On Mon, 06 Jun 2005 16:31:44 -0500, smb <invalid@invalid.invalid> wrote:
> I have a server than runs 24/7, but much of the time there isn't much
> demand placed on it. I have set the disk to spin down after 20min of
> inactivity, but it never seems to reach this threshold. On closer
> inspection, I see the hard disk light flicks on briefly every 5 secs or
> so. I can't think what would cause this. Are there any tools that can
> help my trace what is causing this disk activity?

Been a long time since I read the explanation, something like, file
gets written, some time later 'atime' needs update, that triggers
directory got written, needs 'atime' update, rinse, repeat... Yes?

Search for your issue in context of conserving battery on laptops
by reducing hard disk activity. That's the usual group who care.

Disk spin-up time to satisfy request may take you over acceptable
response latencies? Although longer term everything served might
stay in memory cache automagically for you.

Then you have the log: -- MARK -- to think about

--Grant.