Dual E5620 MB recommendations?

[msher4]

Hello,

I'm planning to build a PC around 2x Intel E5620 CPUs (likely with 2x 12GB DDR3 triple-channel memory kit). Plan to install Win 2k8 Server R2 Datacenter w/ Hyper-V Server and run a bunch of VMs on it (I've got all the licenses I need for this, so there's no software cost for this).

Any recommendations for a motherboard?

I've got a case to handle any MB form factor desired, so size of the MB isn't really a factor.

Thanks!
Mike

 

[o1die]

This http://www.serversdirect.com/product.asp?pf_id=MB8135 uses registered memory. Newegg carries samsung 1333 registered ddr3 for $70 (4 gb sticks).

 

[msher4]

This http://www.serversdirect.com/product.asp?pf_id=MB8135 uses registered memory. Newegg carries samsung 1333 registered ddr3 for $70 (4 gb sticks).

So -- what are the pros of this board, and why do you recommend it over other boards?

Asus and Tyan seem to have the best warranties: 3 years; whereas Intel and SuperMicro seem to only have 1 year warranty. How much weight should I put on that?

I've had very good experience with Asus and Intel boards in the past. No experience with the others.

Are these really just "black boxes", and all I have to worry about are: memory supported; I/O and storage supported; and PCI/X slots provided?

I've got all the parts I need, except for the MB. Would appreciate some input on making a good decision.

Cheers!
Mike

 

[o1die]

The server boards will use ecc ram (for better accuracy) and may provide extra ports and ram slots if you have a large business that has several workstations. Otherwise, you may be fine with an Intel or Asus desktop board that uses cheap desktop ddr3. You can get 8 gb of kingston hyper X for around $25 after rebate at frys in today's ad. Here's an article that may help you decide if you want to build your own or buy a small pre-built box. http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9130636/How_to_build_your_own_Windows_Home_Server_rig

 

[msher4]

The server boards will use ecc ram (for better accuracy) and may provide extra ports and ram slots if you have a large business that has several workstations. Otherwise, you may be fine with an Intel or Asus desktop board that uses cheap desktop ddr3. You can get 8 gb of kingston hyper X for around $25 after rebate at frys in today's ad. Here's an article that may help you decide if you want to build your own or buy a small pre-built box. http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9130636/How_to_build_your_own_Windows_Home_Server_rig

Thanks again. But, only the server boards support dual CPUs, yeah?

For dual CPU Xeon boards -- what would drive the decision to buy one over another?

I intend to run Windows Server 2008 R2 w/ Hyper-V Server and host a number of virtual machines (24/7 box).

 

[o1die]

I'm not an expert on server board selection, but here's a board which you may be interested in. Don't know when it will be released, but perhaps you can contact evga for more info: http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/05/evgas-dual-cpu-classified-sr-2-motherboard-put-to-the-test-wor/. I've used tyan, so I can only recommend this for socket 1366; the previous board is for 1155. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813151193