Server For Tutoring Organization

[Robert L Cochran]

I've recently begun consulting for an organization that provides 
tutoring assistance in a specific area. I'm specifically being asked to 
fix their network and application software issues. I've just started 
there, and I'm accordingly just learning their network and workstation 
mix.  The  organization's leader is definite that a new server machine 
is wanted. Currently, a Dell Optiplex GX260 is running in a database 
server configuration. The organization has 20 student classes, 
approximately 10 full time staff and 100 tutors. The 10 "lab" computers 
are in constant use and the 4D server software is getting a lot of use. 
There are another 12 or so computers for the regular staff. Everyone is 
complaining of slow response times except for internet access. Everyone 
wants to replace the Dell with something more powerful.

Is there one server box that can keep up with the demands of such an 
organization and accomodate some growth? Surprisingly enough, it looks 
like a rack enclosure was given to the organization, and the Dell box is 
enthroned on the bottom of this. Some of the rack mounts are used to 
support the monitor which is a few feet above it. I'm not sure of this 
is a 1U rack.

While I am not new to networking, I am new to patch panels and rack 
mounted servers. I have a lot to learn here. Advice is appreciated. (Is 
there also a mailing list where I can ask questions about hardware such 
as patch panels and how to trace which computer a particular termination 
is serving?)

Thanks

Bob Cochran