In this video, the creator installs and organizes heavy hardware components like APC Net Shelter racks, tape libraries, JBODs, and networking gear, emphasizing careful handling, proper alignment, and flexibility during the build process. They also discuss technical details, future plans for chassis swaps and GPU racking, and invite viewers to stay tuned for upcoming videos on cabling, powering, and software setup.
In this video, the creator continues building their AI home data center by installing all the hardware gear into APC Net Shelter racks, specifically the 3150 and 3350 models. The process involves a lot of heavy lifting and careful adjustments to ensure the racks are properly aligned. They emphasize the importance of setting the torque brake on the screw gun to the lowest setting to avoid damage and mention using APC generic rails, which are adjustable and sturdy. The video also highlights the installation of large and heavy components like the MSL 8096 tape library and various JBODs (Just a Bunch Of Disks), including the MD 3060E and Dell 60B, with tips on safely handling sharp metal parts and cleaning the equipment during installation.
The creator discusses the technical details of the storage devices, noting that SAS 2 supports up to 24 drives for maximum theoretical performance and that removing components like carrier trays and optical modules can significantly reduce the weight of the devices, making installation easier. They also mention the potential of using 3.84TB SAS 12 SSDs, which offer impressive read and write speeds at affordable prices. The video covers the depopulation of servers like the R930 to reduce weight and the importance of ensuring rails are in good condition before mounting equipment. Additionally, the creator plans a chassis transplant between an R730 XD and an R720 XD server, which are the same size, and promises to update viewers on how that process goes.
Networking components are also installed, including an SN2700 100 Gigabit switch mounted on very old rails. The creator explains their choice of front-facing cable management due to the length of their existing cables and mentions the possibility of relocating networking gear to a separate, noise-isolated area in the future. They stress the importance of flexibility during the build process, as changes and adjustments are often necessary. The video shows the finished rack setup, which offers much better working space compared to previous cramped Dell racks, and highlights features like an IKVM for remote management.
Towards the end, the creator reflects on the challenges of organizing and fitting all the equipment, including the need to find new placements for additional racks and components. They respond to viewer questions about GPU placement, teasing an upcoming video focused on a non-traditional GPU racking solution. The creator encourages viewers to stay tuned for future videos covering cabling, powering on the system, and software installation. They also invite viewers to share ideas and comments, appreciating the community’s input.
Finally, the creator thanks their supporters, including members, Patreon backers, and those who buy them coffee. They recommend checking out related videos and playlists for more detailed information on building and running a home AI data center. The video serves as a comprehensive update on the physical assembly phase of the project, setting the stage for the next steps in cabling and configuration.