HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen11 x16 2U Secondary Riser Kit

The HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen11 x16 2U Secondary Riser Kit is a purpose-built expansion solution designed to unleash greater PCIe capacity within dense DL385 Gen11 servers. This secondary riser kit integrates seamlessly with the Gen11 2U architecture, delivering an additional PCIe expansion path without compromising system stability, cooling, or serviceability. Engineered for data centers that demand high-throughput I/O, low latency, and scalable performance, this kit helps you deploy GPUs, NICs, storage controllers, accelerators, and other PCIe devices with confidence. Built to meet enterprise standards, it supports the demanding workloads of virtualization, HPC, AI inference, data analytics, and mission-critical applications while preserving HPE’s reliability and warranty ecosystem. With a focus on straightforward installation and long-term manageability, the DL385 Gen11 x16 2U Secondary Riser Kit is a practical upgrade for organizations investing in future-ready infrastructure.

• Seamless compatibility with DL385 Gen11 2U: Specifically engineered to fit HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen11 systems in a 2U chassis, this kit ensures precise mechanical alignment and a reliable electrical connection to the system’s riser interfaces. The design honors the server’s power, cooling, and firmware topology, enabling a smooth upgrade path without needing substantial chassis modification.
• Expanded PCIe capability with x16 support: The secondary riser creates an additional PCIe expansion lane that supports x16-level bandwidth for accelerator cards, high-speed NICs, or advanced storage controllers. This allows you to extend I/O capacity while preserving the primary riser for core system components, accelerators, or required peripherals, all within a compact 2U footprint.
• Robust enterprise build for reliability: Crafted from high-quality materials and designed with EMI shielding and solid mechanical fastenings, the kit is built to endure rigorous data-center environments. Its rugged construction minimizes vibration-related risks in dense racks and helps maintain signal integrity for critical workloads, ensuring consistent performance across long service lifecycles.
• Thermal-aware design for dense 2U deployments: Recognizing the importance of cooling in compact server configurations, the riser kit aligns with the DL385 Gen11 airflow path to minimize thermal bottlenecks. The layout promotes efficient airflow to the adjacent components, helping sustain peak processing power and reducing thermal throttling during intensive applications.
• Part of the HPE ecosystem with warranty support: This kit integrates into the ProLiant Gen11 upgrade ecosystem and is backed by HPE's service and warranty options. By adhering to HPE’s compatibility standards, it supports firmware updates and certified configurations, giving IT teams a reliable upgrade path within existing support contracts.

Technical Details of HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen11 x16 2U Secondary Riser Kit

• Product type: Secondary Riser Kit for HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen11 2U servers
• Form factor: 2U PCIe expansion riser solution
• Compatibility: Designed for HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen11 2U servers; intended for use within supported Gen11 configurations
• PCIe support: Provides a secondary PCIe expansion path with x16 capability for add-in cards and accelerators
• Riser components included: Riser card, mounting hardware, and connectors as specified by the official kit documentation
• Weight: Refer to the product datasheet for exact mass; typical enterprise riser kits list a modest weight suitable for server installation
• Warranty and service: Compatible with HPE ProLiant warranty and support options; leverages standard firmware and maintenance support for Gen11 platforms

how to install HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen11 x16 2U Secondary Riser Kit

• Power down the server, unplug all power sources, and remove the chassis cover following the HPE DL385 Gen11 maintenance procedure.
• Identify the dedicated secondary riser slot in the 2U chassis as per the official HPE service guide for the DL385 Gen11.
• Carefully align the riser kit with the riser connectors and seating plane, then press firmly to establish a solid electrical connection.
• Secure the riser kit with the provided mounting hardware, ensuring there is no binding or interference with adjacent components or cables.
• Reconnect any required PCIe cables to the expansion cards you plan to use, reinstall relevant add-in cards into the newly available PCIe path if applicable, and verify physical clearance.
• Replace the chassis cover, reconnect power, and boot the system. Enter BIOS/UEFI to confirm the new PCIe path is recognized, and install or update firmware as recommended by HPE to ensure compatibility with Gen11 features.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: Is this kit compatible with all DL385 Gen11 configurations?
• A: The kit is designed for HPE ProLiant DL385 Gen11 2U servers. For use with other Gen11 models or form factors, consult the official compatibility matrix or contact HPE support to confirm suitability for your specific configuration.
• Q: What workloads benefit most from the secondary riser?
• A: Workloads that require expanded PCIe I/O bandwidth, such as GPU-accelerated computing, high-speed networking, and large storage controllers, can gain performance and flexibility from the additional x16 expansion path, especially in virtualization, AI, analytics, and HPC environments.
• Q: Do I need professional services to install this kit?
• A: In most cases, a qualified technician following HP’s installation guidelines can install the kit. If your environment requires complex cabling or firmware updates, HP's professional services or a certified partner can assist to ensure optimal configuration and warranty coverage.
• Q: Will installing the kit affect the server warranty?
• A: When installed on a supported system according to HP/HPE warranty terms and guidelines, the upgrade generally remains within the standard warranty framework. Always verify with HP/HPE regarding current warranty coverage for your exact configuration.
• Q: Where can I find the official installation manual and compatibility details?
• A: The official HPE product page and the DL385 Gen11 service/maintenance manuals provide the definitive installation steps, compatibility notes, and firmware requirements. Check the most recent documentation before proceeding with installation.