IBM System x3200 M3
Last December 2010, I was forced to request for a new server to replace our 5yr old IBM x225. I have some few problems with the old x255 server with its SCSI adaptor that’s why I bought a new IBM System x3200 M3. The IBM x System or x Series is very ideal for Small Medium Enterprises, because of its lower cost of ownership than its competitors. If I will describe my new server in two words… “reliable and affordable”.
Comparing my old and new server, below is the comparative specification:
IBM x255 (2005)
2.8 Ghz Intel® Xeon® Processor MP Cache (max) 2MB L3
2GB (4 x 512MB) PC1600 DDR Chipkill™
Expansion Slots 6 Active PCI-X
2 x 32GB SCSI and 2 x 78GB SCSI Drive
Disk bays (total/hot-swap) 12/12 with optional 6-pack hot-swap hard disk drive kit
Maximum internal storage 1.76TB1
Ultra320 SCSI
Network Integrated 10/100/1000 Ethernet
Power supply (std/max) 370W 2/4 hot-swap (redundant at 110V and 220V)
Hot-swap components Power supply, fans, hard disk drives, PCI-X adapters
RAID support Optional
Internal tape drive Optional, fits full-high and half-high drives
PRICE: P 125,000.00 ++ or $ 2,976.00 (5 years ago)
IBM x3200 M3
Intel® Xeon® x3400 Series (quad-core)
2GB (2 x 1GB) DDR-3 ECC memory
1TB (4 x 3.5″ 256 GB) hot-swap SATA hard disk drives (HDDs)
Redundant Power Supplies
DVD-ROM/CD-RW
Dedicated slot for RAID-0, -1 controller protects data and leaves other valuable slots free
Integrated IMM with IPMI 2.0 support offers better control and manageability of your system
2 x Network Integrated 10/100/1000 Ethernet
No Floppy Drive (standard)
PRICE: P 86,000.00 ++ or $ 2,047.00
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IBM x3200 M3 PROS & CONS
PROS
1. What I love about this baby is the cost. I was able to save a $ 1000 compared to IBM x255 when I bought 5 years ago.
2. Lighter in terms of weight.
3. Compatibility with other provider: Processor, SATA and Memory – these means, it will be easy for me to upgrade or replace this part.
4. IBM provides good customer support. There technical support called me right away when I emailed them some of my problems with the installations.
CONS
1. No Floppy Drive- I know its already obsolete but a lot of administrator are still using Windows 2003 server
2. I have encountered some issues with the SATA/SAS Controller during Windows 2003 installation.
3. You have to download the correct 174MB Server Guide before you can install your depends to your Operating System.
4. A bit bulky. The tower type IBM x3200 M3 covers more space than my old server.
UPDATES (11.30.2011): I was able to restore the IBM X225 and it will be celebrating it’s 6 year anniversary. 🙂
what a techie post! 😉
Thanks Renz, This kept me busy last holiday season.