Special Focus HP e3000: Phoenix Program Extends the Life of the HP e3000

Client Systems' Phoenix 3000 program can help beef up the ranks of HP e3000 systems with veteran machines that have been tested and polished for peak performance.

• 07/01/2000

Not long ago, my sources told me I ought to look into the Phoenix 3000 program run by Client Systems. The program involves testing and refurbishing worn components within an HP e3000 so that it can be warranteed like new, but not at the new price. It sounded intriguing, so I decided to investigate. To get the straight skinny, I made contact with a customer reference given to me by Client Systems. I contacted Steve Quinn, Vice President of eXegeSys Inc., a Salt Lake City software company.

After explaining why I was calling, Quinn told me, "I’m the person you need to talk to." He went on to explain his relationship with Phoenix 3000. "We recently purchased a Phoenix 3000 through Client Systems for our R&D organization. So, I know firsthand how the program works."

As Quinn continued, I learned that the R&D acquisition was not the only reason or connection the firm had with the Phoenix 3000 program. eXegeSys packages its ERP software as a complete business solution. This can cause the company to act as a VAR, and it relies on the HP e3000 as the system of choice when a package is being put together for its clients.

"The hardware component is not a simple decision, certainly," Quinn explains. "When we are sizing an HP e3000 machine for one of our clients, that is when we decide what machine and options will be needed to best do the job. Our customer may raise a concern about hardware pricing. Our focus is primarily on the client’s potential growth and, of course, the growth of the application, as well as the longevity of the machine. In other words, the features need to match our client’s needs. When it comes to price points, the Phoenix 3000 can be a viable option that we are comfortable recommending."

Loretta Li-Sevilla, the Worldwide Solutions Marketing Manager for the HP e3000, got right to the point when I called and asked for her opinion on the Phoenix program. "Phoenix is a value because it belongs to one of our HP partners, and the program plays a role in extending the life span of the HP e3000. We are very supportive of the Phoenix program."

According to Li-Sevilla, the machines are cycled through as part of HP’s trade-up process. "We have visited and continue to walk through the facility where the HP e3000 machines are in the process of being reconditioned. It is important to keep in mind that HP’s product reputation is also at stake, and we want to be sure that the reconditioning program retains a very high level of quality. It is a good partnership, and I am pleased with the relationship."

According to Sean McCloskey, Business Development Manager for the Phoenix 3000 with Client Systems, HP’s commitment to these servers over the long haul has helped make the Phoenix program possible. "The HP e3000 is a rugged and reliable server, and it is tough enough to stand being refurbished and reconfigured. HP’s commitment has enabled the continued procurement of parts."

It is very difficult to tell a Phoenix server from a brand new HP e3000. The sheet metal is steam-cleaned and is repainted with the dings removed, just like an auto body shop. New cables and internal gear replace all worn parts. The documentation that supports the MPE license, the manuals, etc., are all packaged and included in the shipping carton. "... things that are typically lost in the used computer market are always included with the Phoenix 3000 package," McCloskey explains.

An interesting pattern of use has occurred when it comes to acquiring a Phoenix 3000 for a limited period of time. While Client Systems would prefer to sell the Phoenix 3000s, they also offer several rental and leasing options.

As Mike Murphy, Vice President and General Manager for Client Systems explains, "People have acquired the server for a year, a few months, sometimes for an even shorter period of time. This happens when a company is about to move to a new location; or, perhaps, is reorganizing its server farm; or is engaged in testing a beta version of a new application. An investment in new infrastructure or top of the line equipment makes no sense, but the price points of a Phoenix 3000 make it a cost-effective choice."

The Phoenix 3000 program offers a creative and affordable way to fill a need. Because it is a specialized approach, it may not be for everyone. But, when an organization needs a server with the horsepower of an HP e3000, yet the budget won’t allow a purchase this fiscal year, the Phoenix program can become an attractive alternative. For more information about the Client Systems’ Phoenix program, visit www.phoenix3000.com.