Distance Learning from NITOL - HiST

Exercises: Lesson 2: Hardware Components

Author: Arne B. Mikalsen

Date: 11.03.97

Deadline: 21.03.97

Servers

Exercise 1 - Setting Up the Server

Imagine that you are going to set up a LAN with one server, 20 workstations and one laser printer. You should limit yourself for the time being to just the server specifications. To be sure that you have thought through the entire problem, you should not choose a standard server, but start by looking at a price list for PC components and put together exactly what you would want for your server.

Give the specifications for and cost of your dream server:

• hard disk
• internal memory (size and type)
• bus types
• processor type

Exercise 2 - Buses

Explain in your own words what the PCI-bus is and why using one could increase a server's effectiveness.

Exercise 3 - Print Outs

1. Discuss which carries the most weight when choosing a server: processor or bus speed.
2. You are going to buy a server, but your budget is very limited. You can't get the machine you really want (see Exercise 1), but must choose among the following:
   • lots of RAM
   • a large hard disk
   • a fast processor
   • a fast local bus

The purchasing department asks you to make a list of your priorities. Make your own assumptions and set up this list.