Xenon workstation build - server enclosure - worth it?

[andytw]

A couple of potential problems:

1) XP64 is only licensed for a maximum of two sockets, so you will need another OS, probably Windows Server or Linux based.

2) Most PCI-e graphic cards require a x16 slot, wheras most server motherboards only have x8 or x4 slots.

I don't have enough experience of servers to pass any useful comment on your hardware choices.

[Srek]

That server is rather dated. No SATA or SAS support, also it's very questionable that it supports the new 45 nm Xeons (or even Quadcore Xeons) which would make such a system interesting to begin with. Th eold Xeons MP are still pretty pricy, but lost their edge compared to the new 45nm ones you get in current systems like the Mac Pro.
Also keep in mind that the system will be extremely noisy. Those server racks are built for durability and long term use in a specific server room and closet. Running them on your desk will result in deafness ;)
Cheers
Björn

[monovich]

hmmm.... that socket issue seems to be huge. It seems that Server 2003 is the only one that supports 4, and I'm worried about app support on that OS.

Srek, the processors don't seem to be pricey at all, seeing as how I could get four dual cores for $200 total.

I do have back room I could put the thing in re: the noise issue.

The SATA issue could be solved by an add-in card couldn't it?

[BOXXlabs]

Stephen,

For the price, it's not a bad setup - but let me strongly urge you to reconsider this approach to building a graphics workstation.

Here's why:

The parts you have found are really outdated. The biggest challenge you will have is coming up with a GPU that can support an 8X PCI-E slot. In fact, you probably won't find one. Obviously, without a decent graphics card, your graphics workstation is useless. I guess maybe for a rendernode, this may not be a bad choice if you've got room in a rack somewhere...

A pair of these (http://www.rackmountpro.com/product.aspx?prodid=1848)and a new intel X5000-based maioboard would be faster for rendering and everything else -and will allow you to still modern components.

Saving money by building a workstation form old components should probably be your last resrt, not your first choice.

potential issues you will run into:

-can't find compatible components (such as RAM, add-in cards, etc)
-compatible components are often MUCH slower than current technology
-compatible components won't support the newest software features
-used parts fail more often


If it were me, I would save a little more cashola and build something a little more modern.

Just my $.02

Adam
BOXXlabs

[monovich]

Hey Adam,

Thanks for the advice, I really appreciate it especially since its coming from a vendor.

This isn't actually a box I need, I've already got a fast workstation, but when presented with the "opportunity" its certainly intriguing.

It seems like it may be most useful as an extra render box, or perhaps even a project media server if I decide its useful at all. The last thing I want is a jet engine in the back room that can't pull its own weight. :)

The prospect of an 8 core box on the cheap is appealing when looking at the raw numbers, but it does seem that there are a few very big hurdles in the way. It looks like Windows 2003 Server is already going to add $700 to the price tag, which is more than a bit stupid. :)

I'm still open to all opinions or suggestions though. I do love playing with the tech.

[monovich]

for the sake of the thread:

http://www.orbitmicro.com/global/express-adapter-p-755.html

[Srek]

While the adapter might work it will still give you half the speed of a 16x slot at max.
Also it increases the height of the card which depending on the exact case design and graphics card might make it impossible to close the cover.
Have you checked the power supply? It's rated at about 1.5 KW. How is your spare change for Energy costs? ;)

If you realy want it, go for it, but personaly i wouldn't bother and spend the money and time on something different.

Cheers
Björn

[phix314]

Hey monovich.. I've recently built a workstation on a server board. A bit of a headache, but it was my first build so others might have more luck than I on the first go.

More info here:

http://forums.cgsociety.org/showthread.php?f=23&t=679421

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