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Extreme Linux Server Available to North America
jcasman writes "CNet is covering an announcement from Japanese Linux provider Plat'Home on a low-cost, super tough Linux-based server, now available in the US, that can handle extreme heat and cold. 'The OpenMicroServer is kind of an "extreme" use server pushing the boundaries for normal, low-cost hardware. In a 624-day endurance test, the OpenMicroServer performed normally under 122 degree F conditions. The unit also employs a power efficient AMD Alchemy (MIPS) CPU and precise part placement based on thermo-fluid analysis to achieve semi-hermetic construction.'"
Yes, the operating system is Linux and it runs Linux applications and common open source applications. This is an example of how flexible Linux is. This type of use wouldn't be possible with Windows due to licensing costs AND inability to modify Windows to work on MIPS processors. Great use of Linux on inexpensive hardware.
You may joke, but whether a computer part has LEDs on its fan(s) is a good indication of whether it's good or not.
If it has them, the designer is trying to distract you from how poor the product is. Ditto for interesting colours (e.g. gold), an excessive number of fans, UV fluorescing plastic, or claims of ability far in advance of anything else in the same price bracket.
Real equipment is black or plain metal in colour, has one fan if at all, and DOESN'T GLOW. Good quality parts also tend to be heavy, and typically cost twice as much as the cheapest available. It's worth it though, when your computer doesn't explode.
A pc with a side window and different coloured LEDs everywhere looks like a hyperactive kid with an entire bag full of sweets stuffed in his mouth, and is probably just as reliable.