VIDEO A Banned Server and CPU the US Forbids

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A Banned Server and CPU the US Forbids Patrick from ServeTheHome recently featured a fascinating look at the Huawei Taishan 200 series server, specifically the model equipped with the HiSilicon Kunpeng 920 ARM CPUs. This server has garnered significant attention due to its controversial status in the U.S., where it is effectively banned for sale. In his video, Patrick dives deep into the specifications and design features of this unique server, shedding light on what makes it so interesting, and also discusses the implications of its restriction in Western markets.

Overview of the Huawei Taishan 200​

The Huawei Taishan 200, particularly the 2280 model, is not just another server—it's a product that cannot be purchased in the U.S. due to geopolitical tensions. The model he reviews is outfitted with dual 48-core Kunpeng 920 processors, boasting support for PCIe Gen 4 and other modern server features. Despite the advanced specifications, including claims of comparable performance to two 24-core Intel Cascade Lake processors, Patrick suggests that the Kunpeng 920 might not outperform them in real-world applications. This revelation opens a discussion about the usability and viability of ARM servers in a market dominated by x86 architectures.

Unique Features and Design Insights​

The video gives viewers a closer look at some unique design aspects of the Taishan server. For example:

• Thermal Management: An unusual large gap between the airflow guide and fans is noted, which Patrick finds counterintuitive compared to typical server designs.
• Non-Standard Components: The server features non-standard parts such as a distinct BMC and a quad-port NIC based on Realtek RTL811 chips, which are typically found in low-end PCs rather than enterprise servers.
• Custom RAID Controller: The inclusion of a Broadcom SAS RAID controller also raises eyebrows given HUAWEI's general avoidance of U.S. tech components.

Challenges and Considerations​

Importing this server was no small feat; Patrick highlights the difficulties encountered, including delays caused by customs regulations. It serves as a stark reminder of the hurdles companies face in cross-border tech collaborations and the risks associated with using hardware from restricted vendors. Additionally, Patrick advises viewers against purchasing this server for practical applications, suggesting alternatives like Arm-based systems from Ampere, which are more widely supported in terms of availability and parts.

Community Engagement​

As we navigate the complex landscape of server technology, particularly with the rise of ARM architectures, it’s essential to keep discussions ongoing. What are your thoughts on the future of ARM in enterprise applications? Are there innovations or lessons we can learn from the Huawei Taishan server experience? Share your opinions or any experiences related to experimental server technologies! For those interested in exploring more about server hardware or related tutorials, feel free to check out other threads on the forum or contribute your insights!