using server chips in desktops = a bad idea?

[ixfd64]

This is a very dumb question, but is it OK to use server chips in desktop computers?

Some people are saying that it's safe to use a server chip in a desktop, but others are saying that doing so voids the warranty and that it could lead to problems. I've also heard that server chips are generally incompatible with desktop motherboards, which need to be replaced first.

Since server chips are generally faster and more durable than their desktop counterparts, they can be quite useful for number crunching.

Has anyone here ever used a server chip in a desktop?

Also, has anyone here ever used a server as a desktop (or a workstation)?

[Batalov]

I am using a server as a desktop. It sucks. No chance to OC from BIOS, and memory is very rigid, even though (or rather because) it is ECC. And it is PC2-6400.

It is a dual-quad-core E5345 and the bus contention (for 8 LLs) is terrible. My home Q6600 (which is about 10 times cheaper, but built from my pocket; it has PC2-8500, though) beats it in overall productivity.

--Serge

[IronBits]

It makes no difference for warranty, Server vs Desktop (case). How would they know?
Generally speaking, a CPU designed for Servers usually require sockets that are found on more expensive motherboards and ram requirements are usually of the ECC type which are more expensive.
Using a Server as a workstation is done all the time and there is no downside, other than cost.
It would never void a warranty. Server motherboards usually have very limited overclocking abilities.
Correct that CPUs for Servers are not compatible with normal motherboards because of the socket, but, workstation class motherboards only have a single socket whereas a Server motherboard can have multiple sockets, so using 4 core processors and a 4 socket motherboard, you could have 16 cores in a single computer.
Not sure about faster, but they are generally more reliable seeing that they are 'hand picked' for quality.
If you spend all your time doing video stuff, and your using a top of the line software package that can use multiple processor/cores, having as many as you can get into a 'workstation' with lots of memory (another plus of using a Server class motherboard, they hold more memory) the quicker you can get the work done.
Yes I have and I'll use anything as a Desktop or as a cruncher if the price is right and performance is good.