HP Z4 G 546 G8

Basic information

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation is a professional desktop workstation designed for demanding applications such as 3D modeling, CAD, video editing, and machine learning.

• Model: HP Z4 G4 Workstation
• Version: G4 (Generation 4)
• Release Date: Announced in September 2017.
• Minimum Requirements: Configurable with Intel Xeon W-series or Intel Core X-series processors, supporting up to 18 cores.
• Supported Operative Systems: Windows 10 Pro 64-bit, Windows 10 Pro for Workstations 64-bit, Windows 11, Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL/CentOS 7 or 8), and Ubuntu (18.04 or 20.04 LTS).
• Latest Stable Version: BIOS version 2.71 was available as of July 2021.
• End of Support Date: While an obsolescence date for a specific SKU (5UC62EA) was May 31, 2020, HP typically supports products for approximately 10 years after they are retired. BIOS updates were still being provided as of July 2024.
• End of Life Date: The obsolescence date for a specific Z4 G4 part number was May 31, 2020.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not directly applicable to workstation hardware; dependent on the operating system's lifecycle.
• License Type: OEM for pre-installed operating systems. HP Wolf Pro Security Edition is licensed under its own End-User License Agreement (EULA).
• Deployment Model: Desktop Workstation.

Technical Specifications

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation offers robust specifications designed for high-performance computing tasks.

• Processor: Options include Intel Xeon W-series processors (e.g., W-2225, W-2223, W-2145, W-2133) and Intel Core X-series processors (e.g., Core i9-10980XE, i9-10940X, i9-10920X, i9-10900X, i7-9800X), with configurations supporting up to 18 cores.
• RAM: Up to 512 GB of DDR4-2933 ECC SDRAM, particularly with Intel Xeon processors.
• Storage: Supports up to 46 TB of storage with four drive bays and dual M.2 slots. SAS hard drives are available, requiring an add-in controller card.
• Display: Not integrated; supports various external HP Z Displays.
• Ports:
  • Front: Headset Audio, 2x USB 3.1 G1 Type-A. Premium configurations may include 2x USB 3.1 G2 Type-C and an optional SD Card Reader.
  • Rear: 5x or 6x USB 3.1 G1 Type-A (depending on CPU), 1x or 2x 1GbE Ports (depending on CPU), PS/2 keyboard/mouse, Audio Line In/Out.
• Operating System: Pre-installed options include Windows 10 Pro 64-bit and Windows 10 Pro for Workstations 64-bit.
• Dimensions: Not explicitly detailed in provided snippets.
• Weight: Minimum: 10.2 kg (22.4 lbs), Standard: 11.3 kg (24.9 lbs), Maximum: 17.3 kg (38.2 lbs).

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The HP Z4 G4 is a highly configurable workstation, offering a wide range of Intel Xeon W-series and Core X-series processors to cater to diverse professional workloads. The substantial RAM capacity (up to 512 GB ECC SDRAM) and extensive storage options (up to 46 TB across multiple bays and M.2 slots) highlight its capability to handle large datasets and complex projects. The inclusion of ECC memory is crucial for data integrity in professional environments. The variety of USB ports, including USB 3.1 G2 Type-C in premium configurations, ensures broad peripheral compatibility. While display is external, the system is designed to drive multiple high-resolution monitors. The weight indicates a sturdy, desktop-oriented design, typical for a powerful workstation.

Support & Compatibility

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation offers comprehensive support and broad compatibility for professional environments.

• Latest Version: BIOS version 2.71 was released in July 2021, providing various enhancements and updates.
• OS Support: Fully supports Windows 10 (Pro and Pro for Workstations), Windows 11, Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL/CentOS 7 or 8), and Ubuntu (18.04 or 20.04 LTS).
• End of Support Date: While a specific obsolescence date for a particular SKU was May 31, 2020, HP generally provides support for up to 10 years after a product's retirement. BIOS updates were still being issued as of July 2024.
• Localization: Available worldwide, with support for various regional configurations. English keyboard localization is mentioned.
• Available Drivers: Drivers and software updates are accessible through HP's support website. Driver updates are typically provided for 3-5 years after production.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: The HP Z4 G4 demonstrates strong support and compatibility, crucial for an enterprise asset. Its broad operating system support, including both Windows and multiple Linux distributions, makes it versatile for various professional workflows. The continued provision of BIOS updates, even several years after its initial release, indicates HP's commitment to long-term maintenance. While specific end-of-support dates can be elusive, the general 10-year policy and ongoing updates suggest a reliable lifespan for critical security and performance fixes. Localization options further enhance its global usability.

Security Status

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation integrates several security features to protect intellectual property and data.

• Security Features: Includes HP SureStart (a self-healing BIOS with intrusion detection), HP Client Security Suite, and HP Wolf Pro Security Edition. Intel Xeon CPUs also feature Intel vPro Technology.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific known vulnerabilities are detailed in the provided information.
• Blacklist Status: No information regarding blacklist status is available.
• Certifications: The workstation is ISV (Independent Software Vendor) Certified, ensuring compatibility and optimized performance with leading professional software applications. It also meets EPEAT Gold and Silver registrations (for models manufactured after January 2019).
• Encryption Support: Supports software-based encryption through compatible operating systems.
• Authentication Methods: Not explicitly detailed for hardware, but relies on OS-level authentication.
• General Recommendations: HP Wolf Pro Security Edition requires Windows 10 or higher.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: The HP Z4 G4 Workstation offers a robust security posture, leveraging HP's proprietary security technologies like SureStart and Wolf Pro Security Edition. These features provide hardware-level protection, including self-healing BIOS and advanced threat detection, which are critical for safeguarding sensitive data in professional environments. Intel vPro technology further enhances manageability and security for Xeon-equipped models. While specific vulnerabilities are not listed, the continuous BIOS updates suggest ongoing efforts to address potential security concerns. ISV certification also implies a level of security vetting for professional applications. Overall, the Z4 G4 is designed with enterprise-grade security in mind.

Performance & Benchmarks

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

• Benchmark Scores: Specific benchmark scores are not provided in the available information.
• Real-World Performance Metrics: Designed to run demanding professional applications, handle today's heaviest workloads, and facilitate fast iteration cycles in tasks like 3D modeling, CAD, video editing, and machine learning. It supports multi-threaded applications with up to 18 cores.
• Power Consumption: Features multiple power supply unit (PSU) options, including up to 1000W, to support high-power CPUs and rich configurations, especially with multiple GPUs.
• Carbon Footprint: No specific carbon footprint data is provided.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Positioned as a versatile workstation, balancing performance and affordability, making it ideal for tasks like 3D modeling and CAD. It sits above entry-level Z2 G4 models and below dual-CPU Z6 G4 models in HP's workstation lineup.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: The HP Z4 G4 is a high-performance workstation capable of handling intensive professional tasks. Its configurable nature, with options for powerful Intel Xeon W or Core X-series processors and substantial RAM, ensures it can meet the computational demands of complex applications. The support for dual professional graphics cards further enhances its capability for graphics-intensive workloads. The availability of up to 1000W PSUs indicates its capacity to power high-end components without compromise. While explicit benchmark numbers are absent, its design and component choices clearly target a segment requiring significant processing power and reliability for professional use cases.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the HP Z4 G4 Workstation generally highlight its capabilities for professional use.

• Strengths: Users appreciate its powerful performance for demanding applications, extensive expandability (memory, storage, PCIe slots), ISV certification for software compatibility, and robust security features. The tool-less access for components is also a noted advantage for maintenance and upgrades.
• Weaknesses: Specific weaknesses are not detailed in the provided information.
• Recommended Use Cases: Highly recommended for professionals in fields requiring intensive computing, such as 3D modeling, CAD, video editing, machine learning, and complex simulations.

Summary of User Reviews and Feedback: The HP Z4 G4 Workstation is well-regarded for its strong performance and adaptability in professional environments. Its ability to handle heavy workloads, coupled with significant upgrade potential, makes it a favored choice for users who need a reliable and powerful machine for specialized tasks. The focus on security and certified compatibility with industry-standard software further solidifies its position as a dependable enterprise asset.

Summary

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation is a robust and highly configurable desktop workstation designed to meet the rigorous demands of professional users. Released in 2017, it offers a powerful platform with Intel Xeon W-series or Core X-series processors, supporting up to 18 cores and up to 512 GB of ECC DDR4-2933 SDRAM. Its extensive storage options, including multiple drive bays and M.2 slots for up to 46 TB, ensure ample space and fast data access for large projects. The workstation supports a wide array of operating systems, including Windows 10, Windows 11, and various Linux distributions, catering to diverse software ecosystems.

Key strengths of the Z4 G4 include its exceptional expandability, allowing users to customize and upgrade components as their needs evolve. Its ISV certification guarantees optimized performance and compatibility with critical professional applications. Security is a paramount feature, with HP SureStart, HP Client Security Suite, and HP Wolf Pro Security Edition providing multi-layered protection against threats. The workstation's design emphasizes reliability and ease of maintenance, with tool-less access to internal components.

While specific benchmark scores are not detailed, the Z4 G4's hardware configuration and target audience underscore its capability for high-performance tasks such as 3D rendering, complex simulations, and data-intensive computations. Its power supply options, up to 1000W, further support the integration of high-end graphics cards and other demanding components.

In summary, the HP Z4 G4 Workstation is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a powerful, secure, and highly customizable system for compute-intensive workloads. Its long-term support, broad compatibility, and focus on data integrity make it a valuable asset in enterprise environments. It strikes a balance between performance and affordability within HP's Z-series lineup, making it suitable for a wide range of professional applications.

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.