Guys.

 

I am thinking about buying this case as it will fit my needs perfect for the number of hard drives that i could use.

 

I have never used one of these cases before so i am a bit confused. Do i just install a motherboard in this as i would a normal PC case or does it link to a external machine? Both options are fine its just i dont know.

 

 

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/COPIER-ENCLOSURE-DVD-DUPLICATOR-CASE-POWER-N5Dx-13-BAY-/260698381564?pt=UK_Collectables_HardDriveEnclosures_RL&hash=item3cb2d59cfc

 

Thanks in advance

Ok.

 

So i am thinking that we dont install in a motherboard in this case. So i am guessing that i just run SATA cables from the case in to my computer running a SATA card.

 

Is this correct?

I would avoid that..

 

It could be made into a an external drive array for another server (it's intended use) with modification and some expensive parts.

 

By the time you you got it up and running, it would cost you more then buying a new rackmount noro or 15-20 tower with hotswap bays.

see this post to give you an idea on cost in US dollars. then add about $300-$400 if you want hot-swap drives.

change the adapter to a centronics style plate like this http://www.pc-pitstop.com/sas_cables_adapters/AD8788D.asp or this http://www.pc-pitstop.com/sas_cables_adapters/AD8788-2C.asp

as you see, it would not be cost effective.

 

Cases like that have sort of became obsolete 10 years ago. the only people that use those still are mom and pop or small office CD/DVD duplicating shops.

Huuum, more confused now.

 

Maybe its better if i say what i am trying to do as it might change what case or route to go down.

 

I would like to have a case with either a motherboard or without that will allow me to have say 10 drive bays min. I want to build this rig and then really forget about it apart from when i want to add more discs. I will only be adding as i need it.

 

I am guessing i will need to add a couple if not a few SATA RAID cards.

 

on that basis what would you say is the best routre or case to look at?

 

Thanks in advance