HP Z8 G4 Workstation

The new HP Z8 G4 Workstation is one of the first dual-processor workstations to take advantage of Intel’s new Xeon Scalable processors. Scalable processors provide up to 56 physical cores with 38.5MB of cache, and processor frequencies of up to 3.8GHz than HP Z6 G4. To keep the high-performance processors cool without adding to the system’s acoustics, HP designed a new split-chassis that keeps the system cool with four high-efficiency fans. It also boasts significantly more memory and storage than the previous generation and is sure not to disappoint when it comes to performance, security, and expansion potential.

Performance

The HP Z8 G4 Workstation is powered by Intel’s new Scalable family of processors, and has the ability to support a maximum of two processors with up to 28 cores each. With two processors supporting up to 56 cores it can easily handle the most complex applications including simulations, machine learning, and real time 8K video editing. Intel Xeon Scalable processors are available in four different options: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze. For creatives that demand the highest performance, Xeon Platinum 8180M processors provide up to 38.5MB cache, can reach speeds of up to 3.8GHz, and will support up to 1.5TB of memory each. In addition to the increased memory bandwidth, Xeon Scalable processors provide expanded I/O support for up to 48 lanes of PCIe 3.0. HP’s state-of-the-art chassis design keeps the high-performance components cool. Each processor is also equipped with its own heat sink featuring a high-pressure fan regulated by the system’s BIOS. The system’s split chassis and innovative ducting ensures that the second processor does not recycle warm air from the first one for a more efficient, and quieter cooling process.

Memory

Memory capacity is extremely impressive with 24 memory slots available that can support up to 3TB of high-speed memory in a dual-processor configuration. Reaching the max memory capacity requires 24 DDR4 128GB memory modules, Win 10 Pro 64 for workstations, and two “M”-designated processors—such as Intel’s Platinum 8180M. When outfitted with compatible processors memory speeds up to 2666MHz are available, an improvement from HP’s Z840 where memory speeds capped-out at 2400MHz. Xeon Scalable processors support six memory channels with two memory slots each, another advancement over previous generation processors which support only four channels.

Storage

Storage options are flexible and the system will support a maximum of 42TB using a combination of the four internal drive bays, placing up to four drives in the 5.25-inch optical drive bays, dual M.2 modules loaded into the PCIe slots above CPUs 0 and 1, and incorporating one of HP’s Z Turbo Quad drive carriers that support up to four M.2 storage devices. The four drive bays inside the system support either one 2.5″ drive or one 3.5″ drive. For added storage capacity, a drive tray adapter will allow the front two 5.25″ media bays to support either one large form factor drive or two small form factor drives each. Deemed “the world’s most secure workstation”, the Z8 includes the first self-healing BIOS with intrusion detection and features a comprehensive suite of embedded security features. HP’s SureStart ensures the workstation will only boot Genuine HP BIOS and will recover the System BIOS if tampering is identified. For those that need it, this system can include an optional SD card reader and a Blu-ray ODD or slim DVD in the front of the system.

Expansion

Expansion potential is great with up to nine PCIe 3.0 slots with two processors—four PCIe 3.0 x16 slots for graphic cards or SSDs, three PCIe 3.0 x8 slots for SSDs, and two PCIe 3.0 x4 slots. A single processor will only support six of PCIe slots and a second processor is required to use all nine slots. Adding the second processor also transforms PCIe slot #1 from an x4 slot to an x8 electrical slot. This system has an abundance of USB ports front and back with the premium model sporting two USB 3.1 Gen1 slots and two USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C slots at the front of workstation, one of which has charging capability. The back displays six USB 3.0 Gen1 slots, with another inside the system, plus three internal USB 2.0 ports for a total of 14 USB slots.

Management

System management is hassle-free with intuitive lights on the front of the chassis and HP’s PC Hardware Diagnostics UEFI. Intel’s Active Management Technology offers cutting-edge features for remote system management via LANDesk Management Suite, Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager, or HP’s Client Automation Enterprise. Of course HP didn’t shy on security features on the world’s most powerful workstation with a side-panel lock for internal hard drive safety and a loop available to add a padlock. If security is a priority, system admins can opt to add an intrusion sensor and a Kensington lock.

Summary

The HP Z8 G4 is the pinnacle of HP’s tower workstation line featuring dual Intel Xeon Scalable processors and 24 memory slots to support the highest workstation memory capacity available at 3TB. Another notable feature on this powerhouse is support for up to 48TB of storage to easily handle data-hungry applications. Designed with a new split-chassis, the Z8 uses four fewer fans than its predecessor allowing this high-performance system to operate almost silently. Furthermore, system admins can have peace of mind with their mission critical data with the Z8’s first self-healing BIOS with intrusion detection.