Using that old G4 as a server-vs-...

[skahn]

I have been using a mirror door G4 1.25GH PowerMac with 3 internal drives of various sizes, for 2+ years.  The bigger and more numerous files I'm now producing make this an old, slow machine.  I spoke to my local provider, Fotocare in NYC, about the cost of turning it into a server for a new dual 2.3GH G5 workstation.  With the cost of server software, new 250GB drives, Ethernet switch, etc., it appears more cost effective to use the G5 with a Weibetech RT5 RAID solution and a couple of new 250GB drives (plus the firewire backup drive that I already use for bootable backup of my applications).  The G4 goes on ebay.  I don't imagine producing a zillion new digital files in the future, but I certainly want to intellegently organize not only the legacy work, but the current assignments that are so time consuming to process and secure.

[peterkrogh]

I did not do anything to my G4 when I put it into service as a server (except to move it.)   I eventually did a clean install of Tiger,  but only much later.  The ethernet switch was about $100.

The JOBOD I bought was $500 for an 8bay unit.(w/o drives)

I don't see what the cost would be beyond that.

If you don't have any good reasons to go to a server model, then don't.  These reasons include space, noise, security, and heat build-up.  If you can keep everything connected directly, that will be fastest and easiest.
Peter

[skahn]

peter,
I was told that I needed server OS, a RAID setup and other stuff.  Seems like more trouble than it ultimately, in my case (not a lot of volume), would be worth.  I take "direct connectivity" to mean "all in one box"; i.e., all in the same G5, or at least with no server involved.  Along those lines I was considering a 2.3GH G5 with the 1 - 250GB drive it comes with, + 2 additional internal SATA 250's for archiving.  I already use a firewire 200GB for boot drive backup and tmp backup of current work.  I want to impliment the bucket system and this configuration seems like a good solution for now.  Do you agree?  This is a perfect time to start DAM and I want to get at least the hardware that I need.

Later... further research indicates that the G5 2.3GH has only 2 internal drive bays.  I have an SATA PCI card in the G4, but it wouldn't be useful in the G5 if there isn't room for 3 internal drives.  That leads me to a solution that has 2 external SATA drives in an external box, and I see that that issue has already been covered elsewhere in the forum.  I will read up more on this.

[peterkrogh]

Steve,
You definitely do NOT need to get OS Server, nor do you need a RAID set-up.  You might want to find a consultant who is looking out more for your interests than his own...

That said, if you don't need the capabilities offered by a server configuration, why do it?  If there  is room on your desk to direct connect, and heat, noise, multiple users needs nor security are issues, then keep it simple.

What would you use for primary archive backup?  Separate Firewire removables?  they should work fine.

Also, while I know that some companies offer modifications to jam extra drives inside a G5, I'm not sure I would suggest it.  Heat is the enemy here, and you are changing the heat generation and the airflow pretty significantly if you put in more than two drives.  I have not really checked it out though.

Peter