I'm currently searching for a server to put in my office. The mains specifications for this server is to make the less acoustic noise as possible and be rackable.
I already tried an HP DL360 G3 and it does an infernal noise, and it annoyed all my team even in a closed room.
So I looked at Dell servers but there is no description there about acoustic noise level and everything. Do you have some kind of experience with Dell servers or advice in buying server regarding this particular problem ?
Best Answer
The first thing you have to realize is that they are going to make noise - they are servers, not meant for offices.
If you have to have one - I would stick with anything under 1U - they tend to have smaller fans and I would aim for non-SCSI drives (SSDs are really quiet but very expensive).
Every major manufacturer has to write a Product Safety, EMC and Environmental Datasheet for their hardware (OSHA, HazMat, etc).
http://www.dell.com/content/topics/global.aspx/about_dell/values/regulatory_compliance/dec_conform?c=us&cs=04&l=en&s=bsd
Each section with have Energy and Acoustics Data - Dell r710 - Declared Noise Emissions Measurements are in accordance with ISO 9296 (tested in accordance with ISO 7779).
Sound Power (LWAd, bels) (1 bel=10 decibels, re 10-12 Watts)
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