The world's largest personal computer maker, Dell Inc., on Wednesday introduced two low-priced server computers in it's continuing bid to convince customers that networks of PC-style machines can handle tasks generally reserved for much bigger ones reports Reuters.
Dell, which mainly sells its PCs to businesses, has had mixed success persuading corporations to use its products to run key programs.
According to one analyst, Dell has succeeded in preparing easy setup for the machines, the PowerEdge 6800 and 6850, which each can have up to four Intel Corp. chips.
"They've figured out how to package pre-tested database (systems)," said Joe Clabby, an analyst with industry research firm Summit Strategies who is based in Yarmouth, Maine.
Dell also said it has expanded the systems-management features for the PowerEdge platform with the release of OpenManage 4.3. The software has new features that include automated change management capability.
The company also revealed the creation of an Oracle Competency Center, where customers can test and validate Dell servers for use with Oracle database 10g, and a Data Center Environmental Assessment service to assist customers by evaluating thermal and power requirements.
The PowerEdge 6850 server, priced at $4,899, is designed to run major Oracle database installations. The 6800, priced at $3,999, is for customers aiming to lower costs by consolidating multiple machines onto a single server.
