New Dell Precision T1600 available

Thanks Charles.  I read through your other posts on the systems and the graphics options.  I will post in this thread since the others are getting crowded.  I also put in for an SSD - we'll see what IT says.  They really gouge on the SSD option.  I wonder if it is 6GB/s capable and the motherboard as well.  Even though they gouge, its going to be worth it as this workstation will be used for FEA quite heavily.  The SSD should lead to reduced solve times as we often end up with writing 10+ GB to the disc during a simulation.  Also, I put in for the nVidia Qaudro 600, as others mentioned it was the only decent choice when starting from higher end configurations of the T1600. The other difference between your system and ours is that I am electing to go with the E3-1270, since it offers really good performance relative to the E3-1280 at a lot lower price.  I don't think the small performance enhancement justifies the big price increase.  I would rather spend that money on an SSD that will deliver more bang for the buck.  My configured price was around $2,600.  IT will get a discount through their account.  We could save some by upgrading the memory outside of Dell (another area they gouge), but it is the whole warranty issue again.  Last time we looked at a T3500, Dell offered the memory upgrade from 4 to 8GB at no addittional charge - in addittion to our accocunt pricing.

Thanks again for the information Charles,