Dell Precision 420: Top notch performer, great design
Nov 21 '00
In the development lab I administer we have a multitude of servers performing a myriad of functions. One of the things we do in the lab is back up—insofar as possible—the different server software packages with Ghost Enterprise Edition 6.5; please my review of this product at (http://vemartin.epinions.com/cmd-review-61E5-105069B7-3A02ECA6-prod2). In order to perform automated Ghost back-up’s as well as push various applications down to lab servers I needed to set up a server to act as a controlling and administrative station, onto which the images and software packages could be stored and or promulgated. I chose a Dell Precision Workstation 420 Workstation for the task.
The company I work for uses the Precision 420 as the primary desktop platform running Windows NT Workstation 4.0, but the computer also makes a fine single function server, because it has dual processor capability, can accommodate up to 1 GB of Ram, and has dual SCSI as well as IDE controller interfaces. Key feature of the Precision 420 include:
· 133 MHz FSB (Front Side Bus)
· Supports up to two Intel Pentium III processors at 733, 800, 866, 933MHz, or 1.0 GHz /w 256KB L2 Cache.
· Support up to 1.0 GB dual-channel RDRAM.
· Supports 10GB, 20GB, 40GB ATA-66/100 EIDE (7200 rpm) hard drives.
· Supports 9GB 18GB, 36GB, 72GB Ultra SCSI 2/3 HHD’s for a maximum internal storage capacity of 220GB.
· Integrated Dual Channel Ultra SCI and Ultra/Wide Controllers.
· Integrated Dual ATA-66 EIDE Controllers.
· Integrated 3Com 10/100 3C920 NIC.
· Integrated AGP 64-bit video.
· Integrated V90 PCI 56KB data/fax modem.
· 48 Max IDE CD-ROM.
· 3.5” 1.44MB Floppy Drive.
· Two USB Ports.
· 4 PCI expansion slots.
· Can support Adaptec RAIDPort Ultra 160 RAID adapter supporting RAID 0, 1, 5, or 10. (Tower only).
· Can support Adaptec RAIDPort Ultra 160 RAID adapter supporting RAID 0, 1, (Desktop only).
Before I could utilize the Precision 420 as a server I had to first install Windows 2000 Server a new 18 GB SCSI hard drive (HHD), and a HP 9500 series CD-RW. Installation of the HHD relatively easy. The computer is somewhat heavy and is somewhat wider than a standard mid-tower, but it adds to the units stability.
I snapped off the front panel of the tower and exposed the expansion bays. The other SCSI HHD was installed vertically in a sliding medal drive bay that can comfortably accommodate three 3.5” hard drives. I pulled out the tray and slid the new HHD into place and secured it to the tray. However, I had a slight problem connecting the power and controller cables because they were not long enough to be pulled completely out of the interior of the tower. Only after some effort and ingenuity was I able to connect them to the HHD.
In order to install the CD-RW I needed to remove the side panel which can be taken off by sliding the locking lever in the back of the PC near the bottom, and then depressing a button on the side panel which allows you to lift it up and away. Installation of the CD-RW into the drive bay was easy. Dell provides convenient individual expansion trays in each drive bay onto which can be secured the hardware you wish to install. This tray then snaps back into place with ease. Again I had problems with the power connector because it was too short and it took some manipulation before I could connect it to the drive. But once in place it functioned perfectly.
Installation of Windows 2000 Server was straightforward and effortless. The NOS, once started practically installs itself. Windows 2000 detected all of the hardware and networking components and finished installing in under 45 minutes.
The Precision 420 is a top-notch performer! Applications open in most cases in under 5 seconds, most in under 1 second! I keep the server running 24/7, and to date have not experienced any degradation in performance or encountered a situation that required a NOS reboot! So if you are looking a workstation that just “works and works,” check out the Dell Precision Workstation 420.
Thanks for taking the time to read my review…
~The Bard~
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Member: Vincent
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