Dell PowerEdge R640 is a server that can be adapted to a wide range of deployment scenarios - but only if properly configured. With our configurator, you can choose processors, RAM, storage, and additional components exactly as you need them - without overpaying or guessing what will be compatible. You control every aspect: from power supply, through RAID, to remote management. And if you’re not sure what to choose - check the most common questions below.
How does the R640 server configurator differ from prebuilt sets?
If you care about hardware that will run stably in your environment - not just “boot up once” - the Dell server configurator gives you far more flexibility than preassembled kits. This is not another “build and order” wizard. Here, you truly control what goes inside - and, most importantly, understand why each component makes sense in your specific use case.
The Dell R640 platform provides extensive flexibility - dual-CPU support, expandable memory capacity up to nearly 1.5 TB, and up to ten 2.5" drives, with compatibility for advanced RAID controllers. Prebuilt sets typically limit these options: one CPU, 32 GB of RAM, maybe two drives, and iDRAC Basic. For some organizations, that’s insufficient - and that’s exactly where the configurator reveals its strengths. You can select a Xeon Gold CPU, additional memory slots, full remote management, or NVMe drives instead of SATA.
It’s also possible to start with a cost-effective base configuration and expand the hardware six months later - as long as you plan your setup smartly today.
That’s why it’s worth taking a broader perspective - not just focusing on price, but also on how long the system will serve your infrastructure. Whether you're planning a production environment, SQL database host, Veeam backup server, or several VMs under VMware - the R640 makes perfect sense.
R640 Server Configurator - who is this model best suited for?
Not every IT project requires an HPC cluster or a high-end SAN array costing tens of thousands. But there are environments where a server like the R640 is more than a rational choice - it’s a reliable foundation. It fits perfectly in businesses where stability and scalability are as crucial as cost control. That includes IT departments needing a robust yet compact rack server, ideally with redundant power, remote control, and upgrade potential without replacing the entire chassis.
If your company relies on ERP systems, databases, or accounting applications daily - R640 is one of the most frequently chosen models. Why? It strikes a solid balance between core count, clock speed, memory bandwidth, and support for high-performance RAID arrays. It’s also widely used as an edge node or primary VMware, Proxmox, or Hyper‑V host, especially in smaller environments that don’t yet require VxRail or a blade cluster.
For a broader selection of rack servers, see Dell G14 servers - still a solid platform offering excellent price-performance value.
Which components pair best in the R640 configurator? Practical guidance with no artificial limitations
If you want your server not only to perform well but to remain stable long-term, configuration planning is essential. It’s not just about picking compatible parts from a list.
The R640 supports both single and dual CPU configurations, so the first step is selecting processors. For virtualized workloads, prioritize higher core counts even at the cost of clock speed. For database applications, faster cores provide better latency and throughput efficiency at lower thread counts.
RAM is the second critical factor. With two CPUs, you have access to 24 DDR4 slots - distribute them evenly across channels. A good starting point is 128 GB in 4 or 6 modules. For heavier loads, consider 192 GB or 256 GB while leaving room for future upgrades.
R640 supports SAS 12 Gb/s, SSD, and NVMe drives, provided the correct backplane and controller are selected. RAID 10 on SSDs works best for databases, while RAID 5 with HDDs suits backups or general file storage.
Don’t overlook power redundancy - dual PSUs are not a luxury but a must‑have for 24/7 uptime. Remote management is equally important: iDRAC 9 Enterprise enables full out‑of‑band control, OS reinstallation, and remote console access.
How to configure your R640 efficiently - avoiding overpaying and regret later
In Dell servers (and others), the biggest issue isn’t lack of performance - it’s a mismatch between configuration and workload. A CPU that’s too weak will bottleneck threads; too strong, and you’ll overpay for unused capacity.
A good starting point is workload analysis - identify what will run on the hardware and how much resources peak operations will consume. This is exactly where the R640 configurator proves invaluable.
Each configuration step is designed to show compatibility boundaries and scaling potential. You can start with one processor and leave space for another, select memory modules suitable for future additions, and plan your storage with RAID 10 in mind, even if you start with just two drives.
The configurator will automatically alert you if an NVMe drive requires a specific controller, if the backplane doesn’t support a given format, or if the PSU will be insufficient after adding a second CPU. It’s a real design tool, not just a list of checkboxes.
R640 offers flexible scalability - provided you choose the right foundation. If starting on a limited budget, the configurator helps balance CPU and RAM costs, choose minimal storage for now, and add components gradually as the environment scales.
Before finalizing your choice, you can compare prebuilt configurations in the servers section. If you want a quick deployment but still prefer configuration control, start with Dell’s server configurator, select R640, and explore what you can build within your budget - without risking an incomplete setup.
FAQ
Does the R640 configurator only display compatible options?
Yes. The system automatically filters out incompatible components - for example, too much RAM for a single CPU or drives unsupported by the selected backplane. This ensures every configuration you build is ready for immediate deployment.
Can I start with a minimal configuration and expand later?
Absolutely. R640 is a modular platform - you can begin with one CPU, minimal RAM, and a few drives, then expand later. It’s best to choose redundant PSUs and an appropriate RAID controller upfront to avoid limitations during upgrades.
How does the configurator help reduce costs?
Each step presents multiple variants - for instance, budget CPUs with fewer cores or higher-end options for complex workloads. This allows you to balance your budget among CPU, memory, and storage instead of overspending in a single area. Ideal when starting lean but planning for scalability.
Can I configure the R640 for NVMe and high-performance RAID arrays?
Yes. The configurator includes backplane and controller options that support NVMe. If you require high I/O throughput - such as for databases or virtualization - select RAID 10 with SSD or NVMe drives and a matching controller (e.g., H740P). All options are clearly described step by step.
How is the server tested after assembly?
Every server undergoes comprehensive testing - verifying memory, controllers, power, and storage subsystems. You receive fully validated hardware, ready for operation upon delivery. This is a Hardware Direct standard, ensuring a trouble-free startup.
Can I compare the R640 with other Dell models?
Yes. To explore alternatives, visit the Dell servers category. You’ll also find other rack models such as R740 or legacy Dell G14 units that remain popular choices for smaller-budget implementations.