MAc Mini Server to send rendering to from my iMac

[shopkeeper]

I am thinking of purchasing the 2011 Mac Mini Server to send 3D renderings from my 24" Dual Core iMac, which is poorly served for this purpose. In comparison the Mini looks very fast :

2011 Mac Mini - Geekbench Scores

My only concern is that the Mini Server's integrated intel graphics card. But I think my concerns regarding this matter are unfounded since using the mini server purely for rendering this limitations would not be an issue? Would anyone with experience in using a mini for rendering or other cpu intensive operations be able to confirm this for me.

[As a side note there would be an added bonus to purchasing the mini server as I could also set it up near my TV and use it as a media player when not rendering ]

 

[Vermifuge]

I am thinking of purchasing the 2011 Mac Mini Server to send 3D renderings from my 24" Dual Core iMac, which is poorly served for this purpose. In comparison the Mini looks very fast :

2011 Mac Mini - Geekbench Scores

My only concern is that the Mini Server's integrated intel graphics card. But I think my concerns regarding this matter are unfounded since using the mini server purely for rendering this limitations would not be an issue? Would anyone with experience in using a mini for rendering or other cpu intensive operations be able to confirm this for me.

[As a side note there would be an added bonus to purchasing the mini server as I could also set it up near my TV and use it as a media player when not rendering ]

When render a final scene the CPU will be important. the GPU really only matter in the preview

 

[shopkeeper]

Before I take the plunge, would I be able to plug the mac mini into my imac and use its display for the mac mini or would I need to buy an additional monitor?

 

[qCzar]

You'll need a Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable. There are likely posts around saying that you can, or can't, use a Thunderbolt to mDP. So, look into that. (since your iMac does not have Thunderbolt).

Personally, I think you're better off getting an HDMI and plugging it into your TV and Screen Sharing into it if you need something. The TV would come in handy if you ever need to switch to the Mini for something important, other than that Screen Sharing is great for checking up on it's progress and simple tasks (uploading that file to a server or to your iMac).