This article is part of group review of six 2U servers 

Instead of going with the dual CPU flow, Evesham opted to equip its SilverEdge 2000AL with a single quad-core Xeon. This is a good move for organisations wanting future expansion potential with minimal wastage, as another 5300 series module could be dropped in for instant eight-way processing.

This server is an all-Intel affair that uses the chipmaker’s S5000PAL motherboard and SR2500 chassis. This fine partnership delivers good storage facilities as the six hot-swap bays are teamed up with Intel’s embedded SAS Raid controller. Unlike its 1U counterpart, the SilverEdge’s chassis supports the larger 3.5in hard disks, but this has allowed Evesham to slot in three high-performance 15,000rpm SAS drives. An optional kit is needed to convert the sixth bay before it can be used.

As well as Intel’s Server Management software suite, the SilverEdge has an optional remote management module (RMM) that provides direct access to the server via a web browser. The interface is a much simpler arrangement than the one offered by HP and Dell, but it provides full access to all key components and offers remote control as standard.

General build quality is not as slick as that demonstrated by HP or Fujitsu Siemens, but the chassis is solidly constructed and offers a tidy interior with easy access to all key components.

General cooling is handled efficiently by a bank of six large hot-swap fans located behind the drive bays, but this comes at a price as the SilverEdge is one of

the noisiest servers on review, and is best suited to dedicated server rooms. However, expansion options are a cut above the rest as the butterfly riser card can handle a pair of half-length PCI-E cards on one side and has room for two full-length PCI-E cards and one PCI-X card on the other side.

Next review: Fujitsu Siemens Primergy RX300S3