Build Advice NAS upgrade help please

Discussion in 'Hardware' started by janineo, 31 May 2011.

  1. janineo

    janineo What's a Dremel?

    Joined:
    24 Sep 2009
    Posts:
    87
    Likes Received:
    0
    I have a NAS-type file server I built last year using an old P4 system I had and Ubuntu Server 10.04.

    It's been working fine, but I would like to update it with a less power hungry and quieter CPU/Mobo/RAM combo.

    It's mainly used as a file server via Samba for images, video and music to the other PC's on the network, and as a backup location for those PC's too.

    Current build (from memory):
    CPU: P4 560J 3.6GHz Prescott
    Mobo: MSI 915-GM
    RAM: 1GB DDR
    HDD: 2TB WD (can't remeber exactly which one)
    HDD: 300Gb (Can't remember what make)
    PSU: Seasonic S12II 380W
    Case: Old beige ATX case
    OS: Ubuntu Server 10.04


    I'll keep the PSU, case and HDD's and get new CPU/Mobo/Ram.
    I've been looking around and think that a Sempron 140 should be fine for my purposes. It might be nice to get a mobo that could unlock the potential 2nd core, but it's not essential.
    It's hard to find reviews on AM3 boards that aren't aimed at high end users, so I don't really have much idea about what is a good choice. Also, my last couple builds have been Intel, so i haven't kept abreast of AMD offerings.

    What I would like:
    mATX - possibly will upgrade case at some point, and want smaller options. Don't need iTX though.
    I would like 5 or 6 SATA ports, not too fussed about v3.
    Gigabit ethernet for when I upgrade the router.
    1 or 2gb RAM
    Onboard video
    Will boot without keyboard plugged in - current one refuses to boot without a keyboard.
    Works with Ubuntu 10.04


    Can anybody suggest some suitable motherboards, please? Or alternative CPU's/Mobo's if you think I'm going completely the wrong way with the Sempron?


    Many Thanks
     
  2. IvanIvanovich

    IvanIvanovich будет глотать вашу душу.

    Joined:
    31 Aug 2008
    Posts:
    4,870
    Likes Received:
    252
    the ASUS E35M1-M would be my top choice for a matx server build. it costs about the same as a sempron and midrange motherboard. already dual core and a very good feature set.
     
  3. janineo

    janineo What's a Dremel?

    Joined:
    24 Sep 2009
    Posts:
    87
    Likes Received:
    0
    That looks interesting - I like the passive CPU heatsink!

    Anybody have any other options?


    Thanks
     
  4. janineo

    janineo What's a Dremel?

    Joined:
    24 Sep 2009
    Posts:
    87
    Likes Received:
    0
    Anyone?
     
  5. murraynt

    murraynt Modder

    Joined:
    6 Jun 2009
    Posts:
    4,234
    Likes Received:
    128
    This pretty much. Should be loads.

    Beige case? Eww
     
  6. janineo

    janineo What's a Dremel?

    Joined:
    24 Sep 2009
    Posts:
    87
    Likes Received:
    0
    Thanks, always good to get confirmation ;)

    Is it worth paying the extra £7 for the PRO version which has USB3?


    Yeah, but it was available and it hides in the corner of the office (aka 3rd bedroom). :)
     
  7. murraynt

    murraynt Modder

    Joined:
    6 Jun 2009
    Posts:
    4,234
    Likes Received:
    128
     
  8. janineo

    janineo What's a Dremel?

    Joined:
    24 Sep 2009
    Posts:
    87
    Likes Received:
    0
    Thanks to both of you :)

    I will go for the Asus E35M1-M PRO and I intend to keep it for a good few years. (Won't have any spare cash for PC's after children come along)!
     
  9. murraynt

    murraynt Modder

    Joined:
    6 Jun 2009
    Posts:
    4,234
    Likes Received:
    128
    No problem mate. Hope the build goes well. :thumb:
     

Share This Page