Spec me a basic server

Lorddalron · 2 Apr 2012 at 23:32

Looking to add a server to my current system so i can run Exchange server 03 & 08 aswell as Server 2008 to help with Microsoft certification studies. Dont really want to spend no more than £150. Any ideas?

I was looking at item number: 110833275132

Would that be suitable for my project?

SoundsGood · 2 Apr 2012 at 23:35

HP Microserver with cashback

Lorddalron · 3 Apr 2012 at 00:14

SoundsGood said:
HP Microserver with cashback

Tidy bit of kit.

bremen1874 · 3 Apr 2012 at 00:15

If that item number refers to a PowerEdge 830 then I'd avoid it.

The PowerEdge 840 is worth a look if you can get one at the right price. It supports Core 2 processors and is capable of supporting a small production environment. The Dell SC440, Dell T100 and HP’s ML110 (preferably G5 or later) are also viable machines.

For a straight learning system you can’t really go wrong with the HP Microserver suggested above (assuming the cashback offer is still available). You’d probably need to stuff some memory up it, but it’ll take standard DDR3 so it’s dirt cheap.

Lorddalron · 3 Apr 2012 at 00:23

bremen1874 said:
If that item number refers to a PowerEdge 830 then I'd avoid it.

The PowerEdge 840 is worth a look if you can get one at the right price. It supports Core 2 processors and is capable of supporting a small production environment. The Dell SC440, Dell T100 and HP’s ML110 (preferably G5 or later) are also viable machines.

For a straight learning system you can’t really go wrong with the HP Microserver suggested above (assuming the cashback offer is still available). You’d probably need to stuff some memory up it, but it’ll take standard DDR3 so it’s dirt cheap.

Thanks for the advice.

In regards to the cash back offer. Is that via HP.COM/UK?

bremen1874 · 3 Apr 2012 at 00:33

Loose the link, it's breaking the forum rules.

£110 delivered for the secondhand machine linked, or about £150 for a new one (after cashback) with a 12 month warranty. The current machines also have a slightly higher spec.

The cashback is via HP UK.

I've got one of the very first HP Microservers. It has been a very useful machine for testing, and you dont't mind leaving it on because it's quiet and doesn't use much electricity.

Lorddalron · 3 Apr 2012 at 00:36

bremen1874 said:
Loose the link, it's breaking the forum rules.

£110 delivered for the secondhand machine linked, or about £160 for a new one (after cashback) with a 12 month warranty. The current machines also have a slightly higher spec.

The cashback is via HP UK.

Sorry bout that, should have know better. Must try and find this offer then.

Pretty much matches what i need it for.

Lorddalron · 3 Apr 2012 at 00:40

Lorddalron said:
Sorry bout that, should have know better. Must try and find this offer then.

Pretty much matches what i need it for.

Found it

bremen1874 · 3 Apr 2012 at 00:43

There's a massive thread about it here. Its too long to read in full, but still worth a look-see.

Essexraptor · 3 Apr 2012 at 00:48

bremen1874 said:
There's a massive thread about it here. Its too long to read in full, but still worth a look-see.

A lot of the advise is repeated over and over so just jump back a bit in that thread and you'll find most of the info you need quite easily

Lorddalron · 3 Apr 2012 at 00:49

bremen1874 said:
There's a massive thread about it here. Its too long to read in full, but still worth a look-see.

Thanks man, Appreciate the help. Just watching a few videos about it here.
Think i may go for it and increase the memory down the line.

Lorddalron · 3 Apr 2012 at 00:59

What would be the best method for me to connect this to my computer. Can i simply connect it via USB or would it be better connected to my home hub(situated in another room from my pc)

Essexraptor · 3 Apr 2012 at 01:04

To network via router or switch

Lorddalron · 3 Apr 2012 at 01:13

Essexraptor said:
To network via router or switch

I see your running one mate. Good job?

Lorddalron · 3 Apr 2012 at 01:27

Think i'll move my router back into the kitchen when i get this. I only have it in the living room so i can connect my bluray, amp and Sky box for firmware updates but firmware updates dont come around too often and it wouldn't be too hard to get a long network cable to check every now and again.

Must mention this to my cousin as well as i know he has been looking for a suitable server for some time and this is indeed a bargain.

Essexraptor · 3 Apr 2012 at 01:54

Lorddalron said:
I see your running one mate. Good job?

Yes... well worth the effort ( and far cheaper solution ) over a 4 bay Syn or QNAP and more flexible OS wise

The initial cash outlay for the unit can be daunting if your on a tight budget but the £100 cashback softens the blow

Can't comment on ESXi or all that HyperV stuff... well over MY head...lol

Lorddalron · 3 Apr 2012 at 19:34

Essexraptor said:
Yes... well worth the effort ( and far cheaper solution ) over a 4 bay Syn or QNAP and more flexible OS wise

The initial cash outlay for the unit can be daunting if your on a tight budget but the £100 cashback softens the blow

Can't comment on ESXi or all that HyperV stuff... well over MY head...lol

Hopefully going to place my order within the next week or so when i scrap together the extra cash. Hopefully stock levels will be good.

In regards to ESXi etc. Over my head too for now, hopefully that'll be all to familiar however sooner than later. I saw on a youtube video thats theres a USB slot on the MB itself where ones like to install a pen drive and run ESXi that way.

Thanks anyway guys for all the info. Much appreciated!

jamesfreddie · 3 Apr 2012 at 19:56

Lorddalron set up your trust.

Lorddalron · 3 Apr 2012 at 21:56

jamesfreddie said:
Lorddalron set up your trust.

Come again?

Essexraptor · 3 Apr 2012 at 23:40

Lorddalron said:
Come again?

you've done it now

it just enables messaging from forum members :cool: