Case & PSU questions for Atom Mini-ITX System

akindo

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Nov 12, 2008
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Hi guys. So I'm at work building a Solaris NAS based on the Intel D945GCLF2 Atom 330 based board. It comes with an integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 and an integrated Realtek 10/100/1000 NIC. In addition to the motherboard, I plan to buy 2GB RAM, 2 1TB Samsung Spinpoint SATA 300 disks, a case, a power supply, and also install a DVD+R drive.

I need a little bit of help regarding the power supply and case.

I heard that the Atom 330 processor uses about 55 watts when fully loaded. Graphics and network will come from the built-in chips, hence not much power here. But will be using the two HDs and also burn DVDs at time. What kind of silent power supply would you recommend? I read that the MB is pre-wired to work with the regular Mini-ITX (20 pin) ATX power connector. Can I use laptop-style PSUs, e. g. the ones here: http://www.tranquilpc-shop.co.uk/acatalog/Power_Supplies_and_accessories.html or here: http://linitx.com/viewcategory.php?catid=151&pp=149,151? I want a quiet PSU which draws just the right amount of power.

Will the mini-itx motherboard fit in cases made for atx motherboards or do I need a special mini-itx case? And does anyone know of some cool smallish tower cases for the Intel board (need to fit two drives and the regular-sized DVD+R)? The Antec Sonata Solo (http://www.antec.com/uk/productDetails.php?ProdID=08500) seems pretty cool, especially as it features a HD suspension system which minimizes HD noise and protects them from bumps when I move. Also, are there any cases which just have a small hole for a DC power supply cable to enter the case, rather than the big hole in the back for a normal ATX PSU?

Thanks a LOT for any help. :)
 

JAP2871

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Feb 26, 2009
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my question is where on ebay did you find this case. I would like to purchase one my self.