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P UTTING I T A LL T OGETHER- A Checklist For Planning Your Server Purchase. To help you evaluate which server is right for you, consider using the following checklist when you talk to your dealer. A knowledgeable dealer will be able to help you assess your needs and determine which server configuration is best for you and your business. Your Needs What will the network be used for? How many computers, printers, and other resources will be placed on the network? What sort of demands will be placed on this network? "How much" server (e.g., memory, drive capacity, manageability) do you need to run this network today? Will your needs be different next year? In five years? How might your network need to grow over the next few years? The Server Is it a brand name? Is it from a reputable company you feel good about? What operating systems does it support? Is the operating system you need tested and optimized for this product and supported by the manufacturer? Can you buy the network operating system you want from the manufacturer? Does it provide for easy installation of the network operating system software? Will the manufacturer/vendor integrate the hardware operating system for you? Is it tested so that you know it will be easily integrated? Does it have hardware and software management features built in? What server management software comes with it? Does it have reliability features built in (e.g., ECC memory)? Can it be easily upgraded? Does it have sufficient expansion slots and bays for your future needs? What is the maximum drive capacity? What is its maximum memory capacity? Does it support strong back-up solutions? Are its components industry standard? Is it compatible with what you already have in the way of computing technology? Can you easily upgrade to faster processors or multiple processors if your server later requires it? How much incremental processing power do additional processors provide? Are there additional features you can add later to boost performance (e.g., additional cache, drive array controller, faster processor)? Does the server include fault management and rapid recovery tools for quickly recovering from unexpected downtime? Are all the features you need included in the price? Is the server covered by a strong warranty, including pre-failure warranty provisions? The Manufacturer Is the manufacturer in solid financial shape? Is the company likely to be in business in five years? Ten years? Is the company known for producing high quality, reliable products? Does the manufacturer thoroughly test its products to ensure quality, reliability, compatability and optimized performance? Is the manufacturer ISO 9000 certified, ensuring consistency in manufacturing? Do major software companies rely on and recommend the server you are considering? Is the computer company committed to compatibility with industry standards, giving you the widest range of hardware and software product options? Is the company innovative? Does it continue to improve its products and devlop useful new products and technologies? Is the company committed to the industry? Does it have enduring relationships with industry partners? Does the company offer good service and support to its customers and dealers, including toll-free (1-800) access to support? The Dealer Do they have a good reputation in your industry, in your area? Do they carry brand-name products? Do they provide after-sale technical support? Do they service what they sell? Do they have knowledgeable salespeople who can help you? Do they have reference accounts you can check with?

© Copyright 1996 Compaq Computer Corporation.
Source URL = /us/cominst/com/smbus/chklst.html
Revised: 11 June 1996

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