Mac mini server

[skitzodancer]

Hi guys,

I was looking at the Mac mini server to use in a hoe office, it would be my primary computer for downloading media, storing it and then streaming form it to various devices through out the home.

Is it going to be suitable for that?

I can see no difference between that and the Mac mini other that the serve has the word server at the end of the name.

 

[auhagen]

If you dont need the OSX server software or a quadcore, just go with the normal mini. It's a lovely piece of hardware, and will suit your needs.

 

[Dax71]

You can buy teh OS X server software on the app store cheap. So no need to buy the server edition.

 

[theluggage]

I can see no difference between that and the Mac mini other that the serve has the word server at the end of the name.

Regular Mac Mini has a single 2.5" hard drive, offering up to 1GB of internal storage.

Mac Mini server contains 2 x 2.5" hard drives, offering up to 2GB of internal storage. It also comes with the Server extension to OS X - which is useful for running a workgroup or managing iOS devices in a small business setting.

You don't need the server software - you can stream media using iTunes (which you get on the regular Mac) or third-party software (if you want to stream to non-iOS devices). The second hard drive might be worth it for the extra storage in a neat package, but a regular Mac Mini and a honking big external USB3 hard drive for media storage and backup would probably make more space. If you don't mind wielding a screwdriver, you can get third party kits to put a second internal hard drive in a regular mini.

 

[QWERTYMac7]

Hi guys,

I was looking at the Mac mini server to use in a hoe office...

Are you a pimp and running 'hoe's?' If you are, Windows is the way to go...

All joking aside, the MM base will serve your needs VERY well - just add an external HD for back up of your media.

I have a mid level 2011 MM - it runs my 7,000 song iTunes and 380+ movie collection flawlessly while being my main computer.

It three years, I will retire the MM for a dedicated HTPC and purchase a new ???? Mac for my office. I have no doubts that the 2011 MM will work as a dedicated media server for years.

Good luck to you and for your thriving business ;-)

 

[skitzodancer]

Are you a pimp and running 'hoe's?' If you are, Windows is the way to go...

All joking aside, the MM base will serve your needs VERY well - just add an external HD for back up of your media.

I have a mid level 2011 MM - it runs my 7,000 song iTunes and 380+ movie collection flawlessly while being my main computer.

It three years, I will retire the MM for a dedicated HTPC and purchase a new ???? Mac for my office. I have no doubts that the 2011 MM will work as a dedicated media server for years.

Good luck to you and for your thriving business ;-)

Haha ill proof read next time

Do you have your set up in a dual screen mode? Also do any of you know what resolution this can handle?

I was thinking of getting two 24" dell monitors to use with it.

 

[dbroncos78087]

What about putting the second HD into the standard one and downloading OSX server?

I'm not sure what the actual benefits of the server version of myself. ID certainly be interested in learning more if someone wants to post a tutorial. Especially tips for home only (ie no domain or website) users.

 

[skitzodancer]

What about putting the second HD into the standard one and downloading OSX server?

I'm not sure what the actual benefits of the server version of myself. ID certainly be interested in learning more if someone wants to post a tutorial. Especially tips for home only (ie no domain or website) users.

I've thought of doing this but it sounds rather difficult, I'd prefer to spend the extra few pounds to get it pre assembled with two hard drives.

 

[dbroncos78087]

I've thought of doing this but it sounds rather difficult, I'd prefer to spend the extra few pounds to get it pre assembled with two hard drives.

I imagine that the cost would run pretty close (if you get something above a stock HD) but if cost savings can be achieved, then I certainly wouldn't ignore it.

But I really would be interested to see the benefits of the OSX Server to be honest as I have absolutely no experience with it.

 

[QWERTYMac7]

Do you have your set up in a dual screen mode? Also do any of you know what resolution this can handle?

I was thinking of getting two 24" dell monitors to use with it.

Yes, I do have dual monitors they are a 22" and a 24" Vizio HD TV's.

They are set to 1,600 x 900 and that's all the resolution I need for my work. I also have a AOC 16" usb powered monitor (typically used when I'm mobile with my MM) that I occasionally add for a three display array If I need a third window (it's typically configured in portrait mode when used this way). Works well and NO mirroring. Really.

Monitors attached:

One via HDMI, the other MDP to HDMI (usb for the third).

Hope this answers your question...BTW the MM is a 2011 mid level with the AMD graphics card.

 

[CocoaNut]

Upgrade a MM to Server or regular Server model?

I actually have a slightly different question on the MM. I have been toying with the idea of getting a MM with the server component for some time, but am unsure about which route to take:
- "regular" MM with 2.6 quad i7 and Fusion Drive, then add Mac OS Server
- server MM, again 2.6 quad i7 with 2 x 1GB HDD

So the difference between the two are the drives. The normal MM has 256GB of SSD, while the Server can be set up to use RAID 0 on the two drives.

Which setup would make the most sense to you? I have a NAS over GbE to store content. The price difference between the two above setups is negligible (100$ give or take) to me.