I had been looking for a media server that was easily expandable but was not happy with what was available.  I do have an HP 475 MediaSmartServer - but do not like its limitations (noisy, limited expandability, and file protection doubled storage requirements).  While perusing MediaSmartServer.net, noticed an article on Lime Tech's unRaid - it looked promising.  After lurking for a week I decided to take the plunge.  Downloaded the free version and utilizing an idle desktop system, I played around with it for about a week.  It appeared to be what I was looking for.  Decided to build a system.  I wanted a server that was quiet, unobtrusive (was going to be in my den) and could hold approximated 20TB.  After reading nearly every article in the unRAID compulsive design forum, I decided on the following:

 

Case: Zalman MS-1000 HS-2  (quiet & attractive)

Drive Cage:  Zalman-ZM-HDR1 (brings total to 3 3x3 bays)

Single Bay Mobile Rack: SYBA CL-HD-MROF (total removable of 10)

MB:  JetWay JHZ03-GT-V2-LF AM3 AMD 880G HDMI Micro ATX (inexpensive)

Proc:  AMD Sempron 140 Sargas  (inexpensive and low power)

Memory:  Kingston ValueRAM 2GB (2 x 1GB)  (inexpensive)

PowerSupply:  SeaSonic X Series x650 Gold (modular - didn't scrimp here)

RAID Card:  Adaptec 1430SA SGL

CaseFans:  4 Scythe Kama Flow 2 120mm 900 RPM

Modular Bay Fans:  1 Scythe Kama Flow 2 92mm (1 of 2 Zalman bays does not come with fan)

USB Flash:  2 Lexar JumpDrive FireFly 2GB

unRAID:  Pro 2 pack license

HardDrives:  7 SAMSUNG EcoGreen F4 HD204UI (had 3, bought 4 more, all flashed to JP1)

 

Incrementally assembled everything over a two week period.  Has worked like a charm since day one.  I have it sitting behind one of the doors to my den and you can only hear the system when you are standing right next to it - a gentle sound of air moving.  The only issue I had was I experimented with removing and replacing a HD.  Hit the rebuild button and began wiping out the data.  Lurked some more and found the issue - won'd do that again (I hope).  I do have all backed up on external harddrives so only time was lost.  Currently have about 1000 DVDs (movie only) on the server.  Still need to load up my BlueRays, TV series, music and photos.  Attached are photos of my assembled system, the front inside and back inside.

 

Was at CostCo the other day and bought a 1000VA UPS.  Hooked it up and all appears to be working properly.  I have an Epson Color Laser CX11NF which dims the lights in my den when it comes out of standby.  The UPS kicks in momentarily and the server notices it and updates the system log.

 

I do not have ethernet cables running to the family room althought I am considering it.  I bought a powerline networking system (peak speed advertised of 500Kbps) and am getting between 50 and 100 Kbps - sufficient for DVDs but not sufficient for BlueRays.

 

Turned my idle desktop into an HTPC using XBMC.  Tried to get the Linux version working but could not get the sound through the HDMI.  Went back to Windows Vista and everything is good.  It is outstanding to have all your media readily available without hunting for the disc - now you just have to hunt for the particular movie you want to see.

 

Edit:  Drive temps when spinning run between 32 and 35 deg C.  When not spinning they are typically around 23 to 25 deg C.

Great build!  I'm glad you had such an easy time of it as well.

Thanks Raj! 

 

It only appears easy - the result of extensive reading in this forum, being an EE (14 years since I've done anything technical), working with computers since 1967 (programing in HS) and working late depriving myself of sleep.  However, this was the first time I decided to dress the cables since I don't think I will be opening the case again any time soon.  Additionally, all the contributors on this site set the bar pretty high in terms of making their systems look professional or better.