Thank you @Mirfster I may just pick that guy up.Dang that is high. Just a empty chassis should run you ~200 (if you include the 3.5" trays):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dell-PowerE...854830?hash=item3a9475daae:g:sxsAAOSwnDZT0rUy
From there you need the CPU(s), RAM, Drives and HBA.
This one is pretty much "Turn Key" for $415.00 (Just flash the HBA to IT Mode and add your drives):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/DELL-FS12-T...700629?hash=item1eaba474d5:g:9QEAAOSwJMhXEQaN
Oh, one other thing if you do go this route make sure they include the screws for the trays that attach the drives. They are kinda "specialized" and not just any will do. I usually just use two (instead of four) in a diagonal pattern to save on them.
While not a bad system, I prefer the hex core CPUs (like the Xeon X5650). The X5600 and L5600 families are my preferred; not the E5600 (they seem to run hotter..). Xeon L5639 is a decent hex core that is not even listed on Intel's ARK site; have two of those in a test machine that I am going to upgrade when I find a nice deal.Thank you @Mirfster I may just pick that guy up.
Pretty much that is it. Would want a HBA and ensure the it comes with trays (w/screws) and that the backplane has the two mini-sas connectors (should if it is advertised with a H200 or even H700).It seems the differences in price are due to CPU and RAM what other differences am I missing?
That is a C1100, which is a 1U. I would avoid it since that does get loud due to the compact size. I have one of those and two of the AMD models. They are just sitting in my office unused due to how loud they get.EDIT: here's an older one http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dell-PowerE...245255?hash=item2eeed225c7:g:-XIAAOSwbPxXP6JT -
Good way to spend the money? Or should I look at a different approach?
not too bad :PForgot to include shipping cost (MrRackables is an additional $60.00)