Server CPU vs Desktop CPU

[Net]

I am going to run a server on a budget.

Looks like I can build a computer with more power if it is a desktop CPU. Server CPU's are pricy.

Whats the difference? Do I really need a server CPU?

The setup I want is on this thread toward the bottom. http://forums.anandtech.com/messageview.aspx?catid=27&threadid=2018799

 

[yh125d]

regarding that heat question, I have mine on a cheap $15 cooler and it idles around 35, 40-44 under load

 

[ShawnD1]

edit: I just read your linked thread

You'll probably be good to just use any normal desktop CPU. To be honest you could probably get away with something as cheap as a Pentium D, depending on how crazy your decrypting stuff is.

 

[Zepper]

I don't know if the support for ECC and registered memory is in the CPUs now or if it is in the mobo chipset now - well, part of it has to be on the mobo re. the registered memory timings and sockets... Makes for a far more stable machine.

.bh.

 

[Net]

how important is ecc. do you think my computer will start crashing etc...
do i really need it for my server.

is it worth that money? it is expensive

 

[Zepper]

If your mobo supports it, I'd use it on a server. I know ECC support is in the memory management of the AMD 64 bit CPUs. But the mobo's BIOS has to offer the DISABLE/ENABLE switch in the BIOS. Some do, some don't. Server mobos that are designed to support Opterons usually will support both ECC and registered (if you need to use more than 4 RAM sockets).

.bh.

 

[ShawnD1]

The difference between server stability and desktop stability is marginal. If your desktop is 1 in a million chance of crashing due to hardware problems, a server will be 1 in a billion. Both are incredibly stable, but if you're running an operation like Google or Yahoo then maybe 1 in a million just isn't good enough, and you need that extra stability. I'll bet my balls you don't need that kind of stability for what you're doing.

 

[Net]

whoa that's a pretty risky bet! good thing i'm not building a server for a company or something, lol.

good to hear those stats. that will save a lot of money.