Building a Media PC

[Monkeee]

Just splurged and got a new 42inch HDTV. I want to build a media PC for the TV, a small one, to connect it directly via HDMI. Not trying to build a powerful rig, just a semi-decent PC that is capable, at the most, to play x264-720p files. I won't be using the computer for anything else beside, basic web surfing, viewing media files such as AVIs and x264s, and watching DVDs. I'm trying to keep the PC as small as possible, maybe something along the lines of http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16856167032, though I'm not too sure since i'm terrible at picking parts, especially with compatibility issues and what not. Any suggestions appreciated, trying to keep the budget as low as possible but i hope not to exceed $500 unless its required. Thanks in advance.

[megabyteme]

Hi Monkeee,

I have built quite a few computers over the years and I have always been able to trust certain brands. I like antec for cases and power supplies, Western Digital for HDs, corsair ram, asus mb, and amd processors.

I have included a ss of parts I put in my newegg cart. I have used every one of these parts except the case. I have used at least a dozen antec cases of varying costs and have never been disappointed.

I have found several items that have significant discounts right now. I would build a different system next week. Newegg has great deals, but you cannot wait. Don't forget to put combo deals in your shopping cart as "combo deals". It will not give you the discounts if you don't.

Here is wht I would build my system around. Read the Newegg reviews, I think you will like what I have put together for the price. :-D

http://xs840.xs.to/xs840/09261/htpc_rec107.png
http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/7126/htpcrec.png

Don't forget that you will need to "acquire" a copy of Vista Ultimate for HT use. I have it and have had very few problems.

You also need a kb, mouse, possibly a remote control, and dvd burner, etc. You still have about $120 in your budget.

Good luck. Send me a PM if you decide to go with this system. I can help you troubleshoot.

-megabyteme

[darkstate01]

I bought this cheap Media PC on ebay for 10£ i think theres another one for sale for £1 start.goodluck http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/pcs/dark-blade-pc-mod-finally-complete-even-more-godly-than-before-205325.php
Only joking

[cenncromm]

I recomend you to build yourself this PC. There is a combination between a Mobo (Asus, Gigabyte) whith chipset 780G from ATI and a processor 5050E from AMD. Only 25-40W both in terms of power consume, and you don't need some fantastic cooling solution, a Scythe Ninja Mini is OK even without fan! As for the rest, A-Data or Corsair memory, dual channel of course, HDD Samsung F1 1TB (best in its class). You don't need an aditional video-card, the on-board card is enough for what you want. Complete this with an Antec Case slim factor and voila! You can play full HD, very little noise, and so on. If you need detail, contact me, I will tell you the exact specification.. I hope that you understand, in not so skilled in english.

[Monkeee]

Hi Monkeee,

Here is wht I would build my system around. Read the Newegg reviews, I think you will like what I have put together for the price. :-D

http://xs840.xs.to/xs840/09261/htpc_rec107.png
http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/7126/htpcrec.png


-megabyteme

Cool, thanks for your input. I don't know the exact requirements nor the parts that will suffice of what i'm going to be doing with the HTPC so this is a great start. Any other input from someone else would greatly be appreciated.