Along with the server, we received a Compaq RAID Array 4100 loaded with eight hard drives. We ran the same performance tests against the Compaq 8500 as with the eight-processor Dell 8450 . Dell offers 700-MHz processors in its PowerEdge 8450, but we have not yet tested the performance of that model. The SQL results were similar with Windows NT 4.0. Our total 8.9 Individual category scores are based on a scale of 1 to 10.
Percentages are the weight given each category in determining the total score.
As with other Compaq servers we reviewed, the 8500 supports all major network management platforms, including Tivoli, Hewlett-Packard's OpenView, and Computer Associates' Unicenter. Compaq also provides its own proprietary Compaq Insight Manager server management software. As with all Compaq ProLiant servers, the 8500 comes with two CDs that ease the chore of installing an operating system on the server. The ProLiant 8500 scored major points for serviceability. The top of the server slides to the front revealing the PCI slots and system fans.