HP Z8 G 4s

Basic Information

The HP Z8 G4 is a high-performance desktop workstation designed for demanding professional applications such as 3D modeling, simulations, video editing, and data analysis.

• Model: HP Z8 G4 Workstation
• Release Date: Announced in September 2017.
• Minimum Requirements: Supports Intel Xeon Scalable processors (1st and 2nd Gen). Requires specific hardware for full Windows functionality and updates.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 Pro for Workstations 64-bit, Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, and various Linux distributions including Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop, and Ubuntu. Windows 7 Professional 64-bit was supported via downgrade media upon request.
• Latest Stable Version (BIOS): BIOS version 2.71 (as of July 2021 refresh) includes enhancements for Intel Xeon SP First and Second Generation CPU Microcode.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly published, but HP typically stops supporting most products after 10 years.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly published. An obsolescence date of May 31, 2020, was noted for some configurations.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Windows 10 is automatically updated.
• License Type: Typically comes with a Windows Pro for Workstations license. Red Hat Enterprise Linux is available with a 1-year paper license.
• Deployment Model: Tower workstation, designed for desktop or deskside use, with rack-mountable options available.

Technical Specifications

The HP Z8 G4 is engineered for extreme power and scalability, featuring a tool-less chassis for easy upgrades and maintenance.

• Processor: Supports single or dual Intel Xeon Scalable processors (1st and 2nd Generation, e.g., Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze series), offering up to 56 total cores (112 threads with Hyper-Threading).
• RAM: Up to 3 TB DDR4 ECC SDRAM across 24 DIMM slots, with speeds up to 2933 MT/s (depending on processor generation). Supports Intel Optane DC Persistent Memory.
• Storage: Up to 56 TB total storage. Supports up to 24 storage drives, including PCIe NVMe SSDs (like HP Z Turbo Drive) and traditional SATA HDDs. RAID configurations are available.
• Graphics: Accommodates up to two NVIDIA RTX A6000 or one AMD Radeon Pro W6800 GPUs. Supports a wide range of NVIDIA Quadro RTX and AMD Radeon Pro cards, including up to two NVIDIA Quadro GV100.
• Ports:
  • Front: Headset audio, 2x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A. Premium front I/O offers 2x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C and 2x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A. Optional media card reader.
  • Rear: 6x USB 3.1 Gen 1, 1x Serial, PS/2 keyboard and mouse, 2x RJ-45 Gigabit LAN. Optional 2x 10GbE LAN ports. Audio line-in and line-out.
  • Internal: 3x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.0 Gen 1.
• Operating System: Configurable with Windows 10 Pro for Workstations, Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, or various Linux distributions.
• Dimensions: Approximately 21.59 cm (W) x 55.12 cm (D) x 44.45 cm (H).
• Weight: Minimum 22.4 kg (49.4 lbs), typical 23.7 kg (52.2 lbs), maximum 31.7 kg (70 lbs) depending on configuration.
• Power Supply: Choices include 1125W, 1450W, and 1700W, all 90% efficient.

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The HP Z8 G4 stands out as a top-tier workstation, offering immense processing power with dual Intel Xeon Scalable CPUs and extensive memory capacity up to 3TB ECC DDR4. Its support for multiple high-end professional GPUs makes it suitable for graphics-intensive tasks, AI, and machine learning. The flexible storage options, including NVMe SSDs and RAID, ensure rapid data access and large project handling. The comprehensive array of ports, including high-speed USB and optional 10GbE, provides excellent connectivity. The tool-less design enhances serviceability and upgrade potential, making it a highly adaptable platform for evolving professional needs.

Support & Compatibility

The HP Z8 G4 offers robust support and broad compatibility for professional environments.

• Latest Version: The workstation has received BIOS updates, with version 2.71 available as of July 2021, enhancing CPU microcode support.
• OS Support: Supports Windows 10 Pro for Workstations (64-bit, version 20H2 or later, including 21H1), Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, and various Linux distributions (Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7.4/12/15, SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 12/15, Ubuntu 16.04/18.04/20.04 LTS).
• End of Support Date: HP typically supports products for about 10 years, though specific dates are not always published.
• Localization: Drivers and software are available globally through HP's official support website, with localized versions for various regions.
• Available Drivers: Drivers, firmware, and software are available for download from the official HP support website for Windows and Mac operating systems. HP qualified drivers may be preloaded or available online.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: The HP Z8 G4 demonstrates excellent support and compatibility, particularly for its target professional market. HP provides comprehensive driver and software downloads, ensuring compatibility with current and recent Windows and Linux operating systems. The workstation is ISV certified for leading professional applications, guaranteeing optimal performance and stability. While specific end-of-support dates are not always public, HP's general policy suggests a long support lifecycle. The availability of BIOS updates further extends its longevity and compatibility with newer components.

Security Status

The HP Z8 G4 integrates advanced security features to protect device, identity, and data.

• Security Features: Includes HP Client Security Suite Gen3 and HP Sure Start Gen3, which is a self-healing BIOS with intrusion detection. Features Intel vPro Technology on all Intel Xeon CPUs.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread vulnerabilities are highlighted in the provided data, but regular BIOS and software updates address potential security issues.
• Blacklist Status: No information indicates a blacklist status.
• Certifications: ENERGY STAR certified. EPEAT Gold and Silver registrations (status varies by country).
• Encryption Support: Supports various encryption methods through operating system features and hardware capabilities.
• Authentication Methods: Utilizes standard operating system authentication methods and potentially additional features through HP Client Security Suite.
• General Recommendations: HP Wolf Security for Business is recommended for enhanced security, requiring Windows 10 or higher. Disabling Windows firewall may be recommended for certain configurations, such as with Avid.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: The HP Z8 G4 offers a strong security posture with built-in hardware-level protections like HP Sure Start Gen3 and software suites like HP Client Security Suite Gen3. These features provide a robust defense against firmware attacks and unauthorized access. The inclusion of Intel vPro technology further enhances manageability and security for enterprise environments. While no specific vulnerabilities are detailed, the continuous provision of BIOS updates indicates HP's commitment to maintaining security. Its environmental certifications also reflect a commitment to responsible manufacturing.

Performance & Benchmarks

The HP Z8 G4 is designed for unthrottled, real-time performance in demanding professional workflows.

• Benchmark Scores:
  • Geekbench 6 (Intel Xeon Platinum 8260, 2 Processors, 48 Cores): Single-Core Score: 4646, Multi-Core Score: 101540.
  • Geekbench (Intel Xeon Platinum 8160): Scores available.
  • Geekbench (Intel Xeon Silver 4216): Single-Core Score: 1046.
  • Nero Score (Intel Xeon Gold 6136, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 Ti): Average performance for AI Tagging (76 photos/sec), Average for Metaverse/games (9808 GPU score). Excellent for video quality (Ultra-High). Hardware acceleration is 637% faster than software-only encoding.
• Real-World Performance Metrics:
  • Capable of running complex simulations, editing 8K video in real-time, and handling advanced machine learning algorithms.
  • Excels in highly parallel tasks and extreme multi-tasking due to high core counts.
  • Tremendous speed-up for data science workflows, especially when combined with NVIDIA RAPIDS and Quadro RTX GPUs.
  • Performance in Adobe applications like After Effects and Premiere Pro can vary; some tests showed slower performance compared to mobile workstations for certain tasks not optimized for massive core counts.
• Power Consumption: Power supply options range from 1125W to 1700W, 90% efficient, indicating high power delivery for demanding components.
• Carbon Footprint: ENERGY STAR certified and designed with recyclable materials, aiming to reduce environmental impact and lower power consumption.
• Comparison with Similar Assets:
  • Compared to Dell Precision T7920 and Lenovo ThinkStation P920, the Z8 G4 offers similar high-end performance with support for dual Intel Xeon processors, up to 3 TB of memory, and advanced graphics.
  • Often has slightly higher specifications (more USB ports, PCIe slots, RAM slots, PSU grunt) than its Lenovo counterparts.
  • Features a more tool-less design and potentially longer warranty than the Lenovo P920.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: The HP Z8 G4 is a powerhouse workstation, consistently delivering exceptional performance for the most intensive professional applications. Its dual Intel Xeon Scalable processors and massive ECC memory capacity provide a strong foundation for multi-threaded workloads, simulations, and large datasets. While some software applications may not fully leverage its extreme core count, its overall capability for GPU-accelerated tasks, 8K video editing, and AI/ML development is outstanding. The high-efficiency power supplies and ENERGY STAR certification indicate a balance between raw power and environmental responsibility. It remains a competitive option against other high-end workstations in its class.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback highlights the HP Z8 G4 as a robust and highly capable workstation.

Strengths:

• Extreme Power: Users praise its ability to handle complex simulations, 8K video editing, and advanced machine learning algorithms in real-time.
• Scalability: The extensive expandability with dual CPUs, numerous DIMM slots, and multiple PCIe slots allows for significant future upgrades.
• Tool-less Design: The chassis design is frequently lauded for its ease of access, making upgrades and maintenance straightforward.
• Quiet Operation: Innovative acoustic design ensures the workstation runs cool and quiet even under heavy loads.
• Robust Build Quality: Described as durable and reliable, built to withstand daily professional use.
• ISV Certifications: Confidence in performance with leading software applications due to certifications.

Weaknesses:

• Software Optimization: Some professional applications, particularly older ones or those not heavily multi-threaded, may not fully utilize the massive core count, leading to potentially unexpected performance in specific benchmarks.
• Cost: As a high-end workstation, it represents a significant investment, though refurbished options offer more affordability.

Recommended Use Cases:

• 3D modeling, rendering, and animation.
• Video editing (especially 8K) and post-production.
• Scientific research and complex simulations.
• AI, machine learning, and deep learning development.
• Data analysis and handling massive datasets.

Summary

The HP Z8 G4 Workstation is a formidable asset, engineered to meet the most demanding computational and graphical challenges faced by professionals. Its core strength lies in its exceptional processing power, configurable with one or two Intel Xeon Scalable processors, offering up to 56 cores and 112 threads. This is complemented by an expansive memory architecture supporting up to 3 TB of DDR4 ECC RAM, crucial for memory-intensive applications and large datasets. The workstation's ability to house multiple high-end professional GPUs, such as NVIDIA RTX A6000 or AMD Radeon Pro W6800, makes it an ideal platform for 3D rendering, complex simulations, 8K video editing, and advanced AI/ML workloads.

Strengths include its highly scalable and customizable nature, allowing users to tailor configurations to specific needs. The tool-less chassis design simplifies maintenance and upgrades, enhancing its long-term usability. Furthermore, its robust security features, including HP Sure Start Gen3, provide critical protection for sensitive data and operations. The Z8 G4 also boasts a thoughtful acoustic design, ensuring quiet operation even under heavy loads, and is ENERGY STAR certified, reflecting a commitment to energy efficiency.

A notable weakness is that while it offers immense raw power, some software applications may not be optimized to fully leverage its extreme core count, potentially leading to varied performance in specific scenarios. Its high-end nature also means a significant initial investment.

Overall, the HP Z8 G4 is highly recommended for professionals in engineering, architecture, media and entertainment, finance, and scientific research who require unparalleled performance, reliability, and expandability. It excels in environments where handling massive datasets, running complex simulations, and performing real-time 8K video editing or advanced AI computations are daily tasks. Its robust design and comprehensive support infrastructure make it a reliable workhorse for mission-critical 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.