This is one of those times I wish I could tell people "give me your budget +20% and I'll build you a server." Server-grade boards tend not to incorporate new tech as fast as desktop-grade. And I really don't think you need an m.2 slot. If it's a server I don't think you really need an SSD to boot from, anyway. SHHD, maybe, but a spinny-disk is just fine. Supermicro are not a brand I trust, and they're really the only way you're getting a server-grade board for under $200 and still be somewhat current. A PSU is the ONE component you NEVER want to cheap-out on. Honestly when I build a machine the PSU is one of the most expensive components if not THE single most expensive components. I've not put together an actual server build for under $1,500, by the way. Though I can easily do a desktop-acting-as-a-server for well under $1,000. All depends on what you need this machine to do. On Mon, 2 Feb 2015, Brian Wood wrote: > I've been thinking about building a new server lately. I'd like to find > a server motherboard with an m.2 slot that's under $200. > > This one > > http://www.amazon.com/ASUS-Z97--DDR3-2600-Motherboards/dp/B00K2MAU5Q/ref=sr > _1_38?ie=UTF8&qid=1422856362&sr=8-38&keywords=m.2+ssd > > isn't a server motherboard, but it has an m.2 slot. I had been > thinking about this one > > http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&DEPA=0&Order=BEST > MATCH&Description=supermicro+mbd+x10sll-f&N=-1&isNodeId=1 > > , but it doesn't have an m.2 slot. And to back up a little, I want this > machine to be able to run FreeBSD 10.1 or 11. Ideally it will have > a motherboard with an m.2 slot and I can boot the machine from the > m.2 ssd. I'm wondering how to figure out if there are any mother- > boards like that out there now or that will be available soon. > > I'm also not sure about selecting a power converter (aka a power supply). > What suggestions can you give me in these areas? Thanks in advance. > > -- > Brian > Ebenezer Enterprises - In G-d we trust. > http://webEbenezer.net > > >