Do you want to know the first thing I thought when I first saw HPs miniaturized version of the MediaSmart Server?

"What the heck is that?"

I always envisioned a smaller MediaSmart Server to look like the HP MediaVault, HP's last attempt to make a smaller, NAS like device at a lower price point. It shared the same styling as the MediaSmart Server, only it had two drive bays instead of four. Yet, while they even shared some of the same custom features, like Photo Webshare and the iTunes Server, there was one distinct difference: it didn't run Windows Home Server. Instead HP opted for a custom Linux solution paired with a Marvell processor. This wasn't necessarily a bad thing, but it lacked the powerful automation and integration that made the MediaSmart Server such a success. 

Fast forward to today, and HP is taking another stab at shrinking the MediaSmart Server. Why now and not before?  I'd venture to say the biggest reason is the rise of Intel's Atom platform, which happens to be powerful enough to adequately run the Windows Home Server OS and all the other features HP crams into it, yet cheap enough to get the price into the sub $400 range. Without Atom, they'd be forced to use a more expensive AMD or Intel solution. While that would certainly increase performance, the price point wouldn't be attractive compared to the EX-485.

The result of their efforts is the new LX-195, codenamed Boxster. Unlike their last attempt, this time they're offering the same powerful core, Windows Home Server, plus a lot of their HP secret sauce at a much lower price point. Don't let the LX-195 fool you though. It may not share the same look as anything else in the lineup, or have quite the same amount of umph, but it certainly packs a lot of the same punch. So how does it stack up? Let's find out.

Out of the 'Box'ster

Opening up the LX-195 brought back fond memories of MediaSmart Server unboxings of yore. I found the LX-195 well packed, the only difference being this one ships in a hard plastic casing instead of foam, and everything was intact. To no surprise, the LX-195 ships with the usual parts and accessories.

Inside you'll find:

• The HP MediaSmart Server LX-195
• Horizontal placement adapter
• One 640GB hard drive (built in). 
• Power cord and power brick
• Ethernet network cable
• Server Recovery Disc
• PC Restore Disc
• Software installation disc
• Setup poster
• Warranty and support guide

Case and Style

The most obvious difference between the LX and EX line of MediaSmart Servers is the case. Say what you will about the EX series, but most will agree that it's built like a tank, sporting top notch metal and gloss black plastic materials. The LX line feels significantly cheaper, settling on an all plastic enclosure with a subdued gray/brownish color, though it's solid enough to not exhibit any flexing or bending with a modest amount of pressure.  

The case is a trapezoid design, the bottom being slightly larger than the top. The top, bottom, and sides get a ribbed 'accordion" look that you'll either like or hate. Even if you're not a fan of the look, it can easily be set up out of view without any difference in functionality. 

The LX-195 can be placed vertical or horizontal thanks to the included plastic adapter to level it out if placed on its side. I would have preferred the adapter be somehow integrated into the case side, particularly since I tend to lose small plastic pieces.

Another dramatic departure from the traditional MediaSmart Server design is the lack of any removable drive bays. This MediaSmart Server is, after all, a single drive device expandable via USB. Because the drive is built in, it needs to be easily replaceable in the event of failure. As such, HP has needed to shift from the "build it like Fort Knox" kind of case in the EX line to something easy to open.

 

Getting to the system internals is a four screw process, and a lift of the internal case side. A small plastic clip holds everything up to make working inside the case easy. Users who like to tinker with upgrading system components should take note that the along with access to the hard drive, the 1GB RAM module is also easily accessible.

The front panel is endowed with lights for power, health, and network status. There are no drive indicators like on the EX line.

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