Crater Hardware Lecture Notes: Building a Render Server for Adobe Premiere Pro

Introduction

• Focus on building a render server for Adobe Premiere Pro.
• Previous setup used a gaming PC as the render server.
• New setup involves a custom-built AMD system.

Purpose of a Render Server

• Allows for uninterrupted workflow while rendering.
• Rendering on the editing PC limits multitasking capabilities.
• Important for handling contract work and other editing tasks.

Current Setup

• Case: Using an old unraid server case.
• Cooling: Equipped with Be Quiet fans for airflow.
• Processor: AMD Ryzen 3600 (originally used in unraid server).
• RAM: 32GB from previous Intel gaming PC.
• GPU: NVIDIA RTX 380 TI (works well and is owned).

Challenges and Considerations

• Heat Management:
  • Current cooler (90mm thermal right) may not handle overclocked Intel CPU well.
  • Intel CPUs are stable but generate significant heat.
• GPU Compatibility:
  • Must use the same brand of GPU (e.g., Intel, AMD, NVIDIA) for rendering.
  • CUDA compatibility is crucial.

Future Plans

• Deciding on final setup:
  • Options include Proxmox install for easier remote access or a Windows 10 bare metal installation.
  • Considering using dummy plugs for headless operation and remote access via Parsec or other tools.
• Need to confirm if the 3080 TI fits in the 4U chassis and can be powered adequately.
• Airflow in the current case is mediocre; temperatures recorded:
  • CPU running up to 76°C during gaming workloads.
  • May reach 80°C under heavy loads like Cinebench.

Conclusion

• This setup is still a proof of concept, not the final form.
• Concerns about the Ryzen 3600 being underpowered for long renders.
• Future updates expected; encouragement to subscribe for final build reveal.
• Overall aim: Efficient rendering without compromising workflow.