[Dclug] Want suggestions for multiple desktops/servers at home

[Ed T. Toton III]

Thus spake Arun Mallikarjunan:

> Guys,
>   I have 2 desktops and a server and am getting another one for my 
> linuxMCE. How do you guys manage the space? Its taking a lot of space 
> and generates heat and noise too. I was thinking of getting/building a 
> setup which can hold multiple motherboards so i can save space. I looked 
> online and couldnt find a suitable enclosure. If anybody was thinking 
> about doing the same thing/ has done it already, I would love to know 
> how u did it or work together to build something(we could build 2 
> instead of one).


It's not for everyone, but I went rackmount in my home setup. I run two 
desktops, and currently five servers (including the router box), so I have 
all of the servers in a mid-height rack. I used ATX rackmount cases, which 
take regular ATX power supplies. The noise is managed by a plexiglas door, 
and low-RPM fans.

By sticking with ATX like this (rather than just going with small 
footprint machines, like mini-ITX or Shuttles or something), the servers 
can all benefit from the hand-me-down parts from upgrading the other 
machines, not to mention rescues from work. :)

The up-front costs can be ugly though, unless you can find someone needing 
to get rid of a rack.



------------------------------------------------------------------
- Ed T. Toton III, RHCE --|-- www.necrobones.com -- ed.toton.org -
------------------------------------------------------------------