Workstation Purchase (HP, Dell, Lenovo, Supermicro, or something else.)?

[cycleback1]

I need to purchase some workstations in a hurry for running FEA and CFD simulations in my research lab. I have been considering the following options single processor E5-1600 v3 series based models:

HP Z440
Dell 5180
Lenovo P500

Any thoughts or experience with these particular models?

Something else that I should be looking at?

I am also looking at two processor based systems but the price seems to jump substantially. The same with rack-mount style server solutions. The two processor based systems are interesting because of the possibility of adding a second CPU in the future. Has anyone used any of the Supermicro SuperWorkstation line like the 7048A-T or Supermicro 7038A-I? These look like cheaper options but I am concerned about support.

 

[Burpo]

Open Box Dell T5810.. They may have a few of those since on ebay & Amazon too for same price.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dell-462-86...860?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5d54c8713c

New HP Z440 at B&H (video optional)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...=REG&A=details

I like the Dells but half the storage..

 

[XavierMace]

Supermicro makes great systems, you just don't have the same level of support available. If you want/need support, stick with HP/Dell. If you're happy handling all of the support yourself, Supermicro is worth a look.

 

[cycleback1]

Supermicro makes great systems, you just don't have the same level of support available. If you want/need support, stick with HP/Dell. If you're happy handling all of the support yourself, Supermicro is worth a look.

Does Supremicro sell single processor E5 systems that work with E5-1600 v3 processors?

 

[LurchFrinky]

While I like SuperMicro, you shouldn't buy a system

... because of the possibility of adding a second CPU in the future.

People like the thought of upgrading in the future, but it rarely happens. Get what you want now and forget about upgradeability.

And, unless you want the hassle of supporting your own systems, stick with Dell and HP.

 

[vailr]

GIGABYTE MD70-HB0 (Intel C612) Server Motherboard Review

http://www.tweaktown.com/reviews/69...tel-c612-server-motherboard-review/index.html

 

[mfenn]

Supermicro makes great systems, you just don't have the same level of support available. If you want/need support, stick with HP/Dell. If you're happy handling all of the support yourself, Supermicro is worth a look.

Agree. SuperMicro is there for those who want to cut hardware costs but don't mind doing their own certification and support. The systems themselves are fine(ish), but have nowhere near the level of polish that you'd get from a Dell or HP.

Also, heaven help you if you want long-term part availability, you usually have to go to the secondary market after the system goes EOS. Dell/HP on the other hand keep long product lifecycles and lots of parts in stock, so you'll still be able to get replacements for that Precision or Z-series that is on the 5th year of the warranty.

My personal opinion is that you should stick with HP or Dell. SuperMicro systems aren't worth the hassle unless you're so big that saving 10-15% on hardware costs will more than pay the costs of integration, support, and spares.