[ILUG] Re: Mini ITX systems

[Gavin McCullagh]

Hi,

In gmane.user-groups.linux.ilug.general, you wrote:
> I am looking at buying a mini itx system to stick under the stairs and
> was wondering if anyone had any experiences with these systems they'd
> like to share. It will of course be running Linux, and I envisage it
> acting as a file and print server and needs to be quiet, with low power
> consumption and stability, while holding a hard disk or two and a DVD
> writer. I'm probably going to pick some bits from mini-itx.ie, but if
> anyone's got any pitfalls, experiences etc to share I'd be grateful.

If you're fixed on mini-itx fair enough.  I've set one up as a diskless
thin client which worked well but never put a disk in.  A small form factor
pc such as a shuttle, might be a good bet.  It'll take a little more space
up (they're generally about the size of a shoebox).  In return for that
space you'll get more flexibility 

 - space for 2 hard disks
 - space for 1 full size dvdrw/cdrom drive
 - either 1xAGP & 1xPCI or 2xPCI slots  

They tend to be more powerful though it sounds like that's not much of a
concern (Ronan's ssh issue excepted) and they will likely draw more power
too.  I have quietened my shuttle down very substantially by replacing the
case fan for 15 euro.  They are as reliable in my experience as any good
desktop pc.

Another option of course is a Mac Mini with either Linux or just OS X
installed.  You're not likely to get smaller or prettier (or less
customisable) than that.  I imagine the mini itx is the cheapest of these
options of course.

Gavin

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