The Dell PowerEdge R740 delivers powerful computing, flexible storage, and scalable memory to meet diverse enterprise workloads. It balances performance and adaptability, making it perfect for virtualization, databases, and high-performance applications with robust reliability and expandable resources.
What Are the Key Features of the Dell PowerEdge R740?
The PowerEdge R740 is a 2U rack server with dual Intel Xeon Scalable processors supporting up to 28 cores each, 24 DDR4 DIMM slots with up to 3TB memory, and versatile storage options including up to 16x 2.5″ drives or 8x 3.5″ drives. It offers accelerated application performance via PCIe Gen3 slots accommodating GPU accelerators, up to three 300W GPUs, and supports NVDIMM memory for resiliency. Its flexible storage controllers and BOSS system for boot optimized storage enhance operational efficiency.
Dell designed the R740 to balance compute, storage, and I/O capabilities, making it suitable for demanding enterprise workloads such as virtualization, databases, and data analytics.
How Does the Dell PowerEdge R740 Enhance Application Performance?
The R740 optimizes application performance through powerful dual 2nd Gen Intel Xeon Scalable processors that provide up to 28 cores and 56 threads per processor. It supports high memory bandwidth with DDR4 speeds up to 2933 MT/s and up to 3TB capacity, ensuring rapid data access.
Moreover, its capability to support multiple GPUs and advanced storage options such as NVMe SSDs and M.2 boot optimized storage boosts throughput, enabling better performance for virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), artificial intelligence, and high-performance computing.
Which Storage Options and Scalability Does the Dell PowerEdge R740 Offer?
Dell PowerEdge R740 offers substantial storage flexibility with support for up to 16 x 2.5” SAS/SATA/SSD drives or 8 x 3.5” drives, allowing up to 122.88TB capacity. The server supports software RAID controllers, hardware RAID controllers like PERC H730P and H740P, and the BOSS card for boot optimized storage with dual M.2 SSDs.
This scalability helps businesses expand storage as needs grow, accommodate various workload types, and improve I/O performance with hot-swappable drives and redundant power supplies.
Storage Configuration Comparison Table
| Storage Type | Max Drives | Max Capacity | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5” SAS/SATA/SSD | 16 | 122.88TB | Hot-swappable, RAID-capable |
| 3.5” SAS/SATA HDD | 8 | 128TB | Hot-swappable |
| Boot Optimized Storage | 2x M.2 SSDs | 240GB / 480GB | BOSS card, hardware RAID |
Why Is Memory Capacity and Speed Important in the R740?
Memory is critical for high-performance servers. The Dell R740 supports up to 3TB of DDR4 RAM via 24 DIMM slots, featuring speeds up to 2933 MT/s. It also supports NVDIMM persistent memory for data protection and Intel Optane DC persistent memory, elevating capacity up to 6.14TB.
This vast memory pool ensures the R740 can handle intensive workloads such as large databases, virtualization, and real-time analytics with minimal latency and superior data integrity.
How Does the Dell PowerEdge R740 Compare to Competitors?
Compared to competitors like the HPE ProLiant DL380 Gen10, the R740 excels in GPU support, offering up to six 150W or three 300W GPUs, making it ideal for graphics-intensive workloads and AI. It also boasts superior storage scalability and adaptable I/O options. While HPE may provide more advanced built-in security and flexible storage, the R740 balances price, performance, and adaptability for diverse enterprise needs.
What Are the Power and Energy Efficiency Benefits of the R740?
The R740 uses Intel Cascade Lake processors that improve performance per watt by about 9% compared to previous generations. This energy efficiency reduces operating costs and supports sustainable IT initiatives. The server features redundant, hot-swappable power supplies and cooling modules to enhance uptime and minimize power disruptions.
When Should Businesses Consider the Dell PowerEdge R740?
Organizations aiming to support virtualization, large databases, or mixed workloads should consider the R740 for its balance of power and flexibility. It suits mid-to-large enterprises needing scalable computing power with high memory and storage options, especially when GPU acceleration or multiple workloads are involved.
Who Can Benefit Most from Dell PowerEdge R740 Servers?
IT environments focusing on virtualization, VDI, database management, AI processing, and general-purpose enterprise computing gain the most from the R740’s robust processor, memory, and storage capabilities. Managed IT service providers, data centers, and enterprises requiring reliable, scalable servers will find the R740 an optimal solution.
How Does Wecent Support the Dell PowerEdge R740 for Businesses?
Wecent offers expert guidance on Dell PowerEdge servers, including the R740, ensuring clients receive tailored systems that match business requirements. With global reach and partnerships with Dell and other major vendors, Wecent delivers certified high-performance servers with warranties, competitive pricing, and reliable support to optimize IT infrastructure investments.
What Are the Management and Security Features of the Dell PowerEdge R740?
The R740 includes integrated Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC) for simplified server management and monitoring, alongside lifecycle controller support for automated firmware updates. Security features include secure boot, signed firmware updates, and memory encryption options to safeguard against firmware-level attacks and data breaches.
Wecent Expert Views
Wecent’s experience with enterprise-class servers like the Dell PowerEdge R740 highlights the importance of versatility and scalability in modern IT infrastructures. The R740’s balanced architecture, combining cutting-edge CPUs, substantial memory capacity, and adaptable storage options, empowers businesses to future-proof their data centers while optimizing application performance. At Wecent, we recommend the R740 for enterprises seeking a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective server platform that supports diverse workloads and growth seamlessly.”
Conclusion
The Dell PowerEdge R740 is a powerful, adaptable 2U server designed for enterprise workloads requiring high compute, memory scalability, and expansive storage. Its support for GPU acceleration, advanced memory technologies, and comprehensive management tools make it ideal for virtualization, databases, and AI applications. Partnering with trusted providers like Wecent ensures businesses maximize the value and reliability of their IT investments. Choosing the R740 delivers the performance and flexibility enterprises need for current and future challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can the Dell PowerEdge R740 support GPU acceleration?
Yes, it supports up to three 300W GPUs or six 150W GPUs, enabling enhanced performance for graphics and AI workloads.
Q2: What is the maximum memory capacity of the R740?
It supports up to 3TB DDR4 memory and Intel Optane DC persistent memory up to 6.14TB.
Q3: Is the Dell PowerEdge R740 energy efficient?
Yes, the R740 delivers approximately 9% better performance per watt with Intel Cascade Lake processors compared to older models.
Q4: Does Wecent provide support and warranty for Dell servers?
Absolutely, Wecent offers expert support, tailored solutions, warranty, and certifications with every Dell server purchase.
Q5: How scalable is the storage on the Dell PowerEdge R740?
The server supports up to 16 drives (2.5” or 3.5”), with various RAID options and boot optimized storage for flexible capacity.