Rackmount server (1U/2U/4U/etc) want to build one. Recommendations?

[MichaelD]

I'm interested in building a rackmount server for SOHO use.

I know they use a different form factor motherboard and power supply. Does the server chassis come w/the PS?

What I'm not sure about is the relationship b/t cost and form factor. I.E. is a 1U server chassis and PS more expensive than a 2U or 4U?

Also, in a bigger case like a 4U, could I use standard PCI cards?

Most server mobos come with an onboard SCSI controller...they do have IDE controllers too, correct? I'd be looking to start off with IDE drives, since I have a ton of them.

Can someone make some recommendations?

Thank you.

 

[Czar]

all of this depends on the case itself and the motherboard, some u1 cases offer one or two full length slots and some do not, best is probably to check pricewatch for 1u cases

<-- never build this sortof thing before but has thought about it a few times

 

[MichaelD]

This one doesn't look too bad.

No PS, but I have a 350W PS lying around at home.

 

[MikeMike]

thats a 4U case its large. Should work for what you need though

 

[bozo1]

A 4U system normally is just like a regular ATX box - standard mobo, powersupply, etc. Get down to 2U or 1U and you get into special powersupplies, only 1 or 2 PCI slots on a riser board, etc., and the need to use a mobo with pretty much everything built-in.

 

[MichaelD]

Yeah, I've been looking at the 4U cases and have noticed that they are as big as a regular case...kinda large for my half-height rack .

I think I saw some 2U cases that took a standard PS and ATX mobo on Newegg. I'll look. Thanks guys.

 

[MichaelD]

Bump for any additional info or sources.

 

[bozo1]

Don't think a regular powersupply will fit in a 2U case. 2U=3.2" and I believe most ATX supplies are a tad taller than that.

Anyway, with a 2U case, you'll need a motherboard that you can plug a riser card into if you need to add any PCI cards.

There are 3U cases that I believe use standard stuff and doesn't need a riser board.

 

[MichaelD]

Originally posted by: bozo1
Don't think a regular powersupply will fit in a 2U case. 2U=3.2" and I believe most ATX supplies are a tad taller than that.

Anyway, with a 2U case, you'll need a motherboard that you can plug a riser card into if you need to add any PCI cards.

There are 3U cases that I believe use standard stuff and doesn't need a riser board.

Thanks, bozo1; that's very helpful. I'm looking at some stuff on EGay now. The catch is the PS; some come w/it, some w/o. Most that come w/it, the PS is a POS.

I may just buy an empty 4U and put my 350W Antec into it.

Have a good day.