We'll install a backup system in following possible configurations:
- two servers in cluster with a SAS JBOD attached to them
- one server with the same JBOD in back
However I'm thinking if really is needed to pay the price premium for one or two server (rack) chassis (our servers have ATX motherboards hence they will fit nicely in a common tower case). We don't need the rack format, neither will need the sturdier nature of a server chassis.
We don't need to put more than two hot-swappable drives (RAID 1 for OS) in the case because we have the JBOD attached.
We don't need high-performance colling and quick-access inside of the case. (yes, I read this)
Also, CD/DVD unit (which is an optional but useful accessory for us in this case) and the CPU fan would be much cheaper for a classical tower rather than for a 2U.
Redundant PSU and redundant cooling? It is really needed / worth the price / possible? (especially if we'll have a cluster)
Can someone answer / clarify the above? Am I correct in the above musings? Any other opinions? Guidance?
TIA for your answers