File Server/Video Encoding Build

[Lord Zado]

Hey guys, I'm looking to build a file server/video encoding computer. Just want something that can sit in a corner and encode video, burn DVD's, etc. while I am on my main machine. Currently, I have an old Dell P4 2 GHz with 512 MB of RAM dedicated to this task. I am going to donate this computer to my parents, so I need to build a new system to replace it.

The old Dell machine encodes video in nearly half the time of my brand new AMD 3500+ with 1 GB at 2-2-2-5 timings, so I think I should stick with an Intel processor for this thing.

I have the case, CD/DVD drives, accessories already, so I only need processor, motherboard and RAM advice.

Being an AMD fan, I am not too familiar with the Intel side of things, so here are my questions:

Should I go with Socket 478 or 775? What are the advantages/disadvantages?

Should I go with a higher clocked Celeron D or a lower clocked P4?

Should I get 512 MB or 1 GB of RAM? My old machine only used 512 MB and did just fine, but the price difference between 512 MB and 1 GB these days is almost negligible. Would 1 GB give me much of a performance boost?

As for the motherboard, I just need something cheap and stable. My only requirement here is that it support at least 2 SATA drives and have 2 IDE inputs (supports 4 devices).

My budget here is $300-$350.

Thanks guys!

 

[jose]

I use both, check my sig. personally if I bought another intel system it w/ be a sck 478 (875p) w/ a P4C Northwood.

No way I'd get a Preshot w/ ddr2...

The good thing is you can still find 3.0-3.2 P4C's ... I'm running a 3.2 at 3.6mhz at stock voltages...

 

[vrbaba]

I would Strongly suggest you to go with P4. It has HT support, which you gain you a certain percentage over amd, and you can always overclock is it good, 3.2 to a 3.8 or more depending on your configuration. Northwood core cpus are usually great overclockers. Prescott heat up quick, but if you have a really (REALLY) good cooling system, you can get good overclocks from it. Just do your own research as far as 478 vs 775, pick a cpu first that you like, and then go with the board based on that.
I would suggest at least a 2.8c for your purpose. You can OC it to up to 3.5-3.6 good. Definitely a Pentium 4, not celeron.
1 GB ram would help you with your server (if you are gonna run a webserver, etc on it). But video encoding, it wont matter. you can prolly get a good 2x256 with the same money as for 1Gb which can help you overclock better. I would recommend this if your just gonna put files on it and not run it as a webserver or play hardcore games.
Mobo, get the cheapest which is good enough to overclock. you have a lot of cheap choices for socket 478, Abit IS7, Asus P4P series..etc.

You can pick up a processor for about 100-150 (depending on which one you decide to go with 2.8 - 3.2). Make sure you get one with HT support, 800fsb, possibly northwood if you go with it (usually better than prescott).

Mobo should be less than 100. and so should be the ram, so you will be well under your budget.

 

[Lord Zado]

Thanks guys. I was leaning towards a P4 with 512 RAM, so this confirms it for me. Northwood is a good idea too.

 

[Pabster]

Originally posted by: Lord Zado
Thanks guys. I was leaning towards a P4 with 512 RAM, so this confirms it for me. Northwood is a good idea too.

Northwood is excellent. You could find an old 2.4C that would be perfect for this (and probably clock it to 3GHz easily).

I'd definitely consider going with at least 1GB on the RAM. Memory is dirt cheap right now and there is no point in skimping, especially if video encoding is an intended task with that machine.