August 16, 20232 yr Hello, My current Fractal Design Node 304 is becoming too small: I want 8-12 HDD's and 3-4 SSD's in my server, but there is only space for 6. I'm looking for a new case, but it's quite hard to find one, so I ask the community I'm looking for a case with enough space for my drives (8+ drives) and some SSD's, dtx/m-atx motherboard size and a SFX/ATX power supply. I like the Node 804, but it's a bit dated in my opinion. The Jonsbo N3 is nice, but it's too small (ITX and only 1 SSD). Please let me know if you know a case that would fit my server my preference goes to a small cube sized case, like the 804.
August 17, 20232 yr 15 hours ago, optimal-butternut7733 said: I like the Node 804, but it's a bit dated in my opinion. Welcome! The Node 804 has been released 8 years ago but it's still considered to be one of the best DIY mATX NAS cases around. The biggest issue with it, IMO, relates to unavailability of mATX motherboards (by the big 4) featuring 8 SATA ports, since the case is designed to house 8 HDDs. Yes, there's an option to get additional SATA ports by utilizing a HBA or SATA expansion card but there are certain issues with that route, especially if your goal is to achieve maximum power efficiency. The other great options would be the Fractal Meshify and Fractal Define lines of cases, e.g. the Meshify 2 and Define 7. They're more modern in comparison, but also generally bigger in size, designed to accept ATX mobos that are readily available with 8 SATA ports. Also easy to work on, with lots of room for expansion. Edited August 17, 20232 yr by Lolight
August 17, 20232 yr Author I'm using a HBA card in my Node 304 right now without any issues (so far). Fractal Meshify 2 is a really nice case, but sadly it's too high in order to fit in my setup.
August 18, 20232 yr 16 hours ago, optimal-butternut7733 said: I'm using a HBA card in my Node 304 right now without any issues (so far). Fractal Meshify 2 is a really nice case, but sadly it's too high in order to fit in my setup. The issue is its non-trivial power consumption - important for those trying to achieve maximum power savings. It also generates quite a bit of heat that can lead to overheating in restrictive cases. Its presence will also prevent the CPU from entering into higher C-States. Edited August 18, 20232 yr by Lolight
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