I was looking for a router I could run linux on. Decently fast cores, dual 2.5 Gbe, 4-16gb ram, small, power efficient. I’d then add a vlan capable switch to get the extra ports. The blade 3 looks promising. However it looks pretty tricky to build a small durable case+power supply for it. From what I can tell the edge connector is non standard. Is there a case somewhere that will keep it powered and cool without having to spring for the quad blade chassis?
Hi @spikebike
Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
For the power supply: I suggest using a USB-C PD-enabled adapter. PD adapters have been very popular in recent years. You can easily find many on Amazon or other electronic shops (keyword: USB-C PD charger).
For the case: I have several simple questions:
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What kind of appearance do you prefer?
a. Metal case like most desktop Ethernet Switches.
b. Plastic case like most home-use Routers.
c. 3D printed case or STP files for 3D printing.
d. Other: -
Which cooling method do you prefer?
a. Active cooling with a fan.
b. Fan-less passive cooling. -
Do you think HDMI is necessary for this router scenario?
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Do you think an internal M.2 slot for SSD is a must-have?
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How important do you think to have an eSATA slot for external drivers?
My preference would a metal case, I’ve seen nice ones for Raspberry PIs, but ideally with a integrated heat sink for passive cooling. I don’t think HDMI would be necessary, not going to use it as a desktop and having it boot and open a ssh port would be fine. Ideally a M.2/U.2 slot inside for storage. Don’t imagine needing a eSATA for a router. Should I might run a few extra services, but not planning on a large NAS or plex server.
Know of any metal cases that would fit the mixtie blade allow powering by USB and expose the 2 ethernet ports?