Topic: single vs. dual processor

[WF168Tech]

I'm very new to the SME world, but so far I'm very impressed.  I've just installed 7.0 on a Compaq ML350 that has a single 1 GHz P3.  But I have the option to install a 2nd CPU in the server; how much of an increase in performance can I expect, if any?  I am running the server in Server-Only mode, and it's primary purpose will be to house e-mail accounts for about 200 teachers in my school district.  Thanks in advance.

[psoren]

I'm very new to the SME world, but so far I'm very impressed.  I've just installed 7.0 on a Compaq ML350 that has a single 1 GHz P3.  But I have the option to install a 2nd CPU in the server; how much of an increase in performance can I expect, if any?  I am running the server in Server-Only mode, and it's primary purpose will be to house e-mail accounts for about 200 teachers in my school district.  Thanks in advance.

I would think that proccessing email with spam and virus check enabled, is the most demanding task for an unmodified SME server, and with 200 users it could be busy. Without any other background than my thoughts i would say: Put in the second CPU if you can find one for a good price.

Per

[Boris]

Upgrading the RAM (to 512MB+) would give you even better performance increase.

[WF168Tech]

Thanks for the tips.  I am currently running with 384 MB, but the server is not online yet, just in testing phase.  I am definitely going to increase the RAM, maybe 1 GB, and hope that suffices.

[Friskis]

Hi,

It would be a good idea to stress test the system before taking it into use. Or, if you cannot do that well enough, try to add users in smaller batches. If you need to support all the 200 in one step, then atleast have ready the availability to add CPU power/memory, when needed.

I would guess, that teachers have a very on/off usage of the system. During lessons, they are not using emails, and during breaks, everyone is suddenly reading and sending emails. If the system is not fast enough, then you will have problems with the new users complaining about the system. Which can be much more expensive than the hardware.

You might also need to do backups at the same time than there is load on the system. Check the usability then and in other scenarios.

Rgs,

Friskis