Dell Optiplex FX-160 desktop computer Review

Virtualization is in, at least for the time being until come other "buzz" technology comes along to replace virtualization as the it technology of the moment; remember cloud computing? 

Virtualization involves more than servers, however, true virtualization includes workstations as well.  That is where small footprint machines like the Dell Optiplex FX-160 come into play. 

The 411

The Optiplex FX-160 is a small footprint desktop computer without full-sized hard drive.  In fact it is so small that a standard 3.5" SATA drive will not fit into the chassis.  If you insist on installing a hard drive then the Optiplex FX-160 will accept a 2.5" SATA drive or a solid state drive of the same size.

Dell designed the Optiplex FX-160 to support either a Virtual Remote Desktop thin client environment or a On-Demand Desktop Streaming environment.  The lithe workstation is built around the Intel Atom processor family, which helps reduce the power footprint of the desktop, but does not limit the units processing power. 

The Optiplex FX-160 is fitted with (6) USB ports as well as standard PS/2 ports for muse & keyboards, as well as standard VGA and Digital video ports.      

My Viewpoint

We have been using the Optiplex FX-160 to replace full size desktop computer at outlying locations.  We opted to fit them with 80GB 2.5" SATA drives while we prepare the environment for desktop virtualization. 

The Intel Atom processor is plenty powerful enough to run Windows XP and a suite of other applications that are a part of our standard image loud-out.  In addition we have installed 2GB of Ram in each (up to 4GB can be installed), and mated them with 19" flat screen monitors.

The small foot print of the Optiplex FX-160 together with its powerful Atom processor and flexible chassis make the PC ready for virtualization duties, or work as a standard desktop PC.