Laptop as Music Server - Wear?


Interested in user's thoughts or opinions on the degree of wear that using a Laptop as a music server that is on (but not necessarily is use) 24/7. Perhaps my biggest concern is the issue of mechanical wear as well as physical due to heat. For the sake of discussion, assume a USB or FW external HDD holding the files.

I'm considering this for a Squeezebox based system. Install Squeezecenter on the laptop with file access, hard network cable to main system (it exists in my residence) then wireless to Squeezebox/PS Audio DL III.

thanks
terra3

Showing 1 response by blackstonejd

I wouldn't use a laptop to STORE files, but you could use one as your interface, server. Laptop components run too hot and are too unreliable for long term file storage. You need a desktop or NAS for that, preferably with enterprise grade 3.5" drives and ventilation. Also, if your laptop requires replacement it would be a chore to retrieve your library.

The best solution will be to have a small silent, solid state drive based device (HTPC, notebook, tablet, ect) in the listening room (the drives are too small and expensive to be of much use right now) and then a network attached drive or drives for the files.