Discuss upgrading to Advice24/7 NAS and HTPC for 4K quality.
Discuss upgrading to Advice24/7 NAS and HTPC for 4K quality.
Hello,
I operate a modestly built Ubuntu home server that serves several purposes: it functions as a NAS via Samba, hosts an HTPC with streaming services like YouTube on my television, and runs various Docker containers such as AdGuard DNS and OpenVPN. With 4K content becoming more accessible, I’m planning an upgrade to enable 4K playback on my TV through HDMI. However, the GPU integrated into the CPU only supports FHD.
Current hardware specifications are:
CPU: i3-3220T @ 2.80GHz × 4
Memory: 16GB 1333Mhz
Case: Fractal Design Node 804 – M-ATX motherboard
Power Supply: Approximately 300W 80Plus Gold
My goals are:
1. Minimal power usage
2. At least 6 SATA ports for HDDs
3. Quiet operation
I’ve evaluated the following options:
1. NVME M.2 storage versus standard 2.5" SATA SSDs for the operating system: I’m not prioritizing speed; a slight reduction in boot time is acceptable. The main issue is comparing power draw between NVME and SATA.
2. RAM: The 16GB 1333MHz DDR3 is sufficient; I’m open to keeping them, as newer DDR4/5 may not offer significant benefits.
3. CPU cooling: A 120mm AIO water cooler could help reduce noise, possibly mounted as a rear exhaust fan. I’m satisfied with my existing Corsair AIO setup.
Regarding SATA connections, during the setup phase it was challenging to locate a M-ATX motherboard with six ports. An alternative PCIe expansion card might be necessary. Again, power efficiency is a priority—I aim to minimize energy use since the server runs continuously. I’m eager to hear your ideas on achieving 4K video playback while maintaining low power consumption.
Which country are you from? And what is the highest amount you're looking to spend?
Without a fixed budget it's tough to suggest something effectively. If we have a clear budget, we can identify which parts to focus on and understand their importance better. Without that clarity it becomes difficult to make any recommendations.
Your six SATA ports will greatly restrict your options. There are motherboards built specifically for NAS setups like this one — you can find them here: https://www.amazon.com/Storage-Motherboa...Q41M5?th=1
PCPartPicker List of Components
CPU:
AMD Ryzen 5 4600G 3.7 GHz 6-Core Processor
(€96.90 @ Alza)
Motherboard:
Asus TUF GAMING B450M-PLUS II Micro ATX AM4 Board
(€86.90 @ Alza)
Memory:
G.Skill Aegis 16 GB (2 x 8 GB) DDR4-3200 CL16 RAM
(€37.90 @ Alza)
Video Card:
Gigabyte GV-N1030OC-2GI GeForce GT 1030 2 GB Video Card
(€88.90 @ Alza)
Overall Cost:
€310.60
Includes shipping, taxes, and applicable discounts
Created by
PCPartPicker
2024-03-25 16:30 CET+0100
Choose the SSD you already possess. If unavailable, consider using an HDD temporarily. Plan to add a 500GB SSD later.
This offers the best value for approximately 300 Euros.
The only uncertainty is whether it supports streaming Netflix. It might require at least 3GB of VRAM, which would necessitate upgrading the GPU—costing around 70 Euros more.
Additionally, if you intend to stream from a local media library using Bluray Rips or similar, it should function properly.
Thank you for your input. Regarding a CPU cooler, does the Ryzen 4600G come with a suitable one that offers enough performance and is quiet? If not, would you like another recommendation? Also, are you considering the Quiet Dark Rock Slim from the link you shared? My main worry is that its height of 159mm might exceed the maximum supported by the Node 804 case, which allows up to 160mm. Can I trust those specifications and be confident it will fit?
The Deepcool AK400 will surpass it significantly and is far more affordable. Unless you already own Dark Rock Slim.
The situation doesn't require any issues for an AMD APU to stream Netflix in 4K.
List of components included:
Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 3.9 GHz 6-Core (€123.90)
Cooler: Deepcool GAMMAXX AG400 ARGB (€33.90)
Motherboard: Asus TUF GAMING B450M-PLUS II Micro ATX AM4 (€86.90)
Memory: G.Skill Aegis 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR4-3200 CL16 (€66.90)
Overall cost: €311.60
All prices cover shipping, taxes, and available discounts.
Created by PCPartPicker on 2024-03-25 22:43 CET+0100