Intel Server Platform LB440GX 2U - no CPU

Advantages: small, easily upgraded with standard hardware
Disadvantages: should be dual proc

...I have the Econel 50 and unlike some of the more comon server platforms it offers quite a bit in terms of upgrade-ability. It is a little tight in there if you're adding more drives (3.5 &* 5.25) so I recommend keeping your cable management tight. It's a reliable build on the Intel Chipset and I've yet to see a BSOD! The Motherboard build is of expected server high quality and there is no sign of popping electrolytic capacitors around the CPU; there is ample cooling as the PSU doubles as the cooling (snug exhaust fit) over the large CPU heatsink. The installation tools that come on the setup CDs provide a pre-installation environment based upon a flavor of Linux and allows you to install Win 2K up to 2K3 Enterprise. Ideal for a budget server, not designed to be mission critical, would be great as a DUAL CPU or DUAL core as struggles... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Good points - Nice looking box and lots of pre-installed software with easy web-based configuration
Disadvantages: Bad points – Nothing special on the inside, lacks refinement.

...L440GX+ chipset. Also present were two hot-swappable 9GB Ultra2 SCSI hard disks connected to a Mylex AcceleRAID RAID controller. From the outside, if looks are something you take into account when buying hardware, it is a stunner indeed. The rain drop, organic looks with differing shades of cool blue and a few futuristic-looking electric blue lights may win a few beauty contests and look good on a sales stand. But to virtually all of us that buy servers to be locked away in a cold room with only other computers for company these stylistic features will be lost on most professionals. Anyone who has looked inside a thin server will be familiar with the layout of the server’s insides. The top cover is secured by a couple of thumbscrews on the back. A quick whack will loosen this cover off to reveal the insides. The one thing that struck... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average off topic

Advantages: Pro: Slinky, power-packed server for cramped datacentres.
Disadvantages: Con: No 64-bit PCI slots, not enough PCI expansion slots.

...drives, a slower bus and older 500MHz Pentium III processors. Inside the casing everything looks easy to swap out. The top covers fold out to allow easy access to the interior. The two redundant hot-plug power supplies are a doddle to pull out quickly if needed. The hard drives are hot-swappable too, but a metal lock will stop anyone pulling out a disk drive accidentally. The chassis weighs in at 22.7kg and has a 2U rack height with a depth of 66.6cm, this is important for IT managers looking to pack as much processing power and storage space in a cramped datacentre or server room. The memory modules could prove finicky to remove if you have big fingers and cabling got in the way when trying to take out the fan. However, setting up the server was nice and quick with the minimum amount of fuss. The PowerEdge 2450 is the first in its class... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful