Dual Processor vs Dual Core

[reallyfull]

Hi,

I'm interested in attending some large LANs soon and the rules usually state we are only allowed to bring one PC. Attendees are allowed to run any type of game server we choose to separate from what the LAN hosts are running. But obviously it has to be on the same PC we are going to game with. Now what I'm wondering is would I be better off with a dual processor rig or a dual core rig for the task. The server would probably see about 30 players max. I just don't want any lag (or choppiness) on either end (me playing or the people on the server). Also would 2GB or RAM be enough (I will be playing mostly newer games)? If not what would you recommend? Any other comments and tips are welcome.

Thanks!

 

[BillParrish]

A real dual processor server with gigabit ethernet is optimized for I/O and thruput and in general would be better as a game server. Finding one with a PCI-e graphics slot might be a pain.

You might want to consider quad core /shrug.

Trouble is, a server is a server and a gaming machine is a gaming machine and no-one really makes a board that does both welll because for 99.9% of the time (welcome to the .1%) its crazy.

As much ram as whatever operating system you use can address. Normally that would be 4 GB but some memory tuning is required and its debatible.

Anyway, once you get away from standard gaming boards bring a big wheelbarrow piled high with money.

I think a high end gaming board with a quad core and exceptional network features (2 ports, gigabit ) running XP pro, 4 GB, truniq tower cooler 4 drives in a 0+1 raid and 8800 graphics card and a 30 port gigabit switching hub would cost enough to stop you right there.