GSquared,

Might I suggest setting up a test lab or SOHO for yourself?

There are a lot of PCs you can get at clearance at local computer shops (or shows) or even refurbed off of EBay and other auction sites. All you need is eval software for the OS and SQL Server and you can go to town.

I do recommend doing your best to cause a SQL Server failure because sometimes the only way you learn how to solve a problem is if you create them in the first place. @=)

Of course, I don't recommend the above technique on a Production box. Just on a test box set up specifically so you can "break" it.