Main points
- The T3500 supports a single NVIDIA Quadro or AMD FirePro graphics card, while the T5500 can accommodate up to two full-length double-width GPUs.
- The increased number of slots in the T5500 allows for greater expandability, enabling the installation of additional graphics cards, storage controllers, or other peripherals.
- If you need a powerful workstation for demanding applications like 3D modeling, video editing, or scientific simulations, the T5500 is the superior choice.
The Dell Precision T3500 and T5500 are renowned workstations designed to tackle demanding professional workloads. These machines pack a punch with their exceptional performance, reliability, and expandability. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the depths of these two powerhouses, exploring their key differences and similarities to help you make an informed decision.
Performance: Unleashing Computational Might
CPU: The T3500 features Intel Xeon processors from the E5-1600 series, while the T5500 boasts more powerful E5-2600 series processors. The T5500’s CPUs offer higher core counts and clock speeds, providing a noticeable performance advantage for multi-threaded applications.
Memory: Both workstations support up to 128GB of DDR3 ECC memory. However, the T5500 offers quad-channel memory support, enabling faster data transfer rates and improved performance in memory-intensive workloads.
Storage: The T3500 and T5500 offer a wide range of storage options, including SATA, SAS, and PCIe NVMe drives. The T5500 supports more storage bays, allowing for larger storage capacities and faster RAID configurations.
Graphics: Visualizing the Extraordinary
Dedicated GPU: The T3500 supports a single NVIDIA Quadro or AMD FirePro graphics card, while the T5500 can accommodate up to two full-length double-width GPUs. This provides the T5500 with superior graphics performance for demanding 3D modeling, rendering, and video editing tasks.
Expandability: Adapting to Growing Needs
PCIe Slots: The T3500 offers four PCIe 3.0 slots, while the T5500 provides eight PCIe 3.0 slots. The increased number of slots in the T5500 allows for greater expandability, enabling the installation of additional graphics cards, storage controllers, or other peripherals.
Internal Bays: Both workstations have ample internal bays for storage devices. However, the T5500 offers more flexible bay configurations, making it easier to accommodate different drive sizes and form factors.
Reliability and Durability: Ensuring Business Continuity
Error Correction: The T3500 and T5500 feature ECC memory, which detects and corrects memory errors, ensuring data integrity and preventing system crashes.
Redundant Power Supplies: The T5500 offers optional redundant power supplies, providing peace of mind in case of a power failure.
Manageability: Simplifying IT Operations
Remote Management: Both workstations support Dell‘s iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller), enabling remote management and monitoring.
Lifecycle Management: The T3500 and T5500 are compatible with Dell’s Systems Management software, providing centralized control and automation of system updates and maintenance.
Choosing the Right Workstation: Tailoring to Your Needs
The choice between the Dell Precision T3500 and T5500 depends on the specific requirements of your workload. If you need a powerful workstation for demanding applications like 3D modeling, video editing, or scientific simulations, the T5500 is the superior choice. However, if you require a reliable and expandable workstation for less intensive tasks, the T3500 offers a cost-effective solution.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations
Operating System: Both workstations support various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and VMware.
Certifications: The T3500 and T5500 have been certified by leading software vendors, ensuring compatibility with industry-standard applications.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which workstation offers the best performance for 3D rendering?
A: The T5500 with its more powerful CPUs and support for dual GPUs provides the best performance for 3D rendering.
Q: Can I upgrade the GPU in the T3500?
A: Yes, the T3500 supports a single dedicated GPU that can be upgraded.
Q: Does the T5500 support RAID configurations?
A: Yes, the T5500 supports RAID configurations using its integrated RAID controller or additional RAID cards.