I am looking to put together a new build to handle running multiple VMs in a Hyper-V lab environment. The VMs will include things like AD Domain Controllers, Exchange multi-role servers, and other enterprise server applications depending on what I'm testing. Due to the number of VMs being used, I'm looking for something that's robust from a CPU/RAM perspective, while being as future-proof as is reasonably possible.
Having investigated processor options, I've picked out the i7-4930 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116939); it seems to have a lot of processing power, and should be ample for running the VM load I intend on throwing at it.
I am interested in suggestions on components to pick up with it (if anyone can think of a better/alternative option for a CPU, I am open to informed opinions).
Approximate Purchase Date: Immediate/next week (could put off if significant tech development known to be imminent, however).
Budget Range: $1500-2000 range; would prefer less, obviously, but the main objective is to get great performance for the VM environment without delving into silly price points.
System Usage from Most to Least Important: VM host, gaming.
Are you buying a monitor: No.
Parts to Upgrade: CPU, Motherboard, RAM, Cooler, Case, PSU, Storage. Video card is already covered, so not needed.
Do you need to buy OS: No.
Preferred Website(s) for Parts: Newegg (but will shop around pre-purchase).
Location: Milwaukee, WI, USA.
Parts Preferences: Intel preferred; I'm happy with my recent Intel purchases.
Overclocking: Yes.
SLI or Crossfire: Yes (SLI), but not immediately.
Your Monitor Resolution: 1920x1080 or 1920x1200.
Additional Comments: Case would preferably allow for easy, tidy cabling and be well laid out.
And Most Importantly, Why Are You Upgrading: I need a more powerful system to run a variety of VMs simultaneously.
Feel free to ask further questions if needed. Many thanks for all who take the time to read or respond.
Having investigated processor options, I've picked out the i7-4930 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116939); it seems to have a lot of processing power, and should be ample for running the VM load I intend on throwing at it.
I am interested in suggestions on components to pick up with it (if anyone can think of a better/alternative option for a CPU, I am open to informed opinions).
Approximate Purchase Date: Immediate/next week (could put off if significant tech development known to be imminent, however).
Budget Range: $1500-2000 range; would prefer less, obviously, but the main objective is to get great performance for the VM environment without delving into silly price points.
System Usage from Most to Least Important: VM host, gaming.
Are you buying a monitor: No.
Parts to Upgrade: CPU, Motherboard, RAM, Cooler, Case, PSU, Storage. Video card is already covered, so not needed.
Do you need to buy OS: No.
Preferred Website(s) for Parts: Newegg (but will shop around pre-purchase).
Location: Milwaukee, WI, USA.
Parts Preferences: Intel preferred; I'm happy with my recent Intel purchases.
Overclocking: Yes.
SLI or Crossfire: Yes (SLI), but not immediately.
Your Monitor Resolution: 1920x1080 or 1920x1200.
Additional Comments: Case would preferably allow for easy, tidy cabling and be well laid out.
And Most Importantly, Why Are You Upgrading: I need a more powerful system to run a variety of VMs simultaneously.
Feel free to ask further questions if needed. Many thanks for all who take the time to read or respond.