HPE SmartMemory 256GB DDR4 SDRAM Memory Module

Elevate your data center performance with the HPE SmartMemory 256GB DDR4 SDRAM Memory Module, a high-density solution engineered for reliability, efficiency, and maximum throughput. Tailored for enterprise workloads, this module empowers HPE ProLiant servers—Gen9, Gen10, and Gen10 Plus—to handle virtualization, in-memory databases, real-time analytics, and large-scale caching with confidence. HPE SmartMemory combines dense capacity with intelligent memory management to unlock faster application response, smoother peak-load behavior, and a more predictable infrastructure footprint. When you deploy this module, you’re investing in a memory subsystem designed to scale with growing workloads while maintaining rigorous data integrity and streamlined operations.

Designed to optimize memory subsystem performance, the 256GB module delivers substantial headroom for modern, memory-hungry applications. Large virtual machine footprints, database caches, and in-memory processing tasks benefit from the increased capacity per DIMM, reducing the need for sprawling memory footprints across dozens of modules. The result is improved guest density, faster cold-starts, and more consistent performance under peak utilization. HPE SmartMemory also emphasizes reliability through robust error detection and correction features, helping protect critical workloads from memory-related faults and transient issues that can impact service levels. In practice, this translates to fewer operational interruptions, faster troubleshooting, and higher confidence in meeting tight uptime objectives.

Compatibility is at the core of this memory solution. HPE explicitly validates SmartMemory modules for seamless operation within HPE ProLiant Gen9, Gen10, and Gen10 Plus servers. This means you can confidently upgrade or refresh your memory with minimal risk, knowing that the modules are designed to work with the server firmware, BIOS, and management tooling you rely on. The plug-and-play nature reduces deployment time and simplifies capacity planning, enabling IT teams to scale memory in line with evolving workloads. As part of a cohesive HPE memory ecosystem, these modules align with other SmartMemory components to deliver coherent management telemetry, consistent performance, and straightforward firmware alignment across the platform.

Efficiency is another hallmark of HPE SmartMemory. DDR4 technology provides higher bandwidth per watt, contributing to lower energy consumption per operation and improved thermal characteristics for dense server configurations. For data centers aiming to optimize total cost of ownership, the 256GB module helps compress memory density into fewer DIMMs, reducing wiring complexity, motherboard traces, and power delivery overhead. The combination of higher capacity and smarter memory management supports more efficient virtualization clusters, large-scale analytics environments, and software-defined infrastructures where memory efficiency directly translates into cost savings and energy savings over time.

Beyond raw performance and efficiency, HPE SmartMemory emphasizes manageability and lifecycle resilience. These modules are designed to support enterprise-grade diagnostics, health monitoring, and predictable firmware compatibility. Such features translate into proactive maintenance capabilities, easier capacity expansion planning, and more reliable firmware update cycles. For IT teams, this means clearer visibility into memory health and easier integration with monitoring tools, intelligent alerts, and faster remediation when issues arise. The result is a more stable operating environment and a smoother path from provisioning to production, even as workloads evolve toward more demanding configurations and multi-tenant deployments.

• Performance boost for demanding workloads: The 256GB per-module density enables larger memory footprints for virtualization, database caching, and in-memory analytics, delivering faster response times and smoother operation under peak loads.
• Industry-leading reliability: HPE SmartMemory emphasizes data integrity with robust error detection and correction features, reducing the risk of memory-related outages and enabling more predictable service levels.
• Designed for easy integration: Validated for HPE ProLiant Gen9, Gen10, and Gen10 Plus servers, these modules integrate with existing infrastructure with minimal disruption and clear guidance for installation and firmware alignment.
• Energy efficiency and lower TCO: DDR4 technology improves performance per watt, contributing to cooler operation and lower energy costs, a meaningful consideration for large, always-on deployments.
• Scalable memory strategy: High-capacity modules enable dense memory configurations, reducing chassis footprint while providing the capacity needed for virtualization, large databases, and memory-intensive applications.

Technical Details of HPE SmartMemory 256GB DDR4 SDRAM Memory Module

• Capacity: 256GB per module
• Memory Type: DDR4 SDRAM
• Form Factor: DIMM
• ECC: Supported in enterprise SKUs (verify per SKU)
• Registered/Unbuffered: Varies by SKU (RDIMM or LRDIMM); check exact product specification
• Compatibility: Designed for HPE ProLiant Gen9, Gen10, and Gen10 Plus servers

How to install HPE SmartMemory 256GB DDR4 SDRAM Memory Module

Prepare your server by shutting it down, unplugging power, and grounding yourself to prevent static discharge. Open the server chassis and locate the appropriate memory DIMM slots according to the server’s memory population rules. When handling the module, hold it by the edges to avoid touching the gold contacts. Align the notch on the module with the slot key, then apply even, firm pressure straight down until the module seats securely and the retention clips snap into place. If you are upgrading, remove existing modules first by releasing the clips and lifting the module outward. Reinsert the new 256GB DIMM in the correct slot order to maintain proper memory interleaving and to maximize performance. Once all modules are seated, close the chassis, reconnect power, and boot the server. Enter the system BIOS or iLO management interface to confirm the memory is detected at the expected capacity and speed. Run a POST or memory diagnostic test to verify stability. Finally, ensure your server firmware and memory controller drivers are up to date to guarantee optimal interoperability with Gen9, Gen10, and Gen10 Plus platforms.

Frequently asked questions

• What is HPE SmartMemory? HPE SmartMemory refers to HPE’s optimized DDR4 memory technology for servers, emphasizing reliability, performance, and intelligent management to support demanding workloads in ProLiant environments.
• Which workloads benefit most from 256GB memory modules? Virtualization, large-scale databases, in-memory analytics, real-time processing, and memory-intensive workloads benefit substantially from high-capacity memory modules, enabling larger caches and more responsive applications.
• Are these modules compatible with all HPE ProLiant generations? They are designed for Gen9, Gen10, and Gen10 Plus servers. Always verify exact SKU compatibility with your server model and firmware version through the product page or HPE support.
• Do I need to update firmware when adding SmartMemory? Firmware and BIOS updates are commonly recommended to maximize compatibility and performance. Check for and apply the latest firmware guidance before or after installation to ensure optimal operation.
• What is the warranty on HPE SmartMemory modules? Warranty terms vary by SKU and region. Consult the official product page or HPE support for precise warranty details corresponding to your purchase.