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Started By
Message
Critique my ideal home network setup
Posted on 7/17/14 at 7:40 pm
Posted on 7/17/14 at 7:40 pm
So I'm moving to a new place relatively soon, and we will be switching from Satellite to Cable (and from AT&T internet to Cox). Currently, we rely on our landlord's WiFi (they live on the other half of our side-by-side). This new place will have no such amenities. So:
I'll start by picking up a Cisco DPC3010 8x4 used off Amazon for $22. So that will feed into a Linksys ea4500 which, unfortunately, must act as a simple WAP/switch since it's got a dead WAN port. Now, here's where I'm having trouble deciding what's actually ideal for me.
So I'm debating an HP Proliant DL160 g6 with dual l5520s. I won't actually be using any RAID features; it will function as a storage server (probably will have the OS (Windows Server 2012, free to all students) vs CentOS, but almost certainly going with Windows) on a 2TB hdd + 3x4TB HDDs, but I will only be adding them as I run out of storage. This box will also serve as the DHCP, VPN, and simple FTP + backup location for other computers/devices in the house. Which brings me to what I will be storing: My main computer (fm1 a55 board with an a8-3870k running Win8) serves as a good frontend for media collection. It's got a BluRay burner and software to rip my collection for digital storage. It's got a TV tuner (hauppauge 2250, currently) and takes in tons and tons of raw video. The problem I have with it is that when I use MCE Buddy (a nice version of Handbrake for file conversion), it tends to BSOD after several hours of running at 100% converting files (and my backlog is extensive), but there's no good way to throttle the CPU usage down. Bigger cooler, open side of case didn't help. In short, it's really not capable of downsizing the raw video files into compressed HD in its current state. Thus, the new backend. I'd script the Recorded TV folder to dump files onto the server which would take advantage of the 2x quad core processors to rip them up into much smaller, more manageable files and then take advantage of being, well, you know...a server. I'll probably take the cheap way out and add Plex for remote viewing if my VPN throughput isn't sufficient for streaming (and I assume it will not be).
So now that the modem, DHCP, and access point are set, what else could we want? Well, for starters, we could use a better DVR than the Hauppauge 2250, so let's go grab an HDHomerun Prime so that all the DVR content is in high def. Also, it's DLNA compatible, so we can pull those tuners in from our ancient DSM Media Lounge and, with the help of HDHRFling, on my Roku 2xs.
Now at this point, I've got almost everything I want, except that pesky cable box that's going to cost $10-12/month. Which model should I let Cox charge me for. None of them, because the Samsung GX-SM530CF lets you rent a CableCard (just like with the HDHomerun Prime) for ~$2 month (so it pays for itself in about a year), has a full web browser, access to many streaming apps, and access to all your own home content...in addition to all your encrypted cable channels. It also supports AllShare Cast (basically AirPlay with a compatible iPhone app), and this is your cable box; no changing inputs is required. And the same remote jumps from Amazon to Netflix back to ESPN with no TV input change required). You do lose the OnDemand features, but at this point, I think that's an even trade for the amount of storage and inner-connectivity of all the pieces.
Noticeably lacking is an HTPC, but my ideal build there would roughly double my budget (this whole setup, minus what I already own, is teetering on the $500 brim).
What say ye, Tech Board? Is the backend better served by some other hardware (or software) at a better price (perhaps a simple NAS + leaving raw video files as are and skimming the collection eventually, albeit likely 1-2 years from being required)? Is an HDHomerun Prime + Samsung GX-SM530CF worth the 2-year breakeven point (assuming a single set-top box otherwise. Divide 24 months/# of cable boxes otherwise required, but I'm basing it off of 1).
I'll start by picking up a Cisco DPC3010 8x4 used off Amazon for $22. So that will feed into a Linksys ea4500 which, unfortunately, must act as a simple WAP/switch since it's got a dead WAN port. Now, here's where I'm having trouble deciding what's actually ideal for me.
So I'm debating an HP Proliant DL160 g6 with dual l5520s. I won't actually be using any RAID features; it will function as a storage server (probably will have the OS (Windows Server 2012, free to all students) vs CentOS, but almost certainly going with Windows) on a 2TB hdd + 3x4TB HDDs, but I will only be adding them as I run out of storage. This box will also serve as the DHCP, VPN, and simple FTP + backup location for other computers/devices in the house. Which brings me to what I will be storing: My main computer (fm1 a55 board with an a8-3870k running Win8) serves as a good frontend for media collection. It's got a BluRay burner and software to rip my collection for digital storage. It's got a TV tuner (hauppauge 2250, currently) and takes in tons and tons of raw video. The problem I have with it is that when I use MCE Buddy (a nice version of Handbrake for file conversion), it tends to BSOD after several hours of running at 100% converting files (and my backlog is extensive), but there's no good way to throttle the CPU usage down. Bigger cooler, open side of case didn't help. In short, it's really not capable of downsizing the raw video files into compressed HD in its current state. Thus, the new backend. I'd script the Recorded TV folder to dump files onto the server which would take advantage of the 2x quad core processors to rip them up into much smaller, more manageable files and then take advantage of being, well, you know...a server. I'll probably take the cheap way out and add Plex for remote viewing if my VPN throughput isn't sufficient for streaming (and I assume it will not be).
So now that the modem, DHCP, and access point are set, what else could we want? Well, for starters, we could use a better DVR than the Hauppauge 2250, so let's go grab an HDHomerun Prime so that all the DVR content is in high def. Also, it's DLNA compatible, so we can pull those tuners in from our ancient DSM Media Lounge and, with the help of HDHRFling, on my Roku 2xs.
Now at this point, I've got almost everything I want, except that pesky cable box that's going to cost $10-12/month. Which model should I let Cox charge me for. None of them, because the Samsung GX-SM530CF lets you rent a CableCard (just like with the HDHomerun Prime) for ~$2 month (so it pays for itself in about a year), has a full web browser, access to many streaming apps, and access to all your own home content...in addition to all your encrypted cable channels. It also supports AllShare Cast (basically AirPlay with a compatible iPhone app), and this is your cable box; no changing inputs is required. And the same remote jumps from Amazon to Netflix back to ESPN with no TV input change required). You do lose the OnDemand features, but at this point, I think that's an even trade for the amount of storage and inner-connectivity of all the pieces.
Noticeably lacking is an HTPC, but my ideal build there would roughly double my budget (this whole setup, minus what I already own, is teetering on the $500 brim).
What say ye, Tech Board? Is the backend better served by some other hardware (or software) at a better price (perhaps a simple NAS + leaving raw video files as are and skimming the collection eventually, albeit likely 1-2 years from being required)? Is an HDHomerun Prime + Samsung GX-SM530CF worth the 2-year breakeven point (assuming a single set-top box otherwise. Divide 24 months/# of cable boxes otherwise required, but I'm basing it off of 1).
Posted on 7/17/14 at 10:04 pm to Hopeful Doc
This is too tech for the tech board.
Posted on 7/17/14 at 10:34 pm to Hopeful Doc
Eff all that mumbo jumbo bro.
Posted on 7/17/14 at 10:56 pm to Hopeful Doc
Seems overly complicated. I've heard getting a cable card for a 3rd part DVR is a major hassle, but I've never tried myself.
Between my Mac, 3 TB HDD, Torrents, Apple TV, Xbox one, and the shitty DVR from Suddenlink I'm pretty sure I can do at lest 98% of what you're doing.
Between my Mac, 3 TB HDD, Torrents, Apple TV, Xbox one, and the shitty DVR from Suddenlink I'm pretty sure I can do at lest 98% of what you're doing.
Posted on 7/17/14 at 11:23 pm to colorchangintiger
quote:
I've heard getting a cable card for a 3rd part DVR is a major hassle
It takes a phone call, and it's very easy. Some companies even reimburse you the $2/month they usually charge for the Cablecard rental in their own products as a "using your own hardware" incentive.
quote:
Torrents
Won't touch them. I obtain media the legal way. I also will not rip disks that I do not own. I will agree, though, that if this is not an issue for you that obtaining the raw files and converting them isn't a need at all- you're already getting compressed stuff that someone else has put the effort I am describing in already. I have 5.2TB of storage, and I'm close to out. I like to hoard seasons of TV shows and movies.
quote:
shitty DVR from Suddenlink
Does it cost you each month? The purpose is for up-front cost to save money from long-term monthly fees. Most of this is already being accomplished without the new equipment. The new stuff is to:
1) Have a central server that's constantly running and is the backend to everything in the house, including media, is capable of transcoding large video files capably and backups as well as hosting the DHCP since the router is deficient here.
2) Upgrade from access to Clear-QAM channels to everything offered by the cable company in the highest definition they offer it in
3) Have a set-top box that interfaces with cable, the cable guide, and streaming apps in addition to all home media + AllShare Cast without having to change any inputs. Current roommate + SO complain of difficulty of the current setup, which requires one remote to turn the TV and receiver on which also controls the receiver's volume and a second remote that controls the HTPC. From this remote, Windows Media Center has access to Live TV, Recorded TV (giant catalog, as mentioned), Music (another large catalog), and Netflix. It requires a 3rd remote (RF mouse/keyboard combo) to use the web browser (Kylo sucks) or use Amazon/YouTube/essentially any other streaming service. It also takes the place of the Suddenlink box you describe, which has a monthly charge associated with it. So this setup does use 2 different devices to replace one, but that's mainly my preference. An HDHomerun Prime (or any other number of devices) connected to an HTPC will also replace the box. It will just do it in a slightly more complicated fashion that isn't hard to learn, but apparently scares those around me from using.
ETA: And I'm not against any sort of an Apple solution. But no Apple product (that I have seen) comes anywhere close to the amount of CPU power that the above HP does outside of the Mac Pro line. There are no Mac Pros that compare in the sub-$300 range (they're far too old and outdated).
This post was edited on 7/17/14 at 11:30 pm
Posted on 7/18/14 at 10:24 am to Hopeful Doc
- Get a NAS.
- Get a MUCH better router
- Get a MUCH better wireless access point
- Get a MUCH better router
- Get a MUCH better wireless access point
Posted on 7/18/14 at 10:35 am to Hopeful Doc
quote:
Current roommate + SO complain of difficulty of the current setup
That's what I was getting at. I don't know if this new set up will really uncomplicated things that much. Hell, even with my xbox one and cable box hdmi pass through, it's hard for my SO and kid to figure out how to work everything.
ETA: I have yet to see a truly simple solution for a "power tv user".
This post was edited on 7/18/14 at 10:36 am
Posted on 7/18/14 at 11:46 am to colorchangintiger
quote:
Hopeful Doc
Your entire post made my brain hurt
quote:
I have yet to see a truly simple solution for a "power tv user".
I have..it's called pay for cable. All that shite, just to bypass paying for cable tv. I'm sorry but I'd rather just pay.
Posted on 7/18/14 at 11:57 am to loopback
quote:
I have..it's called pay for cable. All that shite, just to bypass paying for cable tv. I'm sorry but I'd rather just pay.
I do pay for cable, but cable providers don't deliver netflix, amazon instant video, hulu, crackle, etc. over cable TV. I also can't mirror my phone or computer to my tv through the cable box, can't play video games through my cable box, can't stream my music or paid for movies and TV shows through my cable box, can't give my cable box voice commands, can't configure the guide to show only the channels I want to see on my cable box, can't play blu rays on my cable box, and I can't download a plethora of apps to my cable box.
Posted on 7/18/14 at 12:12 pm to colorchangintiger
Your wants don't match my wants
I'm fine with cable and all movie channels, on demand, and my PS4
I'm fine with cable and all movie channels, on demand, and my PS4
Posted on 7/18/14 at 12:21 pm to transcend
quote:
- Get a NAS.
Doesn't solve massive files that need to be compressed issue and would cost more than using the above as a NAS in almost all cases of 4-bay NAS
quote:
- Get a MUCH better router
Hardwired gigabit connection will be between the server, the computer that's the (P/D)VR, and the DLNA-enabled cable box that streams everything. I don't need more than 4 gigabit ports, and DHCP controls inside of Windows Server are about as good a set of router controls as one could ask for, particularly with regards to the semi-advanced stuff (IP reservations, static IPs, VPN, and port forwarding for accessing the 2nd remote desktop built into Windows Server). I don't plan on managing multiple subnets or anything similar at this point.
quote:
- Get a MUCH better wireless access point
N900 3x3 MIMO is sufficient for streaming the smaller, compressed files around the house when they're hardware transcoded by the server (also not particularly solved by your NAS idea) and even for using 2 of the HD tuners over the WiFi. If I were attempting to stream 3+ tuners and media files all over WiFi, I would agree that AC would be a better choice. I don't really have a need to run guest networks or multiple APs in this place.
I am curious though, can you please recommend your:
1) a NAS with min 4 bays and >2TB/slot support for less than $258
2) a better router than Windows Server or switch that has 4+ gigabit ports (which, since the current one is already owned by me, would need to be in the "cheap" range.
3) access point. Everything in the house is Wireless N or older; there is no need or desire to upgrade to AC anytime soon.
Posted on 7/18/14 at 12:22 pm to loopback
quote:
Your wants don't match my wants
I'm fine with cable
This post was edited on 7/18/14 at 12:23 pm
Posted on 7/18/14 at 12:39 pm to loopback
quote:
Your wants don't match my wants I'm fine with cable and all movie channels, on demand, and my PS4
Thus me saying "power TV user"
Posted on 7/18/14 at 12:56 pm to loopback
quote:
I have..it's called pay for cable. All that shite, just to bypass paying for cable tv. I'm sorry but I'd rather just pay.
All of the above is for using cable tv. It is to bypass paying for DVR service and being limited to the amount of storage the DVR has available. It's also to allow me/anyone to watch what's on the DVR in another room without being physically in front of the TV.
Posted on 7/18/14 at 1:20 pm to Hopeful Doc
I like pictures. too many words for me to read.
Posted on 7/18/14 at 1:25 pm to colorchangintiger
quote:
I don't know if this new set up will really uncomplicated things that much.
You're right. The Samsung box is probably overkill and, while in theory making it an easier frontend, the lack of DVR feature makes the whole system still rely on too many devices. But the addition of the HDHomerun Prime and a new, high-powered computer to re- and decode the files and be a NAS/media/backup server are at least no more complicated. In Media Center, you can set network shares to appear in the "videos" or even "recorded TV" folders, all accessible by the same remote control that accesses live TV via the HDHomerun, compressed video from the server, uncompressed video on the desktop, music stored anywhere on the network, photos from anywhere on the network...It's very much a prettier version of iTunes with better file support (and I would say an easier/better remote control interface) + the addition of live TV.
So in terms of how complicated it is to set up,
1) 15 minutes on the phone with Cox and 2 wires for 3 TV tuners with full access to every non-OnDemand channel you subscribe to
2) one program on the HTPC that looks for files in a folder and moves them to a folder on the server
3) the same program on the server finds the files and recodes them to 10% of their original size or so, has commercial-skipping software built in for free, renames the files based on whatever naming convention you want (s01e01HowIMetYourMother for example would be "season 1, episode 1"...there are many other conventions you can use for this as options already built in on MCEBuddy. It also correctly identifies and places the .wtv (proprietary recording type of file from Windows Media Center) metadata into corresponding appropriate places in the output file type so that the show can be displayed with its title and such when you're viewing it, and you don't just see "s01e01showname" as your only descriptor of what's inside.
4) Then you go into the HTPC and add the folder that you're dumping the output files from the server into to the directory from within media center (it's fully browse-able and takes about 6 mouse clicks)
From there, the HTPC "sees" all of the coded video files. It's less than 5 minutes of actually setting up to connect an HTPC with Windows Media Center to a backend video server. And it's probably about 15 minutes to set up the input/output on both computers and recoding parameters. Tweaking it will take considerably longer, but only because that requires a 5GB input file to be compressed down to 350-500MB + going back and watching the original 30-minute (minus commercials now!) video. The actual tweaking is quite simple and often not required.
Posted on 7/18/14 at 1:39 pm to slutiger5
quote:
I like pictures
For you, iger5.
into
running either or
+ without takes care of the network side.
For the Media side: +
At $500 or less.
Which doesn't replace: with and running and, of course for bluray support
This post was edited on 7/18/14 at 1:54 pm
Posted on 7/18/14 at 8:53 pm to Srbtiger06
quote:
This is too tech for the tech board.
Fact.
I will only add that Proliant servers are bulletproof.
Eta: doc, if that Proliant has AMD proc's, avoid. Get whatever model has Intel.
This post was edited on 7/18/14 at 9:00 pm
Posted on 7/18/14 at 11:18 pm to Hopeful Doc
Not sure if you understand what a router is. Windows server is not a router.
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