My 475 died last week and I was able to get a 485 for $388 or so new from HP Saturday. So I am replacing the 475. I did the upgrade of the ram to 2 gig's and the CPU. I do remember a huge improvement once both were replaced.
Question, the server will be for backups and photo access from the internet. If it saw media streaming more than a few times a year I would be stunned. Is the current ex485 cpu acceptable for this? I have no problem upgrading it, but if it doesn't need it, why do it.

I do intend to replace the 750 with 4 1-tb drives. Also, I gave my 475 to my kid, if he gets it working, can you install the server software from the 485 on it? Or would he still need to use the 475 software?

For your usage, I'd probably not recommend a CPU upgrade. You'll need to install the original EX47x software on that server, as the drivers are very different. Or, wait until the 3.0 Software is available for the previous generation servers from HP.

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Alex Kuretz
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Yakuza, what CPU would you recommend upgrading the 485 to? I'm looking to upgrade my CPU but have no clue what to move to.

You might take a look at this thread for CPUs that have worked. viewtopic.php?f=17&t=3667

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HP MSS EX490 with Intel E6300
4 GB RAM
7 TB Drive Storage

MediaSmartServer.net Wiki, it's loaded with helpful information about WHS and the HP MediaSmart Server.

Texas, I have looked over that thread pretty thoroughly and I'm leaning toward the E5200. I just can't find a specific answer on if there is a bios update or overhaul needed in order to run the chip. Any Advice?

While I have no personal experience on upgrading the CPU on an EX48x, my recollection is that no bios adjustments are necessary. It may take a couple reboots after install for the MSS to fully recognize the dual core.

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HP MSS EX490 with Intel E6300
4 GB RAM
7 TB Drive Storage

MediaSmartServer.net Wiki, it's loaded with helpful information about WHS and the HP MediaSmart Server.

Ok, I believe I'll give it a shot. Having a quicker server would rock.