now the popular DDR3 memory standard is gradually being replaced by DDR4, which has higher bandwidth and lower voltage. HP RAM characterized by high speed and large volume. Such a desktop definition as "reliability" is often replaced by the term "fault tolerance", which more fully reflects the meaning. Because HP memory for should work without interruption all the time from the moment it was put into operation, much more stringent checks are used for its testing than for desktop products. For example, the method of "artificial aging" is used - during testing, memory modules get very hot, which makes it possible to bring them to a state in just a couple of days, which corresponds to two months of non-stop operation. This allows you to quickly identify manufacturing flaws. HP RAM, which you can buy from us, is equipped with the Error Correcting Code function. It makes it possible to automatically find and fix errors that appear in the process. Memory problems negatively affect the overall performance of the hardware and can lead to the most undesirable consequences, up to the complete loss of data. However, the ECC function, despite its usefulness, does not guarantee complete protection, but only corrects random errors, thus reducing the risk of server problems. HP RAM, the price of which is quite justified, is distinguished by increased resistance to various network and software failures. Many models are additionally equipped with built-in temperature and voltage sensors, as well as pulse counters and heat sinks. Special controller that can be provided with HP server memory , will not allow the system to hang unnoticed. Memory DDR4 HP SmartMemory Provides up to 2133 MT / s bandwidth (depending on processor installed), 14% more than DDR3 memory. In addition, Registered DIMMs (RDIMMs) in HP DDR4 SmartMemory Delivers better performance at 1.2 V, which can reduce power consumption by up to 35% compared to 1.5 V DDR3-1866 DIMMs. HP SmartMemory Low Load DIMMs (LR-DIMMs) reduce electrical load on the memory controller, allowing more memory to be used in a three DIMM per channel configuration. HP Advanced Memory Error Detection technology detects defects in memory locations that either cause significant performance degradation or significantly increase the likelihood of fatal (unrecoverable) memory errors occurring. By better predicting memory events, this technology prevents unnecessary DIMM replacements and increases server uptime. Gen9 comes with the following advanced memory protection features:

• Advanced ECC / SDDC Error Correction - Ensures continuous memory operation in the event of a single memory device failure. This feature allows you to remove one DRAM module from the memory card if it shows signs of failure and restore data from that module to a new one. Support for x4 and x8 versions of SDDC controller
• Smart Socket 9 Elevator
• Rank Sparring (Online Spare) - dynamic failover to a reserve DIMM bank or a reserve pair of banks in the same memory controller. At the same time, the OS does not participate in this process in any way. HP offers rank redundancy instead of DIMMs because rank redundancy uses less memory and reduces redundancy
• erase on demand writes corrected data back to memory after a recoverable error is recognized during a read operation
• memory patrol - Proactively search for errors in the system memory and fix those that can be eliminated. Patrolling and memory clearing features prevent accumulation of correctable errors and reduce the likelihood of unplanned downtime
• Failed DIMM Isolation - Identifies a bad DIMM pair. Simplifies diagnostics and subsequent repairs by isolating the error. The correctable error identifies the specific faulty DIMM; if unrecoverable - a pair of DIMMs
• Thermal Memory Control - Used to prevent overheating of DIMMs. The speed of access to memory is reduced if necessary. Temperature controlled by temperature sensors on the DIMM
• DIMM Address / Management Bus Parity Protection - A technology for detecting and protecting against errors in commands and addresses.

Upgrade the random access memory (RAM) on your HP laptop to improve system performance. If you need to upgrade your RAM, you should determine the type of memory installed in your computer, the maximum memory capacity supported by the computer, and the memory capacity supported by the operating system.

Find the product code for your HP laptop

Before ordering a new memory module, you must determine the correct product code for your laptop to find documents and specifications for your model. This code is usually found on a sticker located on the bottom of the laptop or on the box it came in. See How do I find my model number or product number? for additional options.

Note.

The generic product family name shown next to the keyboard or in the frame around the screen does not provide sufficient information to order replacement parts.

Finding the specifications of the installed memory (capacity, type, maximum supported capacity)

See your notebook specifications or your care and maintenance guide for installed memory information. Go to the HP product support home page for your computer model, then select a category Product details to go to the datasheet, or select User guide to view the Care and Maintenance Guide. Or enter your product code in the Search box at the top of this page, insert a space and enter the words specifications or (example: RQ877AS Specifications).

In the care and maintenance manual see section Memory For information on memory module specifications, memory module part numbers, compatible processors and types of RAM, and the number of memory slots.

Notebook Specification Document see section Memory for the following information.

Installed memory capacity: Check the current memory capacity installed in your computer, then skip to a section in this document.

Maximum supported memory capacity: To determine how much memory to purchase, subtract the installed memory capacity from the maximum supported capacity. You can also purchase memory with the maximum available capacity and replace the installed memory. Then go to section Determining the maximum memory capacity supported by your version of Windows in this document. Use the smallest of these two numeric values ​​as the maximum memory capacity.

Memory type (including speed): HP recommends purchasing memory modules of the same type (with the same capacity, speed, and the same manufacturer) for each slot. For the best performance, it is recommended that you use the memory modules with the highest speed supported by your motherboard.

Attention!

Some motherboards do not support configuring memory modules from different manufacturers, or memory modules with different CAS or density values. To ensure memory compatibility, you must use SO-DIMMs with the same part numbers.

Determining where memory is installed in a laptop

The memory module compartment is located on the bottom of most HP and Compaq notebook computers. On some laptop models, the memory module compartment is located under the keyboard. In this case, HP recommends contacting an HP Authorized Service Center for assistance ordering and replacing memory.

Check out the section Removing and replacing v care and maintenance manual Refer to the computer for detailed instructions on locating the memory module bay. Care and maintenance manual is available in the category Product details on the HP product support home page for your computer model. Or enter your product code in the Search box at the top of this page, insert a space and enter the words care and maintenance guide(example: RQ877AS care and maintenance manual).

Determining the capacity of the added memory

Checking the installed memory capacity to determine the added memory capacity while the computer is on or off.

Checking memory capacity while the computer is on

Use HP Support Assistant to check the memory capacity of your computer while it is turned on.

Checking memory capacity while the computer is off

To check the memory capacity while the computer is off, open the memory module compartment.

Determining the maximum memory capacity supported by your version of Windows

Determine the memory capacity supported by the version of Windows installed on your HP laptop.

• Maximum memory capacity for Windows 10 versions

  The minimum memory requirements for Windows 10 are 1 GB RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit).

  Maximum memory capacity for Windows 8 versions

  The minimum memory requirements for Windows 8 are 1 GB RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit).

  Windows 8 version	Maximum memory capacity for 32-bit versions (x86)	Maximum memory capacity for 64-bit versions (x64)
  Windows 8 Enterprise
  In Windows 8 Professional

• Maximum memory capacity for Windows 7 versions

  The minimum memory requirements for Windows 7 are 1 GB RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit). The maximum memory capacity depends on which edition of Windows is installed:

  Windows 7 version	Maximum addressable memory
  Starter (32-bit or 64-bit)
  Any 32-bit version of Windows 7 (except Starter edition)	4 GB (about 3.3 GB available for use)
  Home Basic 64-bit
  Home Premium 64-bit
  Enterprise 64-bit
  Business 64-bit
  Ultimate 64-bit

Installing a new memory module

On most HP and Compaq notebook computers, the new memory module is installed through the memory module compartment at the bottom of the computer. Review the following instructions to ensure they are correct for your computer. To find instructions for your computer model, see your user manual, or enter your computer model number and the phrase replace memory in the search box at the top of this page (for example: RQ877AS memory replacement).

Note.

If you are unsure if you can complete the installation yourself, contact an HP-authorized service center for assistance. If a person or service not authorized by HP upgrades the RAM, the product warranty does not cover any potential damage. The user assumes all risks and responsibility for damage associated with memory upgrades.

Troubleshooting after installing new memory

If the computer does not start or Windows does not open after adding memory, you hear beeps or blink the lights next to the keys Caps lock or Num lock, try the following:

• Remove and reinstall the new memory module.

  Remove the new memory module and clean the slot in the slot where it is installed. Blow compressed air through a fine nozzle using safety goggles to remove dust or debris.

  Remove the new memory module and try starting the computer again. If the computer starts up, check that the memory module you purchased is of the correct type and capacity. For more information on choosing the right memory for purchase, see the sections Finding the Specifications of Installed Memory and Determining the capacity of the added memory in this document. Please use the original memory module for reference.

  Whenever possible, use memory modules from the same manufacturer and with the same product number.

  If the computer still does not restart after doing this, remove the replacement memory modules, install the original memory modules, and verify that the computer can be used with the previous configuration.

Check memory module types and requirements for HP computers

Learn about memory modules and requirements for use with HP computers.

SO-DIMM memory modules and requirements

V laptops small dual inline memory modules (SO-DIMMs) are used. They are smaller and thinner than other DIMMs, so they are used when there are space constraints in the chassis. SO-DIMMs for HP computers must meet the following requirements

The number of pins on the SO-DIMM must match the connector type.

A 200-pin socket is required to install SO-DIMMs.

DDR2 SO-DIMMs are not compatible with DDR1 DIMMs and DDR2 DIMMs.

DDR3 SO-DIMMs are not compatible with DDR1 or DDR2 modules and require a 204-pin socket to install.

If your computer uses a 533 MHz or 667 MHz system bus, use PC2-4200 memory (DDR2 DIMM 533).

DIMMs and Requirements

Dual inline memory modules (DIMMs) are small printed circuit boards that house groups of memory chips. They are used in most desktop computers. DIMMs have a wider connection path with two rows of pins on each side for faster data transfer than single-row memory modules (SIMMs). DIMMs are available in single-sided or double-sided versions. DIMMs do not have to be added in pairs and can be used with other DIMMs with the same pin count. For example, a 1 GB DIMM can be installed on the motherboard next to a 2 GB DIMM.

Note.

The speed of the DIMMs cannot be higher than the system bus frequency. If multiple DIMMs with different operating frequencies are installed, the operating frequency of all installed memory will be the same as the operating frequency of the lowest speed DIMM.

DIMMs for HP computers must meet the following requirements

The number of pins on the DIMM must match the connector type.

For memory DDR requires 184-pin connector and 2.5V operating voltage.

Memory DDR2 is not compatible with DDR1 memory and requires a 240-pin connector and 1.8V operating voltage.

Memory DDR3 Provides approximately double the bandwidth of DDR2.

Modules DDR3 incompatible with DDR1 or DDR2 memory.

To install modules DDR3 DIMM requires a 240-pin socket and 1.5V operating voltage. The DDR3 memory slot is designed differently from DDR2 or DAR. Do not attempt to install DDR3 memory on a motherboard designed for DAR or DDR2. Failure to do so could cause permanent damage to the motherboard and DIMMs.

SCRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory): Use DAR type SCRAM only if your computer comes with DDR-SDRAM modules.

RIMMs and Requirements

DDR3 memory supports 3 DIMMs in triple channel mode. The same size and type of memory must be installed in the appropriate DIMM sockets for Channel A, B, and C. Typically, the memory slots are color-coded to make them easier to understand.

Purchasing memory for upgrades

HP recommends purchasing memory modules directly from HP retailers, HP authorized dealers, or trusted computer component suppliers such as Crucial. .

Many HP partner computer component vendors can help you select the right memory for your computer model. Before purchasing memory modules, you need to know how much memory you need and what type of memory is compatible with your computer.

Server User Guide

HP ProLiant DL380p Gen8

Memory options

IMPORTANT: This server does not support LRDIMMs, RDIMMs, UDIMMs, or HDIMMs at the same time.

Attempting to mix any combination of these DIMMs may cause the server to stall during BIOS initialization. The memory subsystem in this server can support LRDIMMs, RDIMMs, UDIMMs, or HDIMMs:

• UDIMMs represent the most basic types of memory modules and offer lower latency per DIMM per channel configuration and (relatively) low power consumption, but are limited in power.
• RDIMMs are larger than UDIMMs and include address parity protection.
• LRDIMMs support higher densities than single- and dual-channel RDIMMs and faster speeds than quad-channel RDIMMs. This support allows, potentially, higher DIMM densities, resulting in increased system capability and higher throughput.
• HDIMMs provide faster speeds than other DIMMs. 12 DIMMs are required per processor with HDIMMs.

All types are called DIMMs when the information applies to all types. When specified as LRDIMM, RDIMM, UDIMM, or HDIMM, the information is of that type. All memory installed on the server must be of the same type. The server supports the following DIMM speeds:

• Single- and dual-rank PC3-10600 (DDR3-1333) RDIMMs operate at speeds up to 1333 MT / s
• Single- and dual-rank PC3-12800 (DDR3-1600) RDIMMs operate at speeds up to 1600 MT / s
• Single- and dual-rank PC3-14900 (DDR3-1866) RDIMMs operate at speeds up to 1866 MT / s
• Single- and dual-rank PC3-10600 (DDR3-1333) UDIMMs operate at speeds up to 1333 MT / s
• Quad-rank PC3L-10600 (DDR3-1333) LRDIMMs, works as dual channel DIMMs, up to 1333 MT / s
• Quad-rank PC3L-14900 (DDR3-1866) LRDIMMs work as dual channel DIMMs up to 1866 MT / s.

For the latest information on memory configurations, see the quick specifications in the HP product bulletin (http://www.hp.com/go/productbulletin).

HP SmartMemory

Introduced for Gen8 servers, HP SmartMemory authenticates and unlocks certain capabilities only available to qualified HP memory and verifies that memory that has passed the HP qualification and testing process has been installed. Performance qualified memory tuned for HP ProLiant and BladeSystem servers is trending towards future enhanced HP support through HP Active Health and managed software. Several performance features are unique to HP SmartMemory. HP SmartMemory 1.35V DDR3-1333 memory is designed to achieve the same performance level as 1.5V memory. For example, while the industry supports 1.5V DDR3-1333 RDIMMs, this Gen8 server supports DDR3-1333 RDIMMs up to 3 DIMMs per channel at 1066 MT / s and runs at 1.35V. consumes up to 20% less power at the DIMM level without performance penalty. In addition, the industry supports UDIMMs at 2 DIMMs per channel at 1066 MT / s. HP SmartMemory supports 2 DIMMs per channel at 1333 MT / s, or 25% more bandwidth.

Memory subsystem architecture

The memory management subsystem in this server is divided into channels. Each processor supports up to four channels, and each channel supports three DIMM slots, as shown in the following table.

See DIMM Slot Locations for location of slot numbers. This multichannel architecture provides enhanced performance in enhanced ECC mode. This architecture also includes Lockstep and Online Spare Memory. The DIMM in this server is identified by number and by letter. The letters indicate the order of the arrangement. Slot numbers indicate the ID of the replacement DIMM slot.

One-, two-, and four-channel DIMMs

To understand and properly configure memory protection modes, it is helpful to understand the operation of single-, dual-, and quad-channel DIMMs. Some of the DIMM configuration requirements are based on these classifications. A single-channel DIMM has a single memory chipset that is accessed while writing or reading from memory. A dual-channel DIMM is similar to two single-channel DIMMs, with only one rank and access to the same module at the same time. A four-channel DIMM is essentially two two-channel DIMMs per module. Only one level available at a time. The server's memory management subsystem selects the appropriate rank in DIMM memory when writing to or reading from DIMM memory. Two- and four-channel DIMMs provide the most power using existing memory technologies. For example, if the current DRAM technology supports up to 8 GB of single-channel DIMMs, then for dual-channel DIMMs 16 GB, and four-channel DIMMs it would be 32 GB. LRDIMMs are labeled as four-channel DIMMs, but they function more like dual-channel DIMMs. There are four rows of DRAM DIMMs, but the LRDIMM buffer creates an abstraction that allows the DIMM to appear as a two-channel DIMM in the system. In LRDIMM, the buffer also isolates the electrical load of the DRAM from the system, allowing for faster performance. These two changes allow the system to support up to three LRDIMMs per memory channel, providing 50% or more memory capacity and faster RAM performance than a four-channel RDIMM.

DIMM identification

To determine the characteristics of a DIMM, use the labels affixed to the DIMM and the figures and table below.

For the latest supported memory, see the QuickSpecs on the HP website (http://h18000.www1.hp.com/products/quickspecs/ProductBulletin.html). On the site, select a geographic region and search for a product by name or product category.

Memory configurations

To optimize server availability, the server supports the following AMP modes:

• Advanced ECC - Provides up to 4-bit error correction and performance enhancements in Lockstep mode.

This mode is the default for this server.

• Online spare memory - Provides protection against errors or degraded DIMMs. Certain memory is used as spare, and memory automatically switches when the system detects that a DIMM is corrupted. This allows you to retire the DIMM that has a higher likelihood of getting a fatal error (which would result in system downtime).

Advanced memory protection settings are configured in the RBSU. If the requested AMP mode is not supported by the installed configuration DIMM, then the server will boot into Advanced ECC mode. See the HP ROM-Based Setup Utility section for more information. The server can also operate in independent channel mode or in combined channel mode (lockstep). When you run lockstep mode, you get reliability in one of two ways:

• When operated with UDIMM (built with x8 DRAM devices), the system cannot fully survive due to DRAM failure (SDDC). In channel independent mode, this failure will result in a fatal error.
• When working with an RDIMM (built with x4 DRAM devices), the system can survive the complete failure of two DRAM devices (DDDC). When started offline, the server can only survive the complete failure of a single DRAM device (SDDC).

Maximum capacity

		One processor	Two processors
	Single-rank
	Two-rank
	Four-rank
	Single-rank
	Single-rank
	Two-rank

Advanced ECC memory configuration

Extended ECC memory is the default mode to protect the memory of this server. The ECC standard can correct single-bit errors and detect multi-bit memory errors. When multi-bit errors detected by standard ECC are detected, a server error is signaled and the server is stopped. Extended ECC protects the server from some multi-bit memory errors. Extended ECC can fix 1-bit and 4-bit memory errors if not all bits are on the same DRAM device per DIMM. Extended ECC provides additional protection over standard ECC because it is possible to correct some memory errors that would otherwise go unreported and result in a server crash. With HP Advanced Memory Error Detection technology, the server provides notification when a DIMM is degraded and has a high probability of fatal memory errors.

Online Spare memory configuration

Online memory reservation, provides protection against degraded DIMMs, reducing the chance of an uncorrected memory error. This protection is provided without any operating system support. Online spare memory protection allocates one rank for each memory channel for use as spare memory. The remaining rows are available for OS and applications. If memory error correction occurs at a faster rate than a certain threshold value on any spare rows, then the server automatically copies the contents of the degraded memory to the spare rows. The server then shuts down the faulty memory rank and automatically switches to the online spare.

Lockstep Memory Configuration

Lockstep mode provides protection against multi-bit memory errors that occur on the same DRAM device. Lockstep mode can fix any single DRAM device failure on x4 and x8 DIMM types. The DIMMs on each channel must have the same HP batch number.

General principles of filling DIMM slots

• Install DIMMs only if the correct processor is installed.
• when installing two processors, balance the DIMMs across the two processors;
• white DIMM slots indicate the first channel slot (Ch 1-A, Ch 2-B, Ch 3-C, Ch 4-D);
• do not mix LRDIMMs with UDIMMs, RDIMMs, or HDIMMs;
• Do not install more than two UDIMMs per channel.
• UDIMMs should not be installed in slots Ch 1-I, Ch 2-J, Ch 3-K, or Ch 4-L;
• HDIMM requires 12 DIMMs per processor;
• when installing two processors, install the DIMMs in alphabetical order to balance between the two processors: P1-A, P2-A, P1-B, P2-B, P1-C, P2-C, and so on.

For detailed rules and recommendations for memory configuration, you can use the Online DDR3 Memory Configuration Tool on the HP website (http://www.hp.com/go/ddr3memory-configurator). The speed supported by DIMM is shown in the following table.

Extended ECC placement guidelines

For configurations in Advanced ECC mode, observe the following rules:

• DIMMs can be installed individually.

Online spare memory location

For configuration in Online Spare Mode, observe the following rules:

• follow the guidelines for DIMM slot placement;
• each channel must have a valid online spare configuration;
• each channel can have a different valid online backup configuration;
• each filled channel must have a spare channel.

a) a single dual-channel DIMM is an invalid configuration; b) LRDIMMs are treated as dual channel DIMMs.

Memory layout principles in Lockstep mode

In Lockstep memory configuration mode, observe the following guidelines:

• follow the guidelines for DIMM slot placement;
• DIMM set to all channels, processors must be the same;
• in multiprocessor configurations, each processor must have a valid Lockstep memory configuration;
• in multiprocessor configurations, each processor can have different valid Lockstep memory configurations.

Arrangement order

For memory configurations with one or more processors, fill the DIMM slots in the following order:

• LRDIMM: sequentially in alphabetical order (A to L);
• RDIMM: sequentially in alphabetical order (A to L);
• UDIMM: A to H, sequentially, in alphabetical order, do not fill DIMM slots I through L;
• HDIMMs: All 12 DIMMs per processor must be populated.

After installing the DIMMs, use the RBSU to configure Advanced ECC, Online spare, or Lockstep.

Installing DIMMs

The server supports up to 24 DIMMs. To install DIMMs:

1. turn off the server;

2.Turn off the power:

a) disconnect each power cord from the power source;

b) disconnect each power cord from the server;

3. slide the server out of the rack;

4. remove the access panel;

5. remove the air deflector;

6. open the latches of the DIMM slots;

7. Install the DIMM.

8. install the access panel;

9. install the server in the rack;

10. connect each power cable to the server;

11. connect each power cable to a power source;

12. Turn on the server.

Use the RBSU ("HP ROM-Based Setup Utility") to configure the memory mode.

For more information on LEDs and troubleshooting DIMMs, see "On-board Display Indication Combinations".

Component designation

Server rear panel componentsHPProLiantDL 380pGen 8

Server board componentsHPProLiantDL 380pGen 8

Exploitation

Customization

RAM greatly affects server performance, so the issue of choosing memory modules requires a careful approach when choosing a server system configuration. HP RAM meets all modern technological standards and is able to provide high-speed data processing for the most heavily loaded environments.

Modern types of random access memory

• DDR2. This standard is used primarily in business desktops and entry-level budget servers. However, DDR2 memory delivers double the performance of the previous generation DDR thanks to its increased clock speed. In addition, the memory has a lower power consumption and good cooling;
• DDR3. The new DDR3 standard has replaced DDR2 in higher-end solutions. This type of memory uses the most modern data processing algorithms, which gives a significant increase in performance. Power consumption of DDR3 modules is 30% lower compared to DDR2, and the bandwidth is higher and amounts to 21300 MB / s. Note that DDR3 memory is backward compatible with DDR2 modules, but not vice versa.

This time we will focus on HP products. All these problems were solved by our engineers, and this is just a small part of the surprises that the servers of this vendor can present. However, if you yourself are engaged in server maintenance, then perhaps our experience can be useful to you.

RAM

When upgrading HP servers (and not only), there are often difficulties with the selection of RAM. As practice shows, even experienced system administrators and engineers are not always well versed in this matter. If you install memory modules on a whim, then, most likely, the server simply will not start. With an incorrect RAM configuration, a milder option is also possible: the machine works, but not at maximum performance.

For HP multiprocessor servers, as a rule, it is necessary to use only register memory with error correction function (ECC RDIMM), and for uniprocessor - unbuffered ECC memory (UDIMM). Although the official manuals state that UDIMMs can be installed in multiprocessor servers, this should not be done for several reasons:

1. Limit on the amount of memory. Typically, this is 24-32 GB per CPU.
2. UDIMM strips, as a rule, should be "native" HP, otherwise spontaneous server reboots may occur. This phenomenon was recorded on at least three models: DL380p Gen8, DL360e Gen8, ML310e Gen8v2. At the same time, you can install any vendor's RDIMM memory without any problems.

   The advantage of UDIMM memory is that it works slightly faster than RDIMM, which has a buffer operational latency. However, with proper memory configuration in multichannel systems, RDIMMs can outperform unbuffered memory in performance. You cannot install RDIMMs and UDIMMs at the same time.

   You can tell UDIMM memory from RDIMM by looking at the sticker. For example, if it is written 12800 R, then this is register memory, if 12800 E then unbuffered with ECC.

   When installing RDIMMs, you should give preference to single- and dual-rank memory (1rx4, 2rx4). Unlike the same IBM (Lenovo), HP servers are sensitive to memory configuration. When installing modules, it is recommended to evenly distribute memory both between server processors and between channels. Otherwise, the server may simply not turn on, or its performance will be reduced. Bar voltages in HP servers are not critical, but still try to set the bar voltages with the same voltage.

   Information about the optimal placement of RAM in DIMM slots is always under the server cover and in the official manual.

Please note that HP servers prior to Gen9 do not support DDR4 memory. So first check which memory is compatible with your model. To select the correct configuration, you can use the proprietary online configurator.

When it comes to upgrading or repairing servers, the eternal question of the component manufacturer arises. Someone uses exclusively original components, regardless of costs, and someone selects compatible components from third-party manufacturers. We believe that here you need to consider:

• The degree of compatibility of third-party components.
• The difference in cost compared to the original.
• Information about the reliability of third-party components.
• The level and tolerance of risks when using third-party components.

HP servers can safely use memory from different manufacturers. The main thing is that the modules have the same technical parameters. For example, if several 4Gb 1Rx4 PC3L-10600R modules are already installed in the server, you need to increase the volume using memory with the same parameters. And the manufacturer can be anything.

Storage devices

Choosing new drives for the server is harder to make mistakes than changing the memory configuration. But still there are pitfalls here and, in part, myths.

There is an opinion that for HP servers it is necessary to buy drives exclusively from the same manufacturer. This is justified by the fact that all drives with the HP logo have proprietary firmware. In this case, "native" disks are much more expensive. And, frankly speaking, it is a dubious pleasure to overpay 2-2.5 times. However, Hewlett-Packard Corporation itself does not manufacture drives; it orders them from other vendors. And as experience shows, in many models of HP servers it is quite possible to use the products of HGST, Toshiba, Seagate, Western Digital.

When choosing drives, check which drives are supported by your server's Raid controller. Some controllers do not support SAS drives, and drives larger than 2-3 TB may not be supported either.

If the server does not see a third-party drive when it is connected, then most often this is due to a malfunction of the drive itself or the Raid controller. Another important detail: under no circumstances install disks for desktop systems in enterprise servers. Based on our experience, there are several of the most popular non-native disk models that will work seamlessly on servers from G7 to Gen9:

• Seagate Savvio (SAS)
• Seagate Constellation (SATA / SAS)
• Seagate Enterprise Capacity (SATA / SAS)
  • Seagate Enterprise Performance (SATA)
  • WD VelociRaptor (SATA)

Processors

When replacing processors with more powerful ones, it is necessary to find out in the server specification which processor models it supports. Do not forget to take into account the supported TDP of the heatsink and the CPU itself. In most cases, this helps to avoid potential problems.

However, when increasing the number of processors, in no case should you neglect the installation of coolers on each of them, relying on the air conditioning of the server room. Each fan cools specific areas on the motherboard. Without regular cooling, the risk of temporary overheating of processors and RAM increases many times, up to server failure due to melting or burnout of electronic components.

After installing two processors in the server, an order of magnitude more powerful than one stock processor, it may not turn on. For example, in our case it was with the HP ML350p Gen8 server. The reason is that some models have a fuse on the motherboard that blocks the power supply if the required voltage exceeds a certain base threshold. If this lock works, then the only option is to replace the motherboard. If the server is not under warranty, then it can cost a pretty penny, since HP is famous for rather high prices for its hardware.

However, there is a technique to bypass this protection. For example, instead of one or two entry-level processors E5-2609 (v1 / v2 / v3), you need to install two efficient E5-2690 (v1 / v2 / v3). To avoid problems during the upgrade, the best thing to do is:

1. Update all software to the latest versions (iLO, BIOS, AHS, etc.)
2. Wait until the server is fully initialized with both E5-2609 installed.
3. Install two processors "middle" level, for example, E5-2640. Wait until the end of the POST check.
4. And only then install the desired E5-2690.

Do not forget that all firmware must be up to date.

Intelligent Provisioning and Server Upgrade

HP ProLiant Gen8 and Gen9 servers use the powerful Intelligent Provisioning tool to configure the server, update the firmware of some components, and monitor the hardware of the machine. Sometimes, when trying to update, an error appears about the inability to connect to the HP database. This is due to an outdated version of Intelligent Provisioning itself. You can update it as follows:

1. For Gen8, download the Intelligent Provisioning recovery media image version 1.62b, and for Gen9, download the latest version.
2. Mount the image using iLO or burn to CD / DVD. Do not write the image to a USB flash drive, Intelligent Provisioning will not be updated when launched from it.
3. When booting the server, select the One Time Boot to CD-ROM option.
4. When the server boots from disk (or image), in the case of Gen9, select Interactive HP Intelligent Provisioning recovery media from the menu. On the Gen8 server, the update will start automatically.
5. On the next screen, click the Reinstall Intelligent Provisioning button, wait for completion and reboot normally (only for Gen9).

Many Gen8 and Gen 9 server owners are trying to update the BIOS using Intelligent Provisioning. But this tool only allows you to update the firmware of the iLO, the network card (Ethernet) and in some cases the Raid controller.

There are two options for a complete server upgrade.

1. Manually download and install all required drivers and firmware for your server model. This option is convenient if there is only one server and it already has an OS.
2. If there are several servers and Windows is deployed on them, then it is more expedient to use the Service Pack for ProLiant (SPP).
   • You need to download the service pack image.
   • Install the HP USB Key Utility for Windows.
   • Using this program, we deploy the service pack image on a USB flash drive with a volume of at least 8 GB.
   • We load the server from a flash drive. We recommend choosing Interactive Firmware Update, so you can control the update process.
   • After downloading the client, select Update Firmware. When the hardware is checked, the system will offer a list of updates that will be installed after clicking the Deploy button.
   • After completing the update, you need to reboot. The server will turn on and off several times, installing the firmware, after which a regular boot will take place.

Network adapters are not detected

If you update the Emulex drivers for network adapters from version 3.x.x immediately to version 10.x.x, then the network adapters may no longer be detected upon restart. To prevent this problem, it is recommended to install Emulex 4.x.x first, and then the most recent version. You can avoid this error in another way: first upgrade from the OneConnect image, and then from the Service Pack for ProLiant. And if the adapters have already ceased to be detected, then just update from the OneConnect image.

"Feature" of HP DL360p Gen8 servers

Initially, the model of this series was designed for the first revision E5-26xx processors, but in 2013 Intel released the second iteration - V2. Vendors, including HP, began to update the lines. Dell and IBM did not change the engineering base, only motherboards began to wear a different part number. And HP went the other way. As a result, there are two HP DL360p models on the market, which are no different, except for the radiator fasteners. In the first version, the mount is lever, in the second - screw.

In fact, a trifle. However, it can lead to additional costs. Therefore, if you decide to install a second processor, be sure to find out the revision of your server (by serial, or by looking under the cover).
The part number of the old lever radiator is 654770-B21.
The part number of the new screw radiator is 712731-B21.

Insufficient number of power supplies

Some owners of HP servers with x4 backup power backplanes (RPS), for example, ML350 Gen9, wonder why at least three power supplies must be connected to start the machine, whose total power significantly exceeds the maximum current consumption of the server.

The fact is that ML350 Gen9 can accommodate up to 9 PCI-E cards and up to 6 HDD backplanes (or, for example, an internal streamer + 5 HDD backplanes). And all this can consume a lot of watts. RPS backplanes allow you to provide redundant power to the server in case of a sharp increase in load, and therefore power consumption. The power supplies are connected to the backplane according to the N-1 scheme, where N is the total number of connectors. If you need redundant power to the server, then the power supplies must be connected to all connectors of the backplane. If redundant power is not required, then to run a server with a x4 backplane, three power supplies are needed, and with an x2 backplane, one unit.

IPMI management error

IPMI can be used to remotely manage servers. There are situations when it is not possible to establish a connection to the IPMI server service:

Ipmitool -I lanplus -H $ ip -U $ user -P $ pass
Error: Unable to establish IPMI v2 / RMCP + session

There can be two reasons:

This problem is rare and results in a chaotic self-rebooting of the server. There are no errors in the OS logs, the iLO logs are also usually nothing critical. In such situations, updating the software, replacing the power cables and the UPS usually does not help. The problem is solved by changing the power management settings in the server BIOS. In short, all mechanisms for reducing the processor clock frequency are disabled:

• Power Management Options -> HP Power Profile -> Maximum Performance
• Power Management Options -> HP Power Regulator -> HP Static High Performance Mode
• Power Management Options -> Advanced Power Management Options -> Collaborative Power Control -> Disabled
• Power Management Options -> Advanced Power Management Options -> Minimum Processor Idle Power Core State -> No C-States
• Power Management Options -> Advanced Power Management Options -> Minimum Processor Idle Power Package State -> No Package State

Failure after shutting down the server

We have come across several cases when, when the server is turned on, the LEDs are on, but there is no video signal. Machine does not ping, iLO is not responding, although the LEDs indicate iLO and Ethernet activity. Keyboard and mouse not working. Most often this happened after a regular shutdown of the server, without any manipulation, without power failures. A similar failure has been reported on Gen5 to Gen8 servers.

The exact solution to this problem, as well as its causes, has not yet been found. In one case, it helped to move all the "System Maintenance Switch" to ON, and after a while back to OFF. One day the server came to life after swapping memory modules. Unfortunately, in several cases the servers were not restored.

Loud cooling system noise

This issue was most often seen on ML350e Gen8 servers. Immediately after turning on the server, the fans reach high speed. The rotation speed does not decrease under any load. The result is a constant and high noise level.

In some cases, the problem was solved by removing PCI-E expansion cards: network and USB hubs. But this problem was encountered in servers without installed expansion cards. Dismantling and reinstalling all fans and their baskets helped several times, with reconnecting the power wires. The fans went back to normal one day after updating the firmware and resetting the iLO. There was also a case when the cooling control setting was changed in BIOS, and it turned out to be enough to change the value from Increased to Optimal Cooling.

Reset configuration on Gen8 servers

Finally, we want to tell you not about an error, but about a feature of HP servers of the Gen8 and Gen9 generation: the usual configuration reset jumpers are missing on motherboards. If you need to use a reset, you can do it as follows:

Installing a second raid controller in Gen8 and Gen9 servers

When installing a second raid controller (for example, one raid for systems, the second for data), the server may freeze at the OS boot stage or not pass POST. This is most often due to an incorrect boot queue.

To solve the problem, you need to make the following configuration:

• Raid1 (for example, built-in P420i).
• Raid2 (software or embedded raid, for example B120i, P222i).
• Raid3 (hardware P420).

Benefits of HP servers

It would be unfair to talk only about the problems of HP servers, because it is not for nothing that the products of this manufacturer are highly popular. The Proliant series servers are considered one of the best in their class, and will certainly be remembered for their reliability, rather than the fallen off iLO and somewhat overpriced. It is HP that often sets the bar in server functionality and resiliency, offering non-standard but effective engineering solutions.

Here are just a few of the benefits of HP servers:

• Ease of use thanks to proprietary features: iLO, Intelligent provisioning, Active Health System.
• A successful line of budget and high-performance models.
• The limited nomenclature of "hardware" (although for some it is a disadvantage) for each model allows you to avoid wasteful costs in the future upgrade.
• Excellent technical support.
• One of the best implementations for firmware update.
• Gen8 and Gen9 have the best implementation of diagnostic symbols on HDD sleds.

If you encountered any errors in HP servers, but ultimately won, then share in the comments. Thanks.