Regular vs Server CPUs

[Aztech]

I'm trying to build some rackmount PCs online. Most places assume it's going to be a server since it's rackmount. I've never used server processors before. What advantages/disadvantages are there to using them? If anyone knows or can link me, that would be great.

 

[MichaelD]

That's a very broad question. But, I'll try to outline some basics.

Modern "server CPUs" are Intel Xeons and AMD Opterons. They typically have different socket requirements (diff # of pins) and chipset requirements.

For TRUE SERVER usage, the motherboards will be completely different than for desktop PC usage. And correspondingly much more expensive due to the more advanced capabilities.

Before I type 5K more words, what exactly are you trying to do? Why rackmount for PCs? Maybe we can help you out here.

 

[Aluvus]

It depends. For most modern processors, the differences are fairly slight. Opterons are essentially the same as corresponding Athlon 64s and Athlon 64 X2s in most regards, but have done better in testing and may have SMP support enabled.

Xeons are all over the map. A number of recent-ish Xeons have had some beefy L3 cache to distinguish them from regular Pentium 4s. The newer Woodcrest Xeons are available with a faster Front Side Bus than corresponding Core 2 Duos. Some Netburst Xeons have slower a FSB than corresponding Pentium 4s. And again, Xeons generally support some sort of SMP configuration.

In addition to the above, note that memory requirements may be different for systems using these processors. Server chips also often use different sockets (J, F) from desktop parts.

Short answer: the exact differences vary, but are generally not huge. If you would be happy with the performance of an equivalent (-ish) desktop part, you'll probably be happy with the server part.

 

[EMPshockwave82]

* WARNING *
SPECULATION - PROBABLY WRONG

server processors should technically be able to hold up to higher amounts of stress for longer periods of time.


QUESTION*
Would a server processor with the coresponding components be better for gaming than a regular desktop pc?

 

[andy04]

RISC/CISC

 

[Aluvus]

Originally posted by: andy04
RISC/CISC

x86 is a major force in both the desktop and server markets, and it is CISC. Though internally, most (all?) modern x86 processors are closer to RISC.