Dell OptiPlex or Dell Precision?

Question

While I was happy with my old Dell OptiPlex GX1p workstation computer – I figured it’s time I replace it with another new Dell computer. My old Dell OptiPlex GX1p was primarily use for my small business using software such as Microsoft Office Pro, AutoCad LT 2000, Quick Book Pro, and other business related software. My old OptiPlex is still operating using Windows 2000 SP4.

I still intended to keep my old GX1p as a back up since it’s still running great. I was looking into another new Dell OptiPlex – especially the OptiPlex GX620. However, I came across another new Dell workstation – the Dell Precision 670 64-Bit and the Precision 670 Enhance. This certainly left me with some options to choose from.

I wonder if any readers here would share any reviews on either the OptiPlex GX620, or the Precision 670 64-Bit or Precision 670 Enhance. Another question comes to my mind is – do I really need to go for the 64-Bit processor, or should I still stick with the 32-Bit processor? Thanks!

KRR

speedstep · Answer

32 bit software will not run on 64 bit XP. So unless you are buying all new software I would stay with 32 bit XP.

whitt · Answer

We are deploying both of those right now but it's to early for me to form any opinions.  They are two very different machines.  Physically moving one of those 670's is serious hard work although I doubt that matters much.  They are huge, very heavy, and have no carrying handles.  I have only had three technical calls on both models so far.  One 670 had a bad system board, one just needed a board (vrm) reseated, and the 620 also had a bad system board.  I'm a hardware tech so my opinions are just related to the reliability of the hardware.  Strangely enough both the 620 and the 670 system boards were replaced for the same thing.  The main fans would kick on full throttle (very loud) after powering up and the pc would lock up.  Never even starting post.  I have seen this on other models as well.

KRR1 · Answer

Hi SpeedStep!

I didn’t intended to upgrade my old Dell GX1p any more than what I have now. I merely stated I was going to look into acquiring another new Dell workstation. As I stated – I am weighting in an option should it be a Dell Precision 64, Precision Enhance, or a Dell OptiPlex 620. Thanks!

KRR

KRR1 · Answer

Hi Whitt!

Thanks for the little insight here! It’s a good start unless I hear from others that may share their view. Sounds to me it’s best I stick with a 32-Bit processor - until we have more insight about this Precision 64-Bit - whether or not it’s a good or bad investment on. Unless someone can convince me otherwise – I may go for the Optiplex 620 instead of the Precision 64-Bit or Precision Enhance.

KRR

Dev Mgr · Answer

Actually, XP64 (EM64T) that can run on the 670, can run most 32-bit applications just fine. A few things that will need updating are antivirus (Norton doesn't have a home-user version yet that is compatible, but they have Symantec antivirus available for XP64 (but I can only find it in packages of 10 licenses at a time, which I didn't want to pay for myself)) and use Office XP or 2003 (I run office XP on it).

XP64 has a 32-bit emulation mode that seems to handle most 32-bit applications just fine.

So the Optiplex system may be able to handle your requirements just fine, don't dismiss the 670 based on incompatibility with 32-bit applications.

KRR1 · Answer

Hi Dev Mgr!

Thanks for clearing that one up. Really appreciate that. I thought obtaining a 64-bit computer at this present time is still a bit of an early stage. I had to assume we still don’t have the marketing for wide disturbing of any 64 bit software at this stages, but I can bet this will be picking up steam very soon.

Even though I like what Dell offer in their Precision class – I somehow still am leaning toward adding another new Dell OptiPlex (as I stated – I was looking into an OptiPlex GX620 with Pentium D 820 processor). My old GX1p, which is about six years old, and all I ever done to upgrade her is adding additional memory chip and a new PowerLeap PL-ip3/T 1.4G CPU. She is still running stronger and better than I expected – one reason why I wanted to keep her. So, I thought if I get another OptiPlex it could be just as reliable as my old OptiPlex GX1p. but I needed another new computer so I can use my old one as a back up which will benefit my business tremendously. But, believe me. I am giving that Dell Precision a good hard look, and am still trying to make the right decision.

KRR

tonebalone · Answer

I can't offer an opinion on the 670, but I just deployed several GX620s. They're nicely made, extremely quiet, and easy to deploy. Just for grins I installed XP 64-bit bit on one of them, the only (minor) snag was the website had no 64-bit network driver, but I used one from the GX520 without a hitch. The 520 and 620 share the same platform, in fact an image made on either will work on the other series.

My Dimension XPS Gen3 has the same case as the Precision 670, I believe. It's huge! It eclipses the moon. It's quite a chore to move off the desk, set on its side, and open the case. But if you have the upper body strength (or need to develop some) then go for it.

KRR1 · Answer

Hi Tonebalone!

Thanks for your insight on Dell OptiPlex GX620. I am now leaning strongly toward purchasing the Dell OptiPlex GX620. I understand what I am up against with Dell Precision 670, so I can see where OptiPlex can pretty much outweighs the Precision. Right now I am trying to make up my mind whether I should go for Pentium D 820 Processor, or Intel Pentium 4 650 Processor (or higher). Since I do a lot of work with Microsoft Office Pro – including Access, AutoCad LT, and Quick Book Pro as well as a lot of multi-tasking – I’d figure selecting Pentium D 820 would best suite my requirement. Wouldn’t you agree??

KRR

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Dell OptiPlex or Dell Precision?

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