United States
Q
What is an HPE Blade Server Mezzanine Card?
A
An HPE Blade Server Mezzanine Card is a modular I/O expansion adapter that installs in the mezzanine slots of HPE c-Class blade servers to add Ethernet, Fibre Channel, InfiniBand or converged network connectivity.
Q
Which Mezzanine Card types are compatible with HPE BladeSystem c-Class?
A
HPE c-Class supports Type I and Type II mezzanine cards, including FlexFabric, 10/25/40/56Gb Ethernet, Fibre Channel, InfiniBand and converged network adapters—verify compatibility via HPE QuickSpecs.
Q
How do I install a Mezzanine Card in an HPE Blade Server?
A
Power down the blade, remove the mezzanine slot cover, align the card’s edge connector with the slot, seat firmly, secure the retention screws and power the server back on.
Q
What network speeds are supported by HPE FlexFabric Mezzanine Cards?
A
HPE FlexFabric mezzanine cards support 10GbE, 20GbE, 25GbE, 40GbE and 50/56GbE depending on model, enabling scalable bandwidth for virtualized or converged workloads.
Q
How can I verify Mezzanine Card compatibility with my server model?
A
Use the HPE QuickSpecs or the online HPE Server Compatibility Matrix to match your blade enclosure, server generation and mezzanine slot type to supported card part numbers.
Q
Do HPE Mezzanine Cards support server virtualization features?
A
Yes. HPE FlexFabric and virtual connect mezzanine cards include SR-IOV and NPAR support, offloading network tasks to improve VM density and reduce CPU overhead.
Q
How do I update firmware on an HPE Blade Server Mezzanine Card?
A
Update firmware via HPE iLO using the Service Pack for ProLiant (SPP) or offline firmware bundles; select the correct mezzanine card firmware ISO and follow guided prompts.
Q
What is the difference between LOM and FlexibleLOM?
A
LOM (LAN on Motherboard) is factory-integrated, whereas FlexibleLOM is a hot-plug network adapter that installs in a dedicated FlexibleLOM slot for easy upgrades without motherboard replacement.
Q
How do I troubleshoot connectivity issues on a Mezzanine Card?
A
Verify cable and switch port status, check link LEDs, ensure the OS driver and card firmware match HPE recommendations, and review iLO system logs for error events.
Q
Can I use multiple Mezzanine Cards in a single HPE blade?
A
Yes. Most HPE c-Class blades support two mezzanine cards (Type I/II) or one FlexibleLOM plus one mezzanine, depending on the server generation and slot configuration.
Q
What are the benefits of using an HPE 10Gb Ethernet Mezzanine Card?
A
HPE 10Gb Ethernet mezzanine cards deliver high throughput, low latency, energy efficiency and support network virtualization offloads that enhance VM performance and server consolidation.
Q
How do I select the right Mezzanine Card for high-availability networks?
A
Choose dual-port FlexFabric or Fibre Channel cards with redundant uplinks, link aggregation, QoS and path failover features to ensure continuous connectivity and load balancing.
Q
Do HPE Mezzanine Cards support Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE)?
A
Yes. HPE FlexFabric mezzanine cards integrate FCoE capabilities, consolidating LAN and SAN traffic over a single network fabric to simplify cabling and reduce hardware count.
Q
What is the maximum port density for HPE BladeServer Mezzanine Cards?
A
Each c-Class blade supports up to two mezzanine cards, and an enclosure can host up to 16 blades—delivering a potential port density of 32 ports per chassis for dual-port adapters.
Q
How do I order replacement Mezzanine Cards for HPE blade servers?
A
Locate the exact HPE part number in the server’s QuickSpecs, then purchase through HPE sales or an authorized reseller, verifying warranty and support entitlement.
Q
Are HPE Blade Server Mezzanine Cards hot-swappable?
A
No. Mezzanine cards require a server shutdown for installation or removal to ensure proper seating and prevent electrical damage to the blade hardware.
