On HPE ProLiant servers, memory compatibility starts with the System ROM (HPE's name for the BIOS). ROM updates add support for new DIMM sizes and fix memory initialization problems, and HPE's population rules decide which layouts boot at all. Checking both before you order memory avoids the most common upgrade failures: modules not recognized, configuration errors at POST and servers that will not boot.
Firmware items that affect memory
| Servers | Firmware | Memory change |
|---|---|---|
| DL325, DL345, DL365, DL385 Gen11 | System ROM v1.20 (Jan 2023) | Added support for 128GB and larger DIMMs and mixed installations of those sizes |
| DL360, DL380, ML110 and other Gen11 | System ROM 2.42 or later | Fixes hangs at DIMM initialization with two DIMMs per channel |
| Gen10 servers | Latest System ROM | HPE's first step for unrecognized memory and DIMM configuration errors |
| DL320, DL340 Gen12 | System ROM v1.60 | Shows MRDIMM type on the memory information page |
Population rules
HPE's Gen11 memory population guidance states that configurations not listed are not supported, and that the server may not boot if they are installed. The Integrated Management Log reports problems in plain terms, for example "Unsupported DIMM configuration detected" or "Mixed DIMM configuration is not supported in this system." Plan the layout from the server's population table before ordering.
Pre-upgrade checklist for HPE
- Record the System ROM, redundant ROM and iLO versions (iLO, Firmware & OS Software, Installed Firmware).
- Download the latest System ROM for the exact model. Gen10 and later need no support contract.
- Read the release notes for memory items, especially on Gen11 with two DIMMs per channel.
- Update the ROM through iLO and reboot; the server does not reboot on its own.
- Plan the population from HPE's table for your processor count and DIMM count.
- Install, boot, then check the IML and System Information for the full total.
Update steps are in how to update BIOS on HPE ProLiant servers, installation in how to install RAM in an HPE ProLiant server, and error messages in troubleshooting memory errors on HPE ProLiant. The HPE server memory guide covers memory by generation.
HPE memory from NEMIX RAM
NEMIX RAM lists memory by ProLiant model, including the DL380 Gen11, DL385 Gen11 and DL380 Gen10 Plus. Browse HPE memory upgrades, DDR4 RDIMM and data center server memory.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to update HPE firmware before adding memory?
Check it first. HPE's Gen10 troubleshooting guide lists updating the System ROM for memory that is not recognized and for DIMM configuration errors, and Gen11 servers with two DIMMs per channel need System ROM 2.42 or later.
Can a System ROM update add support for new DIMM sizes?
Yes. HPE's release notes for DL325, DL345, DL365 and DL385 Gen11 System ROM v1.20 added support for 128GB and larger DIMMs and for mixed installations of those sizes.
What happens if I install memory in an unsupported layout?
HPE's Gen11 population guidance says configurations not listed are not supported and the server may not boot. The log can report "Unsupported DIMM configuration detected" or "Mixed DIMM configuration is not supported in this system."
Do I need a support contract to download HPE firmware?
Not for Gen10 and later. Gen9 and older servers still need an active warranty or support agreement.
Where do I check the System ROM version?
In iLO under Firmware & OS Software, Installed Firmware, or at the console in System Utilities (F9), System Information.
Buying for more than one system
IT teams and integrators that maintain HPE ProLiant fleets can standardize on one kit per model. Request a quote with your models and quantities, or send us your system model and we will confirm the right module before you order.
Steps and rules are summarized from the vendors' published documentation; follow the guide for your exact model.