AI X1 Pro Linux Homelab Overview [YouTube Release]

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This is something that has been requested since Matt’s original review of the mini-PC a couple of months ago. An unexpected question led to a rebuild of the machine by a friend’s son, answering many questions about running it as a Linux-based Homelab server.

This video isn’t instructional; it’s about what you can do with a mini-PC like this one to create an environment to learn, experiment, and hone the IT skills that you’re most interested in, whether for professional or personal pursuits.

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00:00 Intro
00:39 Background information and summer projects
01:40 Matt’s original review and Level1Techs’ AI X1 Pro review
01:59 Left with Debian, returned with Proxmox
03:00 Ollama VM with GPU passthrough
05:22 Networking-focused VM with BIND
09:00 TrueNAS with Gitea and Portainer
11:50 Docker host and running containers
15:04 Closing and the importance of knowledge transfer

There are a few people that have “odd” issues with these MinisForum devices, enough that I’m just going to stay away. Dealing with actual problem firmware/hardware can be difficult from what I’ve read.

The MS-A2 looks like it would be a screamin’ home lab virtualization host. But the cost is currently driving me away.

Quite literally, at least under load it can reach 50 dBA. :wink:

It’s not cheap, but considering what you get, a powerful 16-core/32-thread CPU, support for up to 128 GB of memory, above-average networking and storage capabilities, and a uniquely engineered chassis, I think the price is totally reasonable.

The real question is: do you actually need all that? :wink:

I would like 8c/16t for my lab, my current 4c/8t is a little underpowered.