MEF Proposals/F2007

Fall 2007

Upgraded mirror server

Background

• The CSClub is running a mirror for Debian and Ubuntu GNU/Linux distributions.
• Before this, there was no local Debian or Ubuntu mirror. We became a mirror in response to many CSClub members (and non-members) requesting this service.
• The machine that is running the mirror is under-powered and over-loaded for the task of mirroring, so we would like to upgrade the machine.
• We would also like to archive the raw video files of our talks (~ 20 GB each).

Who will this benefit

This will benefit members of the university interested in Debian and Ubuntu. We also plan to mirror additional archives as resources permit, so more people will likely benefit from this project.

What will the machine be used for

• Mirroring linux archives
• Space for storing CSClub (and other clubs) raw/uncompressed videos of talks and events

What exactly are you asking for

• One to three 750 GB SATA disks [also using existing SATA and IDE disk] ($240 each)
• 2 GB of RAM [also using existing 2 GB of RAM] ($90)
• ASUS P5K motherboard ($155)
• Intel E6550 processor ($210)
• 3ware 9650SE-8LPML SATA RAID controller kit ($650)
• Corsair VX550W 550W power supply ($95)

Total = $1440 to $1920

We would accept funding for only one disk. However, we would prefer funding for three disks so that we are able to archive more distributions/sites.

We would also use the old parts to upgrade one of our office terminals.

How would you acknowledge MEF's contribution

• We would add a notice to the main mirror page indicating that hardware was provided by the Mathematics Endowment Fund, and provide a link to MEF's site.
• We would attach a MEF sticker to the front/side of the server.

Anticipated questions

• CSCF runs a mirror service (mirror.cs). Why can't people use this?
  • Mirror.cs is not available to off-campus users.
  • We would also like to mirror files/distributions that CSCF doesn't mirror.