New Server Build using Intel NUC

[W3bbo]

Now that I am running exclusively on USB tuners, in order to save space around my TV I’m looking to dramatically downsize my NextPVR server (also running as a Plex server) which is currently in an Antec Fusion case with the new Intel i3 NUC.

Existing server: E5300 processor, 2GB RAM, 2x1TB HDD and 2xHauppauge Duet USB Tuners, MCE remote with USB receiver
New Server: NUC5i3RYH, 8GB RAM and 2TB Seagate M9T 9.5mm HDD, MCE Remote using integrated receiver

Whilst I’ve seen several discussions around using a NUC as a client PC, I’m not aware of anyone using one as a server. Has anyone tried this configuration? I’m especially interested in overall noise levels as I’m keen to keep the server as quiet as possible (existing server has a Scythe Ninja Mini cooler and Sharkoon Silent Eagle 120mm fans).

Any thoughts or experience greatly received!

[liteswap]

I've read reports that the NUC's fan (when running - it's not frequent, apparently) is inaudible from more than a foot or so away, so if you tucked it behind the telly, you'd probably be fine.

I've been doing research along similar lines, although I've now lit on the possibility of installing a twin DVB-S tuner card in my VMware ESXi server, using a VM running Win7 and NPVR as a server, passing the the signal across the LAN to a NUC which just runs the interface and plays back the media from the server's disks. It's just an idea right now, am costing it out...

[SickBoy]

Just to be clear - this machine is going to be placed near a TV and will be running the NPVR *server*, but *not* be used as a client?

I have the core i5 NUC (the one in the larger case with the space for the 2.5" HDD) and have been generally satisfied with it.

[W3bbo]

My apologies for not being clearer, the NUC will be used as both the sever (serving another 3 PC based clients in the house via wired network) plus be a client using the native application via the Mini-HDMi port and utilising an MCE remote on the integrated IR receiver.

[SickBoy]

Ahh, that makes more sense. You might get some fan noise if you're serving up all of those clients concurrently...

Also, if you find a model of remote that works with the integrated IR, please post back and let me know. I tried a couple and neither worked.

[W3bbo]

Took the plunge and ordered the NUC as a server and currently rebuilding (existing server is Win7 32 bit and need to rebuild as 64bit to allow utilise all the memory). So far all looking good but not used as the live server yet so cannot comment on fan noise when all clients are active.

Using the HP MCE remote with the server (http://support.hp.com/us-en/document/c00844678) which works perfectly with the integrated IR receiver (although I do fiddle with the registry / use EventGhost to allow the green button to launch NPVR from the desktop and ensure the window has focus) - remote has a good feel and is laid out well IMHO.

I'm also hoping to be able to use the two USB Duet tuners via a passive hub to free up the second rear port for a DVB-T2 HD tuner. Hoping that the USB3 900mA port will be powerful enough drive both tuners but have a suspicion this may lead to issues!

Will report back when the server is fully live but so far delighted with the box.