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Dell last week expanded its high-end server options with the introduction of two new four-way servers designed to support powerful database applications.
The Dell FbwerEdge 6800 and FbwerEdge 6850 are based on Intel's newest 32-/64-bit Xeon processor, which Intel will unveil formally on Tuesday Intel rolled out its 32-/64-bit Xeon for dualprocessor servers last year, but this is the initial release of the hybrid chip for multiprocessor servers.
Enterprise users also can expect systems based on the chip from HP and IBM.
Dell executives say the PowerEdge 6800 and 6850 - which start at just under $4,000 and just under $5,000, respectively - are the lowest-priced four-way servers the computer maker has ever offered. Dell's current four-processor server, the PowerEdge 6650, starts at about $9,000.
Dell says the 6800 and 6850, slated for availability in the next few weeks, will provide 32% faster performance than its previous four-way offerings.
The servers come in two configurations: one with an 8M-byte, Level 3 cache, appropriate for data-intensive database applications, and another with a smaller, Level 2 cache, but faster clock speed, ideal for server consolidation and more processor-intensive enterprise applications, says Jeff Clarke, senior vice president of Dell's product group.
The servers are certified to run Oracle Database 1Og, Oracle Database 9i Real Application Cluster and Microsoft SQL Server. The servers also will support 64-bit versions of the applications and operating environments as they become available, Clarke says.
The move continues Dell's effort to convince end users to migrate from costly Reduced Instruction Set Computing-based systems to grids or clusters of lower-priced, standards-based servers, he says.
Dell also announced enhanced management tools with OpenManage 4.3, which Clarke says will let users easily update BIOS and firmware.
Dell also is rolling out a Data Center Environment Assessment service to designed to help users address heat and power issues.
Copyright Network World Inc. Mar 28, 2005
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved
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