April 21, 2015 at 15:46HP Cost-Effective SMB Servers and Providers
The new dual-processor servers that have expanded the ProLiant line may be the right solution for service providers or small and medium-sized businesses operating on a tight budget.
The release of each new generation of Intel Xeon processors immediately entails an update by manufacturers of standard architecture server lines. Servers supporting the new generation of Intel Xeon processor E5-2600 v3 contain a number of innovations. Along with improved performance, one of the most significant innovations is support for the new DDR4 memory standard.
The memory modules of this standard can have a capacity of up to 128 gigabytes and operate at frequencies from 2133 to 4266 MHz, have reduced power consumption, and their performance is 1.5 times higher than that of the memory modules of the previous standard. The Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3 processor has a maximum L3 cache of 45 MB, a maximum of 18 cores, and taking into account HyperThreading technology the number of processors visible to the operating system can reach 36. The QPI bus speed is increased to 9.6 gigatransaction per second . The dual-processor servers with Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3 support are available in familiar configurations with a height of 1 or 2U.
HP has expanded its product portfolio of computing platforms with new HP ProLiant Gen9 servers for small, budget-conscious businesses, as well as remote offices and branch offices of large companies. Released in December 2014, the HP ProLiant DL60 Gen9 Dual-Processor Rack Server in 1U and ProLiant DL80 Gen9 Enclosuresin the 2U case, the vendor positions itself as extremely attractive solutions for the price with basic technical and operational indicators. However, only the extensibility of internal subsystems is sacrificed for the price - the servers of the so-called “tenth” series can carry only low-cost LFF disks, a limited set of processors (heat generation is limited to 105 watts) and a memory limit limited to 8 modules (with 32 GB modules available now) the amount is limited to 256 GB per server). High build quality, European assembly, full control with iLO and OneView systems are also available in these budget machines.
The new servers are built in accordance with the principles of optimization throughout the HP ProLiant family for workload optimization, software configuration, and availability for use in cloud solutions. Their architecture is optimized so that the system is inexpensive, but at the same time provides sufficient computing power and ease of management to solve most problems. These compact servers are especially suitable for providers and small / medium-sized companies. The HP ProLiant DL80 Gen9 server in a 2U chassis differs from the DL60 in the first place with its wider scalability of the storage subsystem.
Model HP ProLiant DL60 Gen9 in 1U housing has a standard appearance for servers of this class. The contents of the transport packaging include the server itself, the power cord, equipment documentation and software, as well as equipment and documentation for rack mounting.
In front of the server there are four LFF disk drives (that is, a 3.5 "form factor). In hot mode, they are not replaced, however, the system also supports hot-swappable HDDs and SSDs. Please note that when ordering a server in option without hot swapping drives with an empty disk shelf (that is, without drives) you get a server with empty HP slides (and not with blanks as before).
The standard configuration of the DL60 server includes one or two Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3 processors with a clock frequency of up to 3 GHz and three expansion slots PCI Express 3.0.
The server provides for the installation of up to six fan modules (depending on the number of processors). By default, fans do not mean hot swapping, but this feature can be ordered separately.
The HP Smart Socket mechanism allows you to easily install the processor without the risk of “breaking firewood" (that is, breaking contacts on the motherboard). This may be required, for example, when upgrading a system.
The capacity of the server’s RAM is up to 256 GB - up to eight HP DDR4 Smart Memory DIMMs operating with a clock frequency of up to 2133 MHz. HP SmartMemory built-in features enhance productivity, reduce downtime, and reduce power consumption. Using DDR4 memory allows you to increase throughput by 14% compared to conventional memory due to the support of the maximum frequency even when 2 modules are installed per channel. HP iLO
Subsystem- This is a standard component of HP ProLiant servers, which simplifies the initial setup of the system, provides monitoring of its status, optimization of power supply and temperature conditions, as well as remote administration. It includes a microprocessor, secure memory, and a network interface. HP iLO works independently of the server and operating system. SNMP alerts can be sent directly by the HP iLO subsystem, even if the operating system is not installed.
HP iLO allows you to do the following:
• Access a secure remote server console from anywhere in the world if you have a network connection to the server.
• Use a common .NET remote console for the collaboration of four server administrators.
• Remotely connect virtual media to the server.
• Securely remotely monitor server power status.
• Implement agent-free management using SNMP alerts.
• Download the log of the active protection system.
• Register with HP Insight Remote Support.
• Use iLO Federation to manage unlimited large groups of servers through a single iLO web interface.
• Use scripts to perform various tasks, including deployment automation and provisioning.
• Manage the iLO subsystem using the remote management tool.
The standard server configuration includes the HP DynamicSmart Array B140i software RAID controller. The built-in SATA controller HP Dynamic Smart Array B140i is usually used to connect boot devices, but it can also serve as the only controller in a budget configuration. You can also choose any HP Smart Array hardware controller with increased performance (SAS 12 Gb / s), better data security using cache memory and built-in hardware encryption of data on local disks (requires HP Secure Encryption license). As an intermediate option between the built-in and full-fledged P-series RAID controller, an HBA adapter can be used, which can also work in RAID mode (without cache)
The HP Smart Storage battery protects Write Cache data in the event of a power failure.
PCI Express 3.0 expansion slots will help to increase the bandwidth of the server I / O subsystem if necessary. Easily accessible PCI contact strips make the process of installing expansion cards convenient and quick, and facilitate system maintenance.
Servers ProLiant DL60 Gen9 supports 550W entry-level power supplies without hot swapping, or optional Gold 800W power supplies (redundant) or 900W (redundant). The efficiency (Efficiency) of such power supplies reaches 92%.
On the back of the server are also a port for connecting a monitor, three USB 3.0 ports and one USB 2.0, microSD card slot. Card readers for microSD cards are also available, which are included in the server’s USB port and make it possible to combine 2 cards into a RAID mirror for fail-safe loading from them, for example, of a hypervisor.
On the back of the ProLiant DL60 are two Gigabit Ethernet ports, one of which, along with traditional network functions, also plays the role of the HP iLO management port.
The older HP ProLiant DL80 Gen9 in 2U package offers better I / O scalability and a larger storage subsystem. The total disk capacity of this server can reach 72 terabytes versus 24 terabytes in the DL60 model. Thus, in addition to the basic operations of the IT infrastructure, this server is suitable for applications requiring storage capacity, for example, for long-term storage or backup, because it has an affordable price per gigabyte and a large capacity of the disk system.
The DL80 has two chassis options: supporting eight or 12 SAS / SATA / SSD drives. In an eight-drive chassis, you can subsequently install a drive cage for four additional drives.
Thus, this scalable server can carry on board 4 or 8 LFF form factor hard drives that are not hot-swappable, or 8 or 12 LFF hot-swappable HDD or SSD drives.
The tag retrieved from the slot allows you to quickly get information about the server’s serial number, help code, as well as iLO credentials.
Like the HP ProLiant DL60, the DLL80 Gen9 model can be equipped with two 12-core Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3 processors with a clock frequency of up to 3 GHz, but its expansion options are higher: the server provides six PCIe 3.0 slots instead of three. Another difference from the DL60 is the ability to install a graphic coprocessor (GPU).
Transparent plastic dividers inside the body direct air flow and allow you to see the system components without obstructing the view.
This plastic construction is easy to remove, allowing access to the inside of the server.
Fans are also hot swappable (optional). Up to six fan modules provide an adequate cooling reserve for the hottest DL80 configurations. The ProLiant Gen9 DL60 and DL80 servers can withstand ambient temperatures of 40 ° C and humidity up to 80% (ASHRAE A3 standard), however, there are limitations for individual configurations. Such undemanding to the external environment can significantly save on climatic equipment in the server and extend the normal server service time in the event of a cooling system failure.
As in the DL60, the processor mounting system provides a secure fit and allows you to replace the processor without tools.
The capacity of the server’s RAM is also up to 256 GB - up to eight HP DDR4 Smart Memory DIMMs operating with a clock frequency of up to 2133 MHz.
For maximum data protection, performance and availability, the server can be equipped with an HP Smart Array P440 or P840 RAID controller.
Like the DL60, the HP Smart Storage Battery protects the cache data of the disk array controller in the event of a power failure.
Support for up to six PCIe 3.0 expansion slots allows you to install one standard-width graphics card, network cards, or other devices of your choice, which increases the throughput of the I / O system and provides the necessary scalability. Convenient access to PCIe 3.0 slots simplifies system maintenance and allows you to expand its configuration.
80 PLUS Gold Certified HP Redundant Power Supplies offer up to 92% efficiency, which, combined with HP power management features, reduces power consumption and operating costs.
Like the DL60, the DL80 server has two Ethernet ports, three USB 3.0, one USB 2.0, a video port, and a microSD slot. There is also no dedicated iLO port - iLO traffic goes through the first network port of the integrated network adapter. A microSD card can be used to load hypervisors and some types of operating systems.
Both models are available as standard with 2 x 1GbE with a wide selection of HP FlexibleLOM adapters. This allows for flexibility of the throughput channel, makes it possible to quickly respond to changing business requirements.
The HP ProLiant DL60 and DL80 are very attractive price-performance servers that are a good choice for budget-conscious organizations, and the flexible management features make them the right solution for both providers and SMBs. The expandable DL80 configuration can meet the needs of growing companies. In general, the servers of this series are well suited for the role of a domain controller, mail, file or backup server.
However, their role is not limited to this. HP ProLiant DL60 and DL80 servers allow you to create various infrastructure solutions for data centers, offer features that simplify the management, monitoring of IT infrastructure, its deployment. System developers have considered the issues of power supply, cooling, cable management and access to components. Through the use of full-fledged server processors, full virtualization support is available.
The use of 80 PLUS Gold in servers of the latest developments in the field of processor microarchitectures and power supplies contributes to high energy efficiency, compactness and reliability of systems. The presence of a guarantee and manufacturer support saves the company from possible problems at the implementation and operation stage. And the built-in HP iLO management tools enable remote deployment, monitoring, and server maintenance.
According to HPIn general, compared with the previous generation, the new Gen9 servers have three times the best performance per watt, up to 62% lower total cost of ownership (TCO) for three years, including the cost of acquisition. However, it should be noted that the DL60 / DL80 did not have predecessors in the Gen8 generation - these are new models in the ProLiant line.
The key principles of the HP server architecture are the readiness of systems for work in a software-configurable, cloud environment, as part of converged infrastructures and optimization for specific loads. This is achieved, in many ways, with the ability to manage servers using the open REST APIs (read about it in one of our next posts).
However, perhaps the most important thing in ProLiant servers with their 19-year history is the design of a new generation of systems using the latest management tools that simplify working with an IT environment that is becoming increasingly complex and at the same time providing qualified specialists with very wide functionality. The DL60 / DL80 comes standard with a host of free management tools: HP iLO 4, HP OneView Standard, Intelligent Provisioning, HP Insight Online, HP SUM, HP RESTful Interface Tool. HP ILO Essentials, HP iLO Advanced, HP Insight Control, HP OneView Advanced are available as options. Please note that now when you purchase a new DL60 / 80 server (the list of part numbers is limited), you can get an iLO Essentials license for free!
With the integrated HP iLO management tools, you can perform remote deployment, monitoring, and server maintenance. The HP Smart Update solution, consisting of the HP Smart Update Manager (HP SUM) and ProLiant Service Pack (SPP), helps optimize firmware and driver updates and reduce downtime.
The HP OneView Standard - the successor to the HP SIM tool - enables monitoring and inventory of virtually all data center components in a very fast and convenient interface. The tool is free to download from the HP website.
HP Insight Online is a personalized, real-time, personal dashboard for your HP IT infrastructure. On a simple web portal you can monitor your equipment, place and monitor service cases on it and manage the available technical support.
With the advent of the Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3 family of processors, many vendors have begun releasing server platforms that take advantage of the increased performance of the new Xeon architecture. The DL60 / DL80 Gen9 are new computing platforms with the 1U / 2U form factor in the HP ProLiant family, and in addition to the new E5-2600 v3 processors and DDR4 memory reflect HP's technological advances and the company's overall vision of the most massive servers for a wide range of tasks.
Our previous posts:
"HP OpenStack Helion Getting Started
» SDN: An Alternative or Complement to Traditional Networks?
» New network architectures: open or closed solutions?
» Implementation of MSA in a virtualized enterprise environment
» HP MSA disk arrays as the basis for data consolidation
» Multi-vendor corporate network: myths and reality
» Available HP ProLiant server models (10 and 100 series)
» Convergence based on HP Networking. Part 1
» HP ProLiant ML350 Gen9 - server with incredible extensibility
Thank you for your attention!
The memory modules of this standard can have a capacity of up to 128 gigabytes and operate at frequencies from 2133 to 4266 MHz, have reduced power consumption, and their performance is 1.5 times higher than that of the memory modules of the previous standard. The Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3 processor has a maximum L3 cache of 45 MB, a maximum of 18 cores, and taking into account HyperThreading technology the number of processors visible to the operating system can reach 36. The QPI bus speed is increased to 9.6 gigatransaction per second . The dual-processor servers with Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3 support are available in familiar configurations with a height of 1 or 2U.
HP has expanded its product portfolio of computing platforms with new HP ProLiant Gen9 servers for small, budget-conscious businesses, as well as remote offices and branch offices of large companies. Released in December 2014, the HP ProLiant DL60 Gen9 Dual-Processor Rack Server in 1U and ProLiant DL80 Gen9 Enclosuresin the 2U case, the vendor positions itself as extremely attractive solutions for the price with basic technical and operational indicators. However, only the extensibility of internal subsystems is sacrificed for the price - the servers of the so-called “tenth” series can carry only low-cost LFF disks, a limited set of processors (heat generation is limited to 105 watts) and a memory limit limited to 8 modules (with 32 GB modules available now) the amount is limited to 256 GB per server). High build quality, European assembly, full control with iLO and OneView systems are also available in these budget machines.
The new servers are built in accordance with the principles of optimization throughout the HP ProLiant family for workload optimization, software configuration, and availability for use in cloud solutions. Their architecture is optimized so that the system is inexpensive, but at the same time provides sufficient computing power and ease of management to solve most problems. These compact servers are especially suitable for providers and small / medium-sized companies. The HP ProLiant DL80 Gen9 server in a 2U chassis differs from the DL60 in the first place with its wider scalability of the storage subsystem.
Model HP ProLiant DL60 Gen9 in 1U housing has a standard appearance for servers of this class. The contents of the transport packaging include the server itself, the power cord, equipment documentation and software, as well as equipment and documentation for rack mounting.
In front of the server there are four LFF disk drives (that is, a 3.5 "form factor). In hot mode, they are not replaced, however, the system also supports hot-swappable HDDs and SSDs. Please note that when ordering a server in option without hot swapping drives with an empty disk shelf (that is, without drives) you get a server with empty HP slides (and not with blanks as before).
The standard configuration of the DL60 server includes one or two Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3 processors with a clock frequency of up to 3 GHz and three expansion slots PCI Express 3.0.
The server provides for the installation of up to six fan modules (depending on the number of processors). By default, fans do not mean hot swapping, but this feature can be ordered separately.
The HP Smart Socket mechanism allows you to easily install the processor without the risk of “breaking firewood" (that is, breaking contacts on the motherboard). This may be required, for example, when upgrading a system.
The capacity of the server’s RAM is up to 256 GB - up to eight HP DDR4 Smart Memory DIMMs operating with a clock frequency of up to 2133 MHz. HP SmartMemory built-in features enhance productivity, reduce downtime, and reduce power consumption. Using DDR4 memory allows you to increase throughput by 14% compared to conventional memory due to the support of the maximum frequency even when 2 modules are installed per channel. HP iLO
Subsystem- This is a standard component of HP ProLiant servers, which simplifies the initial setup of the system, provides monitoring of its status, optimization of power supply and temperature conditions, as well as remote administration. It includes a microprocessor, secure memory, and a network interface. HP iLO works independently of the server and operating system. SNMP alerts can be sent directly by the HP iLO subsystem, even if the operating system is not installed.
HP iLO allows you to do the following:
• Access a secure remote server console from anywhere in the world if you have a network connection to the server.
• Use a common .NET remote console for the collaboration of four server administrators.
• Remotely connect virtual media to the server.
• Securely remotely monitor server power status.
• Implement agent-free management using SNMP alerts.
• Download the log of the active protection system.
• Register with HP Insight Remote Support.
• Use iLO Federation to manage unlimited large groups of servers through a single iLO web interface.
• Use scripts to perform various tasks, including deployment automation and provisioning.
• Manage the iLO subsystem using the remote management tool.
The standard server configuration includes the HP DynamicSmart Array B140i software RAID controller. The built-in SATA controller HP Dynamic Smart Array B140i is usually used to connect boot devices, but it can also serve as the only controller in a budget configuration. You can also choose any HP Smart Array hardware controller with increased performance (SAS 12 Gb / s), better data security using cache memory and built-in hardware encryption of data on local disks (requires HP Secure Encryption license). As an intermediate option between the built-in and full-fledged P-series RAID controller, an HBA adapter can be used, which can also work in RAID mode (without cache)
The HP Smart Storage battery protects Write Cache data in the event of a power failure.
PCI Express 3.0 expansion slots will help to increase the bandwidth of the server I / O subsystem if necessary. Easily accessible PCI contact strips make the process of installing expansion cards convenient and quick, and facilitate system maintenance.
Servers ProLiant DL60 Gen9 supports 550W entry-level power supplies without hot swapping, or optional Gold 800W power supplies (redundant) or 900W (redundant). The efficiency (Efficiency) of such power supplies reaches 92%.
On the back of the server are also a port for connecting a monitor, three USB 3.0 ports and one USB 2.0, microSD card slot. Card readers for microSD cards are also available, which are included in the server’s USB port and make it possible to combine 2 cards into a RAID mirror for fail-safe loading from them, for example, of a hypervisor.
On the back of the ProLiant DL60 are two Gigabit Ethernet ports, one of which, along with traditional network functions, also plays the role of the HP iLO management port.
The older HP ProLiant DL80 Gen9 in 2U package offers better I / O scalability and a larger storage subsystem. The total disk capacity of this server can reach 72 terabytes versus 24 terabytes in the DL60 model. Thus, in addition to the basic operations of the IT infrastructure, this server is suitable for applications requiring storage capacity, for example, for long-term storage or backup, because it has an affordable price per gigabyte and a large capacity of the disk system.
The DL80 has two chassis options: supporting eight or 12 SAS / SATA / SSD drives. In an eight-drive chassis, you can subsequently install a drive cage for four additional drives.
Thus, this scalable server can carry on board 4 or 8 LFF form factor hard drives that are not hot-swappable, or 8 or 12 LFF hot-swappable HDD or SSD drives.
The tag retrieved from the slot allows you to quickly get information about the server’s serial number, help code, as well as iLO credentials.
Like the HP ProLiant DL60, the DLL80 Gen9 model can be equipped with two 12-core Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3 processors with a clock frequency of up to 3 GHz, but its expansion options are higher: the server provides six PCIe 3.0 slots instead of three. Another difference from the DL60 is the ability to install a graphic coprocessor (GPU).
Transparent plastic dividers inside the body direct air flow and allow you to see the system components without obstructing the view.
This plastic construction is easy to remove, allowing access to the inside of the server.
Fans are also hot swappable (optional). Up to six fan modules provide an adequate cooling reserve for the hottest DL80 configurations. The ProLiant Gen9 DL60 and DL80 servers can withstand ambient temperatures of 40 ° C and humidity up to 80% (ASHRAE A3 standard), however, there are limitations for individual configurations. Such undemanding to the external environment can significantly save on climatic equipment in the server and extend the normal server service time in the event of a cooling system failure.
As in the DL60, the processor mounting system provides a secure fit and allows you to replace the processor without tools.
The capacity of the server’s RAM is also up to 256 GB - up to eight HP DDR4 Smart Memory DIMMs operating with a clock frequency of up to 2133 MHz.
For maximum data protection, performance and availability, the server can be equipped with an HP Smart Array P440 or P840 RAID controller.
Like the DL60, the HP Smart Storage Battery protects the cache data of the disk array controller in the event of a power failure.
Support for up to six PCIe 3.0 expansion slots allows you to install one standard-width graphics card, network cards, or other devices of your choice, which increases the throughput of the I / O system and provides the necessary scalability. Convenient access to PCIe 3.0 slots simplifies system maintenance and allows you to expand its configuration.
80 PLUS Gold Certified HP Redundant Power Supplies offer up to 92% efficiency, which, combined with HP power management features, reduces power consumption and operating costs.
Like the DL60, the DL80 server has two Ethernet ports, three USB 3.0, one USB 2.0, a video port, and a microSD slot. There is also no dedicated iLO port - iLO traffic goes through the first network port of the integrated network adapter. A microSD card can be used to load hypervisors and some types of operating systems.
Both models are available as standard with 2 x 1GbE with a wide selection of HP FlexibleLOM adapters. This allows for flexibility of the throughput channel, makes it possible to quickly respond to changing business requirements.
conclusions
The HP ProLiant DL60 and DL80 are very attractive price-performance servers that are a good choice for budget-conscious organizations, and the flexible management features make them the right solution for both providers and SMBs. The expandable DL80 configuration can meet the needs of growing companies. In general, the servers of this series are well suited for the role of a domain controller, mail, file or backup server.
However, their role is not limited to this. HP ProLiant DL60 and DL80 servers allow you to create various infrastructure solutions for data centers, offer features that simplify the management, monitoring of IT infrastructure, its deployment. System developers have considered the issues of power supply, cooling, cable management and access to components. Through the use of full-fledged server processors, full virtualization support is available.
The use of 80 PLUS Gold in servers of the latest developments in the field of processor microarchitectures and power supplies contributes to high energy efficiency, compactness and reliability of systems. The presence of a guarantee and manufacturer support saves the company from possible problems at the implementation and operation stage. And the built-in HP iLO management tools enable remote deployment, monitoring, and server maintenance.
According to HPIn general, compared with the previous generation, the new Gen9 servers have three times the best performance per watt, up to 62% lower total cost of ownership (TCO) for three years, including the cost of acquisition. However, it should be noted that the DL60 / DL80 did not have predecessors in the Gen8 generation - these are new models in the ProLiant line.
The key principles of the HP server architecture are the readiness of systems for work in a software-configurable, cloud environment, as part of converged infrastructures and optimization for specific loads. This is achieved, in many ways, with the ability to manage servers using the open REST APIs (read about it in one of our next posts).
However, perhaps the most important thing in ProLiant servers with their 19-year history is the design of a new generation of systems using the latest management tools that simplify working with an IT environment that is becoming increasingly complex and at the same time providing qualified specialists with very wide functionality. The DL60 / DL80 comes standard with a host of free management tools: HP iLO 4, HP OneView Standard, Intelligent Provisioning, HP Insight Online, HP SUM, HP RESTful Interface Tool. HP ILO Essentials, HP iLO Advanced, HP Insight Control, HP OneView Advanced are available as options. Please note that now when you purchase a new DL60 / 80 server (the list of part numbers is limited), you can get an iLO Essentials license for free!
With the integrated HP iLO management tools, you can perform remote deployment, monitoring, and server maintenance. The HP Smart Update solution, consisting of the HP Smart Update Manager (HP SUM) and ProLiant Service Pack (SPP), helps optimize firmware and driver updates and reduce downtime.
The HP OneView Standard - the successor to the HP SIM tool - enables monitoring and inventory of virtually all data center components in a very fast and convenient interface. The tool is free to download from the HP website.
HP Insight Online is a personalized, real-time, personal dashboard for your HP IT infrastructure. On a simple web portal you can monitor your equipment, place and monitor service cases on it and manage the available technical support.
With the advent of the Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3 family of processors, many vendors have begun releasing server platforms that take advantage of the increased performance of the new Xeon architecture. The DL60 / DL80 Gen9 are new computing platforms with the 1U / 2U form factor in the HP ProLiant family, and in addition to the new E5-2600 v3 processors and DDR4 memory reflect HP's technological advances and the company's overall vision of the most massive servers for a wide range of tasks.
Our previous posts:
"HP OpenStack Helion Getting Started
» SDN: An Alternative or Complement to Traditional Networks?
» New network architectures: open or closed solutions?
» Implementation of MSA in a virtualized enterprise environment
» HP MSA disk arrays as the basis for data consolidation
» Multi-vendor corporate network: myths and reality
» Available HP ProLiant server models (10 and 100 series)
» Convergence based on HP Networking. Part 1
» HP ProLiant ML350 Gen9 - server with incredible extensibility
Thank you for your attention!
