rendering nodes
Hello server folks,
I would like to ask for some advice regarding these units. First I want to preface that I do have some experience with computer hardware and software. I have built and tinkered with my own desktop platforms (mostly windows). I don't mind getting my hands dirty, however I don't have any experience with server hardware such as the c6100.
I am into graphic design and use software like 3ds max, adobe suite and the like. I have been looking into a solution for offloading rendering tasks. I was thinking of putting a project like this together for my home office. --->
Link My thoughts were along the lines of 4, bang for the buck, intel "ivy bridge" nodes. With only the essential mb, cpu, ram, psu and hd. Price per node is between $500 - $600 with an additional $150 or so for extras.
I must say that the Dell C6100 XS23-TY3 has peaked my curiosity. 4 nodes 8 cpus 32 cores 96gb of ddr3 @ $900+shipping+the cost of 4 hds... on the surface there seems to be a good cost/performance ratio! All packed into one space saving, albeit loud, unit.
Questions as I'm weighing my options:
1. OS - I know the C6100 hardware only "officially" supports server grade operating systems. I apologize if this is a silly question but would windows 7 64bit be an option? Isn't windows server 2008 r2 a "beefy" version of windows 7. I would prefer a windows solution as I fear the penguin.
2. OS installation - Can it be as easy as plugging in a usb dvd drive and setting the bios to boot from it?
3. cpu performance - At stock speeds how do 2x L5520's compare to, lets say an i7-3770K (1155 ivy bridge) I have seen some bench mark scores and it looks close but I'm not sure how reliable the sources are or if they even apply to my situation.
4. future proofing (well... to an extent) - On the C6100 XS23-TY3 there is an upgrade path to the 6 core 5600 series of processors. They are still out of my price range but in the future, who knows. I'm not sure what the upgrade path on a socket 1155 ivy bridge is at the moment.
5. reliability - What kind of life span can expect from a refurbished C6100? I know. Nobody can answer that, it's a crap shoot even with new hardware. Perhaps someone can share some of their experiences with these servers.
So I guess this post has turned from a few Q&A's to a "what would you recommend" in my situation.
Option 1 - Roughly $2400 for 4 nodes with new hardware and an OS that I am accustomed to.
Option 2 - $900+shipping+the cost of 4 hds. Attempt to maximize value by using refurbished hardware. Put in the effort and become familiar with serve hardware and OS. I am not opposed to learning on the fly but I also don't want to get consumed by it.
Thanks for taking the time to read this long post. I appreciate any feedback.
P.S. Is there anything that I have overlooked or need to consider regarding the C6100 XS23-TY3?