Server Hardware Recommendation

[koksieboy]

hi,

I'm looking for hardware recommendation for a server for my home lab. Below are my minimum requirements

1. Quad-core processor (Intel or AMD)
2. Motherboard with support for two CPUs and 24-32GB RAM
3. 8GB RAM
4. 1TB 7200 rpm SATA drive
5. 1U rack chassis with hot-swappable drive bays (with low-noise cooling fans)
6. $1500 maximum budget.


I would appreciate any recommendation as I need to build this soon.

Thanks

Koksie

 

[RebateMonger]

Is there a reason why you'd want a 1U case? Those are the loudest and least flexible with regards to motherboards and drives.

 

[cubby1223]

http://www.dell.com/content/pr...c=us&cs=555&l=en&s=biz
http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc...44-241475-3579703.html

 

[MedicBob]

I like the specs you want, but a couple of questions.
1. As stated already, why 1U? 2U or 4U would allow for standard hardware to be used, no need for low profile PCI, PCIE, or AGP cards. 2U cases use a riser card so you can use normal cards.
2. 1 TB drive but hot swap capabilities? Why not a smaller drive for your OS and the hot swap cages for storage.
3. Consider RAID?

 

[koksieboy]

Originally posted by: MedicBob
I like the specs you want, but a couple of questions.
1. As stated already, why 1U? 2U or 4U would allow for standard hardware to be used, no need for low profile PCI, PCIE, or AGP cards. 2U cases use a riser card so you can use normal cards.
2. 1 TB drive but hot swap capabilities? Why not a smaller drive for your OS and the hot swap cages for storage.
3. Consider RAID?

Thanks all for your responses so far. I'm leaning towards 1U chassis cos I have a 20U rack in my home lab with Cisco 3600(6x), Cisco 2950(2x), Cisco 3550(1x) and Cisco 2511(1x) already installed so I have limited space left. However, I'm willing to take advise and go for a 2U chassis.

For the Hard drive, my plan is to use 2 x 750GB or 2x 500GB in RAID1 (Mirroring). I built my last server in Dec. 2004 using AMD Athlon 64 with Asus M/B but I'm not so current on the best component combination anymore.

I welcome all suggestions and thanks in advance.