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+--- Thread: first dedicated media server build (/t-first-dedicated-media-server-build)
first dedicated media server build - Unproven-Calorie - 2023-08-13
I dipped my toes into running a server for the first time with a Raspberry pi4. I then ‘upgraded’ using my trusty old laptop (a HP G62 notebook). It has survived running 24/7 for about 2yrs. I fear for its life so I am building a dedicated server and looking for some advice.
In summary, I will be using it primarily as a media server (Jellyfin) on it and allowing the family to access remotely as well as photo storage (through Photoprism). The server will be located in the main living space and plugged into the router via etheanrnet cable. I’m after a sense check on the components below, which I intend to use to build the server:
Motherboard - ASRock B660M Steel Legend.
I chose this as it is compatible with my chosen CPU (more on that below). I also wanted the 6 SATA 3 ports to install 4 NAS drives (I want two spare for easily upgrading the storage space later). It has an M.2 slot for a SSD too – therefore I am not wasting one of the SATA slots. I would like to look at using the Audio capabilities in the future if it is possible ofc.
Intel Core i3 (12th Gen) i3-12100.
I am picking this CPU due to its integrated graphics capabilities; it will be used to transcode video. I then do not have to buy a separate GPU, this will also save on power costs over the life of the server. I picked this generation of CPU as the cost difference with earlier CPU’s is negligible and this particular intel graphics chipset has the Intel UHD Graphics 730 which (for my specific use case) appears to offer improvements over the previous chipset at transcoding video (intel QSV).
Integral RAM 16GB DDR4 3200MHz
A single stick of DDR4 ram at the above speeds should be more than sufficient for running my server. My planned OS is Open Media Vault utilising the ZFS filesystem. I did look at ECC memory and I would have liked it, but it was becoming cost prohibitive, especially with my requirement of integrated CPU graphics.
Fractal Design Define R5
I have chosen this case as it appears to be relatively well regarded, has sufficient drive storage for a NAS, quiet fans which will keep the system cool and isn’t obtrusive.
Crucial P3 1TB M.2 PCIe Gen3 NVMe Internal SSD
The SSD will house the server OS and will be only be used for that, important files will be stored on the NAS drives.
Toshiba N300 6TB
These appeared to be the cheapest 6tb NAS drives available. If I find a that WD reds or Seagate ironwolfs come out at a better cost per tb then I’ll swap them. I intend to get 4. Though the Toshiba ones run at 7200rpm whereas the other manufacturer ones run at 5400rpm.
PSU
To be determined. I’m after a quiet, efficient one which can serve around 500w. I’ll likely pick something off: [https://cultists.network/140/psu-tier-list/](https://cultists.network/140/psu-tier-list/)
Is there anything here that I have not considered? Or a significantly better alternative at a similar cost?
I have all parts coming in at £900.00 GBP. (without a PSU)
And most of all, will it adequate to run Jellyfin and it likely be able to handle (estimated) 4 typical 1080p transcodes simultaneously?
RE: first dedicated media server build - bitmap - 2023-08-13
A couple of things. First off, yes. You might want to consider a 2x8 setup to take advantage of dual channel RAM but what you've outlined will more than take care of the tasks you've described. Second off, why are 1080p streams being transcoded? You're 1080p media, in most cases, should be direct streamed to clients unless you have very limited upload or metered bandwidth. Both are fairly common nowadays unfortunately.
One thing I didn't consider when I did my build was that you don't need a powerhouse most of the time, so it might behoove you to consider a lighter, low-power chip for the brain. It would save you cost in the long run and you wouldn't notice a difference, particularly if you ensure your media is direct streaming most of the time, which has very little resource impact other than network load.
RE: first dedicated media server build - Unproven-Calorie - 2023-08-13
Thanks for your input. I'll consider the 2x8 RAM setup. The 1080p streams question was more related to benchmarking and some of my family have limited bandwidth - hence the question.
I had a dig around regarding the I3-12100's power consumption, from what I found the idle power is anywhere between 5 and 16W. So I'm guessing 10W. I was also reading around the subject and unless you've got something like a Raspberry pi (which would have a super low power consumption). 10W idle isn't too unusual for a consumer CPU.
Frustratingly, Intel doesn't publish typical idle wattages or efficiencies. The biggest power draw will be the motherboard (at 55W idle). Apparently, it is relatively efficient for an alder lake compatible motherboard.