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I have a 2009 Mac Pro that I would like to convert into a server using unRaid to act as a NAS and also run other plugin applications they offer (Plex, etc.). Spec wise, I believe the machine will be a great fit for plenty of years to come, hopefully, but correct me if I'm wrong.

Spoiler

A single 2.66GHz Quad-Core Xeon W3520 - possible to upgrade to a dual CPU scenario in the future

10GB DDR3 ECC 1066MHz - for now, theres room for upgrade

GT 120 Mac Edition (EFI compatible) - more on this later

5 to 6 possible SATA connections

Now my question is because the Mac Pro is using EFI, and doesn't support a traditional bios, will I run into any issues installing unRaid? I do have a GTX 970 that I can use, however, I am unable to see any of the boot screen process until it loads a OS. If I use the 970 then I will be unable to select the USB to boot from as I will not be able to see any boot screen. I can boot from a USB easily by holding the option key and selecting the USB when it pops up as long as I am using an EFI compatible card, in my case the GT 120. 

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I'm not 100% sure on the unRaid side as I've only used it a little, I did want to make mention on the CPU. If you plan on doing more than 2 streams at a time for 1080p content you'll likely need a second processor. Plex tends to suggest a passmark score of around 2k per 1080p stream and that CPU has a score just a little above 5000 so it's something to keep in mind if a lot of people will be hitting to server.

Current Network Layout:

Current Build Log/PC:

Storage Server Setup:

 

Prior Build Log/PC:

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4 minutes ago, Lurick said:

I'm not 100% sure on the unRaid side as I've only used it a little, I did want to make mention on the CPU. If you plan on doing more than 2 streams at a time for 1080p content you'll likely need a second processor. Plex tends to suggest a passmark score of around 2k per 1080p stream and that CPU has a score just a little above 5000 so it's something to keep in mind if a lot of people will be hitting to server.

I'll for sure keep that in mind. I think I will be running 1x 1080p stream at a time, maybe alongside an audio (music) stream. Thank you for bringing it up too, good to know.

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