[cejones]

I am looking to buy an older PowerMac that I can use as a file server and web server. I expect to leave the machine on 24/7.

I remember reading that the PowerMac 6400/6500s use an internal IDE drive... which sounds prefect since these drives are so cheap now. I have seen 6500's in local used computer shops for around $200.

If you had to choose an older PowerMac system to run a personal website... which powermac would you opt for?

Also, what are the best used computer websites to look for cheap Powermacs?

[bluedog]

well, the 6400s used a 603 processor. If you are getting an older machine and a used one.

The price won't be much more for the 7300/7600 machines. These were easy to access internal components and upgradeable to G3/G4. Otherwise find a 8600/9600 if it doesn't cost too much.

These models are also really great, they perform well and use a 604/604e processor. With a G3/G4 upgrade (i recommend the G3 because your increased performance of the G4 won't really be realized with the limited bus speed of these older machines). The actual usablility of this generation of machine is great. They have PCI, serial ports, can add USB/Firewire, CAN run OSX if desired (although not super).

I'd suggest finding a 7300/7600/8600 with a 180mHz or greater processor. The earlier models had issues with their firmware and motherboard flakiness under some conditions.

Good luck, and enjoy!

[Captain Obvious]

I'd choose a 7500 or 8500, they are very upgradable and relatively fast by the standards of when they were manufactured. No IDE but a PCI IDE card can be picked up on eBay or other seller for a few bucks.

I have turned a 7500 to a G3 and popped in a couple 128 chips and its very fast. You can pick up Appleshare IP to run it as a server
http://www.lowendmac.com/macdan/md026.shtml

[ 01-08-2002: Message edited by: Captain Obvious ]

[Jansar]

Hey, as long as you have a nice connection, the file transfer should be nice.

[Cipher13]

I'd go for one of the following:

73xx, 7600, 8500, 9500, 8600, 9600, 6500 or a 5500.

The 5500 has a built in monitor also.

[usedmac]

I'd go with the Artemis G3 All-in-one. great computer, IDE, PCI expansion, USB(?)

[Jansar]

Originally posted by usedmac:
<STRONG>I'd go with the Artemis G3 All-in-one. great computer, IDE, PCI expansion, USB(?)</STRONG>

My dad used to use that one for a server. Nice machine.