ARECA -- Ordering Question

[ToddW2]

I`m working on research for a future project, and part of it requires setting up various RAID arrays and figuring out which components are the best 'bang' for the buck.

With that said, I've never ordered or played around with ARECA hardware before, but plan to get the areca ARC-1882ix-24-4G.

My primary concern: Is there a reason to buy this "WITH CABLES" for $1499 or am I better off getting the one w/out cables for $1299 and then getting a few of these:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16812200884
(FWIW: Initially I won't be playing around with HUGE arrays, 2-4 drives to start.)

Those cables should hold me over and let me create a handful of arrays, and then when this goes into production I can get another enclosure for the larger arrays with built-in expanders,a and use my external connector for that, and keep the cables I purchased for internal drives..


Anything I`m missing ?

What about battery backup unit worth it if I have a UPS already ?

 

[mwroobel]

Get the smallest version you can (memory-wise) and put a 4GB compatible stick on the card, you will save yourself some costs there. Also, if you are just starting with 2-4 drives then buy the standard 8 (lno ram expansion) or 12 port card (expandable), and add an expander down the line if you need to.

 

[ToddW2]

Well, my ARC-1882ix-24-4G and Battery Unit should arrive today

Ended up just getting the 4G unit, and BBU from ARECA (or some retailer online I forget if it was direct) but it was cheaper than NewEgg for just the card, and 1 day delivery (free) since it's only a couple hours from me....


Can't wait to test my 840 PRO SSD on a real controller, and get my database array setup