[NTLUG:Discuss] Cheap Server for Linux Webserver

[Kipton Moravec]

At 08:59 AM 7/18/03, you wrote:
>I just want to warn you about the VIA systems from Wal-Mart and Fry's. For 
>a desktop, you shouldn't have a problem with them. But, I tried using them 
>for servers in my lab and they didn't stay up overnight. They are 
>engineered for Linux as desktop platforms.
>
>As mentioned previously, P III coppermine processors will provide a best 
>of class solution. They run cooler and have a solid track record as a server.
>
>
>
>severian at pobox.com wrote:
>
>>   The Walmart $200 machines are available online only.  I understand the 
>> shipping is high.  I have seen people quote $70 as what they were 
>> charged for shipping that basic $200 system.  Considering todays RAM 
>> prices, you certainly want at least 512 meg of ram  And then based on 
>> your transaction rate, I bet disk drives will be your limiting factor, 
>> not CPU.  But if you can afford to experiment get a basic box, up the 
>> RAM and see how it does.
>>   I would start with 512 meg to see how it does, but I bet you'll decide 
>> it is worthwhile to go higher.
>>   I also agree with Tom about Dell servers.  I am sorry you rule them 
>> out.  Good used Dell servers are reliable and pretty cheap.
>>
>>In response to the welcome remarks of Stuart Johnston at 11:35 PM 7/17/03 
>>-0400:
>>
>>>actually having a little trouble determining how much RAM we need but 
>>>I'm pretty sure that 128 would not be enough.
>>>
>>>Can you even buy the $199 machines at WalMart stores or do you have to 
>>>get them online?  (Seems like this has been discussed on list before.)

Now I am confused.

I am looking at a 600 MHz VIA processor MINI-ITX board for an embedded 
processor project to control some equipment.  I am choosing this because 
the Motherboard is small, and the processor does not need a fan. (Usually 
the first thing to fail.)

To me data is data and processing is processing.  There may be heavier 
loads and lighter loads, but in my case the servers are usually lighter 
loads than high resolution graphics intensive desktops.

For my embedded system the processing load will be very light, (no monitor, 
or graphics) but they will have to be up 24/7.  Please explain why you 
think they are not good servers.  And why you think they are good desktop 
machines.  What were you doing overnight that caused them to fail in your 
application?

Kip