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Hackaday · ClustersCurated

A Linux cluster made of MSN TV boxes

Summary

Hackaday describes an extremely cheap cluster made of discarded MSN TV devices with a Celeron, Ethernet, CompactFlash and serial console. Each node had a 733 megahertz Celeron. The devices contained 128 megabytes of RAM.

Ideas

  • Cheap thin clients become independent Linux nodes.
  • Ethernet connects the devices into a small cluster.
  • A serial port allows early console access.
  • CompactFlash limits the local system image to 64 megabytes.

Insights

  • Retired devices can form inexpensive learning platforms for distributed systems.
  • Serial diagnosis remains crucial when standard displays are missing.
  • Low purchase costs shift the effort into adaptation and operation.

Facts

  • In the offer described, one unit cost 99 cents.

Recommendations

  • First build a fully reproducible reference node.
  • Power many old devices only through tested power supplies.

References

Read the original article

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