Short rack build for BranchCache in our branch offices

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MarcoP82

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Feb 3, 2016
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I'm looking at assembling half a dozen systems for our branch offices to speed up logon/logoff and file access in our Windows domain.
Specifically these should fit typical network rack closets so front I/O, short depth and low heat output are crucial.

What I've read a BranchCache server is basically a Windows Server install with enough storage.
I'm hoping for 2 fast cores or 4 reasonably fast cores, 32GB RAM, atleast two 2.5" bays for storage, M.2 SSD or extra 2.5" bay for OS. IPMI + atleast 1GbE.

No need for redundant PSUs, extended warranties, mission critical support as these won't be mission-critical.

I've come across the SuperMicro 5019D systems: 5019D-4C-FN8TP | 1U | SuperServers | Products | Super Micro Computer, Inc.
As well as the SuperMicro 1019P systems: 1019P-FHN2T | 1U | SuperServers | Products | Super Micro Computer, Inc.
And the SuperMicro SYS-110P: SYS-110P-FRDN2T | 1U | SuperServer | Products | Super Micro Computer, Inc.

These seem to do what I need but I might be missing other solutions.
 
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nerdalertdk

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Mar 9, 2017
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Ahh missed the front part, but still I’m running 3 in my front rack, as long I have 2u under them I can reach all of them :)
 

MarcoP82

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Feb 3, 2016
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That's going to be a problem in some of the racks on our branch offices regretably :(
 

MarcoP82

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Any other suggestions ? I'm thinking about something from Project MiniMicro that I can rackmount with ports front-facing.
 

Markess

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May 19, 2018
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I'm hoping for 2 fast cores or 4 reasonably fast cores, 32GB RAM, atleast two 2.5" bays for storage, M.2 SSD or extra 2.5" bay for OS. IPMI + atleast 1GbE.
Any other suggestions ? I'm thinking about something from Project MiniMicro that I can rackmount with ports front-facing.
Are there any Tiny,Mini, Micro with IPMI? I know from reading here that some have vPro, but vPro isn't as handy as IPMI from what I understand?
 

MarcoP82

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Feb 3, 2016
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This is a nice chassis that should fit your needs: 1U Rackmount Chassis / InWin / IW-RF100

Paired with a x9/X10/x11 gen Supermicro board and you've easily got what your looking for.
Thanks for the suggestion, that's a very interesting case ! Though in my region (EU) these seem to be hard to come by, I only see an email address from the regional office. I'll inquire about these.

Are there any Tiny,Mini, Micro with IPMI? I know from reading here that some have vPro, but vPro isn't as handy as IPMI from what I understand?
I'll not be needing a full IPMI solution but something to restart the device when the OS is not responding is plenty, so we don't have to drive for hours to do that.
 
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