The HP N36L is an "ultra mini server" introduced Sep 2010.
Specifications
- One x1 PCIe slot
- One x16 PCIe slot (can be used for discrete graphics)
- One (x4 PCIe?) proprietary slot (advertised as a "PCIe holder") for a management card
Observations
Does not include a optical disc drive SATA cable
Uses Torx screws (size?) for hard disks, optical disc drive
Reviews
Silent PC Review has a forum thread on the introduction of the HP N36L.
People who have one
Amrit has one.
My review
Other than the handle mechanism which has a metal spring, the N36L's disk caddies are simple plastic affairs. The plastic does not appear to be particularly high quality, but since the only purpose of the things is to hold disks (and not face the environment), it probably good enough.
Unlike other PCs, the N36L does not use Phillips-head screws for the user-accessible bits. Two sizes of Torx screws are used (I'm unsure of the size), and HP was pleasant enough to include a Torx screwdriver that snaps into the inside of the machine's front door. Screws for hard disks and the optical disk drive are also screwed into convenient holes in the front door—no little baggies of screws to lose here! There is a single thumbscrew on the top-back to remove the top cover, and two thumbscrews holding the motherboard plate in place.
If you're looking for more photos, see my HP N36L set on Flickr.
