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Feasible to have a server/thin client setup at home

Tags:
  • Virtual Machine
  • Servers
  • Hardware
  • Thinkpad
  • Software
  • Business Computing
  • CAD
Last response: in Business Computing
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May 22, 2014 10:18:38 AM

I work in PLM/CAD software industry and I am pretty green when it comes to server installation and administration.

That being said, what I was wanting to do is to set up some kind of server/thin client configuration for myself. I would like to have just one (kick ass) server and then set up a thin client (i.e. Ultrabook without GPU, ex: Lenovo thinkpad Yoga) in order to use CAD softwares (ex: CATIA V5, CATIA V6, Solidworks, proE, Autocad, Arion, ENOVIA V6).

What can I expect for the following budget:
* Option A < 1000€
* Option B < 2000€
* Option C < 3000€

Thanks in advance for any and all advice.
Henri

More about : feasible server thin client setup home

May 22, 2014 2:38:47 PM

Servers are not really meant for CAM/CAM/PLM. What you want is a workstation. Look for Dell's Precision line of workstations or HP Z-model workstations with Nvidia Quadro or ATI FirePro graphics cards.

Just as important - you need to make sure you are licensed for home-use on that software. Just because you run it in your office, it doesn't mean you can run it at home.
m
0
l
May 22, 2014 11:55:58 PM

Thx for this first feedback.

What about the Lenovo Thinkpad W540?
Or Dell Precision M3800?
Regards
m
0
l

Best solution

May 23, 2014 8:01:37 AM

msprj2010 said:
Thx for this first feedback.

What about the Lenovo Thinkpad W540?
Or Dell Precision M3800?
Regards


All depends on your graphics needs. While those "mobile" workstations can fit big CPUs, they are a bit limited when it comes to the graphics cards due to the size, power, and thermals of those higher-end cards. Also, a laptop only has a certain amount of screen space, so that's a limiting factor as well. Finally, if you work with higher-end drawings (say - SolidWorks renderings with 20,000+ parts), that laptop might not have the horsepower that you need to be efficient.

All things equal, you really should only get a laptop when you actually have the need to be "mobile' with it. If it's going to sit at home in one location, that mobility is wasted.
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