OS on Workstation and Render Node

[Gander0]

Hi Folks,

 

I have gone through the process of sorting out my render node which i haven't used since vray started charging for node licenses.

 

Anyway I bit the bullet after deciding against a new machine and have already spent way too much money for only 8 extra buckets but am now in too deep.

 

The latest expense which i didn't foresee is that max 2015 doesn't seem to run with vista.

 

Great so new OS! (After a day wasted reformatting and re installing vista).

 

 

My understanding is that its best to run the same OS as main machine which is Windows 7 ultimate.

 

To be honest I never had a problem rendering to a vista machine on previous 3dsmax versions so I am wondering whether I can just get a cheapo version of Windows 7 instead? Home ideally for ££ or pro if necessary?

 

 

Another factor:

 

I don't mind forking out for Windows 7 Ultimate but am keen to know how much life is left in this product.

 

I will build a new machine fairly soon and ditch the rendernode and can use the OS again but Windows 7 has been around for a while now. How much life can I/we reasonable expect out of this product?

 

 

Sorry for the rambling,

 

Any insight appreciated!

[numerobis]

Ultimate is not needed, just go with Pro.

 

Extended support for Win7 will end January 14, 2020. So there is much time to upgrade later.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/lifecycle

 

And you have the ability to upgrade to Windows 10 for free during its first year.

[Gander0]

Great info thanks numerobis!

 

Interesting situation on Windows 10 upgrades too.

Edited May 10, 2015 by Gander0