Uptime?

H

Hoof

Limp Gawd
Joined
Oct 19, 2005
Messages
161
What would you say is the most important factor when it comes to overall system uptime? I realize the OS has a lot to do with it, ex. linux boxes usually tend to have a better uptime then xp ones but as far as hardware is concerned, what do you think impacts it the most?
 
I'd say the number one factor is having stable, clean power(ie, having at least a UPS). Next to that, redundancy helps. Though I've had linux and freebsd boxes on regular run-of-the-mill hardware with more than a year of uptime. My HTPC is currently on 67 days, and that's just an old P3-800 I found on the side of the road, but I've got it plugged into a UPS.
 
I can definitly see how a UPS would help things :p How much does ram come into play? At least with xp it seems that after having your computer up for a couple of days you need a reboot just to "refresh" your memory and get your computer working at 100% again.
 
Hoof said:
I can definitly see how a UPS would help things :p How much does ram come into play? At least with xp it seems that after having your computer up for a couple of days you need a reboot just to "refresh" your memory and get your computer working at 100% again.
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I think that has a lot to do with the programs you are running, not necessarily windows itself. It's entirely possible to have a windows machine running for months. But yeah, if you've got memory leaks all over the place then eventually you're going to probably have to just reboot to clean it up. I've never really had that problem with linux, though.
 
Good quality hardware. I have a windows 2000 Box running Lotus Notes for a customer. Its been up almost 2 years, down twice when their buildings power went out, and thats it.

The whole "windows" aint stable thing dont apply to 2000. XP, well thats different :)
 
IMO every component and the OS/software plays a role. All it takes is one flakey hardware component, driver or application to bring a system down.
 
I've found choosing quality components is usually a good way to end up with a stable system. Going with cheaper motherboards, noname PSUs, crap RAM etc will ruin a systems uptime. As noted the UPS helps a lot, since it can help clean the signal a lot and protect from surges much better. Solid and reliable power helps a lot, my workstation is w2k pro and has an uptime of 102 days at the moment running full tilt a lot of the time.
 
The other thing you need to is test that they are stable as you build them.

Before I install an OS, I alway run Memtest86.
Three loops with no errors.
After the OS is installed and patched then it Prime95 for 24 hours.
Then add a loop of 3dMark on top of the Prime.

If the box passes that with good temps & voltage then just install Folding@Home at let run 24/7/365.

Luck........... :D
 
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