Compaq Proliant 3000 processor upgrades

[Frederick Heil]

I'm looking to (physically) consolidate two of our old Compaq Proliant 3000 servers to save space in our racks. I was thinking maybe I would combine the processors as well and do a dual, but I can't find any install instructions on this process. Are there any special requirements (more DIMMs, another fan, matched speeds, etc) that I need to know about before I install?

Thanks,
Rick

[Alan_152]

You'll need matching slot-1 processors and the power regulators for each processor.

I've had some success taking one of these from P2 to Celeron or P3, but you have to have the most up to date firmware on the system. I've actually had better luck with early generation 1850s and DL380s in that department, as the DL38s are still being produced. Start with P2s and experiment a bit to see what you can get.

Of course, once you get dual processors going, you'll need to change the HAL on a windows box to accomodate the change.

[Frederick Heil]

Alrighty. So I'd need two identical (speed) processors and the matching ppms (that I expected). I found a sheet in a PDF manual on where to place the DIMMS in what order, so that's taken care of. I'll probably put in the redundant fans, or at least use whichever ones are quieter.

You mentioned the HAL - how would I go about upgrading that to handle both chips?

(I'm new to the upgrading of servers, I usually just program 'em and manage my SQL and Access databases. Most of my computer construction experience comes from working on PCs at home.)

[Alan_152 · Accepted solution]

To change the HAL, boot the system, go to the device manager, select processor, and update the item that says "Acpi single processor" to "Acpi dual processor". You'll need your windows install disk for that.