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The Dell PowerEdge 2950 server is a wise choice for network infrastructure applications (web, messaging, database and file/print consolidation). With 64-bit dual-core Intel Xeon processors that boost performance by up to 69% over the previous generation, the 2950 offers a balance of performance, internal expandability and rack density.
Vibrant Technologies carries an extensive inventory of Dell PE2950 server configurations for sale as well as all upgrade features and parts. We can build your servers to spec or replace a down component, just let us know!
Contact us today for pricing or with a list of Dell equipment to sell, or Request a Quote now.
Dell PowerEdge 2950 Server Features:
Dell PowerEdge 2950 Product Review
Moving up a notch from the 1950, the Dell PowerEdge 2950 is a commendable improvement in terms of storage aspects. Its 2U chassis offers more room than its predecessor, which definitely puts the extra real estate to good use.
The front panel of the Dell PowerEdge 2950 showcases excellent storage options, which includes a 3.5in Seagate SAS drives in the front cage.
These interfaces are identical, which makes it easy to substitute them for higher capacity and cost efficient SATA drives. You can also upgrade the bay to 2.5in SAS drives stacked in an eight bay cage.
The Dell PowerEdge 2950 features comprehensive storage fault tolerance and a good range of raid features with the optional PERC 5/i RAID controller. The PowerEdge 2950 features the same neat cabling as its pedigree, where the RAID controller is connected to the backplane with just one shot cable.
In terms of cabling and position, the DVD drive is towards the motherboards IDE interface on the opposite side of the chassis so its cable runs a bit longer but it neatly tucked away.
For a rack server the PE2950 is surprisingly quiet and the sole reason for this is the processors are equipped with large passive heatsinks.
Adding to this are the four fan modules located at the front of the Dell PowerEdge 2950, with each one being hot swappable. Other features of the Dell PowerEdge 2950 are the eight memory sockets that are located in the same location as the Dell 1950, which are shielded by a large shroud that provides easy access.
Where can I find the Dell 2950 Manual?
Dell has a bevy of Manuals available on their website, for everything from the complete manual to rack installation or just getting started. http://www.dell.com/support/Manuals/us/en/19/Product/poweredge-2950
What is the Power Consumption of the Dell 2950?
Power Consumption varies greatly depending on your configuration and particularly the generation and the CPUs installed including their number, speed and model. If you need us to provide these figures prior to a purchase, please let us know.
What Hard Drives are compatible with the Dell 2950?
SAS Hard Drives for the Dell PowerEdge 2950: 36GB 2.5" SAS Drives (10K and 15K options) 36GB 3.5" 15K SAS Drives 73GB 2.5" SAS Drives (10K and 15K options) 73GB 3.5" 15K SAS Drives 146GB 2.5" 10K SAS Drives 146GB 3.5" 15K SAS Drives 300GB 3.5" SAS Drives (10K and 15K options) 400GB 3.5" 10K SAS Drives SATA Hard Drives for the Dell PowerEdge 2950: 80GB 7200 RPM SATA Disk Drives 160GB 7200 RPM SATA Disk Drives 250GB 7200 RPM SATA Disk Drives 500GB 7200 RPM SATA Disk Drives 750GB 7200 RPM SATA Disk Drives The server can be configured in various hard drive configurations depending on base and drive size and type. An integrated SAS 5/i drive controller is base, with an optional upgrade to PERC 5/i RAID Controller (SAS 3Gb/s with 256MB of battery backup cache), or a SAS/5E optional external controller.
What Memory is compatible with the 2950?
The 2950 has 8 DIMM slots with a max capacity of 32GB of RAM. Memory DIMMs are available in the following capacities: 256MB 533/677Mhz Fully Buffered Dimms (FBD) 512MB 533/677Mhz Fully Buffered Dimms (FBD) 1GB 533/677Mhz Fully Buffered Dimms (FBD) 2GB 533/677Mhz Fully Buffered Dimms (FBD) 4GB 533/677Mhz Fully Buffered Dimms (FBD)
Can I buy Dell PowerEdge 2950s on Amazon or eBay?
Yes, there are Dell 2950 Servers available on eBay, Amazon and other auction platforms, although they're all set at fixed configurations and it takes a lot of weeding out to find the system you need at the price you require from a seller you can trust. At Vibrant, we can custom configure a system to meet your needs and your price point. We've been selling remarketed servers since 1998 and can serve your long term service and hardware needs. Contact us for a quote today.
Can I add a video card or graphics card to my PowerEdge 2950?
The system comes standard with an embedded graphics card - the ATI ES1000 w/16mb. While perfectly acceptable for 99% of use cases, some users find this card inadequate. There are not official video card upgrade options for the 2950, but we have seen OEM cards work in some cases. Keep in mind the size of the PCI-E riser cards which can be installed in this server are PCI-E x8 (different than the more common x16 size). We recommend sticking with the standard video option if you can help it.
What about an additional network card?
A common add-on to a Dell Server is an additional network card. The standard NIC is a Gigabit Ethernet option, but additional add-in NICs can be added such as Single, Dual or Quad-Port cards, PCI-E or PCI-X. The 2950 can handle up to three add on cards with either PCI-Express or PCI-X options.
What is the cost of a Dell PowerEdge 2950?
Cost of your PE 2950 obviously varies based on configuration and whether you're looking for new or used, but it is very affordable. View our price samples below or contact us for pricing on specific configurations or upgrades.
Can I buy just a 2950 Chassis, and build up my own system?
Yes, Vibrant can sell base chassis server models, with just the components you need. Already have memory and disk? We'll supply a base chassis with CPUs only. We can deliver the systems you need, fully tested and backed by Vibrant warranty.
What does it mean when I hear fan noise? How loud is the fan noise normally on this server?
The 2950s are not the quietest server on the block and both idle and operating fan noise is common since the fans operate at a fast speed to keep these compact, but powerful systems cool. These fans can spin as high as 11,000 rpm on startup. As systems and fans get older, you naturally get more noise, but it shouldn't be out of hand. Replacement fans are a possibility, but it is very hard to find OEM fans that fit the power requirements of the motherboard and the 60mm x 35mm x 60mm size of the 2950 fans. Some users report adding extra acoustic foam to damper noise, although be careful not to create a hazardous fire scenario. Also, be sure to troubleshoot any error codes on your server (blinking orange lights instead of blue), as Dell fans will often spin faster when error codes are present. Others have discussed using BMC to slow down the fan speed or trying to update DRAC firmware. Of course you'll also want to operate the servers in a safe environment and appropriate temperatures. Recommended Operating Temp is 50-90 degrees F (or 10-35 degrees C).
Is this a good box for Virtualization? VMware ESX or ESXi?
The Dell PowerEdge 2950 has been used countless times as a VMware server running ESXi or ESX. Compatiblity varies depending on the CPU Configuration. If running ESXi on your server, be sure to have the PERC RAID controller installed and configured and also configure your BIOS to enable Virtualization Technology (VT) on the server. Maxing out your RAM will help with performance, as will running RAID 10 if you have heavy disk access requirements and need to maximize IOPs.
Dell PowerEdge 2950 Generation III / Gen3 The latest PowerEdge 2950 Server Offering from Dell offers maximum power and efficiency in a compact 2U form factor. Utilize 5100, 5200, 5300 or 5400 Intel Xeon Processors - up to two quad core or dual core procs per system build. Configure your server with up to 64GB of RAM and up to 6TB of internal storage (via six SATA hard drives).
Dell PowerEdge 2950 Generation II / Gen2 With a motherboard upgrade over the original generation of Dell PowerEdge 2950s, the 2950 II Servers offer the capability to configure the systems with quad core CPU configurations.
Dell PowerEdge 2950 Generation I / Gen1 The first model of Dell 2950 Servers, the Gen 1 models support both Dempsey and Woodcrest Processor motherboards, which are only available in up to dual core configurations. These are the 5000 and 5100 series processor models.
PE2950 Generation 1 vs Generation 2 Systems: The 2950 Gen II servers support quad core processors, while the Gen I systems only support up to dual core configurations.
PE2950 Generation 2 vs Generation 3 Systems The Dell 2950 Generation 3 models support 5200 and 5400 Series Processors, while the G2 and G1 models won't.
Vibrant offers complete configurations as well as individual parts and upgrades for this model.
For pricing on new or used Dell PowerEdge 2950 servers, upgrades or parts, please contact Vibrant sales at sales@vibrant.com or call 888-443-8606 or 952-653-1700.