666160-B21 HPE ProLiant BL460C Hexa-Core 2.50GHz Server

Blade Server Architecture

The HPE BL460C Gen8 is part of the HPE BladeSystem c-Class family, providing a highly modular and flexible architecture for enterprise computing environments. This blade server is designed to fit into a c-Class enclosure, allowing multiple blades to share power, cooling, and networking resources efficiently. The modular architecture not only reduces data center footprint but also simplifies management and scalability.

Half-Height, Half-Length Design

One of the standout features of the BL460C Gen8 is its half-height, half-length form factor. This compact design ensures that more servers can fit into a single enclosure without compromising performance. By optimizing rack density, IT administrators can achieve higher compute power per square foot, which is crucial in modern data center deployments where space and power efficiency are at a premium.

Integrated Networking Capabilities

The BL460C Gen8 blade server supports a variety of network interface options, including FlexibleLOM (LAN on Motherboard) modules. These modules allow administrators to customize network connectivity to meet specific workload requirements. With multiple embedded NIC options, the server provides high throughput and low-latency networking, making it ideal for virtualization and high-performance computing (HPC) workloads.

Performance and Processing Power

Intel Xeon E5-2640 Hexa-Core Processor

The HPE 666160-B21 BL460C Gen8 leverages the Intel Xeon E5-2640 Hexa-Core 2.50GHz processor, which delivers exceptional multi-threaded performance. With six physical cores and twelve threads, this processor is capable of handling complex workloads efficiently, from database management to virtualization. The processor also features advanced technologies such as Hyper-Threading, Turbo Boost, and enhanced Intel Virtualization Technology, enhancing performance for critical applications.

Multi-Core Efficiency for Enterprise Workloads

The hexa-core design ensures balanced processing across multiple simultaneous tasks, reducing bottlenecks in high-demand environments. Organizations running virtual machines (VMs) or large-scale enterprise applications benefit from the efficient load distribution and high throughput provided by these processors.

Memory Optimization and Expansion

With support for up to 384GB of DDR3 memory, the BL460C Gen8 allows IT teams to scale memory capacity as workloads grow. Memory modules can be installed in a balanced configuration across the server to maximize bandwidth and improve performance. This capability is especially useful for virtualization, in-memory databases, and analytics workloads that require rapid data access.

Storage Options and Scalability

Hot-Plug SAS/SATA Drives

The HPE BL460C Gen8 supports hot-plug SAS and SATA drives, allowing administrators to add or replace storage without downtime. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining high availability in production environments. Additionally, the server supports a variety of RAID configurations, enhancing data redundancy and protecting critical information.

Internal and External Storage Integration

Administrators can integrate internal storage with external SAN solutions to meet diverse application needs. This integration enables scalable storage expansion, ensuring that growing workloads have the required resources. The combination of high-speed internal drives and enterprise-class external storage provides an optimal balance between performance and capacity.

Advanced Management Features

HPE Integrated Lights-Out 4 (iLO 4)

One of the major advantages of the BL460C Gen8 is its integrated management capabilities via HPE iLO 4. iLO 4 enables remote server management, allowing administrators to monitor system health, perform firmware updates, and troubleshoot issues without physical access. This functionality significantly reduces maintenance costs and improves operational efficiency.

Remote Monitoring and Automation

Through iLO 4, IT teams can automate server monitoring, configure alert notifications, and execute remote power management tasks. These capabilities ensure that potential problems are identified early and mitigated before impacting operations, contributing to higher uptime and system reliability.

Security Enhancements with iLO 4

iLO 4 also provides robust security features, including secure firmware updates, authentication protocols, and encryption for remote management sessions. These measures protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access, making the BL460C Gen8 suitable for enterprise environments with stringent security requirements.

Energy Efficiency and Thermal Management

Power Optimization Technologies

The HPE BL460C Gen8 blade server includes advanced power management features to optimize energy consumption. Dynamic power capping, intelligent cooling, and efficient power supply design minimize energy costs while maintaining optimal performance. These technologies ensure that data centers can meet sustainability goals without sacrificing computing power.

Thermal Management and Cooling

The server leverages an intelligent thermal management system that adjusts fan speeds based on workload and temperature. This approach not only reduces noise levels but also extends the lifespan of server components by maintaining optimal operating conditions. For dense blade environments, efficient cooling is critical to preventing thermal throttling and ensuring consistent performance.

Enterprise Deployment and Scalability

BladeSystem c-Class Enclosure Integration

HPE BL460C Gen8 blades are designed to fit seamlessly into the HPE BladeSystem c-Class enclosure. This integration allows organizations to deploy multiple blades within a single chassis, sharing power, cooling, and networking infrastructure. The modular design supports rapid deployment and simplifies scaling as business requirements evolve.

High Availability and Redundancy

Within a c-Class enclosure, multiple BL460C Gen8 servers can be configured in high-availability clusters to ensure continuous operation. Redundant power supplies, network paths, and storage configurations reduce the risk of downtime, making it ideal for mission-critical applications.

Virtualization-Ready Infrastructure

The BL460C Gen8 is optimized for virtualization platforms such as VMware, Microsoft Hyper-V, and Citrix XenServer. With multi-core processing, high memory capacity, and flexible networking options, this blade server delivers excellent virtual machine density and performance, allowing organizations to consolidate workloads efficiently.

Networking and Connectivity

FlexibleLOM and NIC Options

The HPE BL460C Gen8 supports FlexibleLOM network modules, enabling administrators to select the appropriate combination of Ethernet, Fibre Channel, or converged network adapters. This flexibility ensures that the server meets the specific connectivity requirements of any enterprise environment.

High-Speed Data Transfer

With multiple 1GbE or 10GbE NIC options, the BL460C Gen8 facilitates high-speed data transfer and low-latency communication between servers, storage, and network devices. This is particularly beneficial for data-intensive workloads, including databases, analytics, and virtualized applications.

Scalable Network Expansion

As network demands grow, administrators can easily upgrade network modules without downtime. The modular approach to networking ensures that infrastructure can evolve alongside business requirements, providing both flexibility and long-term value.

Reliability, Availability, and Serviceability (RAS)

Advanced Error Handling

The BL460C Gen8 includes advanced RAS features such as predictive failure analysis, memory protection, and redundant components. These features help prevent unexpected downtime by detecting potential issues early and providing administrators with actionable alerts.

Hot-Plug Components

Hot-plug capabilities for storage drives, power supplies, and cooling fans allow IT teams to replace or upgrade components without interrupting server operations. This feature ensures continuous service delivery, even during maintenance or component upgrades.

Firmware and Driver Management

HPE provides integrated tools for firmware and driver management, enabling consistent and simplified updates across multiple servers. Proper maintenance of firmware and drivers ensures system stability, security, and optimal performance.

Virtualized Data Centers

The BL460C Gen8 excels in virtualized data center environments due to its high core count, memory capacity, and networking flexibility. Organizations can consolidate workloads, reduce hardware costs, and improve operational efficiency using this blade server as a core building block for their virtual infrastructure.

Cloud Computing Platforms

For cloud service providers, the BL460C Gen8 provides the scalability and performance needed to deliver reliable cloud services. Its compact form factor, energy efficiency, and robust management tools make it ideal for both private and hybrid cloud deployments.

Enterprise Applications and Databases

Businesses running critical enterprise applications such as ERP, CRM, and large-scale databases benefit from the processing power and high availability features of the BL460C Gen8. The server's modular architecture and support for high-speed storage ensure that mission-critical applications operate seamlessly.

Maintenance, Support, and Warranty Options

HPE Service and Support

HPE offers comprehensive support options for BL460C Gen8 servers, including proactive monitoring, remote assistance, and on-site services. These services help organizations minimize downtime, optimize performance, and extend the lifespan of their hardware investments.

Firmware and Security Updates

Regular firmware updates and security patches are crucial for maintaining server stability and protecting against vulnerabilities. HPE's support services ensure that servers remain up to date with the latest enhancements and security protocols.

Extended Warranty and Parts Replacement

HPE provides flexible warranty options, including extended coverage and rapid parts replacement, to support business continuity. These services reduce the impact of hardware failures and help maintain service-level agreements (SLAs) for critical operations.