I've set myself a project to build a small, somewhat silent PC logger for around $100. I am looking for comments on the the plan or to find holes in my theory.
I'm currently using two older eeepc 900HA Atom N270, 1 GB RAM netbooks with Win10 to log and upload data for three solar inverters, a consumption meter and a weather station. I'd like to replace them with one low power PC with enough USB ports to take the inputs. The two programs used have low processor demand but run 24/7. I've ordered a Dell Optiplex 160 Atom 330 1.6GHZ, 2GB RAM, 160GB HDD Windows 7 PRO which I understand is fanless, has six USB inputs and low power consumption in a small box for $45 delivered. After setup I will access via TeamViewer. I also picked a USB WiFi dongle to connect into the network for $8.
I would like to replace the HDD with a SSD to eliminate moving parts particularly if it will reduce noise, heat and power consumption. This might tip me over budget, but that's ok if not excessive.
Not sure whether to stick with Win7 or change to Win10 as to which would be less demanding on processor.
so
1) do you think the plan will work
2) SSD or not
3) Stick with Win7 or change to Win10
Why not a raspberry pi?