Compaq Proliant 6500

[James Mendez]

I have just acquired the above with Win NT
installed but removed. I have to ask the obvious question. What is the better OS for this. I am planning to use this as a database and possibly some webhosting. There are three 36 gigs on one server and another nine on the another two servers. Love the monstorous machine but have not yet decide what I want to do with it. But axious to try out Windows server 2003 or Linux 9.0. I have a Dell server that runs on Linux 9 and so far, its great. Like to try indows 2003 server also. What shall I do? What shall I do??

[JohnWRuffo]

James:

You can install Win2K3 on the server but the server was not certified to run Linux 9 (looks like 7 was the latest)
That does not mean it will not run it just that Compaq never tested it.

If you need, here is a URL to the drivers and software you will need on the server:
http://h18023.www1.hp.com/support/files/server/us/family/model/1105.html?lang=en&cc=us

Just pick your O/S.

Be sure to use a SmartStart 5.50 CD for this server as it will simplify the install process.

Let us know if you need any help setting up?

G'luck! -john

[James Mendez]

Thank you John
I sure could use all the help I can get.
But first thing first. I have to figure out the electrical stuff to feed two 20amps plugs for the two backup power units.
Next, I believe I have to upgrade the Bios.
Then use the drivers from HP to prepare for WIN 2003. But is it better to stick to Win2000. I heard this server will not handle unless its upgraded to P III.
But will get back to you after completing the steps before installing WIN 2003

thanks James

[JohnWRuffo]

James:

Unless you are hosting a bunch of these... two 20A UPS's is overkill. Here is the spec sheet on the PL6500:
http://h200005.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/UCR/SupportManual/TPM_179687-001_ch05/TPM_179687-001_ch05.pdf
They only draw around 8A fully loaded and the inrush from a cold start is short lived.

Here is a link to the bios you will need:
http://h18023.www1.hp.com/support/files/server/us/download/9343.html

Upgrading the system to PIII is an expensive task and it only gets you to 550MHz (bare minimum Win2k3 requirements). You may want to run Win2K on this server to save the costs.
http://h200005.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/SupportManual/c00208465/c00208465.pdf

I hope some of this helps you. Let me know if you need any thing else?
-john

[Tom Dobruckiy]

James,
Is there anyway to upgrade aPentium pro to a Pentium II???
Thx