DIY Home Network Attached Storage Project #1

Building network-attached storage system is something I wanted to do a long time. The existing computer parts that I use for Linux OS are simply outdated which limited to 32bit software. Having hardware able to support both 64bit and over 4GB memory ram including SATA Hard disk drive are always best choice.

Since I already have Intel Pentium processor (less than BND$20.00 at eBay) and 4GB DDR3 memory ram I got from Kingston reward in the past. My first task is to find an affordable Intel LGA775 motherboard suitable for use for NAS build and allow possible further upgrade.

Finding LGA775 motherboard is very challenging and tricky in Brunei. I want to have a convenience way when it comes sending for hardware warranty so I willing to support the local market. However, my only condition is as long the prices are reasonable with good warranty. Turns out not the case and some of them dare took advantage quoting me outrageous price for special order, which is nearly 50% mark up. I simply cannot accept such amount that makes no sense scaring me away entirely as customer. It’s more like I am buying at eBay of some sort. If they think using the statement “because it’s an old motherboard” would affect on me, they are just huge mistake.

Of course, there are alternative ways to get. I don’t plan to get the second hand from eBay because the demand for LGA775 model will continue to exist in the market at least for another one more year I estimate. So I have to look into Malaysia market with my friends help. Finally a long patience wait, I got ASROCK G41C-GS R2.0 in hand with very good price cover with three years warranty.

The motherboard itself is new designs revisions that support both DDR2/DDR3 memory ram up to 8GB that meets the requirement needed to build a nice NAS system. It really does pack a lot of nice stuffs for such value so I think better off getting another one as backup for my gaming rig in case something happen in the future once I have enough budget.