Introduction
Sunday, September 13
This is a build log for the new database server for FUMBBL for which a donation drive was set up in September 2015.

Components




The components used for this build:

• MSI Z170A PC Mate motherboard
• Intel Core i7 6700k CPU
• 32GB Corsair Vengeance LPX 2133MHz memory, in a 4x8GB configuration
• Corsair CX750 Power supply
• Noctua CPU cooler (NH U9 or something similar, old component that I'm reusing)
• 2x Samsung 850 Pro 128GB SSDs (for the system)
• 2x Western Digital RE 4TB drives for data storage
• Intel Gigabit CT NIC

In addition to this, I'm using a Fractal Design Define R5 (white, windowed) to build the system. This is only a temporary solution until I am ready to push the server live, at which point it will be moved into the Compucase 4U case I have the servers in normally.

Getting started, motherboard
A computer build, for me, starts with unboxing the motherboard:



Next up, we install RAM modules:



Followed by the CPU:





After this, the CPU cooler is a bit more involved. We start with the cooler backplate:



Then, place the spacers:



Followed by the mounting plates:



Now we apply thermal compound and install the cooler:





Finally, attach the CPU fans:



Computer case
Now it's time to unpack and prepare the case:



After which we install motherboard standoffs:



And the IO shield:



Now we install the motherboard in the case:



Attach case cables, and do some minor cable management:



Attach SSDs:





Attach HDD brackets and install into case:





Install the additional NIC, because why not:



Attach SATA cables. At this point, I realize I only have two cables, and 4 drives. Oops. Found a temporary one to use as a third one, but will have to leave one drive disconnected for now (one of the HDDs):





Power
Next, we install the power supply and sort out the wiring:



After some fiddling around with power cables, we're pretty much done:





And finally, we close up the case:



After connecting a keyboard and a screen, we power up and see if the system passes the POST (Power On Self Test):



With the hardware complete, we move on to the next step:

Installing an OS and software.