Server upgrade...

[Argo]

We have a Dell PowerEdge 2300 at work, and I'm thinking about upgrading the server. It has 500MHz P3, and 256MB Ram. I'm thinking about adding a second CPU and another 256MB of RAM. Now, the question is, in case they don't want to spend money on both, which one should I get? The server's primary use is:

1) Primary Domain Controller on domain consisting of 40 workstations
2) Print server
3) Web server with light to medium load
4) Running internal software, which functions similar to a file server.

What do you guys think?

 

[Sunner]

I'd go for the RAM.
To me it seems like RAM is generally speaking the biggest bottleneck on servers such as the one you describe.
Besides, upgrading the mem is ALOT less painful than adding a second CPU, since you'll have to mess around quite a bit if not completely reinstall the OS to get that second CPU working, assuming you're running WinNT/2K.

 

[Vegito]

Oh yeah, I upgrade all my PowerEdges from 512Meg to 1.5Gigs. Becareful when buying processor, especiall for a Dell server, size & fit is more important & the SL stepping codes.

 

[Argo]

Well, I'm not worried about buying the same stepping and stuff, since we're gonna buy it directly from Dell. However, I wasn't aware of possible problems arising from adding second processor. To tell the truth, reinstalling OS isn't a big problem either, since I'm thinking of upgrading to Win2k. Anything else, I should know about adding 2nd CPU?

 

[CBuxton]

There is a WinNT4 resourse kit utility that will convert from single to dual processor. Works just perfect. I did this same upgrade on my PowerEdge 2300. Single 350 to Dual 750, 256mb to 512mb. Speed increase is amazing. I would like to add another 512mb in the future.

 

[Sunner]

It doesnt allways work though, so make sure to have a backup before using the unitomulti util.

 

[Argo]

Well I decided to make a complete reinstall, so I guess I don't have to worry about reconfiguring it. Btw, we decided to upgrade to Windows 2000 Server. Turns, out MS has special pricing for NY state, plus we are an educational institution. So the price turned out to be $87. Not bad for a product that costs $1000

 

[xtreme2k]

i agree give it another 256MB RAM should help

try to look at your performance logs to see which peaks more. CPU or RAM.

 

[Argo]

I already ordered the ram. Trying to get hold of Dell people to see if they still have P3 500s.