I’m finally getting around to migrating my OMV-based NAS from its current “2014 Mac Mini + USB multi-drive enclosure” setup to a more reliable build that doesn’t rely on USB. But I’m torn on CPU choice.

The “new” system is based on Intel 7th gen hardware, since that’s what the majority of my whole homelab runs (with zero complaints). The motherboard is an Asus Prime Q270M-C, meant for more commercial applications, and supports Intel’s vPro/AMT/ME/whatever it’s called (“vPro” from here onward) OOB management setup. I would really like to utilize vPro since I’m familiar with it and most of my machines have this enabled (and not accessible from outside my LAN).

The only compatible 7th gen CPUs with vPro are the i5-7500/T, i5-7600/T, and i7-7700/T. All are cheap (≤$50), easy to find on eBay, and I have no issues using the 35W T SKU. That said - I have a spare, yet perfectly functional Pentium G4560T sitting on my desk, but the only reason I haven’t installed it yet is because it doesn’t support vPro. I also have a 6th gen i5 (which the Asus mobo also supports) in an unused Optiplex 3040 SFF somewhere in my basement, but I don’t think that CPU supports vPro. I should check…

Anyway, I have some options:

  1. Use the G4560T and deal with no vPro.
  2. Swap the G4560T for the i7-7700T currently installed in my HA instance (Lenovo M710q), but then deal with virtually zero CPU overhead in HA.
  3. Buy an i5-7500/7500T
  4. Buy an i5-7600/7600T
  5. Buy an i7-7700/7700T

I don’t have an issue with any of these options, even losing vPro is something I can deal with. But I like having overhead, and hate having extra hardware laying around.

What say the Lemmings?

P.S.: For those interested, this is the planned NAS build.

  • kumi@feddit.onlineEnglish
    21·
    2 days ago

    Personally I’m too paranoid about security and sus of Intel to be comfortable with vPro but you do you.

    That said, I’d go for 1, considering you already have that 6th gen on hand in case you need a spare.

    Otherwise 3 or 4 (whichever is available on secondary markets for a decent price) and hang on to that Pentium in case need arises. Doesn’t sound like the extra power draw of an i7 is worth it for this build.

    • Lka1988@lemmy.dbzer0.comOPEnglish
      1·
      2 days ago

      Fair points. My entire homelab setup of five PCs pulls a total of 90-120W at any given time.

      I’m gonna go check that 6th gen now that I’m home…