Possible Small Server Build

[chevytrucknut]

I'm trying to build a small server. This server would have about 3 primary functions:

1) File storage
2) Transformation of MP4s backed up into WMVs or AVIs (if it works...)
3) Transferring these files to my Creative ZVM or my PC.

The problem is, I've heard that a server doesn't need a whole lot of CPU power, but since I'm going to be transforming these files from MP4s, I think I might need a lot of it. True or no? Also, this server will not be on the network, but rather hooked up through a crossover cable to my PC. Is a good CPU needed for file transferring?

Thanks

 

[lancec2c30]

a lot of people just use a 900mhz cpu for a server. But If you are going to to be doing the mp4's get like a amd 3700 or somethin. it is only like $90 and would suit that well.

How much money are you going to spend on it?

 

[chevytrucknut]

a 3700+ you think will work? I was thinking I was going to need like a dual core AMD @ at least 2.0 GHz, so that's good I guess

Also, I'm hoping I can just install about 2 programs, keeping the necessary resources from those annoying background tasks.


OH sorry, one more thing...How much memory will I need for this??

 

[KingAustin]

Since it's just a server mainly for storage, you don't need that much cpu power at all. If you're going to barely be using the computer, you dont need to get a powerful cpu which can get things done quicker because you can just start it up and leave it alone. Also, you don't need a fast cpu for file transfers, that's pretty much all hard drive based. You don't need that much ram for this either especially since you wont be using many programs.

 

[lancec2c30]

ya you could built a fast home server for like $500

 

[chevytrucknut]

That's awesome.

I've already got most of the stuff - just need a PSU, CPU, mobo, and some ram.

 

[KingAustin]

That's awesome.

I've already got most of the stuff - just need a PSU, CPU, mobo, and some ram.

Lol that's like half of the stuff you need....so I assume you just have harddrives, a case + peripherals?

 

[chevytrucknut]

haha, yea you caught me

I guess I have half of the "stuff" but not half of the price lol

 

[Shumway]

A cheap athlon 64 like a 3000+ or 3200+ should work no problem is this case,Heck even a decent celeron would do the trick

 

[chevytrucknut]

Alright guys, here's what I've put together. Let me know if you see anything that needs changing:

Motherboard/CPU combo - http://www.newegg.com/product/Product.asp?item=N82E16813138264
and
http://www.newegg.com/product/Product.asp?item=N82E16819103535

PSU -
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16817182006

Memory - http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/ProductDetail.jsp?ProductCode=80098-6

And I'll be running Windows XP x64. Why? Because I have a copy I bought a year ago and haven't used it And why not