Need NAS Build advice

[Enquiries]

Given 10 Toshiba 18TB SAS
I have access to memory/nvme/CPU 11th/12 gen)/ SSD
Would like to run truenas (or something similar)
Small case as possible - looking at the Jonsbo N3
LSI Broadcom SAS 9300-8i 8-port 12Gb/s (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DSURZYS/?coliid=I59AH7J799Z5D&colid=1Y9SO9FQ4XG7H&psc=1&ref_=list_c_wl_lv_ov_lig_dp_it)
Cables: https://www.amazon.com/CableCreation-2-Pack-Internal-Mini-SFF-8643/dp/B07CL2STVS/ref=pd_bxgy_d_sccl_1/134-6948270-1817216?pd_rd_w=GP9or&content-id=amzn1.sym.c51e3ad7-b551-4b1a-b43c-3cf69addb649&pf_rd_p=c51e3ad7-b551-4b1a-b43c-3cf69addb649&pf_rd_r=C1YMR8RGCKXJEVXMQ51G&pd_rd_wg=LpPCS&pd_rd_r=bab7d122-4d71-4e17-a6f2-1832be336cd5&pd_rd_i=B07CL2STVS&th=1

Motherboard - open
Not sure how to get the controller card in and maybe a 10GB nic

Open to most things, just hate having those drives sitting around.

[ed]

It sounds like you're ready to build a powerful NAS setup with those 10 Toshiba 18TB SAS drives, and you're leaning toward using TrueNAS. Here's a concise plan to help you move forward with your build:

Case & Size Consideration
Jonsbo N3: This is a compact and sleek case, which is great for keeping your build small. However, fitting 10 drives and all necessary components might be a tight squeeze. You’ll need to ensure the case can handle all your drives, plus the cooling requirements.
Motherboard & Controller Integration
Motherboard: Look for a motherboard with enough PCIe slots to support both your LSI Broadcom SAS 9300-8i controller and a 10GbE NIC. Since you're considering 11th or 12th gen CPUs, a Micro-ATX or ATX board would give you the flexibility needed. Make sure it has enough SATA connectors for any SSDs or additional drives you plan to use.

LSI Broadcom SAS 9300-8i: This controller card will manage your 10 SAS drives effectively. The card should fit into a PCIe slot on your chosen motherboard. Given the Jonsbo N3’s size, ensure that both the controller and any additional NIC card have enough clearance.

Networking
10GbE NIC: If your motherboard doesn’t have a built-in 10GbE port, you can add a PCIe 10GbE NIC. This will allow faster network speeds, which is crucial for handling large file transfers, especially with 144TB of storage.
Storage Configuration
SAS Drive Setup: Your LSI controller with the CableCreation SFF-8643 cables will manage the connection between your drives and the motherboard. Make sure your power supply can handle the load of 10 high-capacity drives.
TrueNAS Installation
TrueNAS: This is a solid choice for your NAS, providing excellent data protection and flexible storage options. Install it on one of your SSDs to ensure fast boot and smooth operation.
Cooling & Power
Cooling: Ensure adequate airflow in the case to prevent overheating, especially with 10 drives packed in. Consider additional fans if needed.
Power Supply: You'll need a PSU with sufficient wattage and stable power delivery, especially given the power requirements of SAS drives.