Project Served - Multiple Server Rack Build! [Planning Stages]

[megadarkwood]

 

 

 

INTRO
Hey Guys, so this is my very first custom build that I have ever made. I have made custom PC's before but not a fully custom case or anything.

 

ABOUT THE BUILD
So this build is supposed to be a fully custom server rack that can hold multiple PSU's and Servers. I will be hosting my home server and game servers off of this. This build will require extensive cooling and ruggedness. Also support to have a monitor and keyboard/mouse on the top. Finally, Cables can be routed through the legs.

 

PARTS LIST
Servers:
-I already have parts for all 3 servers
-Monitor
-Keyboard/Mouse

-HEC 350W Power Supply (http://bit.ly/17heej5)

-Random 120mm Fans

-UPS

 

 

Rack:
-Metals or Plastics for the actual rack (Need opinions Metals or plastics)
-1.5 inch PVC Pipes (For the supports)
-Plexi Glass, for the windows
-Digital Thermometer Temperature Sensor with LCD Display (EBAY)

 

PLAN
I need someone to help me with this

[megadarkwood]

I've started to get the Mother Boards that I will be using to host my servers.

Pictures:

MOTHERBOARD 1 (HOME SERVER)

This mother board is an M-ITX Board and has 512mb of ram.

Uses integrated graphics and was previosly a Media Center PC, Thats why it has Windows XP Media center edition.

It will be running Serviio.

Also it has a 80watt PSU.

Other Pictures will be up soon

[megadarkwood]

[Reserved]

[megadarkwood]

[Reserved]

[megadarkwood]

[Reserved]

[megadarkwood]

[Reserved]

[megadarkwood]

[Reserved]

[stevv]

Cool,

 

What hardware and cases are you planning do you have?

 

I built a small one for a business last year (bought the rack, 3 servers and two 24port switches and UPS, and some spare room for misc stuff. Full headless.), and it can get pretty hefty, so Metal would be better otherwise there will be flex.  Less material needed and more open for ventilation.  Something like this: http://hackedgadgets.com/2006/09/19/diy-server-rack/

 

Alternatively you could buy one to save yourself a bit of trouble (and lose the fun though). Something like this http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16816133039 or http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16816228081

 

Being able to easily take machine out is also useful.  Flat tray or rails (if you buy server rack cases), otherwise mount case directly to rack front and back (but only if you have strong cases, otherwise bad flex for components).

 

My own system, I put them on a bookshelf haha.

 

Don't forget the UPS =)

[megadarkwood]

Cool,

 

What hardware and cases are you planning do you have?

 

I built a small one for a business last year (bought the rack), and it can get pretty hefty, so Metal would be better otherwise there will be flex.  Less material needed and more open for ventilation.  Something like this: http://hackedgadgets.com/2006/09/19/diy-server-rack/

 

Alternatively you could buy one to save yourself a bit of trouble (and lose the fun though). Something like this http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16816133039 or http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16816228081

 

Being able to easily take machine out is also useful.  Flat tray or rails (if you buy server rack cases), otherwise mount case directly to rack front and back (but only if you have strong cases, otherwise bad flex for components).

 

My own system, I put them on a bookshelf haha.

 

 

Don't forget the UPS =)

I plan on building everything on my own (except the things that I cant make)

all the servers are running pentium d's if thats what you are wondering

[Adler Polk]

This is an awesome project!!! 

[MrSuperb]

3x Pentium D running 24/7 ? with ultra cheap power supplies? Prepare for a large electricity bill :)

[megadarkwood]

3x Pentium D running 24/7 ? with ultra cheap power supplies? Prepare for a large electricity bill :)

I already have a huge electricity bill so im prepared

[stevv]

I plan on building everything on my own (except the things that I cant make)

all the servers are running pentium d's if thats what you are wondering

 

I was wondering more about the cases and equipment you plan to put on rack since that would be a big factor in the rack design.  I guess I'll wait and see after you post everything.

 

How is serviio?  Everyday I hear about a new media server software.  What do you like most about it?