NetworkSoul.net

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).

Tags: alix, debian, embedded, green, home, howto, lenny, Linux, lowpower, server, voyage