Q
What processors are compatible with the HPE BL460c Gen8 server blade?
A
The HPE BL460c Gen8 supports Intel Xeon E5-2600 and E5-2600 v2 series processors, providing up to 12 cores per socket and dual-socket capability for high-performance computing.
Q
How many processor sockets does the HPE BL460c Blade Server offer?
A
The HPE BL460c blade features two LGA2011 processor sockets, enabling dual-processor configurations for up to 24 total CPU cores in a single half-height blade.
Q
Which Intel Xeon E5-2600 series CPUs are recommended for virtualization?
A
For virtualization workloads, Intel Xeon E5-2697 v2 or E5-2680 v2 are recommended, offering 12 and 10 cores respectively, Hyper-Threading, and large cache sizes to optimize VM density.
Q
What is the maximum core count per CPU in the BL460c Gen9?
A
In the HPE BL460c Gen9, the maximum core count per Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3/v4 CPU is 22 cores, delivering up to 44 threads with Hyper-Threading enabled.
Q
Does the BL460c support Intel Turbo Boost Technology?
A
Yes, all supported Intel Xeon E5-2600 family processors on the BL460c support Turbo Boost, dynamically increasing clock speed under load for improved single-thread performance.
Q
Can I upgrade the processor on my BL460c after deployment?
A
Yes, you can upgrade the CPU modules on the BL460c Gen8/Gen9 provided the new processors match the supported Intel Xeon E5-2600 series and the server’s thermal and power design points.
Q
What is the thermal design power (TDP) range for BL460c processors?
A
The HPE BL460c supports Intel Xeon E5-2600 processors with TDP ratings from 70W up to 145W, allowing you to balance performance and cooling requirements.
Q
Are low-voltage processor options available for the BL460c?
A
Yes, the HPE BL460c offers low-voltage (LV) Intel Xeon E5-2600 processors rated at 70W TDP, ideal for energy-sensitive and dense blade deployments.
Q
How does processor choice impact memory bandwidth on the BL460c?
A
Processor selection directly affects memory bandwidth; Intel Xeon E5-2600 series CPUs on the BL460c use four memory channels per CPU, with faster CPU options delivering higher sustained bandwidth.
Q
What is the difference between Intel Xeon E5-2600 v2 and v3 processors on the BL460c?
A
E5-2600 v3 processors, used in Gen9, offer up to 22 cores, DDR4 memory support, and higher memory speeds versus the E5-2600 v2’s 12-core limit and DDR3 support in Gen8.
Q
Does the BL460c support Hyper-Threading on all CPUs?
A
Yes, all compatible Intel Xeon E5-2600 series processors on the HPE BL460c support Hyper-Threading, delivering two threads per core for improved parallel processing.
Q
Can I mix different CPU models in a dual-socket BL460c blade?
A
No, HPE requires identical CPU models in both sockets of a BL460c blade to ensure matching microcode, cache configuration, and system stability.
Q
What integrated features do BL460c processors provide?
A
Supported Intel Xeon E5-2600 processors include integrated Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) instructions and Intel Virtualization Technology for Secure Guest extensions (VT-d).
Q
How do I choose the right BL460c processor for database workloads?
A
Select a high-core-count Intel Xeon E5-2600 v2/v3 CPU with large cache (20–30 MB) and higher base clock speeds to optimize transaction throughput and in-memory performance.
Q
What is the maximum memory capacity when using dual CPUs in the BL460c?
A
With dual Intel Xeon E5-2600 series CPUs, the HPE BL460c supports up to 512 GB of DDR3 (Gen8) or 1 TB of DDR4 (Gen9) across eight DIMM slots per CPU.
Q
How do I verify firmware compatibility for BL460c processors?
A
Check HPE’s Service Pack for ProLiant (SPP) release notes and iLO System ROM version, ensuring they include updates for your specific Intel Xeon E5-2600 processor model.