DELL PowerEdge R760 Server Review: Powerful Performance with a Few Caveats
Table of Contents
Introduction
The DELL PowerEdge R760 is a formidable rack server designed for demanding workloads, boasting a robust configuration with dual Intel Xeon Silver 4514Y processors, ample DDR5 memory, and a sizeable storage capacity. I recently got my hands on this server to put it through its paces and provide a comprehensive review.
Key Features
The DELL PowerEdge R760 comes packed with features that aim to deliver high performance and reliability. Some of its notable highlights include:
- Dual Intel Xeon Silver 4514Y Processors: The server is powered by two 16-core/32-thread processors, offering impressive processing power for demanding applications.
- 256GB DDR5 RAM: With its large memory capacity, the R760 can handle memory-intensive workloads with ease.
- 1.9 TB 6Gbps SATA SSD: The server’s fast storage solution ensures quick boot times and rapid data access.
- PERC H355 RAID Controller: The PERC H355 provides advanced RAID functionality for data protection and enhanced storage performance.
- Dual 700W Power Supplies: The redundant power supply ensures high availability and prevents downtime in case of a power supply failure.
- Broadcom 5720 1GbE Network Adapter: The server is equipped with a reliable network adapter for seamless data transfer.
Performance Analysis
During my testing, I found the DELL PowerEdge R760 to be a powerhouse performer. The server handled demanding workloads with ease, showcasing its capabilities in various applications, including:
- Virtualization: The server efficiently virtualized multiple operating systems, providing smooth performance for virtual machines.
- Database Management: The server demonstrated excellent performance in database operations, handling large datasets with speed and efficiency.
- High-Performance Computing (HPC): The server’s processing power and memory capacity made it suitable for running complex HPC simulations.
However, I did encounter a few minor drawbacks in the performance aspect. The server’s noise level was noticeable during high-load scenarios, and the fan speed could be perceived as slightly louder than expected.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the R760’s strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
- Powerful dual Xeon Silver processors
- Ample DDR5 memory capacity
- Fast storage performance with SATA SSD
- Advanced RAID functionality with PERC H355
- Redundant power supply for high availability
- Reliable network connectivity
Cons:
- Noise level can be noticeable during high loads
- Fan speed can be somewhat loud at times
- Limited expansion options for certain components
Final Verdict
The DELL PowerEdge R760 is a highly capable server that delivers impressive performance, especially for demanding workloads. Its powerful processors, ample memory, and robust storage capabilities make it a solid choice for various applications. However, the noticeable noise level and limited expansion options are factors to consider. Overall, if you’re seeking a reliable and powerful rack server, the DELL PowerEdge R760 is a strong contender.
Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Base | PowerEdge R760 Server |
| Smart Selection | Smart Selection PowerEdge R760 |
| Trusted Platform Module | Trusted Platform Module 2.0 V3 |
| Chassis | 3.5″ Chassis with up to 12 SAS/SATA Drives, LP Adapter PERC 11, 1 or 2 CPU |
| Processor | Intel® Xeon® Silver 4514Y 2G, 16C/32T, 16GT/s, 30M Cache, Turbo, HT (150W) DDR5-4400 |
| Additional Processor | Intel® Xeon® Silver 4514Y 2G, 16C/32T, 16GT/s, 30M Cache, Turbo, HT (150W) DDR5-4400 |
| Additional Processor Features | No HBM |
| Processor Thermal Configuration | Heatsink for 2 CPU configuration (CPU greater than 165W) |
| Memory Configuration Type | Performance Optimized |
| Memory DIMM Type and Speed | 5600MT/s RDIMMs |
| Memory | 64GB RDIMM, 5600MT/s, Dual Rank |
| RAID | C1, No RAID for HDDs/SSDs (Mixed Drive Types Allowed) |
| RAID/Internal Storage Controllers | PERC H355 Adapter LP |
| Storage | 960GB SSD SATA Read Intensive 6Gbps 512 2.5in Hot-plug AG Drive, 3.5in HYB CARR, 1 DWPD |
| BIOS and Advanced System Settings | Power Saving BIOS Setting |
| Advanced System Configurations | UEFI BIOS Boot Mode with GPT Partition |
| Advanced System Configurations | No Energy Star |
| Fans | High Performance Fan x6 |
| Power Supply | Dual, Hot-Plug, Power Supply, 700W MM HLAC (ONLY FOR 200-240Vac) Titanium, Redundant (1+1) |
| Power Cords | Rack Power Cord 0.6M (C13/C14 12A) |
| Power Cords | UK Power Cord, 2M, C13, 250V, 10 Amps |
| PCIe Riser | Riser Config 1, 6×8 FH Slots (Gen4), 2×16 LP Slots (Gen4) |
| Motherboard | Motherboard supports ONLY CPUs below 250W (cannot upgrade to CPUs 250W and above), MLK |
| OCP 3.0 Network Adapters | No OCP 3.0 mezzanine NIC card, Blank Filler Only |
| Additional Network Cards | Broadcom 5720 Dual Port 1GbE LOM |
| Bezel | PowerEdge 2U Standard Bezel |
| Boot Optimized Storage Cards | BOSS Blank |
