Sun Microsystems has been a leader in technology solutions since its formation in 1982. Past and present workstations by Sun Microsystems are reliable, powerful computers on the cutting edge of technology. Today's Sun workstations support fast, multi-thread processing and are available with dual processors and expansive choices of memory and hard drive space.

Sun workstations are most often used in development, design, laboratories and other industries that require high-end processing. Small companies that require fast processing and a Sun environment can also benefit from the technology. Here's how to buy a Sun workstation:

1. Choose between Sun Ultra workstations and UltraSPARC workstations.

2. Try the workstation for free before you commit to a purchase.

3. Purchase of a refurbished or remanufactured Sun workstation.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get a new Sun Ultra or Sun SPARC workstation

New workstations from Sun Microsystems include the Sun Ultra workstation and the Sun UltraSPARC workstation. Both lines offer advanced technology and Solaris and Linux support.

I recommend: Sun Ultra x64 workstations feature up to 32 GB of hard drive space and an AMD or Intel processor. They can run many operating systems, including Windows and Linux. The Sun UltraSPARC workstation features a Sparc processor and is pre-installed with Solaris software. When you purchase a new workstation from the Sun Try and Buy Program you can try it for 60 days, then get 25-45% off the purchase price. Also check out Hot Deals from Sun before you buy.

Buy used Sun workstations

Get significant savings when you purchase or lease remanufactured or used Sun computer workstations.

I recommend: Get remanufactured workstations from Sun that include warranties and software bundles. Save more than 50% on discontinued servers from the Sun Remanufactured Systems Program. Save more by purchasing from a reseller like Vibrant Technologies or DigitalSurplus.com. Most resellers also sell peripheral and network hardware and application software and will buy your old Sun equipment. If you need a short-term solution, rent a used or off-lease Sun workstation from Datalease Systems.

Find parts and support for Sun computer workstations

Get parts and resources to support, upgrade and repair your used Sun workstation.

I recommend: AnySystem.com and MCA Computer Corporation carry a variety of parts including graphics cards, boards, memory and hard drives. Sun provides product documentation or old and new workstation models on its website.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Sun offers many web-based training applications at low prices to help you support, maintain and use your Sun computer workstations.
• •  Find out about warranty and return options before purchasing used Sun workstations from an online retailer. The company may offer a short warranty period or no warranty. Also inquire about the requirements for returning the unit if it doesn't function. You may be liable for the cost of shipping and a restocking fee.