United States
Q
What are HPE Server Cables & Adapters?
A
HPE Server Cables & Adapters are certified interconnect components—DAC, transceivers, network and host bus adapters—designed to optimize performance, reliability and compatibility in HPE ProLiant and Apollo servers.
Q
How do I choose the right HPE server cable for my data center?
A
Select cables by interface type (SFP+, QSFP28, RJ45), required bandwidth, maximum length and passive versus active signaling, ensuring alignment with your HPE server’s port specifications and application requirements.
Q
What is the difference between passive and active HPE server cables?
A
Passive cables require no power and support short-reach connections up to 7 m, while active cables incorporate signal-conditioning electronics for extended reach (up to 15 m) and higher data rates.
Q
Are HPE server cables backward compatible with older HPE server generations?
A
Yes. Many HPE SFP+, QSFP+ and DAC cables are backward compatible, but always verify compatibility matrices in the HPE QuickSpecs to confirm supported port speeds and firmware versions.
Q
How do I install an HPE server network adapter?
A
Power down the server, seat the adapter into an available PCIe slot, secure with the retention bracket, reconnect any necessary cables, then power up and install the HPE driver and firmware from HPE Support Center.
Q
What types of HPE server network adapters are available?
A
HPE offers Ethernet adapters (100 Mb to 100 Gb), Fibre Channel HBAs, converged adapters (FlexFabric, FlexLOM) and InfiniBand adapters, each optimized for specific workloads and virtualization environments.
Q
Can I use third-party cables with HPE servers?
A
Third-party cables may function but can void warranty or limit support. For guaranteed interoperability and full HPE technical support, use HPE-branded cables and adapters.
Q
How do I identify the correct HPE transceiver module?
A
Match the transceiver’s form factor (SFP+, SFP28, QSFP28), wavelength (850 nm, 1310 nm, CWDM/DWDM) and reach specification with your switch or adapter’s port requirements as listed in HPE QuickSpecs.
Q
What is the maximum supported length for HPE DAC cables?
A
HPE passive DAC cables support up to 7 meters and active DAC cables support up to 15 meters at 10 Gbps, while 25/40/100 Gbps DAC reaches vary by form factor—always confirm in the official HPE QuickSpecs.
Q
How do I troubleshoot HPE server cable connectivity issues?
A
Verify cable seating, inspect for physical damage, check link lights, confirm port speed and duplex settings, test with known-good cables, and review HPE adapter event logs for errors.
Q
Do HPE server adapters support virtualization offloads?
A
Yes. Many HPE FlexFabric and FlexLOM adapters support SR-IOV, VXLAN, NVGRE, checksum offload, and TCP segmentation offload to improve network performance in virtualized environments.
Q
What warranty covers HPE server cables & adapters?
A
HPE-branded cables and adapters carry HPE’s one-year limited warranty, with options to extend coverage via HPE Foundation Care or Datacenter Care service packages.
Q
How do I update firmware on HPE network adapters?
A
Use HPE Service Pack for ProLiant (SPP) or HPE Smart Update Manager to scan, download and apply the latest adapter firmware and driver bundles in a single, automated operation.
Q
Where can I purchase genuine HPE server cables & adapters?
A
Order direct from the HPE Store, authorized HPE channel partners or certified resellers. Always verify SKU authenticity and warranty status before purchase.
Q
How do I verify HPE cable compatibility with my ProLiant model?
A
Consult the server’s QuickSpecs and HPE Parts Store compatibility filters to confirm that cable part numbers, connector types and supported data rates match your ProLiant configuration.
