[gentoo-user] MySQL server hardware recommendation

[Frank Pikelner]

I wanted to ask if anyone on the list is running a large MySQL database and
for their server hardware recommendations. The servers are anticipated to
have a DB of 10-20GB, with about 5000-10000 clients (automated). The
database will be mostly used for updates to the data making up most of the
operations. We are considering using Dual AMD Opteron processors and at a
minimum of about 4GB memory (PC2700 or PC3200 - not sure if the extra
bandwidth will add much performace). One of the items I'm debating is the
type of RAID controller to use that is well supported under Gentoo. I'm also
contemplating whether to consider a SATA2 or a SCSI subsystem.

Just as a side not, I've always wondered the type of hardware used by Google
as they have been very successful in using smaller inexpensive boxes
according to the rumors that have circulated on the Internet.

Any vendor recommendations would also be welcome.

Thank you,

Frank