The ARM architecture is still looking for expansion possibilities, and a promising range is that of the server. Now Gigabyte has released two models with ThunderX2 processors that want to be an alternative to x86.
R181-T90 and R281-T91 Gigabyte Servers
The R181-T90 and R281-T91 are 1U and 2U servers with two 28-core Cavium ThunderX2 CN9975 processors that are 2 to 3 times better than the first generation of ThunderX.
The CPU supports up to 8 DDR4 memory channels with up to 24 DIMM slots, 56 PCIe Gen 3 lanes, 32 MB distributed L3 cache and uses the second generation of Cavium Coherent Interconnect with up to 600 Gbps.
The 1U factor model provides space for 8 SAS or 10 SATA3 hard drives from 2.5″, while the 2U R281-T91 provides space for 24 SAS or SATA bays and 2 more for SATA 2.5″, in both cases with hot-swap capability, so they can be removed and replaced without rebooting.
The two servers also have two redundant 80 Plus Platinum certified power supplies with 1200W power and the motherboard developed by the manufacturer has the highest quality components as expected.
It would be difficult to see the performance and efficiency benefits of these ARM servers, but for certain data centers with certain applications that do not need to emulate x86 code, this can be a great option for such clients.