11-22-2024, 03:10 PM
It sounds like you're aiming for a custom-built NAS with TrueNAS Scale to replace your current setup. Based on your requirements (36TB storage, RAIDZ2, 10GbE, IPMI, and 8-16GB ECC), it may be challenging to build an equivalent NAS for £900 that matches the specs and convenience of something like the QNAP TS-873A, especially with your preference for HDD trays and support for ECC memory.
While custom builds can offer flexibility and often a better price-to-performance ratio, you may find it difficult to match the QNAP TS-873A's build quality, support, and out-of-the-box features, especially the trays and IPMI. If the Jonsbo trays are not your preference, a custom build could require you to source compatible parts for a smooth setup, but this might increase the cost and complexity.
Here’s a possible approach for the custom build:
Motherboard: Look for a server-grade motherboard (e.g., with IPMI support) that supports ECC RAM and has enough PCIe lanes for a 10GbE card.
CPU: A low-power Intel Xeon or AMD Ryzen could provide enough performance, depending on the core count.
Storage: You can source HDD trays separately, but as you noted, the Jonsbo might be less desirable than something like QNAP’s proprietary trays.
Case: Opt for a case like the Fractal Design Define 7 XL, which supports up to 12 HDDs, or other similar options.
That being said, if you're looking for a more turnkey solution with less hassle in setup and better support, you may want to buy a pre-built NAS like the QNAP TS-873A or similar models, even if it exceeds your £900 budget.
While custom builds can offer flexibility and often a better price-to-performance ratio, you may find it difficult to match the QNAP TS-873A's build quality, support, and out-of-the-box features, especially the trays and IPMI. If the Jonsbo trays are not your preference, a custom build could require you to source compatible parts for a smooth setup, but this might increase the cost and complexity.
Here’s a possible approach for the custom build:
Motherboard: Look for a server-grade motherboard (e.g., with IPMI support) that supports ECC RAM and has enough PCIe lanes for a 10GbE card.
CPU: A low-power Intel Xeon or AMD Ryzen could provide enough performance, depending on the core count.
Storage: You can source HDD trays separately, but as you noted, the Jonsbo might be less desirable than something like QNAP’s proprietary trays.
Case: Opt for a case like the Fractal Design Define 7 XL, which supports up to 12 HDDs, or other similar options.
That being said, if you're looking for a more turnkey solution with less hassle in setup and better support, you may want to buy a pre-built NAS like the QNAP TS-873A or similar models, even if it exceeds your £900 budget.