I just ordered the HP Microserver N40L, now what?

[Dave 434]

I'm thinking that there are a lot of new N40L owners out there that could use some guidance on what to do first with their new server. You guys should be able to handle this topic easily. Add on cards, RAM, mods, software, etc. Ideas and links please.

[yodafett 97]

Recommend 2 of Kingston ValueRAM 4GB 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM ECC Unbuffered DDR3 1333 Server Memory Model KVR1333D3E9S/4G for 68.00

after that sky is the limit. if you want USB3 will need to find a low profile card but the ram should be enough for a start.

 

I plan to set up this new with server 8 so will add RAM a second 250 I have, and then 2 500 GB for HyperV or ad 2 duel nics and make it a PFSense super router.

 

Might want to look at the bios mods once you kick the tires around

[jmwills 284]

The onboard NIC is not recognized by pfSense.

[yodafett 97]

hense the reason for the 2 duel nics

[Dave 434]

What dual NIC are you using?

[Joe_Miner 254]

Recommend 2 of Kingston ValueRAM 4GB 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM ECC Unbuffered DDR3 1333 Server Memory Model KVR1333D3E9S/4G for 68.00

after that sky is the limit. if you want USB3 will need to find a low profile card but the ram should be enough for a start.

 

I plan to set up this new with server 8 so will add RAM a second 250 I have, and then 2 500 GB for HyperV or ad 2 duel nics and make it a PFSense super router.

 

Might want to look at the bios mods once you kick the tires around

 

I'm thinking of a Server 8 Platform so I will start with Kingston Model KVR1333D3E9SK2/8G RAM upgrade and a single intel NIC -- After that I'll flash the BIOS with the revision from BIOS-MOD. Still thinking where I'm going after that -- but I'm also thinking of changes to my 1st MicroServer too -- this 2nd one is going to open up a lot of options for me.

 

What dual NIC are you using?

 

I'm using the Intel EXPI9402PTBLK Two Gigabit NIC in my 1st MicroServer -- it works really well IMHO.

[jmwills 284]

Basically, any Intel NIC will be recognized, but I have a hard time spending $135 for a dual NIC to put in a box I spent less than that amount on, I might just have to get over it!

[mattd390 8]

FYI, I have found Intel dual Gb port cards for $55-$60 on ebay. Most of the vendors have 7-14 day exchange policies as well.

[yodafett 97]

for me I am going to probably order the 80 Dollar management card, but want to see the cost with corp discount or through a HP contact from church.

[Joe_Miner 254]

Basically, any Intel NIC will be recognized, but I have a hard time spending $135 for a dual NIC to put in a box I spent less than that amount on, I might just have to get over it!

 

Troll for deals. Everything seems to go on sale at one time or another. There were some fantastic deals on NICs around the holidays. Newegg, Frys, Amazon, Monoprice, PC-Connection Express and now Insight all cycle thru sales. Even Best Buy, Office Depot, ect. do it too.