Re: [cobalt-users] RaQ vs Something Else

[cobalt-lists <lists@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

The cases I use for my standard linux boxes are purchased from
www.gtweb.net.  My experience with the cases has been very favorable as they
use extremely thick steel and have ears that can take a hit with a hammer
and not bend or break.  The only down side of these server cases is the
weight as they are about 15 lbs each so you may need to insure your rack can
take the weight of the 1U server cases, ups and equipment which can easily
break 600+ lbs and I have seen some cheap racks rated at less.

The cobalt's on the other hand create serious problems when loading up a
rack full of servers.  If you take one out you cannot get the server back in
as the servers sag as the rackmount ears and the case used on the cobalt web
servers simply is not of high quality.  When you are loading a rack of 1U
servers with no leeway a small sag of even a quarter of an inch can create a
pain in the rear when you try to install the server back into the rack.

To avoid the problem I now install a standard linux server box under every
few cobalt servers.  The Linux box acts like a shelf and helps to keep the
cobalt servers from sagging.

If anyone runs into an AMD all in one board let me know.  Before choosing
the tyan board I spent hours searching for a AMD all in one board in the
flex atx size w/o any luck!

Thank you,

Michael T. Ross