ESXi Server

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macrules34

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Mar 18, 2016
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I am looking for a pair (or more depending on cost, trying to keep it at a max of $1K) of computers to run VMware vSphere. I have narrowed it down to a few:

1. HP Microserver Gen8 (ESXi 6.5u3)
2. Apple Mac Pro Xeon 8 Core (ESXi 7.0u3)

Any other servers on the VMware HCL?
 

joeribl

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Jun 6, 2021
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It's Tiny, I installed 7u3 but I read on this forum that 8 also works out of the box
 

macrules34

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Mar 18, 2016
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How about the DellEMC VEP4600? Looks to be loud as it’s 1u. It does have two expansion slots that’s can handel rNDC (Network Daughter card), with 4 configs (per card):

- Quad 1gbase-T (Intel i350)
- Quad 10gb SFP+ (Intel X710)
- Two 1gbase-T (Intel i350) and Two SFP+ 10gb(Intel X520)
- Two 1gbase-T (Intel i350) and Two SFP+ 10gb(Intel X710)

It has built in 4x 1gb and 2x SFP+ 10gb.

Designed as a build your own software defined network appliance.

Certified to run ESXi 8.0 u1.
 

i386

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Mar 18, 2016
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I would avoid 1u servers:
- they are loud (often the fans run 8k rpm or even faster), fan mods are (usually) not possible as the systems relies on the high static pressure, not just for the cpu/heatsink but also for other components
- very highly integrated, hard to service (the latter part improved in the last ~10 years or so)
- often use proprietary mainboard, fans, psu form factors and connectors (vendor lock in)
 
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macrules34

Active Member
Mar 18, 2016
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@i386 Ya I see where you’re coming from, plus they are more expensive.

I think my best bet is going with the Mac Pro’s, even tho they aren’t on the VMware HCL for 8.0 u1 but are on there for 7.0 u3.