The item is a Riser-Kit for the HP Z4 Rack Server, manufactured by HP under part number 7K6C7AA. It serves as an expansion component for installing PCIe cards in the server by providing two additional PCIe slots. The kit is specifically designed for use in the HP ZCentral 4R system and enables the integration of high-performance or storage cards that exceed the standard slot count. The construction is internal, meaning it is designed for internal use within the server housing, and features a silver-colored surface that visually integrates into the server environment.
Applications
This Riser-Kit is primarily intended for professional IT environments where expanding PCIe capacity in a rack server is required. It is used to integrate additional graphics cards, network adapters, storage controllers, or other PCIe-based components into the HP Z4 Rack Server. Compatibility with the HP ZCentral 4R system ensures that the hardware functions within existing server infrastructures without requiring additional modifications. Typical use cases include data centers, database environments, or high-performance computing, where flexible and scalable hardware configurations are necessary.
Features and Equipment in Detail
The kit provides two PCIe slots: one PCIe Gen5 x16 slot and a second PCIe Gen5 x16(x8) slot. The designation x16(x8) indicates that the second slot is physically x16 but supports only x8 bandwidth, which is sufficient for many applications. The host interface and output interface are both implemented via PCIe, enabling direct connection to the server backplane. The internal form factor ensures stable mounting within the server housing and prevents mechanical stress or loose connections.
Technology Explained Simply
The PCIe technology (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is a standard for connecting peripheral devices to the main system. Generation 5 (Gen5) offers significantly higher data transfer rates compared to previous versions, which is particularly beneficial for data-intensive applications such as storage or network adapters. The x16 designation refers to the number of data lanes, with more lanes enabling higher bandwidth. The Riser-Kit thus expands the server’s I/O capabilities without requiring additional enclosures or external boxes. The silver-colored design and compact dimensions (376.6 mm width, 129.7 mm depth, 42.3 mm height) conform to standard rack server dimensions.
Compatibility and Accessories
The Riser-Kit is specifically developed for the HP ZCentral 4R server. Use requires adherence to the manufacturer’s specific mounting instructions to ensure correct installation and functionality.
Installation and Mounting
Mounting takes place inside the server housing. The Riser-Kit is attached to the designated connection points within the server, with PCIe connections communicating directly with the system backplane. Installation requires opening the server housing and mechanically securing the kit. Physical integration is achieved via the server’s standard slot geometry.
Operational Advantages
By providing two additional PCIe slots, the Riser-Kit increases the flexibility and scalability of the server. It enables simultaneous use of multiple high-performance adapters, which is advantageous when integrating SSD arrays, network, or GPU modules. The use of PCIe Gen5 ensures high data transfer rates, which are critical for time-sensitive applications. The robust construction and internal form factor guarantee reliable operation under server operating conditions.