Snapshot of costs for higher-end computers, including compute cluster systems. Contact ChemIT to discuss your needs.
Pricing example for 24 cores
You want 24 cores. Here are some options, and prices as of Jan 2014.
For each option:
- Each proc (processor) is 6 cores. 4 total procs
- More cores/ proc are available, but much more expensive. (Ex. An 8 core proc is twice the price.)
- Each option has a total of 128GB RAM. And 4TB of HD storage over 2 hard drives.
Spec's selected to allow an apples-to-apples price comparison, not because of a "sweet spot" for each scenario, and not necessarily "fitted" to your research needs.
- You may need to adjust the final specs, once you select a top-level option.
Top-level options |
Cost |
Price analysis |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Typical compute cluster nodes |
$5.4K |
Getting 24 cores on procs spread over 2 computers represents good value. |
4 procs, 2 on each of 2 motherboards. |
Single computer, rack-mount. |
$8.5K |
To get similar power merged into a single system, pay extra: |
4 procs, but on one single motherboard. Those procs are twice the price. |
Singe computer, desktop (but noisy and hot!) |
$9.5K |
In addition to above upgrade costs: |
Again, 4 procs, but on one single motherboard. Those procs are twice the price. |
Does not include
Anything other than "the box".
- May also need UPS ($170), network cabling and switch ($100 or less)- not much else.
Base data
- $410 for each 6 cores chip, 2-capable.
- $890 for each 6 cores chip, 4-capable.
- $1,600 for each 8 cores chip, 4 capable.
Find a proc
Compare proc prices
- E5-4600 series chips ( v2 coming soon )
- E5-2600v2 series ( new chips from September 2013 )
Other ideas to consider
- Confirm limiting factor by using CISER's service to help tune where to invest (cores, RAM, hard drives space).
- Cut down on hard drive space by using file server space, in certain situations.
- Merge your investment into an existing cluster. Shared resources cost much less than standing up your own, small cluster.