Dell powers up low-end servers

Dell Computer Corp. introduced late last month a new model to its entry-level server line that sports several features previously only offered in more expensive products.

Dell officials expect that the new PowerEdge 1500SC's high availability features will make it a good option for agencies that need to deploy small servers for e-mail and file sharing to remote offices, but want to keep uptime high and support costs low.

The 1500SC — which starts at about $1,400, not including the operating system — comes standard with hot-plug, Ultra3 SCSI hard drives, which can be replaced in case of a failure without shutting down the computer. It is also the first server in Dell's 1000-class entry- level server line to offer, as options, Redundant Array of Independent Disks capabilities for enhanced data protection and hot-plug, redundant power supplies.

The 1500SC "becomes very compelling...for agencies with multiple branch offices," said Jon Pollock, Dell's enterprise brand manager for the federal sector, "because what they need is a solution in the field that will allow them to keep these workgroups up and running as long as possible."

The new server, available now, ships with up to two Intel Corp. Pentium III 1.13 GHz or 1.26 GHz processors. It also comes with standard Ethernet support via an Intel Pro/1000 XT network connection built right on to the motherboard, which Dell officials say makes the connection more reliable and easier to service in case of problems.