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MillimeterReview: HP Z800
Apr 1, 2009 12:00 PM, By Jan Ozer
Workstation integrates the Intel Nehalem processor into a brand-new toolless chassis.
HP Z800’s toolless interior.
HP’s new workstation case
I’ve been fortunate to review many HP workstations, dating back to the last century. As I scan through the online reviews, I see that the xw4100—which I reviewed in August 2003—looks pretty much the same as the xw8600 that I reviewed last year. That makes five years without a physical makeover.
That long dry spell is over. The Z800 features brushed-aluminum side panels; integrated handles in the front and back; and a cableless, toolless interior with innovations such as a modular power supply that you can replace by pulling it out with a handle. Hard drives work the same way; you click a green tab, a handle drops, and you pull it out. I asked my third grader to try it, and she removed and replaced a drive with no problem (and then demanded $5, but that’s a different story). Go to digitalcontentproducer.com/dcptv/rosie_hp_z800 to see this video demonstration.
Two easily removable panels cover the expansion slots and memory compartments. Another panel, complete with fans, covers the memory. Insert your thumbs and forefingers in the prominently marked slots, and that comes out too—again, with no tools. As before, diagrams on the case detail the memory load order and identify the major components within the case.
The 12 dual in-line memory module (DIMM) slots can hold up to 192GB of memory, though the necessary 16GB DIMMs won’t be available until late 2009. The motherboard has integrated SATA and SAS controllers, and the system can house up to five internal drives, with a 7.5TB capacity. I didn’t see any noise-level ratings, but the workstation is the quietest that I’ve ever worked with, which makes it great for recording narration and similar activities. The unit also comes with a limited three-year, next-business-day warranty.
So the Z800 is big, bold, and highly functional, but how does it compare to what you’re using today? Let’s have a look.
Continue the discussion on “Crosstalk” the Millimeter Forum.