Sonnet Transform a Mac mini Server with Thunderbolt Technology into an Rack Mount Server!
This is what Sonnet say…
In many applications, a Mac mini or Mac mini Server with Thunderbolt technology can easily take the place of a full size server, but the size and form factor can limit its potential. Most importantly, it doesn’t provide slots for PCIe expansion cards to increase its functionality, connectivity, and storage. Sonnet’s xMac mini Server PCIe 2.0 expansion system/1U rackmount enclosure (formerly known as RackMac mini Xserver) addresses these issues and expands a Mac mini Server’s potential in a big way.
Key Features
- Adds Connectivity and Capabilities to Mac mini—Connects one PCIe 2.0 x16 (x4 mode) slot and one PCIe 2.0 x8 (x4 mode) slot via Thunderbolt technology to the Mac mini, supports high performance expansion cards
- Server Room Ready—1U rackmount enclosure with user-replaceable power supply and fans, built-in cable management featuress
- Diverse PCIe Card Support—Supports Fibre Channel, 10 Gigabit Ethernet, pro video capture and playout, SAS/SATA RAID controllers, pro audio, and other PCIe cards
- Supports Thunderbolt Expansion—Enables daisy chain connection of additional Thunderbolt technology devices through second Thunderbolt port
- Front Panel Operation—Front panel power button activates power switch on Mac mini; USB port enables connection of keyboard, mouse, thumb drive, etc.
- Rear Panel Connectivity—Gigabit Ethernet, USB and HDMI ports are mounted at the rear of the chassis for easy connectivity
- Energy Efficient—Variable speed fans adjust to the unique needs of each configuration, and the auto power on/off feature insures there is no energy wasted with cards powered on when the system is off
Now it isn’t Pro Tools approved yet, but it does provide an interesting option for high end Pro Tools users. The box is due for release in June and the projected price is $1295 plus you need to buy a Mac Mini but even then, it still isn’t silly money compared to a Mac Pro.