Virtual PC's from a server.

[Ricod306]

Hi guys

 

I'm trying to find out if it is possible to build a server almost like Nvidia's Grid VCA but without the GPU's and more CPU's and RAM whilst still using something like raspberry pi 3's instead of other hardware like a low standard desktop or laptop as the client PC.

 

The reason for this is, a computer lab needs upgrading but it is about 300 pc's and upgrading each one individually is quite expensive. So I'm looking for a less expensive alternative. And yes multiple servers can be used just as long as the performance is faster while being cheaper.

[Master Disaster]

So you want a server that's cheaper than replacing the clients yet can still run them all as VMs through a raspberry pi?

[Ricod306]

Exactly, as upgrading them all would cost about $95 000 and running from a server will also make the computers more manageable.

[Master Disaster]

Just now, Ricod306 said:

Exactly, as upgrading them all would cost about $95 000 and running from a server will also make the computers more manageable.

And now go price a server that's capable of running 300 VMs up and compare.

[manikyath]

going with a thin client setup (which is what you are trying to explain) will end up more expensive than just buying desktops.

[Pixel5]

it will still be cheaper and faster if you upgrade the PC´s a server capable of running 300 VM´s will not be cheap.

[AbsoluteFool]

Aprox 300 vCPU's and ram for every VM you'll spend over 95k. Upgrading the PC's can be as simple as swapping out some parts. depending on what is available.

Basicly you are doing backwards thinking. You think a big system will be cheaper than serval small once. While in spesific situations this might be true. When it's talk about 300 virtual machines thatmight not all are being used at once. The truth is that you don't really need 300 computers. If you find out on average how many clients that are used at once and prepare a little overhead you'll have a stable balance in what is available and can create a better system with newer clients instead of thinking server vice for the same issue.

[Ricod306]

I understand,I overlooked many aspects. As I went back over my calculations processing power required in terms of # cores is already insane.... thanks for the replies.