Building Automation Server Build

[Deryk B]

Hi All,

 

I am planning a build for a rig to operate as a web server/archiving/data reporting machine for a Reliable Controls automation system.  The cpu/ram I have chosen is definitely overkill for what I require (8-10 cores & 16gb ram) but I am still well within budget for the machine. (approx. $5000CAD)  As far as graphics are concerned I would only ever need to hook a monitor to this for desktop use.  There will not be any gaming/rendering with this machine.  Most work will likely be done over remote desktop anyways but the option for a monitor is nice.

 

I just have a few questions as I have not built a machine like this before.

- Most Importantly - Can I run Windows Server 2019 on a Ryzen CPU?  Windows says the CPU is supported but motherboard drivers only include windows 10.

 

- This machine will be running 24/7.  Most of the time workloads will be minimal with spikes during SQL queries for reporting data.  Would a Ryzen build be fine for this long term or is it better to use something more server related (i.e. Xeon)?  I don't require huge PCIE lanes just looking for something reliable that will last.

 

- Would I require using both the 8pin and 4pin EPS connectors on the motherboard?  I have not been able to find a power supply less than 750 watts that has 2 EPS connectors.  Is there a smaller option out there?

 

- I would like to set the drives up in a mirrored Raid 1 configuration.  The data being archived is not really critical but the bit of redundancy this offers would be a nice.  Is it better to accomplish this through motherboard firmware or through windows?

 

Thank you in advance for your help.  

Deryk

[Electronics Wizardy]

If this is a server where uptime is important, id get something like a dell or hp server.

 

29 minutes ago, Deryk B said:

Most Importantly - Can I run Windows Server 2019 on a Ryzen CPU?  Windows says the CPU is supported but motherboard drivers only include windows 10.

It should work, but drivers can be annoying, might have to use generic drivers. Id try to get a server board like the asrock one, that way you also get impi.

 

30 minutes ago, Deryk B said:

- This machine will be running 24/7.  Most of the time workloads will be minimal with spikes during SQL queries for reporting data.  Would a Ryzen build be fine for this long term or is it better to use something more server related (i.e. Xeon)?  I don't require huge PCIE lanes just looking for something reliable that will last.

It should work fine, desktop parts have gotten pretty reliable, but have a plan for downtime, and if downtime is a major issues, get a system with a fast warranty or have spare parts, or a cluster.

 

30 minutes ago, Deryk B said:

Would I require using both the 8pin and 4pin EPS connectors on the motherboard?  I have not been able to find a power supply less than 750 watts that has 2 EPS connectors.  Is there a smaller option out there?

The extra 4 pin is really just for overclocking, the 8 pin only is fine.

 

31 minutes ago, Deryk B said:

I would like to set the drives up in a mirrored Raid 1 configuration.  The data being archived is not really critical but the bit of redundancy this offers would be a nice.  Is it better to accomplish this through motherboard firmware or through windows?

 

Id use storage spaces in windows as motherboard raid sucks.

[Deryk B]

Thank you very much for your help.  Going to do some more digging into the Dell/HP options.  I was looking at Lenovo options before and they ended up being well out of budget.

[ErA.l]

I think your build is fine, other than being utterly overkill for a server build. Unless you will be running a bunch of VMs? 

 

Two things I'd change:

RAM I'd go for a 3600mhz cl16 kit

PSU I'd go for a gold certified unit seeing as the system will be running 24/7

 

And yes, if you are looking at having ipmi and ECC the Asrock Rack mobo might be worth a look 

[Electronics Wizardy]

2 hours ago, Deryk B said:

Thank you very much for your help.  Going to do some more digging into the Dell/HP options.  I was looking at Lenovo options before and they ended up being well out of budget.

How much cpu performance do you need? Core count isn't performance requirement. 

 

Something like a dell r340 would be a good cheaper option, or go r7515 if you want more speed and upgradeability.

 

Also id run a hypervisor on the hardware, and run stuff in vms. Makes things like backups and migration much easier.

[ErA.l]

One thing to remember about rackmount servers is that they can be pretty loud. If its in its own server room, that's fine, but not something you want in a study or media room

[Deryk B]

Its going to be somewhere in a factory likely an IT room somewhere.  Thinking a tower system just for the ease of being able to stick it wherever they want it.  seems with the budget I have some wiggle room.

 

reason for so many cores just comes down to manufacturers recommendations.  They recommend a minimum of 2 cores/software running on the system and I would rather have something with computing room to spare as things age and programs get more involved.

 

Its likely going to be simpler for me to go with a pre-built option from Dell or HP.  Feeling a bit over my head with all this and I can still configure a system with them to do what I require within the budget.  Thank you for your help