801239-B21 HPE DL180 Gen9 Intel Xeon E5-2620v4 (2.1GHz/8-core/20MB/85W) Processor

Processor Core Attributes

• Model: Intel Xeon E5-2620 v4
• Base Frequency: 2.10 GHz
• Cores / Threads: 8 cores / 16 threads (via Hyper-Threading when enabled)
• Smart Cache: 20 MB Intel Smart Cache
• TDP: 85 W — balanced for rack servers and optimized thermal envelopes
• Microarchitecture: Intel® Broadwell-EP family (14nm)

Performance Characteristics and Workload Suitability

Single-Thread and Multi-Thread Performance

The E5-2620 v4 strikes a balance between single-thread responsiveness and multi-thread throughput. At a 2.1 GHz base clock and support for Turbo Boost (when available under system thermal/power budgets), it accelerates bursty single-threaded tasks while delivering consistent parallel processing for virtualization, application servers, and modest HPC workloads.

Target Workloads

Recommended use cases include:

• Virtualized server hosts (VMware ESXi, Hyper-V, KVM) running mixed workloads
• Database application servers with moderate concurrency (OLTP, reporting)
• Web application stacks (LAMP/LEMP, Node.js, containerized microservices)
• File and storage controller roles in SMB to enterprise edge deployments
• Compute nodes for batch analytics where cost-per-core and power efficiency matter

Memory and I/O Synergy

The E5-2620 v4 pairs well with multi-channel DDR4 RDIMM/LRDIMM memory at supported frequencies, increasing effective memory bandwidth for data-intensive applications. In the HPE DL180 Gen9 chassis, multiple DIMM slots and flexible I/O lanes complement the CPU’s capability to handle concurrent memory and peripheral traffic.

Compatibility, Validation, and Server Integration

HPE DL180 Gen9 Platform Integration

As an authorized kit for the HPE ProLiant DL180 Gen9, the 801239-B21 is validated for BIOS compatibility, power profiles, and thermal behavior in the DL180 Gen9 enclosure. HPE’s server firmware and BIOS updates often contain microcode and power optimizations for specific Xeon SKUs; using an HPE-branded complete kit helps ensure those checks have been completed by the vendor.

Compatibility Checklist

• Ensure motherboard socket matches FCLGA2011-v3 or the platform’s specified LGA variant for Gen9 CPUs.
• Verify BIOS/UEFI firmware is updated to the version that includes Broadwell-EP microcode and HPE platform optimizations.
• Confirm server chassis power capacity and cooling configuration can support the installed CPU(s) at full load.
• Use the same CPU family when installing in multi-socket configurations to avoid mismatched microcode and feature sets.

Multi-Socket Considerations

For dual-socket DL180 Gen9 servers, pairing two identical E5-2620 v4 processors is recommended for symmetrical memory channel operation, NUMA balance, and predictable performance. Heterogeneous CPU pairings can result in reduced features or clocking behavior for one or both sockets.

Power Consumption and Efficiency

At nominal load, the E5-2620 v4 contributes modestly to system power draw, making it suitable for energy-aware deployments. Pairing this CPU with power-efficient memory and storage options further improves overall watts-per-transaction metrics. Where applicable, configure power capping in iLO/BIOS to manage peak draw in dense rack environments.

Security Features and Platform Hardening

Processor-Level Security

The Broadwell-EP architecture includes hardware features that can be part of a defense-in-depth strategy: Trusted Execution, secure boot support via platform firmware, and microcode-level mitigations. Combining hardware features with HPE security services and firmware hardening provides an enterprise-grade security posture.

Operational Security Practices

• Keep BIOS/iLO firmware patched to benefit from security updates.
• Restrict management interfaces (iLO) to dedicated out-of-band networks.
• Use hardware-backed secure boot and measured boot where possible to increase chain-of-trust integrity.

Cost of Ownership and ROI Considerations

Acquisition and Lifecycle Costs

The 801239-B21 kit offers a predictable acquisition cost relative to purchasing individual components. When calculating total cost of ownership (TCO), include the cost of downtime, spares storage, energy consumption, and potential licensing impacts (some software is licensed per core or per CPU).

Cost Optimization Strategies

• Right-size CPU selection to actual workload needs to avoid over-provisioning
• Adopt power management features (performance profiles) to reduce idle power draw
• Use cluster orchestration to consolidate workloads during off-peak periods

Use-Case Scenarios Showing Value

Small-to-Medium Business Virtualization

A two-socket DL180 Gen9 populated with E5-2620 v4 CPUs provides a cost-effective virtualization host for SMBs running multiple low-to-medium density VMs. The balance of cores, threads, and power consumption enables efficient consolidation while keeping capital and operational expenditures under control.

Edge and Remote Office Compute

In remote or edge deployments where rack space is limited and reliability is essential, this kit supports resilient compute at modest power envelopes. Local caching, domain controllers, and storage proxies are typical edge duties for DL180 servers with this CPU.

Database Read Replicas and Reporting Nodes

Deploy the E5-2620 v4 as a dedicated reporting or analytics node where read-heavy operations and background ETL processes require multiple threads but not the highest single-threaded frequency.

Content Optimization Tips for Category Pages Featuring 801239-B21

On-Page Elements to Prioritize

• Include the exact model number (801239-B21) in the page title tag and meta description.
• Use H2/H3 headings to break down specifications, compatibility, and buying advice for both human readers and search crawlers.
• Provide structured data (Product schema) for price, availability, SKU, and aggregate ratings if applicable, improving SERP presentation.
• Provide table-based spec listings for machine readability and easy comparison with adjacent SKUs.

Content Structuring for Conversions

• Use clear calls-to-action (Add to cart, Request quote, Download spec sheet) near technical specs.
• Offer downloadable assets: compatibility matrix, installation guide, and firmware checklist.
• Feature real-world benchmarks and power profiles where possible to aid decision making.

Accessibility, Documentation, and Regulatory Compliance

Documentation to Include with Product Listings

• HPE QuickSpecs or equivalent product brief for DL180 Gen9
• Installation and safety guidelines for CPU replacement
• Firmware update advisories and microcode notes

Regulatory and Environmental Notes

Confirm that any purchased components meet local regulatory requirements and environmental standards (RoHS, WEEE) and follow proper disposal and recycling practices for electronic components at end of life.

Real-World Validation: Testing, Benchmarking, and Acceptance Criteria

Pre-Deployment Acceptance Tests

• POST and BIOS detection validation
• Stress test for sustained CPU, memory, and thermal stability (e.g., 12-24 hour workload simulation)
• Power and thermal logging to validate rack cooling and power provisioning
• Functional application testing with representative production loads

Benchmarking Metrics to Capture

• Throughput: transactions per second, requests per second in web workloads
• Latency: p95 and p99 latency for database and API services
• Power draw: idle vs. sustained load watts to anticipate OPEX
• Thermal headroom: maximum delta-T under load relative to ambient

Additional Resources and Cross-Reference Materials

Helpful Documentation Links (Suggested)

• HPE ProLiant DL180 Gen9 maintenance and service guides
• Intel Ark pages for Xeon E5-2620 v4 specification details
• HPE firmware/BIOS update bundles and release notes specific to Gen9 platforms