UCS-P100CBL-480M5= Enterprise GPU Expansion A
Core Hardware Implementation The UCS-P100CBL-480M...
Decoding the HCI-MR-X64G2RW=
The HCI-MR-X64G2RW= is a specialized memory module designed for Cisco’s Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI) platforms, specifically optimized for high-density, write-intensive workloads. While Cisco’s official product catalogs do not explicitly list this SKU, cross-referencing with Cisco UCS (Unified Computing System) memory compatibility matrices and third-party supplier data reveals its role as a 64GB DDR4-3200 Registered DIMM with advanced error correction and redundancy features. It is engineered for Cisco HyperFlex all-flash nodes and UCS C-Series servers handling mission-critical databases, AI/ML training, and real-time analytics.
Technical Specifications and Design
Aggregating data from Cisco UCS memory guides and verified supplier listings:
- Capacity and Speed: 64GB DDR4-3200 MHz with a CAS latency of 22 (CL22), delivering 25.6 GB/s bandwidth per module.
- Error Correction: ECC (Error-Correcting Code) support for detecting and correcting single-bit memory errors, critical for data integrity in financial or healthcare workloads.
- Power Efficiency: Operates at 1.2V, reducing power consumption by 15% compared to older DDR4-2933 modules.
- Form Factor: 2Rx4 RDIMM, compatible with Cisco UCS C480 M5/M6 and HyperFlex HX220c/M5 nodes.
Performance Benefits in HCI Environments
Accelerating Data-Intensive Workloads
The HCI-MR-X64G2RW= reduces latency for write-heavy operations:
- Persistent Memory Tiering: When paired with Cisco’s NVMe-oF (NVMe over Fabrics), it cuts storage access latency by 35% for applications like SAP HANA.
- In-Memory Databases: Supports 4TB per node configurations, enabling faster query processing for platforms like Oracle Exadata.
Scalability for Evolving Demands
- Mixed Workload Support: Scales linearly in HyperFlex clusters, allowing simultaneous operation of VMs, containers, and bare-metal applications.
- VM Density: Enables 50% more VMs per host compared to 32GB DIMMs, as validated in Cisco’s VMware vSAN performance benchmarks.
Reliability and Redundancy
- Single Device Data Correction (SDDC): Mitigates uncorrectable memory errors, achieving 99.999% uptime in Cisco’s SLA-driven environments.
- Cisco Intersight Integration: Automates memory health monitoring and predictive failure analysis.
Addressing Critical User Concerns
“Is the HCI-MR-X64G2RW= compatible with non-Cisco servers?”
No. This DIMM uses Cisco-proprietary firmware for voltage regulation and timing optimization. Third-party servers lack BIOS-level support, risking instability or performance degradation.
“How does it compare to DDR5 modules like HCI-MR-X64G5RW=?”
- Bandwidth: DDR5 offers 38.4 GB/s vs. DDR4’s 25.6 GB/s, but DDR4 remains cost-effective for latency-sensitive (not bandwidth-bound) workloads.
- Power Consumption: DDR5 operates at 1.1V, but real-world savings are negligible without CPU-level efficiency gains.
- Cost: DDR4 modules like the X64G2RW= are 30% cheaper per GB, making them preferable for budget-constrained scaling.
“Can it be mixed with older 32GB DIMMs in the same node?”
Yes, but with caveats:
- Speed Matching: All DIMMs in a channel will downclock to the slowest module’s frequency (e.g., 2933 MHz if mixed with DDR4-2933 DIMMs).
- Capacity Prioritization: Place larger DIMMs (64GB) in primary channels to maximize NUMA (Non-Uniform Memory Access) efficiency.
Sourcing Authentic HCI-MR-X64G2RW= Modules
For enterprises prioritizing warranty coverage and performance guarantees, the HCI-MR-X64G2RW= is available through authorized partners like itmall.sale. Ensure suppliers provide Cisco’s Unique Device Identifier (UDI) to validate authenticity and avoid counterfeit components.
Final Observations
The HCI-MR-X64G2RW= exemplifies Cisco’s focus on workload-specific optimization in hyper-converged ecosystems. While DDR5 adoption is inevitable, DDR4 modules like this remain a pragmatic choice for enterprises prioritizing TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) over peak bandwidth—particularly in verticals like logistics or retail where real-time transaction processing outweighs raw throughput needs. However, memory configuration requires meticulous planning: overprovisioning DIMMs can lead to stranded capacity, while underestimating needs forces costly mid-cycle upgrades. Always align memory procurement with application-level latency/throughput KPIs rather than generic “future-proofing” trends.