HP Z4 G G4 Workstation

Basic Information

• Model: HP Z4 G4 Workstation
• Version: G4 (Fourth Generation)
• Release Date: Announced September 2017, shipping with initial processors.
• Minimum Requirements: Varies significantly by configuration and intended workload. Requires compatible Intel Xeon W or Core X-series processor, DDR4 RAM, and storage.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, Windows 10 Pro for Workstations (64-bit), Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, Red Hat Enterprise Linux (via HP Linux-ready installer kit).
• Latest Stable Version: Refers to the hardware platform; firmware/BIOS updates are regularly released by HP.
• End of Support Date: Specific end of support date is not publicly available, but HP typically provides support for several years post-release.
• End of Life Date: The Z4 G4 was succeeded by the G5 edition in April 2023, indicating its end-of-life for new sales.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not applicable for hardware assets; depends on the installed operating system and software.
• License Type: Typically comes with a Windows 10 Pro for Workstations license or is Linux-ready.
• Deployment Model: Tower workstation, designed for on-premise professional use.

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Single Intel Xeon W-series (up to 18 cores) or Intel Core X-series (up to 18 cores) processors.
  • Intel Xeon W-2100/W-2200 series (e.g., W-2223 3.6 GHz 4-core, W-2275 3.3 GHz 14-core, W-2195 2.3 GHz 18-core).
  • Intel Core X-series (e.g., Core i7-7820X 3.6 GHz 8-core, Core i9-10980XE 3.0 GHz 18-core).
• RAM: 8 DIMM slots.
  • Up to 512 GB DDR4-2933 ECC SDRAM with Intel Xeon W processors.
  • Up to 256 GB DDR4-2933 non-ECC SDRAM with Intel Core X-series processors (or 128 GB/256 GB depending on specific Core X generation).
• Storage: Up to 46 TB total storage.
  • Internal Bays: Two 3.5-inch SATA drive bays, two 5.25-inch external device bays.
  • M.2 Slots: Up to two M.2 NVMe SSDs (Xeon W configurations), or one M.2 NVMe SSD (Core X configurations).
  • Options include SATA HDDs (up to 7200 rpm), SATA SSDs, HP Z Turbo Drive PCIe NVMe SSDs (up to 2TB), HP Z Turbo Drive Quad Pro PCIe SSDs (up to 8TB).
  • Integrated SATA RAID controller (RAID 0, 1, 5, 10).
• Graphics: Supports up to two dual-width, full-height professional graphics cards.
  • NVIDIA Quadro professional-series (e.g., T400, RTX 5000, RTX A6000).
  • AMD Radeon Pro professional-series (e.g., WX 7100, W6800, W7500).
• Display: Supports all HP Z Displays and HP DreamColor Displays.
• Ports:
  • Front (Standard): 1 headset, 4x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A (1 charging).
  • Front (Premium Optional): 1 headset, 2x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A (1 charging), 2x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C, optional SD Media Card Reader.
  • Rear: 1 audio-in, 1 audio-out, 1 PS/2 keyboard, 1 PS/2 mouse, optional 1 serial port.
  • Rear USB: 6x USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Xeon W configurations), 5x USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Core X configurations).
  • Networking: Dual embedded 1GbE LAN ports (Xeon W configurations), single embedded 1GbE LAN port (Core X configurations).
• Operating System: Windows 10 Pro for Workstations, Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, Ubuntu, Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 16.9 x 38.6 x 44.5 cm (6.65 x 15.2 x 17.5 in).
• Weight: Starting at 10.2 kg (22.4 lb), exact weight depends on configuration (up to 17.3 kg / 38.2 lbs).

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The HP Z4 G4 Workstation offers a highly configurable platform, catering to diverse professional needs. The choice between Intel Xeon W and Core X-series processors is fundamental, impacting memory capacity (ECC vs. non-ECC), M.2 storage options, and network connectivity. Xeon W configurations provide higher memory capacity and dual Ethernet, ideal for mission-critical applications requiring ECC memory and robust networking. Core X configurations offer strong performance for tasks like game development and VR. The extensive storage options, including high-speed NVMe SSDs and traditional HDDs, coupled with RAID support, ensure flexibility for data-intensive workflows. Support for dual high-end professional graphics cards makes it suitable for demanding visualization, CAD, rendering, and machine learning tasks. The generous array of USB ports, including modern USB-C options, ensures broad peripheral compatibility. Its tool-free design facilitates upgrades and maintenance.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: The Z4 G4 is a hardware platform; its "latest version" refers to the most recent BIOS/firmware updates and compatible component generations.
• OS Support: Windows 10 Pro for Workstations, Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly stated for the hardware itself, but HP provides drivers and support resources on its website.
• Localization: Supports various regional configurations and localized operating systems.
• Available Drivers: HP provides comprehensive driver support for Windows and Linux operating systems on its official website.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: The HP Z4 G4 Workstation boasts excellent compatibility with leading professional operating systems, including Windows and various Linux distributions, ensuring broad software support. HP actively provides drivers and firmware updates to maintain performance and security. The workstation's design allows for significant component upgrades, extending its useful life and compatibility with future technologies. Its support for a wide range of professional graphics cards from NVIDIA and AMD further enhances its adaptability to specialized software requirements.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • HP Sure Start Gen3: Self-healing BIOS that automatically detects and restores from intrusions.
  • HP Client Security Suite Gen3: Comprehensive security software.
  • HP Secure Erase: Enables overwriting data multiple times for complete data removal.
  • TPM 2.0 certified: Trusted Platform Module for hardware-based security.
  • Kensington lock slot and padlock loop: Physical security options.
  • Optional side access panel barrel key lock.
  • System intrusion switch and remote/centrally controlled solenoid lock (optional).
  • Optional self-encrypting drives (SED).
  • HP Device Access Manager, HP Sure Click, HP BIOSphere Gen3, HP Client Security Manager Gen3, HP MIK/SCCM Gen2.
• Known Vulnerabilities: General vulnerabilities related to operating systems and third-party software are addressed through regular updates. No specific widespread hardware vulnerabilities unique to the Z4 G4 are highlighted in the provided information.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable; the HP Z4 G4 is a standard commercial workstation.
• Certifications: ENERGY STAR certified and EPEAT Gold registered configurations available.
• Encryption Support: Full volume encryption supported, including optional Self-Encrypting Drives (SEDs).
• Authentication Methods: Secure authentication methods are supported through OS and software features, including optional biometric security like fingerprint readers.
• General Recommendations: Utilize all available HP security features, keep BIOS/firmware and operating system updated, and implement strong authentication practices.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: The HP Z4 G4 Workstation offers a robust security posture, integrating both hardware and software-based protections. Features like HP Sure Start Gen3 provide critical defense against BIOS attacks, while HP Client Security Suite and TPM 2.0 enhance data and identity protection. The availability of self-encrypting drives and physical security options further strengthens its security profile, making it a highly secure platform for sensitive professional workloads.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores: Specific, standardized benchmark scores are not consistently provided in the available information. Performance is generally described qualitatively.
• Real-World Performance Metrics:
  • Excels in demanding professional applications such as 3D CAD, rendering, simulation, visualization, and machine learning.
  • Capable of handling high-frequency processing and multi-core workloads efficiently.
  • Described as "one of the quickest systems for any type of graphical application" by reviewers.
  • Provides significant performance gains for multi-threaded tasks.
  • Users report solid, reliable, and powerful performance, with fast and quiet operation.
• Power Consumption: Available with 465 W, 750 W, or 1000 W 90% efficient power supplies, with active PFC. Power consumption varies significantly with configuration and workload.
• Carbon Footprint: ENERGY STAR certified and EPEAT Gold registered configurations indicate adherence to environmental standards, implying efforts to minimize energy consumption and environmental impact.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Positioned as HP's best-selling single-processor performance workstation, offering a balance of performance, expandability, and value compared to higher-end dual-processor Z6 G4 and Z8 G4 models.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: The HP Z4 G4 Workstation is a high-performance machine designed for intensive professional applications. Its configurable architecture, supporting powerful Intel Xeon W or Core X-series processors and dual professional GPUs, ensures it can tackle complex tasks like 3D modeling, rendering, and data analysis with ease. While specific benchmark numbers are not detailed, user feedback and product descriptions consistently highlight its speed, reliability, and capability to handle demanding workflows without delay. The availability of high-wattage, efficient power supplies supports these powerful configurations.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews for the HP Z4 G4 Workstation generally highlight its strengths in reliability, performance, and quiet operation. Many users commend its solid build quality and suitability for professional office environments.

• Strengths:
  • Reliability and Stability: Frequently described as solid, reliable, and having "zero issues."
  • Performance: Users report excellent performance, capable of handling demanding tasks and providing necessary compute power for office work and specialized applications.
  • Quiet Operation: Noted for being very quiet, even under load, contributing to a pleasant work environment.
  • Expandability: The ability to install additional storage (like SSDs) is appreciated, though some users opt for custom configurations from the start.
  • Professional Design: Appreciated for its clean, sleek design that avoids unnecessary flashy elements.
• Weaknesses:
  • SSD Speed Expectations: One review mentioned that the solid-state drive, while present, did not provide as significant a boot-up speed improvement as hoped.
  • Limited M.2 Slots on Core X: Some configurations, particularly with Core X-series processors, may have fewer M.2 slots directly on the motherboard compared to Xeon W variants.
  • Initial Configuration: Some users found the default storage configuration might be "a bit small" for their needs, leading them to add extra drives.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Engineering, 3D CAD, rendering, and simulation applications.
  • Visualization and machine learning.
  • Video editing and content creation.
  • General professional office work requiring significant compute power.

Summary

The HP Z4 G4 Workstation stands as a highly capable and versatile single-processor workstation, designed to meet the rigorous demands of professionals across various industries, including engineering, media, and scientific fields. Its primary strength lies in its extensive configurability, offering a choice between powerful Intel Xeon W-series processors for ECC memory and enhanced I/O, or Intel Core X-series processors for high-frequency, multi-core performance in applications like game development and VR. This flexibility allows users to tailor the system precisely to their workload requirements.

Key strengths include its robust performance for 3D CAD, rendering, and simulation, supported by ample RAM capacity (up to 512GB ECC), diverse high-speed storage options (including NVMe SSDs and RAID), and support for dual professional graphics cards. The workstation is lauded for its reliability, quiet operation, and tool-free design, which simplifies maintenance and upgrades.

Security is a significant highlight, with advanced features like HP Sure Start Gen3, HP Client Security Suite, and TPM 2.0 providing comprehensive protection against various threats, from BIOS attacks to data breaches. Physical security options and support for self-encrypting drives further enhance its secure posture.

While specific benchmark figures are less emphasized in public information, qualitative reviews consistently praise its speed and efficiency in real-world professional scenarios. Minor weaknesses noted by users include occasional expectations for even faster SSD boot times and the need to consider initial storage configurations carefully.

Overall, the HP Z4 G4 is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a powerful, reliable, and secure workstation that can adapt to evolving demands through its extensive upgradeability and broad software compatibility. It delivers a compelling blend of performance, expandability, and enterprise-grade features.

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.