United States
Q
What is an HP Server Expansion Card?
A
An HP Server Expansion Card is a PCIe add-in module that enhances a server’s I/O capabilities by providing additional network, storage or Fibre Channel ports.
Q
How do I choose the right HP Server Expansion Card for my server?
A
Select an HP Server Expansion Card based on your server model’s supported PCIe generation, required bandwidth, port count and workload type.
Q
Are HP Server Expansion Cards compatible with all ProLiant models?
A
HP Server Expansion Cards are compatible with most ProLiant Gen8, Gen9, Gen10 and Gen11 servers; verify compatibility in the server QuickSpecs.
Q
How do I install an HP Server Expansion Card?
A
Power down the server, remove the slot cover, insert the card into the PCIe slot until it latches, secure the bracket and reboot.
Q
Can I hot-swap an HP Server Expansion Card?
A
No, HP Server Expansion Cards require a full server shutdown before installation or removal to protect data integrity and hardware.
Q
What interfaces do HP Server Expansion Cards support?
A
HP Server Expansion Cards support PCIe Gen3/Gen4, SAS, iSCSI, Fibre Channel, 10/25/40/100 GbE and NVMe over Fabrics interfaces.
Q
How do I update the firmware on an HP Server Expansion Card?
A
Use HPE Smart Update Manager or iLO to download and apply the latest firmware package from the HPE Support Center.
Q
What performance benefits do HP Server Expansion Cards provide?
A
They deliver higher throughput, lower latency and offload capabilities that optimize storage and networking performance for demanding applications.
Q
How many ports can HP Server Expansion Cards support?
A
Depending on the model, HP Server Expansion Cards support between one and four ports per card for Fibre Channel, SAS or Ethernet.
Q
Do HP Server Expansion Cards require special drivers?
A
Yes, install the latest HPE-certified drivers and firmware to ensure full functionality and compatibility with your OS.
Q
How do I troubleshoot connectivity issues with HP Server Expansion Cards?
A
Verify card seating, update drivers and firmware, inspect cables and check server logs via iLO or OS diagnostics.
Q
Can I use HP Server Expansion Cards in non-HP servers?
A
While some cards may function in generic PCIe slots, HPE only tests and supports them in HP ProLiant and Apollo servers.
Q
What is the warranty on HP Server Expansion Cards?
A
HP Server Expansion Cards come with a standard three-year limited warranty backed by global HPE support.
Q
How do I order replacement HP Server Expansion Cards?
A
Locate the card’s SKU or spare part number in the QuickSpecs and order through an authorized HPE reseller or the HPE eStore.
Q
What power requirements do HP Server Expansion Cards have?
A
Most HP Server Expansion Cards draw up to 25W from a single PCIe slot; higher-performance models may use additional auxiliary power.
Q
Do HP Server Expansion Cards support virtualization features?
A
Yes, select models offer SR-IOV, NPIV and virtual switch offloads to maximize VM density and performance.
Q
What is the difference between low-profile and full-height HP Server Expansion Cards?
A
Low-profile cards fit half-height server chassis with a shorter bracket, while full-height cards require a standard PCIe bracket and more slot space.
