United States
Q
What types of HPE cables & adapters are available for servers and storage?
A
HPE offers a broad portfolio of cables & adapters including SAS, SATA, Mini-SAS, QSFP, SFP+, fiber optic, copper DAC, power, management, and USB adapters designed for servers, storage arrays, and networking equipment.
Q
How do I choose the right HPE cable or adapter for my hardware?
A
Identify your device interface (e.g., SAS, SATA, SFP+), confirm data rate and length requirements, then select the matching HPE certified cable or adapter to ensure full compatibility and performance.
Q
Are HPE cables & adapters compatible with third-party servers and switches?
A
Yes. HPE cables & adapters adhere to standard form factors and protocols, providing interoperability with most industry-compliant third-party servers, storage systems, and network switches.
Q
What is the difference between HPE Mini-SAS and SAS cables?
A
Mini-SAS uses a small SFF-8087 or SFF-8643 connector for high-density server backplanes, while standard SAS cables use full-size SFF-8482 connectors for external storage enclosures.
Q
Can I use HPE transceiver modules with HPE fiber optic cables?
A
Absolutely. HPE fiber optic cables are qualified and tested with HPE transceiver modules such as SFP, SFP+, QSFP+, ensuring optimized signal integrity and network performance.
Q
How do I install HPE cables & adapters in a server rack?
A
Power down equipment, route cables along rack cable management paths, connect firmly to port, secure with retention clips, then power up to verify link status via LEDs or system management tools.
Q
Do HPE network adapters and cables support hot-swapping?
A
Yes. Most HPE network adapters and compatible hot-swappable cables (e.g., QSFP+, DAC) can be inserted or removed without powering down the system, provided the host OS and hardware support it.
Q
How can I verify genuine HPE cables & adapters?
A
Check the HPE holographic label, part number (e.g., 593718-001), packaging seal, and use HPE’s online warranty checker or HPE Support Center to validate authenticity.
Q
What warranty covers HPE cables & adapters?
A
HPE cables & adapters typically carry a one-year limited warranty, subject to HPE’s general warranty terms, with options to extend coverage through HPE Care Pack services.
Q
How do I troubleshoot connectivity issues with HPE cables & adapters?
A
Inspect connectors for damage, verify correct cable type and port assignment, swap with a known good cable, check link lights, and review host firmware logs for errors.
Q
What maximum data transfer rates do HPE networking adapters support?
A
HPE adapters support speeds from 1 GbE up to 100 GbE. Typical configurations include 10 GbE (SFP+), 25 GbE (SFP28), 40 GbE (QSFP+), 50 GbE (QSFP28), and 100 GbE (QSFP28).
Q
Are HPE copper cables backward compatible with lower speeds?
A
Yes. HPE copper DAC and twinax cables designed for 25 GbE, 40 GbE, and 100 GbE automatically negotiate to lower supported rates such as 10 GbE if connected to slower ports.
Q
Can HPE fiber optic cables be extended or repaired?
A
Fiber extension requires compatible optical transceivers and patch panels. Repairing factory-terminated HPE fiber cables is not recommended; instead, replace with certified assemblies.
Q
How should I maintain and clean HPE fiber optic connectors?
A
Use lint-free wipes and isopropyl alcohol to gently clean ferrule endfaces, inspect with a fiber scope, and cap connectors when not in use to prevent contamination.
Q
What is the difference between HPE passive and active copper cables?
A
Passive cables transmit signals without electrical amplification and are cost-effective below 10 m. Active cables include inline signal conditioning for longer reach and higher data rates.
Q
How do I order replacement HPE cables & adapters?
A
Locate your HPE part number on the original cable or adapter, then order through an authorized HPE reseller or HPE’s online store to ensure genuine products and warranty coverage.
