new server build

[bellaireroad]

Hello, I'm currently running WHS1 and plan to migrate to WHS 2011. The current setup has a Supermicro X8ST3-F, intel i7 processor, HP SAS expander-using the onboard controller flashed to JBOD configuration, 16 2TB Hitachi drives, and a Norco 4220. I have about 12 TB of data duplicated into 24 TB. My network is a cisco 1941, procurve switch, cisco 1142 LAP, and sonicwall TZ210 in bridge mode.

I have used this setup primarily for movie storage, and streaming to a HTPC. I also have the webserver setup on it,mainly for family and friends to access photos, etc. One of the things I would like to accomplish on the new build is wireless authentication for my cisco 1142 LAP, and setting up VPN access authentication so I can use my iPhone and log in to Lutron homeworks.

On the new build i'm thinking of using a raid array, which will be a new experience.

I've been looking at the Chenbro 3u casehttp://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005P58DYA/ref=s9_simh_gw_p147_d3_g147_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=1C3K13HQZMX989QMS9QR&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846 and the Areca ARC-1882i. would like to use 3 TB drives in the array.

This is as far as I've gotten in the planning stages. Would appreciate advice on MB and processor, plus any thoughts on the case, controller, or other advice...thanks

 

[Patrick]

Is your goal to have a second server? Why not just install ESXi 5.0 and run everything off of the current setup? To support 3TB drives you could just use an IBM M1015 or something similar. Total cost would be < $100.

 

[bellaireroad]

Yes, Im looking at a new build, and open to suggestions on MB and processor...the supermicro board has been great, any suggestions? thanks

 

[Patrick]

I have been thinking about updating the Big WHS to a new board from the X8ST3-F but have had trouble finding a suitable replacement. Moving to the LGA 1155 platform gives lower power consumption and SATA III onboard, but one loses all of the X58's bandwidth. Did you see my 2P Opteron 6128 piece? That is probably too high end but fairly inexpensive

 

[bellaireroad]

great review on the opteron...what are your thoughts on the X9SRE-F? Im not going to need an onboard SAS controller since the Areca ARC-1882i will be used.. Also, any thoughts on the chenbro cases vs supermicro? Chenbro backplane does 6Gbps, and supermicro does 3Gbps?