HP Z4 G 14 Gen 3

Basic Information

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation is a professional desktop workstation designed for demanding applications. It is part of HP's Z-series workstation lineup.

• Model: HP Z4 G4 Workstation
• Version/Generation: G4
• Release Date: Announced in September 2017.
• Minimum Requirements: Varies by configuration, typically requires Windows 10 Pro or a supported Linux distribution.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 Pro (preinstalled), Windows 11 (upgrade available), RHEL/CentOS (versions 7 or 8), and Ubuntu (versions 18.04 or 20.04 LTS).
• Latest Stable Version: Refers to the hardware generation; software and drivers are updated regularly.
• End of Support Date: Typically covered by a 3-year limited warranty for parts, labor, and onsite service.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly stated, but the HP Z4 G5 generation was announced in April 2023, indicating the G4 is no longer the latest model.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not applicable to hardware; OS updates follow respective vendor policies.
• License Type: Includes a Windows 10 Pro license when preinstalled.
• Deployment Model: Desktop Workstation (Tower form factor).

Technical Specifications

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation offers a highly configurable architecture to meet diverse professional needs.

• Processor: Supports single Intel Xeon W-series (W-2100 or W-2200 series) or Intel Core X-series (i7-X or i9-X series) processors, with configurations offering up to 18 cores.
• RAM: Up to 512 GB of DDR4-2933 ECC SDRAM, primarily supported with Intel Xeon processors.
• Storage: Features up to 46 TB of total storage capacity. It includes two M.2 PCIe Gen 3 x4 slots for NVMe SSDs (up to two with Xeon, one with Core i7/i9) and two 3.5-inch SATA3 (6GB/s) drive bays for HDDs or SATA SSDs.
• Graphics: Accommodates up to two dual-width, full-height PCIe 3.0 x16 graphics cards. Options include professional-grade NVIDIA Quadro GPUs (e.g., RTX A6000, RTX A5000, RTX A4000, RTX A2000, T400, P2000) and AMD Radeon Pro GPUs (e.g., W6800).
• Display: No integrated display. Supports multiple external displays via discrete graphics cards.
• Ports:
  • Front: 1 Headset audio port, 4 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A (one with charging capability).
  • Rear: Typically 6 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports (Xeon configurations) or 5 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports (Core X configurations), 2 RJ-45 (1 GbE, one for Core X configurations), 1 audio-in, 1 audio-out, 1 PS/2 keyboard, 1 PS/2 mouse, and an optional serial port.
  • Internal: USB 3.1 Gen 1 and USB 2.0 headers.
  • Expansion: Optional Thunderbolt 3 PCIe card support.
• Operating System: Windows 10 Pro, Windows 11 (upgrade), RHEL/CentOS, Ubuntu.
• Dimensions (W x D x H): Minimum 15.2 x 6.65 x 17.5 inches (38.6 x 16.9 x 44.4 cm).
• Weight: Starting at 10.2 kg (22.4 lbs), with standard configurations around 11.3 kg (24.9 lbs) and maximum configurations reaching 17.3 kg (38.2 lbs).

Analysis: The Z4 G4 is a robust workstation offering significant processing power and extensive expandability. Its support for high-end Xeon or Core X processors, substantial ECC RAM, and dual professional graphics cards makes it suitable for compute-intensive tasks. The multiple storage options, including NVMe and SATA, provide flexibility for speed and capacity. The wide array of ports ensures broad peripheral compatibility and connectivity. The varying specifications based on processor choice (Xeon vs. Core X) allow for tailored performance and feature sets.

Support & Compatibility

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation provides comprehensive support for professional environments.

• Latest Version: The G4 designation refers to the hardware generation. Drivers and software are continuously updated.
• OS Support: Fully supports Windows 10 Pro, with an upgrade path to Windows 11. It also supports enterprise Linux distributions such as RHEL/CentOS (7 or 8) and Ubuntu (18.04 or 20.04 LTS).
• End of Support Date: The standard limited warranty covers 3 years for parts, labor, and onsite service.
• Localization: Available globally, with support resources and drivers provided for various regions.
• Available Drivers: All necessary drivers, firmware, and software are available for download from the official HP Support website.
• Cartridge and Ink Codes: Not applicable as this is a workstation, not a printer.

Analysis: The overall support and compatibility status of the HP Z4 G4 is strong, reflecting its enterprise-grade nature. HP provides dedicated support pages, drivers for multiple operating systems, and a standard 3-year warranty. Its ISV certifications ensure compatibility and optimized performance with leading professional software applications.

Security Status

Security is a key focus for the HP Z4 G4 Workstation, incorporating multiple hardware and software protections.

• Security Features: Includes full volume encryption, HP Keyed Cable Lock Kit, HP Secure Erase for data removal, HP Sure Start Gen3 for BIOS protection, Kensington lock slot, and TPM 2.0 certification. It also features HP Device Access Manager, HP Sure Click for browser protection, HP BIOSphere Gen3, HP Client Security Manager Gen3, HP MIK/SCCM Gen2, and support for Self-Encrypting Drives (SED).
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific known vulnerabilities are detailed in public documentation, but HP provides regular security updates through BIOS, firmware, and software.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable.
• Certifications: TPM 2.0 certified and ISV certified for compatibility and reliability with professional software.
• Encryption Support: Supports full volume encryption and hardware-based encryption via Self-Encrypting Drives (SED).
• Authentication Methods: Secure authentication is managed through HP Client Security Manager and TPM 2.0.
• General Recommendations: Users should leverage the comprehensive suite of security features, keep the operating system and HP software updated, and implement strong authentication practices.

Analysis: The HP Z4 G4 Workstation boasts a robust security profile, integrating both hardware-level protections like TPM 2.0 and Sure Start Gen3 with software solutions such as Secure Erase and Client Security Manager. This layered approach provides a high level of defense against various threats, making it suitable for environments requiring stringent data protection and system integrity.

Performance & Benchmarks

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation is engineered for high performance in demanding professional workflows.

• Benchmark Scores: Specific benchmark scores are not provided in the available documentation, but the system is designed to handle intensive tasks.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Delivers high-frequency processing and utilizes multiple cores for applications like design, simulation, video editing, and machine learning. It supports up to 18-core processors and powerful GPUs for significant performance gains.
• Power Consumption: Features power supply options up to 1000W with up to 90% efficiency, accommodating high-power components like dual graphics cards.
• Carbon Footprint: Designed with low halogen materials, contributing to reduced environmental impact.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Competes directly with other high-performance workstations such as Dell Precision, Lenovo ThinkStation, and Apple Mac Pro.

Analysis: The Z4 G4 is a high-performance workstation, capable of tackling complex and resource-intensive tasks. Its configurable nature, allowing for powerful CPU and GPU combinations, ensures excellent real-world performance for professional users. The efficient power delivery and low-halogen design also highlight HP's consideration for energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback for the HP Z4 G4 Workstation generally highlights its suitability for professional applications requiring significant computational power and expandability.

• Strengths: Users frequently praise its robust performance, especially with high-core count processors and professional graphics cards, making it ideal for CAD, 3D rendering, video editing, and scientific simulations. The expandability options, including multiple PCIe slots and storage bays, are highly valued for future-proofing and customization. Its enterprise-grade security features and ISV certifications also contribute to a reliable and trustworthy user experience.
• Weaknesses: While not explicitly detailed, common feedback for high-end workstations often includes the initial cost of fully configured systems and the physical size and weight compared to consumer desktops.
• Recommended Use Cases: Highly recommended for engineers, architects, content creators, data scientists, and researchers who require a powerful and stable platform for demanding professional software.

Summary

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation is a powerful and highly configurable desktop workstation designed for demanding professional applications. It excels in tasks such as design, simulation, video editing, and machine learning, offering a choice of Intel Xeon W-series or Core X-series processors with up to 18 cores, and extensive RAM capacity up to 512 GB DDR4 ECC memory. Its robust graphics capabilities support up to two high-end professional GPUs from NVIDIA Quadro or AMD Radeon Pro.

Strengths include its exceptional performance, significant expandability through multiple PCIe slots and diverse storage options (NVMe SSDs and SATA drives), and comprehensive enterprise-grade security features like TPM 2.0, HP Sure Start Gen3, and full volume encryption. The workstation also benefits from ISV certifications, ensuring optimal compatibility and performance with leading professional software.

While the initial investment for high-end configurations can be substantial, the HP Z4 G4 provides a reliable and future-proof platform for professionals. Its strong support for various operating systems, including Windows and Linux, along with readily available drivers, underscores its suitability for diverse professional environments.

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation is an excellent choice for users requiring a high-performance, secure, and expandable system to handle the most intensive workloads in fields like engineering, media, and scientific research.

Please note: The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.