Setting up a Linux home server based on a low cost and low power hardware (Pc Engines Alix) – Intro
A new and very useful “gadget”, a Peaktek 9024 Watt-Meter, is helping me to better understand why my electricity bill is so high!
Peaktech 9024 Watt Meter
The last month my 3 year-old “recycled” AMD Linux home server (active 24 hours a day) burned about 100 KW/h of electricity.. 20 € per month (!!!).
It’s time to find out a smarter and less energy-hungry solution.
We are testing PC Engines Alix for IP PBX and firewall appliances.. why not installing an Alix as a small Linux Home Server?
For starting it should be configured for running:
- Web server (Apache)
- File / Printer sharing (Samba)
- Bit Torrent Client with web interface (Rasterbar libraries and BTG web client)
The model chosen for this test is Alix 2D2, these are key specs:
- CPU: 500 MHz AMD Geode LX800
- Storage: CompactFlash socket, 44 pin IDE header
- Connectivity: 2 Ethernet channels (Via VT6105M 10/100)
- I/O: DB9 serial port, dual USB port
- NO VGA PORT
Power consumption with a Conpact Flash disk: about 5 Watts!!!
It means: 5 (Watts per hour) x 24 (hours a day) x 30 (days) = 3,6 KWh per month!
This is the kit list:
- Alix 2D2 board
- Case (Enclosure) for Alix 2
- AC adapter 18V 0.8 A with EU plug
- 4 GB standard Compact Flash card
.. in less than 8 months i’ll will pay back the cost of the appliance only with the saving on the electricity bill.. :)
In the next post i will describe how to install a Debian Linux (”Lenny”) on the CF with a kernel optimized for Alix (Voyage Linux).
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AskoziaPBX
You can find the PBX IP preconfigured image here:
And obtain all support information "how to" here:
I’ll buy immediately one of those gadgets! ^_^