200 sats \ 3 replies \ @orthzar 28 Mar 2023 \ parent \ on: Daily discussion thread
Unfortunately, what you are experiencing is common for a lot of computers like Pis. Most single-board computers are very cheaply made, and as a result are generally unreliable. A lot of the trouble comes down to unsufficient testing under extreme load.
I'd recommend a laptop like a Dell Latitude E6540. It's heavy and old (2013), but it's robust, well-supported by Linux, easy to upgrade and cheap on eBay/Amazon. Just make sure you wipe or replace the drive that comes with it.
I was thinking something smaller and robust that can stand the test of time I been thinking about going with a system76 Meerkat. But I fear setting everything up from scratch to run umbrel on it
reply
I was thinking something smaller and robust that can stand the test of time
There are two problems you are likely to deal with. First, small computers tend to have lower-end CPUs relative to a larger laptop. But, any modern x86 processor (e.g. the Meerkat) is going to be faster than a Pi.
Second, parts for smaller computers are often harder-to-find. For instance, power supplies for small computers tend to be specific to that model. Whatever you look at, check reviews to see what fails and look into what it costs to get those spare parts. And maybe buy those spare parts before you need them.
system76 Meerkat
I suspect that will be more reliable than a Pi, but I can't say for sure since I have no experience with System76 machines.
Definitely get the tall version, since that will let you install an ordinary 2.5" SSD.
I recommend going with Ubuntu over Pop!_OS.
But I fear setting everything up from scratch to run umbrel on it
The installation process for Umbrel seems straight forward to me. You just run an install script via the command line. But, I'm probably biased; I've dealt with some very difficult/complicated installation processes (e.g. fighting ancient source code).
reply
Thanks for the help!!
I just have a hard time using a massive laptop that is on all the time running Umbrel on my IT stand.
My node went down again last night. Been off for over 8 hours now I think soon as I get it back I’ll close all the channels and retire it.
This pi was bought for the raspiblitz project then I turned it into an umbrel but now it’s just to unreliable with all this random offline stuff.
reply