How to Identify Dell PowerEdge Server Generation

Dell PowerEdge servers with common design components are be grouped into generations, This article provides general guidance for PowerEdge server model naming conventions to help identify the generation and key components.

To identify the generation of a Dell PowerEdge server, follow these steps:

1. Check the Model Number

Locate the Model Number: Found on the server’s front bezel, rear label, or within system information (BIOS/iDRAC).

Decode the Model Number:

Format: [Series][Generation][Design] (e.g., R740 = Rack (R), 7 Series, 14th Generation).

Key Rule: The second digit in the model number indicates the generation when added to 10.

Example: R740 → Second digit = 4 → Generation = 14 (10 + 4).

2. Use Dell’s Support Site

Enter the Service Tag (found on the server’s label) at Dell Support. The site will display the generation and full specifications.

3. Check BIOS or iDRAC

BIOS: Boot into BIOS; the main screen often lists the model and generation.

iDRAC: Access the iDRAC web interface (via IP) to view detailed system info, including generation.

4. Command-Line Tools

Linux: Run sudo dmidecode -s system-product-name to get the model number.

Windows: Use msinfo32 or PowerShell:  Get-WmiObject Win32_ComputerSystem | Select-Object Model

5. Physical Indicators (Less Reliable)

LCD Bezel Color:

• 12th Gen (Rx20): Blue
• 13th Gen (Rx30): Green
• 14th Gen (Rx40): Orange

CPU Architecture:

• 12th Gen (2012): Intel Ivy Bridge
• 13th Gen (2014): Intel Haswell
• 14th Gen (2017): Intel Broadwell/Skylake
• 15th Gen (2020): Intel Cascade Lake/AMD Milan

Reference Chart

Example Workflow

Model Number: R740 → Second digit = 4 → 14th Generation.

Service Tag: Enter at Dell Support → Confirms "PowerEdge R740 (14th Gen)".

iDRAC/BIOS: System Info → "PowerEdge R740, Generation 14".

This method ensures accurate identification regardless of server configuration or age.