Help needed with GPU for File Server

[EvilAlchemist]

I need some assistance choosing a video card for my file server.

I would like something that has Dual DVI & low power draw & PCI-E.

Will be running 2 x LCD @ 1680 x 1050 each in windows only (no gaming)

 

[stainremover]

http://www.geeks.com/products_sc.asp?cat=946

the 7600gs looks to fit the bill. if you're willing to settle for a dvi + dsub, there is an x700 for $10 cheaper here:

http://www.geeks.com/products_sc.asp?cat=945

live cashback is 10% i believe.

 

[Yakyb]

you cant go wrong with the 3450 really

 

[JaguarSKX]

I would just by a HD 4550. The power draw ranges from 8.1w (idle) to 18.5w (peak).

See below:
http://www.xbitlabs.com/articles/video/display/ati-radeon-hd4650_4.html#sect0

You can also opt to buy a HD 4350 which should draw even less power, probably 12w peak.

 

[B1zz]

so call me strange, but i'm trying to figure out why you need dual widescreens for a "file server"

~just curious....

beyond that, any of the cards mentioned here would certainly work for your prereq's

 

[Trimlock]

I recommend the 4350, its a wonder of a card, peak draw shouldn't be much less then the 4550 (not too much difference between DDR1 and DDR2)

 

[EvilAlchemist]

so call me strange, but i'm trying to figure out why you need dual widescreens for a "file server"

One screen is running my F@H monitoring app & uTorrent.
Second screen I use to for VNC to other systems in the house.

I don't use them both all the time, but I found when I do, a single screen just does not have enough viewing area and it slows me down having to alt tab a lot

I was looking at the 4550 series and it seems to be the best available option.

 

[Hard and Confused]

Looking arround it looks the 4550 peeps are onto something as dual DVI is not a low end card feature found on anything below a 9400GT or HD 4550 atm as far as I can tell. And of coure the 4550 is a win-win against a 9400GT for power consumption. No matter the card you choose passive rules.

 

[Met-AL]

One screen is running my F@H monitoring app & uTorrent.
Second screen I use to for VNC to other systems in the house.

I don't use them both all the time, but I found when I do, a single screen just does not have enough viewing area and it slows me down having to alt tab a lot

I was looking at the 4550 series and it seems to be the best available option.

What OS are you putting on this workstation? XP Pro includes the remote desktop host. With Vista, you need the Bus or Ult for the RD Host.

Alternatively, you could use VNC on any OS.

Either way, it would remove the need for monitors, your GPU, keyboard, mouse, desk, etc. You could stash the box anywhere then.. the basement, the closet, etc.