RDP also made it easy to perform simple configuration changes to each node. For example, in the RDP interface, we were able to set the workstation name or the network settings for each NIC with just a few clicks. RDP then contacted the remote blade, set the configuration changes and restarted the blade. RDP also kept a history of all configuration changes done to each node.
One thing we found a little odd about the p-series blade servers is that the chassis needs a separate power unit. There are two different models available: One can house four power supplies, the other six. Each unit can supply power to three p-series chassis. All the other blades we tested, and even HP's e-series, have integrated power supplies. This can make price comparisons a little deceiving because the chassis prices of the HP p series and the Dell seem close, but you'll need to buy a power-supply module for the HP p series, which adds a few thousand dollars to the price.
ProLiant BL20p G2. Hewlett-Packard Co., (800) 888-9909, (650) 857-1501. www.hp.com
HP ProLiant BL20p
The first-generation HP BL20p blade is very similar to the G2 blade. The main differences are a slower processor, only three 10/100 network connections and the lack of Fibre Channel connectivity. The G1 blade is managed by the same RDP management software and has the same iLO capabilities. For applications that don't have as high a network-bandwidth or processor-power demand, the G1 blade is a good option at a lower price.
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