Building a Server

[KenGr]

Hi:

My company needs a new server and I am considering building it myself. It will mainly be a file and print server. At most it will support 10 users, with the most intensive application being a high-end accounting program.

What are the main design considerations? Of course, this system must be solid as a rock. I would like you thoughts on SCSI vs IDE, memory, hard drive(s), and especially CPU and motherboard. What are some of the pitfalls in building a server that one does not encounter building a standalone system?

[Rick]

The only 2 considerations you will/should run into with building the system yourself
Are the Drive setup / controller.
For a server the best way to go is SCSI ..
Hot swapable is a PLUS . This requires a case with the scsi swapable bays

The second consideration is Unattended backup (Tape / Data Drive)


Look over the old server
You may even be able to upgrade it.


With Only 10 users You would think small/slower.
But How are the accounts stored and calculated ?
Individual spread sheets or integrated into database files ?

A data base server needs that little extra edge in performance . ( Both CPU and Drive speed)
Regardless of the type of data stored and accessed Memory is always a key in figuring the setup
Lots of memory makes a server happy. ( 1024or more ) Extra never hurt a server

Id say go with the Intel cpu. Runs cooler ( 24/7 server)
A Single cpu unit will work for 10 user group.

Find a M/B with an integrated SCSI controller