IBM eServer xSeries 236

Management options get even better, as the motherboard has an IPMI 1.5-compliant embedded BMC (baseboard management controller) as standard, and the price also includes IBM's Remote Supervisor Adapter SlimLine II card, which fits into a proprietary slot. This offers remote browser access to the server and provides a similar feature set to HP's embedded integrated lights-out (iLO) controller. You have full control over power settings, the server can be remotely controlled and you can keep a close eye on system status and error logs.

The xSeries 236 certainly packs a punch, with a fine specification that includes plenty of high-performance storage. Build quality doesn't get any better, the price includes IBM's complete remote management package and the above-average expansion potential makes this server a good long-term investment

Author: Dave Mitchell