System spec for new linux platform

[Clark, Patti]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: linux-poweredge-bounces at dell.com 
> [mailto:linux-poweredge-bounces at dell.com] On Behalf Of Matt Lawrence
> Sent: Wednesday, July 16, 2008 2:25 PM
> To: linux-poweredge at dell.com
> Subject: Re: System spec for new linux platform
> 
> Clark, Patti wrote:
> > I've been working on system specs for a couple of platforms 
> that I'll be
> > running RHEL.  I am loathe to order anything that doesn't 
> have a dvd/rw
> > drive.  Can someone tell me why I cannot configure a server 
> grade system
> > online with with Dell for a dvd/rw?  I can get it for 
> laptops and linux
> > has been supporting reading AND writing dvds for years.  
> When I asked
> > our sales rep last year, the answer was to get an external 
> drive.  Sure
> > I want to do that for each of my rack systems.  What is 
> anyone doing for
> > their server systems?
> >   
> 
> Personally, I prefer to not have optical drives on my servers.  I 
> strongly prefer to set up PXEboot and Kickstart for 
> installations.  It's 
> usually faster, easier and quieter to do it that way.
> 
> -- Matt
> 
Some of us work in environs that are disconnected.  To get stuff to and
from equipment requires methods that are both archaic and affordable.  

My issue with Dell is that they do not even offer the option, not while
configuring a box and more importantly, not as a separate accessory
either.  If I have to go to a 3rd party, I may as well go to a
competitor with the whole solution.  Saves time and I have a complete
solution that is under warranty from start to finish.

Patti Clark
Sr. Unix System Administrator - RHCT, GSEC
Office of Scientific and Technical Information