Video Production Machines

[JasonSix78]

We're doing a group networking project in one of my college classes this semester. My two jobs are building two video production machines and taking care of all the hardware needed for disaster recovery.

While I'm familiar with all the gaming related hardware out now, I'm not sure if there are special requirements for a PC of this nature. I was thinking the latest, top-of-the-line, Core 2 Duo from Intel would be a good processor and one of the latest video cards like a 7950. The professor suggested dual to quad processors but I've only heard of that configuration in server applications.

I just need some advice on the CPU(s) and Video Card. I can handle the rest.

Edit: I'll also add that some of the software that will be run on these machines is Video Toaster and Song Show Plus. As the professor described it, this software is close in configuration to animation and 3D rendering software.

Thanks in advance,
Jason

 

[pkme2]

Here's a thread that the author finally settled on what his video rig will be. He's ordering his components this weekend. Check it out.
http://forums.anandtech.com/messageview.aspx?catid=27&threadid=1944832

 

[JasonSix78]

Much appreciated Pkme2, that will help in my builds.

-Jason

 

[natto fire]

What do you mean by disaster recovery? Are you going to build 2 identical machines so that they can perform redundant duties? That thread touches on many aspects of professional video editing, but you did not say exactly what they will be doing. Are these machines going to be used for this one project or is it something where they will be used for some time? While future-proofing is technically impossible, it might be something to consider when putting the machines together. (Spare ram slots, PCI-e slots, etc.)

 

[gsellis]

Try this link for some hints VT4

This system wants 10k rpm U160/320 SCSI and at least 2 PCI-X slots (one for SCSI, one for VT5 card). Also will do PCI-e 16x Video, but is OK with AGP. Having worked on specs for a video wall machine in the X800 days, I would suggest a 256GB X1900/X1800 card as you might have some use for the decode onboard in some situations (the VT card does its own thing). As it says dual duals recommended, look for a server board with dual slots, PCI-X and PCI-e (16X), but it can also be AGP. Get 2 1066 or 1333 dual core Xeons. BUT, I have never built one, so I recommend contacting the experts.

It is real easy to call/email Newtek/VT and ask too. Contact Us They will know exactly what you want to get and have recommendations on solutions that work. They won't bite 😉

 

[JasonSix78]

Originally posted by: Captain Howdy
What do you mean by disaster recovery? Are you going to build 2 identical machines so that they can perform redundant duties? That thread touches on many aspects of professional video editing, but you did not say exactly what they will be doing. Are these machines going to be used for this one project or is it something where they will be used for some time? While future-proofing is technically impossible, it might be something to consider when putting the machines together. (Spare ram slots, PCI-e slots, etc.)

This is going to be a large project for a local church. Disaster recovery is basically anything and everything needed to protect the network against power failures, server failures, domain controller failures.........the list goes on.

As for the Video Production Machines, the professor didn't go into detail as to what exactly they will be used for. Gathering from what he told me, I would assume they will be used to edit recorded sermons, plays, and other church activities. That said, they will be used indefinitely. Thanks for bringing up the future-proofing aspect, that's something I need to take into consideration as well.

Originally posted by: gsellis
Try this link for some hints VT4

This system wants 10k rpm U160/320 SCSI and at least 2 PCI-X slots (one for SCSI, one for VT5 card). Also will do PCI-e 16x Video, but is OK with AGP. Having worked on specs for a video wall machine in the X800 days, I would suggest a 256GB X1900/X1800 card as you might have some use for the decode onboard in some situations (the VT card does its own thing). As it says dual duals recommended, look for a server board with dual slots, PCI-X and PCI-e (16X), but it can also be AGP. Get 2 1066 or 1333 dual core Xeons. BUT, I have never built one, so I recommend contacting the experts.

It is real easy to call/email Newtek/VT and ask too. Contact Us They will know exactly what you want to get and have recommendations on solutions that work. They won't bite 😉

Awesome info GSellis, it's much appreciated. SCSI drives are a great idea, I was considering around a terabyte worth of storage in a multiple (Serial ATA) drive configuration.

I'm glad I posted this here, these great ideas are exactly what I was looking for. Thanks again guys.

-Jason