Budget-friendly used rack-mount server?

I'm new to the server thing, and very new to rackmount stuff. However, it seems like it would be quite a bit cheaper for me to buy a used rack-mount server as opposed to trying to build one in a standard desktop case, etc. This also allows me to run a rack-mount switch, etc....Not only cleaning everything up but also looking totally cool in the process(I love hardware porn).


Anyways, I need a server to run and record the IP cameras I'm installing at my house. I'll be starting off with 4 cameras, but would like room to expand down the line. It also wouldn't hurt to have extra power in case I want to use the server for additional things as well.


Some of the criteria I'd like to meet:

Processor(s): 4 cores would be sufficient for a while, but I'm thinking that 6 or 8 would be nice to have. 2.5-2.8ish gHz? It takes a lot of resources to process and save the data from multiple HD cameras.

Memory: At least 4GB(with room to grow). 8GB would be better. I plan on running Ubuntu Server and ZoneMinder to control the cameras, plus some software to monitor the server and my network, plus anything else.

Storage:Don't have to get too crazy here. I'd like to run the OS and software on one smaller HDD, and then store video on a set of larger capacity drives in a RAID configuration. 6 slots total(for future expansion room again)?

Power:Redundancy would be nice, but not necessary.



I've found a few on E-bay that seem right up my alley. Anything to look for or stay away from? The IBM Xeon stuff looks like it's right up my alley.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/IBM-X3650-2U-SERVER-2x-QC-X5355-2-66GHZ-4GB-1x-146GB-SERVERAID-8K-L-2x-PSU-/310418726511?pt=COMP_EN_Servers&hash=item484665de6f#ht_2668wt_952

http://www.ebay.com/itm/IBM-X3650-2U-SERVER-2x-QC-X5355-2-66GHZ-4GB-1x-73GB-SERVERAID-8K-2x-PSU-/170888964798?pt=COMP_EN_Servers&hash=item27c9c6aabe#ht_2546wt_952

Any help is appreciated.

It doesn't have to be a rack server. I just saw a few selling on ebay for $200 ish. Seemed like a great bang for the buck.

What would be a good route to go in an ATX case?

I see a lot of good deals on Dell and HP servers. I never liked Dell desktops, and I assumed their servers were probably in the same league.

Sorry, I worded that wrong. I have a bunch of ATX cases around. Meant what components would one suggest when building a server inside an ATX case(mobo, etc)...Although the second part of your post covered that.

I'm going to keep looking around and reading threads in this subforum....Tons of great information.

Sure did, thanks.