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Firstly - I've used search, I've run through all the topics tagged with these ones, but couldn't find anything satisfying.
I'm trying to build a home server machine, which should be a low-power always-on backup and file sharing station. On the software side, I've decided on Windows Home Server and at the moment am trying to find proper hardware at the lowest price possible.
The biggest problem is the motherboard. It should be compatible with Intel Atom processors (as they appear to be the most efficient and low-power ones), should be able to run at least two (four would be great) sata HDDs, support RAID and have at least four USB ports.
Integrated Video and LAN would be great (and it's really hard to find MoBos without them too).
The only motherboard with all of these specs I could find was the Supermicro X7SLA-L-O, but it has the Atom 230 integrated, which is slow on HD Video. And it starts from around $120.
On the other hand, there are many MoBos with integrated Atom 330 and 2 sata ports, but with no RAID. And their starting from $80, like Intel D945GCLF2 (can't post more than one hyperlink, please google).
Maybe I should go with the latter one and add a PCI SATA Controller Card (again - please google)? It would be cheaper and more feature complete.
What would you suggest?
P.S. Could any kind of failure of the Sata Controller Card damage drives (and the data on them) connected to it?
Why do you need RAID? – JAG – 2009-09-23T11:31:08.920
jgeer, to increase safety. I plan to use RAID 1. – domen – 2009-09-23T11:32:14.487
1I think it overcomplicates your setup. If one of your disks fails simply replace it. If your "master" disk fails, replace it and reinstall the server. Other than loosing some time you should be safe. Also you save yourself the burden of taking care of the RAID (rebuild, etc). Just my opinion. – JAG – 2009-09-24T11:07:15.003
jgeer, thanks, It seems to be a good pont. I'll think about it. – domen – 2009-09-25T07:52:49.267