I was thinking of putting together a system of four computers (cheap laptops, same model) within a 2u rack. I don't want to run virtual machines because of limitations. I came up with these schematics:
http://i25.tinypic.com/ancxvc.jpg[/img]
I might have to rip the screens off them to get them to fit. I would like to be able to remotely re-image the drives. I can't seem to think of any way to do this automatically. In the diagram you can see the connections for USB drives which I at first figured would house the images to be reloaded. Also I probably need to include a router, something cheap of the Linksys variety. Also cooling will be an issue so mega fans will be important.
The first problem is resetting the machine and having it boot from the USB drives ONLY if I choose to have it boot from them (for re-imaging).
The other problem is getting the machines to reboot remotely. Maybe coming up with a device that handles the reboots by wiring directly to the power buttons. All in all I've figured I might have to sacrifice one of the 4 computers in the box for command and control of the other 3 boxes.
I don't want to have to be on location for the re-imaging and resets primarily because I am looking to rent a spot in a datacenter to drop this box into. My setup at home makes this process too difficult, and my wife would kill me for setting up something like this in the closet ;)
I can think of plenty of uses for this unique setup, how about you?
Any ideas about how to get this to work?
Do you think it's feasible or stupid idea?
shankl