recommendations for rackmount linux systems

ZippyDan

Platinum Member
Sep 28, 2001
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i need to pickup a bunch of rackmount computers that will all be running linux for some very nonintensive functions:

system 1: clarkconnect router
system 2: fedora or open suse running quickbooks 09 db server
system 3: ubuntu running hylafax
system 4: asteriks on some distro

i know i could probably combine some of those functions into one machine, but i like having my functions physically separated for maintenance/business continuity reasons.

anyway, i popped over to dell and i see their cheapest rackmount machine is $650. thats nice, and i'd probably spend more if it was a windows server, but for linux i dont know that i feel like spending that much. on the other hand, i like having stuff thats relatively new, has a warranty, and some support. i checked dell's refurb section and the cheapest model they had there was $1300, boggle. anyone know where i can get last year's rackmount models for like $300 or something with warranty and support?

if not, then:

1. convince me to pick up 4 old pos rackmounts for $50 each
2. convince me to just buy the dells

thanks