Adequate Processor Speed for New Build?

[itms]

Hi guys,

I want to use a server from work that no longer is needed and want to know if you think the processing power would be enough.

It currently runs Dual AMD MP 1500+ processors. I think that is equivalent to 1.3ghz per processor.

I will use something like 1 or 2 gig of memory in it also.

Thoughts?

[stanger89]

That will be more than enough for a server (no video playback). And if you're going to do playback, it should be fine as well, for SD at least, not for HD though.

[itms]

How much is minimum for HD playback?

I am going to use the ATI X800 card, unless you can suggest a better one?

Thanks

[heffe2001]

WHile I'm using an underpowered video card (Nvidia 5900XT on DVI), I can barely play HD content on a P4 2.53, with 768 mb of ram. (I get stuttering, and for some reason Girder stops sending events to Sage. This is at 720x480 resolution to boot... I'm looking at upgrading both processor & video card in this box soon though).

[paulbeers]

I think most of us agree that 2.8 ghz/2800+ processors are needed for HDTV playback. Some have gotten away with 2400+/2.4 ghz with a very good vid card.

[stanger89]

You're going to need a 2GHz class CPU for playback, even with hardware accelleration. As for card, I'd got with a Geforce 6600GT or better if you're want HD playback.

[itms]

Thanks for the information.

I was afraid that i was going to have to upgrade the whole kit and kaboodle.

Looks like I am going to have no choice.

That Sux!

[heffe2001]

If you use it just for a recording server, it'll work fine. That's what I would do and just set up a bigger PC as a HD Client box (I'm in the process of upgrading my HD Client machine, it's just not powerful enough to drive my TV). I'm willing to bet if I get a decent video card with component outputs/adapter I'll have a much easier time with it though...

*EDIT* I changed from the Nvidia Purevideo decoder to the Elcard decoders, and my problems playing HD content seem to have gone away on the above mentioned machine... Video quality isn't quite up to the purevideo decoders, BUT it plays the HD files without any clipping, pausing or stuttering. I'm still going to replace my video card (5900XT) with a ATI x700 I ordered today (Newegg: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814161147). I'm hoping it'll help me get this machine playing HD with the Nvidia decoders (the video IS much better).