HTPC/Media PC Questions

[GazD]

Well, since upgrading my old rig to a snazzy new C2D system I have been pondering using my old CPU and Memory to build a basic HTPC/Media PC as low cost as possible. But knowing not much about them I have a few questions.

The CPU and Memory in question are a P4 630 (3Ghz) and 2gb of OCZ PC3200, now, are both these components good enough for a PC of this type?

What other essential components are needed for this type of PC?

It would have to have a Freeview card in it as I will be doing away with my freeview box, so could someone recommend one?

Case wise I was thinking along the lines of the Antec Fusion as it seems well priced for its spec and aesthetics, with this case I would need a mATX motherboard so are there any recommendations on this.

I think that is all if you could fill in the blanks it would be most helpful.

Thanks in advance

GazD

 

[smit101]

Your processor and memory are more than adequate for an HTPC running standard definition material.

As far as the freeview card is concerned I can heartily recommend the Nebula digi Tv card,I've been using one in my HTPC for over 2 years now and it's performed superbly,the accompnaying DigiTv software is the winner for me,lovely,intuitive interface that provides easy programme recording etc,Slave tuners are also available now that provide complete dual tuner functionality such as watching and recording 2 channels simultaneously.

To be honest the hardware in an HTPC takes a back seat,it's the software that counts,you'll need to do some research on frontend software, MS Media Centre edition and Meedio are the 2 that I've personally experimented with,I've not succesfully integrated the Neb digi card with either suite but the Nebula software is so good I'm not overly concerned by this.

I use Meedio for all my Movies,Music and Photo's and get on very well with it,it can do a lot more than I require of it,I would recommend you check out the demo version.Showshifter is another popular frontend and would be worth checking out.

Probably stating the obvious here but make sure the system is quiet,a silent psu and quiet cpu cooler are essentials in my book.Change all active motherboard chipset coolers for passive blocks,Zalman provide loads of quiet pc cooling components many of which are stocked here.

The motherboard you choose is dependant on your choice of case,some HTPC cases will only house micro ATX boards so a case of this type will limit your choice of board,having said that there are micro ATX boards available with integrated graphics and 5.1 sound that are ideal for HTPC's due to low power requirements and low noise.

My concentration span is limited today,(it's been a long day) so i'll end here.

There are many good HTPC resources on the net that will give you all the info required,just google HTPC or similar and you'll be away.Good luck mate!