what do you mean independent systems? do you mean multiple computers on multiple networks or just simply why so many computers? I have 7-8 more computers than what is pictured. All have a purpose... development, simulation, execution, desktops, etc. All are on different networks and nothing is over complicated or overkill.
Just curious, I switched to using servers for development, simulation, execution and charting a short time ago because of efficiency. I can build a Quad Xenon blade with 3TB of HD space and 64GB of RAM for the same cost as 3 good PC's. My next step is to the cloud. I'm currently testing the ability to access an NVidia server with 100 processors and 1.024TB of RAM on my tablet PC for $250 a month and minimum latency. I can access from fiber (local), 3G or 4G (mobile) or WiFi. Technology is marvelous. Your wife might enjoy the added space.
at this point I have only 1 and 2 CPU machines so I agree that I could go to quad-socket and up the game - but I own this and its paid for. For me it is hard to manage remote access and/or cloud access for multiple people to the same boxes/accounts. This is a cheap & easy solution to let 3-4 people into seperate subnets to work on seperate projects without ever knowing what is on the box next to theirs - nevermind who else might be sharing their CPU.....
at this point I have only 1 and 2 CPU machines so I agree that I could go to quad-socket and up the game - but I own this and its paid for. For me it is hard to manage remote access and/or cloud access for multiple people to the same boxes/accounts. This is a cheap & easy solution to let 3-4 people into seperate subnets to work on seperate projects without ever knowing what is on the box next to theirs - nevermind who else might be sharing their CPU.....
I'm pretty sure this picture was posted earlier in this thread (unless your version is "photoshopped").