Dell OptiPlex GX280: a first look
Published: 07 Feb 2005
Dell has released two new chassis for its OptiPlex GX280 series, ushering in the BTX architecture to the company's line of business desktops. One is a full-size mini-tower, while the other is a thinner desktop case; both systems address a number of design issues that have plagued Dell PCs over the years. The new BTX (Balanced Technology eXtended) form factor replaces the current ATX standard and brings quieter operation, more efficient cooling and, theoretically, less long-term wear and tear.

The upended steamer trunk-style case that Dell used in many of its OptiPlex and Dimension home desktops bothered us for years. It was hard to open and brought about a messy interior, while a cumbersome faceplate obscured the front-panel ports. Dell apparently wasn't oblivious to complaints about these issues: the new GX280 chassis involve simpler cases with a traditional removable side panel. Throw in the new BTX form factor, augmented with Dell's own noise- and vibration-reduction techniques, and business buyers would do well to consider the GX280 as a means of protecting their desktop investments.
With a smart new case, a low starting price of just £379 (ex. VAT), and the latest technology, it's hard to find anything wrong with the new OptiPlex GX280 on the first pass. Dell remains an Intel-exclusive PC vendor, so if you have a particular affinity for AMD, you will want to look elsewhere. We have yet to get our hands on a system and run it through our benchmarks, but there's nothing that raises any flags at this point.
If they live up to Dell's promises of improved design and robust configurations, we can't think of a reason why you wouldn't want to opt for either of the new OptiPlex GX280 models. Dell even expands upon the BTX platform, with custom enhancements such as a vibration-reducing hard drive mount. Time and testing will ultimately reveal whether Dell's new business PCs are worth your money, but our early impression is positive.
New Products
Apple Time Capsule: a first look
With Time Capsule, Apple blends high-bandwidth wireless networking and automated system backup in one tidy-looking package.
Apple MacBook Air: a first look
The MacBook Air is not quite an ultraportable, but it is exceptionally thin. Retaining the same 13.3in. display as the current MacBook line, it tapers from 1.94cm thick to just 0.4cm. Apple calls it the 'world's thinnest notebook'.
Windows Driver Updates
Because of my recent adventures with Windows Vista on my Lifebook, I've had to learn about and deal with the differences between Vista and XP in third-party device driver distribution... More
Windows XP SP3 Installed
I have downloaded and installed Service Pack 3 for Windows XP Professional on my Fujitsu Lifebook S6510. Everything went smoothly, and it seems to work just fine. I don't see anything... More
Vista vs. XP: The Final Retreat
I suppose that most people are getting tired of reading about Vista vs. XP. I know that I am getting tired of writing about. I'm getting even more tired of fighting with it. So this... More
Discussions
Skip Sub Navigation Links to CNET Brand Links
- Security threats
- Mobile devices
- Application development
- Network management
- Desktop platforms
- Security management
- Databases
- Processors
- Server platforms
- Storage
- Mobile working
- Office applications
- After hours
- Mail & messaging
- Training
- Disaster recovery
- Enterprise applications
- VoIP
- Emerging tech
- Green IT
- Outsourcing
- Virtualisation
- SME
- Enterprise open source
- Industry watch
- Online business
- Accessibility
- Management
- Intellectual property
- Compliance
Home
- Site Map
- RSS Feeds
- Content Archive
- Search Library
Membership
- Log in
- Register
- Membership benefits
- Community FAQs
- Newsletters
About Us
- Contact Us
- Find Us
- Privacy Policy
- Permissions and Reprints
- International
- Advertise
News
- Hardware News
- Software News
- Communications News
- Internet News
- Security News
- IT Management News
- Emerging Technology News
- Leaders
Blogs
Group Blogs
- News blog
- Reviews blog
- Not Safe For Work blog
- Rupert's Diary blog
- Sentry Posts blog
- Vista Upgrade blog
- On The Road blog
- Homebrew blog
- Post Room blog
ZDNet UK Staff Blogs
- Matt Loney
- Rupert Goodwins
- Charles McLellan
- Andrew Donoghue
- David Meyer
- Tom Espiner
- Colin Barker
- Karen Friar
Core Techs Expert Blogs
- Adrian Bridgwater
- Peter Judge
- Christian Harris
Tech Community
- Top 100 ZDNet UK Members
- My ZDNet Tour
- Forums
- Competitions
- Community FAQs
Benchmarks
- Business Value benchmark
- Server Value benchmark
- Desktop Management benchmark
- Mobile Security benchmark
White Papers
- Most Popular white papers
Free Software Downloads
- Windows downloads
- Mac downloads
- Mobile downloads
Reviews
Hardware reviews
- Accessory reviews
- Audio reviews
- Component reviews
- Desktop reviews
- Handheld reviews
- Imaging reviews
- Input Device reviews
- Mobile Phone reviews
- Monitor reviews
- Networking reviews
- Notebook reviews
- Printer reviews
- Projector reviews
- Server reviews
- Storage reviews
Software reviews
- Content Creation reviews
- Developer Tool reviews
- Enterprise Application reviews
- Operating System reviews
- Productivity software reviews
- Security reviews
- Utility reviews

















