Multiple PC's at home, OS Selection

[ajocius]

Feel free to answer in Norwegian.

 

I read a lot that people use server solutions at home. I believe they use it for their media files (video, music, pictures) and they use Server OS on that dedicated PC . What I do not understand is advantages of some server OS (les say windows server 2003) vs let's say XP. Are they quicker to share files over network? Use less electricity? quicker start up? Other advantages?

 

My home pc structure would be something like this:

1. Low CPU, low RAM, 1 small HDD; no fancy media cards, XP based home automation PC. This should handle all devices on home network via software Girder, USB UIRT devices and through ethernet cables. It would be able to send IR commands to home appliances, read connected readers, fire up other PC's at home when necessary, etc. Would also install some servwer software, to host simple homepage, to share latest family photo, etc. Need to run 24/7.

2. High CPU, high RAM, 1 or more HDD, better media card and audio card, multiboot PC. Used as HTPC on one dedicated partition, video editing tool on another partition; general use third partition, etc. This PC should have WakeUpOnLAN functionality, so that I could start my HTPC when necessary with a remote. This high elictricity consumer would only run when I need it.

3. Server PC (with server OS or just XP if I do not find reason for server OS) that would contain all media files. This would be avaialble at 24/7, but should reduce power consumption to absolute minimum, when nobody at home uses media. Not sure if it needs to go to Hybernation with possibility to wake on LAN command or some other power saving mode. The only idea to have this on separate PC is to save power. If I can't save power, I could keep my media on second PC

4 -... Kids PC's for their gaming, also laptop to be able to use PC anywhere in a house, travelling etc. Those will access media files on server via network at any time, would also be able to access Girder info if necessary.

 

My question is about Server PC, what qualities should I look for. Of course, it has to have many connections for HDD's . My current MB supports up to 8 HDD's, perhaps that is enough, but will Windows Server 2003 OS require something special in terms of hardware? Any other thoughts for the set up are welcome.