HPE ProLiant DL320 Gen12 x16 PCIe Primary Riser Kit

Unlock unparalleled PCIe expansion and maximize the performance envelope of your HPE ProLiant DL320 Gen12 server with the DL320 Gen12 x16 PCIe Primary Riser Kit. This purpose-built accessory is engineered to deliver a clean, data-center-grade path between your server’s backplane and high-bandwidth PCIe devices, enabling you to deploy accelerators, high-speed networking, or additional storage controllers without compromising reliability or manageability. Built for enterprise workloads and dense rack environments, this riser kit helps you squeeze more I/O capability from a single 1U DL320 Gen12 chassis while preserving airflow, system stability, and serviceability. If you’re upgrading a DL320 Gen12 to support AI inference, virtualization, virtual desktop infrastructure, or data analytics, this primary riser kit is designed to integrate seamlessly with your existing hardware and firmware ecosystem, ensuring consistent performance and straightforward scalability.

• Expanded PCIe capacity with a dedicated x16 path: The primary riser provides a high-bandwidth PCIe x16 expansion path from the server backplane to add-in cards, enabling GPUs, accelerators, high-speed NICs, and other PCIe devices to operate at full bandwidth for demanding workloads.
• Precise HPE compatibility for DL320 Gen12: Engineered specifically for the HPE ProLiant DL320 Gen12 family, ensuring dependable interoperability with the server’s backplane, chassis, firmware, and management tooling.
• 1U chassis optimization for dense deployments: Designed to fit cleanly inside compact 1U DL320 Gen12 configurations, reducing cabling clutter and preserving airflow to maintain cool, reliable operation in data center racks.
• Rugged build with enterprise reliability: Crafted with durable materials and precise connectors to withstand vibration, thermal cycling, and long-term operation within enterprise environments, while remaining easy to install and service.
• Easy integration with existing management and firmware: Works in concert with HPE firmware updates, iLO management, and standard support ecosystems, so you can monitor, update, and maintain the system without compatibility concerns.

Technical Details of HPE ProLiant DL320 Gen12 x16 PCIe Primary Riser Kit

• Product Type: PCIe primary riser kit for HPE ProLiant DL320 Gen12 servers
• Form Factor: 1U DL320 Gen12 rack-mount compatible riser assembly
• PCIe Interface: PCIe x16 primary expansion path designed for high-bandwidth add-in cards
• Compatibility: Specifically designed for the DL320 Gen12 server family; compatible with standard HPE backplanes and chassis
• Material & Construction: High-quality metal chassis with shielding and robust connectors for reliable operation
• Included Accessories: Mounting hardware and documentation for installation and firmware alignment
• Warranty & Support: Supported under HPE service and firmware compatibility with the DL320 Gen12 platform

How to install HPE ProLiant DL320 Gen12 x16 PCIe Primary Riser Kit

• Power down the DL320 Gen12 server, unplug all power sources, and disconnect any peripheral cables to ensure safety during installation.
• Remove the server cover and locate the PCIe backplane area where the primary riser will interface with the system backplane and expansion slots.
• If a previous riser is installed, carefully detach it following the DL320 Gen12 service guide, ensuring all connectors are free of debris and undamaged.
• Align the HPE DL320 Gen12 x16 PCIe Primary Riser Kit with the designated riser slot and slide it into place, ensuring full engagement of the backplane connectors.
• Secure the riser kit using the included mounting hardware, making sure the bracket is firmly attached to the chassis to prevent movement during operation.
• Reconnect any required power or signaling cables as specified by the installation guide, then reattach the server cover and re-seat all components that were removed during the process.
• Resume power and boot the server. Enter the system BIOS/UEFI and verify that the new PCIe x16 path is detected and available for PCIe devices. Update to the latest firmware if prompted by the iLO or BIOS interface.
• Install and configure your PCIe add-in cards (GPUs, NICs, accelerators, etc.) within the operating system and vendor-specific management tools, ensuring proper driver support and firmware alignment.

Frequently asked questions

• What does this riser kit do? It expands the PCIe I/O capabilities of the HPE DL320 Gen12 server by providing a dedicated x16 PCIe expansion path to accommodate high-bandwidth add-in cards such as GPUs, accelerators, NICs, and storage controllers, enabling richer configurations and faster data processing.
• Is the kit compatible with all DL320 Gen12 configurations? Yes. The kit is designed for the DL320 Gen12 family and works with standard backplanes and chassis configurations supported by HPE for this generation. Always verify firmware compatibility with your specific SKU.
• Do I need to update firmware after installation? It is recommended to install the latest BIOS/firmware updates for the DL320 Gen12 and the riser kit to ensure optimal performance, compatibility, and stability with PCIe devices.
• Can I install a GPU or NVMe adapter on this riser? The riser provides an x16 PCIe path suitable for PCIe expansion cards. Depending on your server chassis and power budget, GPUs, accelerators, or NICs can be installed, provided they are compatible with the DL320 Gen12 platform and cooling design.
• Does installation void warranty? Installing a HPE-approved riser kit according to the official installation guide typically remains within warranty terms and service options. Always follow the vendor’s guidelines and consult your HPE representative if you are unsure.
• Is professional installation recommended? For optimal results and to avoid any impact on system stability, professional installation through certified HPE services is recommended, especially in production environments or high-availability setups.