ASUS P8B-C/4L ATX Server Motherboard LGA 1155 Intel C202 DDR3 1600/1333/1066

Pros: Supports the new low power Xeon devices and unbuffered ECC RAM.

Cons: Board arrived with a DOA integrated graphics chip! As this was used to upgrade a mission-critical server, I had no choice but to literally remove (desolder) the blistering hot XGI Volari chip and add an external graphics adapter in order to get the server back in service before the maintenance window ended. A normal user would have had to wait 2+ weeks to receive a replacement for this effectively DOA board.

Other Thoughts: Quality issues aside, the board works reasonably well with Linux as long as the latest BIOS is installed--the BIOS shipping with this board causes the network devices to fail on many Linux kernels.

Manufacturer Response:

Dear Valued Customer,

We're sorry to hear about the issue with XGI onboard video on this motherboard and we're glad that it's working well. However, we do not recommend performing modification to the motherboard as doing so may affect its warranty. More information about warranty is available at: http://www.service.asus.com/warranty.aspx#!Server%20Warranty/c1csq.

Regards,
Benson
ASUS Customer Loyalty

Pros: Technically 32GB RAM Capable board with good processor options.
PCI and PCI-E slots to cover most needs.
Good network support with 4x 1GB Copper Ethernet

Is running ESX 5 with some additional NICs and works fine. NICs were detected without issue, no apparent driver problems

Cons: Doesn't accept most 8GB RAM DIMMs, for some reason only tested with a very limited set and doesn't offer a lot of options for current inexpensive memory, even Kingston. Takes a 2x 4GB kit of the series but croaks when provided 2x 8GB (individual) from most similar types. I've tried three (3) different 8GB DIMMs so far, no dice.

Other Thoughts: ASUS needs to provide a greater range of tested 8GB DIMMS, at more reasonable costs. The days where we are willing to shell out $200 for 8GB DIMM are over.

Pros: Great Board. Running Vmware Esxi 4 on it with a 4GB Flash Drive. Has been running for 6 months now and no problems.

Cons: None