PlanetZ forums - scopeusers.com

Dear all,

I have received a Dell Poweredge 6650 server, which I was hoping I could make use of.

Unfortunately the standard backplane included has 8 PCI-X and only 1 PCI slot.

I'm just getting to know Dell's products, but I was wondering if anyone knew if there was an alternative backplane I could get for this beast...specifically with a multitude of PCI slots.

Thanks for your help!

Kind Regards,

Dan

that would mean a different computer. the slot layout is designed into the main part of the computer, the motherboard.

Well, with the Poweredge, the "motherboard" splits into a number of different sections - the front containing the CPUs and RAM, the back containing the PCI-X/PCI slots, and the IO "card".

I suppose Dell made it a modular system more for the ability to replace damaged sections, but that's just my guess. I know other brands (e.g. Advantech/Supermicro) offer different configurations, but my knowledge of server technology compared consumer technology is still relatively small.

Again, I was hopeful of an avenue based on a free gift, so I haven't really lost anything. Never mind!

yes, it's a two piece motherboard and a very old one at that.

you can get something newer and more fit for free if you try.

I'm tempted to try

Do you have any suggestions as to which brands to look for? Quite a bit of random stuff makes its way through my workplace, so you never know what might pop up!

try to find something with a core2 processor. they're old enough to have a chance to get one free and new enough to have plenty of power.

the brand isn't that important. it's more important what's inside. HP workstations are usually a good choice.