Second unRAID Server Build


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Background: I've been using unRAID for about ten years now. My first server started out as a media server and as I started having extra storage space, I started using it as additional data storage. Now that I have a whole slew of extra HDDs sitting around, I thought I would build a second server and use Server 1 solely for Media again, and move all my data storage to Server 2. This will free up a lot of space on Server 1 and delay upgrading HDDs for while, which should result in overall cost savings factoring in the new build.

 

I'm looking at putting in 8-10 6TB drives right now. It will be used for data storage and nothing else.

 

It looks like a lot has changed with hardware compatibility over the last decade, so I just want to run a few options by and make sure everything should work with unRAID.

 

Either way, I'm looking at this Antec P101 Case. It will hold 8 HDDs and has one additional 5.25" bay which I could convert to a 9th drive if needed. Ideally I was looking for a 10 drive case, but didn't really see any good options in the $100 range.

https://www.newegg.com/black-antec-performance-series-atx-mid-tower/p/11-129-242

 

Option 1: AMD

Motherboard: https://www.newegg.com/msi-pro-b550-vc/p/N82E16813144547?Item=N82E16813144547&SoldByNewegg=1&quicklink=true

CPU: https://www.newegg.com/amd-ryzen-5-4600g-ryzen-5-4000-g-series/p/N82E16819113744?Item=N82E16819113744&SoldByNewegg=1&quicklink=true

 

Option 2: Intel

Motherboard: https://www.newegg.com/p/N82E16813162014?Item=N82E16813162014&quicklink=true

CPU: https://www.newegg.com/intel-core-i5-10400-core-i5-10th-gen/p/N82E16819118135?Item=N82E16819118135&SoldByNewegg=1

 

The Intel option is using the LGA1200 socket. For my use case, I didn't really think I need the newer LGA1700, but can look into those options if recommended.

 

I'm just looking for a simple build that can be assembled and with some basic set up, just plug and play. The AMD looks to be a little cheaper, but wanted to look at both options and will go with whichever has the best ease of use. Any recommendations are appreciated.

 

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I'm not sure about that case. I love Antec cases in general but i'm afraid there won't be much airflow left if you fill up all the hard drive cages because of the solid frontpanel. Yes, there is a vent on the side and top but it's minimal. But i've never seen the case in real live so i could be wrong.

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Cool. I’ll go with the intel Motherboard and the i5. I’m still looking at cases but leaning towards the Antec and I’ll keep an eye on temps.


I’m thinking 16gb of RAM should be fine.

 

For a PSU, I’m looking at a Corsair 650w unit. It has 8 SATA connectors without having to add any extra cables. I’m thinking this is more than enough for 8 drives.
 

Only other thing is the networking card. I remember some compatibility issues back from my first build where I had to have a separate NIC. Are those a thing of the past and I can use the motherboard for Ethernet now? 
 

Any issues with my build so far? Probably going to put my order in later today.

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On 5/4/2023 at 12:29 PM, johngalt said:

I’m still looking at cases but leaning towards the Antec and I’ll keep an eye on temps.

For a PSU, I’m looking at a Corsair 650w unit.

Are those a thing of the past and I can use the motherboard for Ethernet now?

Don't know much about that Antec case.

It seems to be OK for the price, but I'd advise to take a look at Fractal.

Fractal cases are super popular with NAS builders for a reason, e.g. Fractal Node 804 ($125) or Fractal Define 7 (XL)

https://www.fractal-design.com/products/cases/

 

But the cheaper Fractal Node 804 case is designed to only accept mATX boards.

Therefore it's probably a no go for you since it's difficult to find any reasonably priced LGA1200 mATX boards with 8 SATA ports.

 

Fractal Meshify 2 or Define 7 might be better fitting.

They have lots of room for expansion, but come with only 6 HDD trays included.

I don't know where users get extra trays.

I heard it wasn't easy in the past. The situation might have changed by now.

 

Which model of a Corsair PSU?

Yes, it's a quality brand overall but every brand has its share of duds. Here's a list of high-end (look for single rail) models to choose from (if fits the budget):

https://cultists.network/140/psu-tier-list/

 

Boards with Intel LAN are preferred and work just fine, but Realtek shouldn't give you much of a problem either.

Edited by Lolight
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