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October 27th, 2024 19:51
Precision 3680 Tower Workstation for HTPC Usage
The 3680 looks like an intriguing device to replace my Vostro 260S as an HTPC.
I have a few questions that might be of interest to the community.
First, can is be placed on the side to operate? Likely to be on the "left" side due to cooling.
Second, how good is the video on current Intel processors for HTPC? Can it handle 4K UHD with Atmos soundtracks? If I need an upgrade, it seems like these units are designed for professional CAD style cards. Can regular video cards like a 4060 be used? Is there a size or power issue? Special brackets needed?
With regard to brackets, do the various 3.5 slots include the plastic holders for drives? Are the SATA and power connectors provided?
The top 3.5 inch drive slot is approached from the front of the device. Does that imply the perhaps I can put in a 3.5 inch legacy optical drive in there? Hopefully the top of the bezel can be popped out, or perhaps a dremel tool can do the job?
Thanks all.
Chino de Oro
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October 28th, 2024 02:23
The Precision 3680 is a tower workstation. It's not suitable for HTPC.
As for your questions, the tower was not designed to be placed on its side. Certainly not on the left side as it has perforated vent on left panel. There is no rubber feet on side panel as those from the 5000 or 7000 series.
The integrated video on Intel's 14th gen CPUs has noticeable improvement and better performance than the previous generation. However, for purpose of a workstation, it does not provide any significant performance value for applications. All heavy usages are utilized with discrete graphics. Therefore, you can install a full size, full height cards such as Quadro RTX 6000 ADA or GeForce RTX 4090 with 1000w power supply option.
Depending on your storage configurations, the cables are provided but some mounting kits and drive carriers are optional. The front flexbay can support 3.5" HDD but it does not imply that it will support 5.25" optical drive. However, there is an optional slim optical drive right below it for your CD, DVD, and blu ray discs.