Can I build my own rack mounted server?

[SALvation]

I've been building my own desktops for years, so I am comfortable building PCs, but now I wonder if it would be smarter to build my own rack mounted server instead of buying one from Dell. I'm getting ready to upgrade my side-business into a full fledged business in it's own office, so I'm looking to save as much as possible.

Are there any specific differences between building a desktop and a server? Here are the components I have found so far:

Antec Studio Series TAKE 4 - rack-mountable - 4U - ATX
MSI 975X Platinum V.2 "PowerUp" MS-7246-020 - Intel 975X 775
Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 - 2.40GHz 4MB Shared L2
DDR2 PC2-5300 ? CL=5 ? UNBUFFERED ? NON-ECC ? DDR2-667 ? 1.8V ? 128Meg x 64
DDR2 PC2-5300 ? CL=5 ? UNBUFFERED ? NON-ECC ? DDR2-667 ? 1.8V ? 128Meg x 64
Seagate 3.0Gbps 320GB 7200RPM 16MB Barracuda 7200.10
NEC ND-3550A 16X DVD+/-RW
ATI Radeon X1600 PRO
Included w/Case

I assume since the case is an ATX, it will take standard components. Is that right? I'd appreciate any advice. Thanks.

 

[SuperNaruto]

Sure, but basically your component are desktop for a rack enclosure, its no different from a desktop pc.. just a rack mountable pc.. or take a desktop pc and lay it side ways

server uses ecc / registered memory, redundant psu, etc.. depending on the type of data access.. scsi are used instead of sata drives..

but over all, for a home business.. a desktop pc acting as server apps is still good..

You're looking at a 4u servers.. most dell are 1-2u with limited hdd space.. a 4u much have 4-6 drive bay ?

 

[SALvation]

I don't need a super powerful server for my needs. The server would simply handle Exchange Server and would be a file server for 3-5 people. I'm still weighing all my options.

 

[erwos]

Just a warning: rackmounts can be a serious pain in the neck to work on compared to desktops. I'm not saying it's not doable (it is!), just be ready for the added hassle. If you find someone who sells cheap barebones rackmounts, you may want to consider spending a little extra for them. (Also, let us know who you picked - I'm in much the same position!)

As for the actual components, that's totally dependent on your needs. There's no rule that "servers use ECC RAM and SCSI".

 

[SuperNaruto]

Originally posted by: erwos


As for the actual components, that's totally dependent on your needs. There's no rule that "servers use ECC RAM and SCSI".

but the servers you usually buy uses ecc and scsi or sas.. the lower end stuff gets you sata

 

[stogez]

From your needs it doesn't really sound like you need a server. I would say just get a fairly decent desktop PC with a server OS (Win2k3, 2k server)
Run it off a UPC with a Raid 0+1 array. For just exchange server and file server for 3-5 people it doesn't have to be high end. How much data you would estimate will transferred between all the PCs connected?