HTPC & Win7 - CAN I GET A REMOTE CONTROL?

jmp_78

jmp_78

jmp_78

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I'll keep it simple - I'm going to build an HTPC or similar for use with a full HD living room TV, and will be watching MP4 movies from the hard drive.

I'm using Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, and want to know if I will be able to buy a remote control to save me from using a keyboard and mouse whilst watching movies?

Any suggestions?
 
What software will you be using to watch movies?

I use a Microsoft Media Center Remote for use with Windows Media Center and it works well, but they are hard to find nowadays. There are many similar, OcUK stock this remote, which would probably be ideal, and isn't too pricey as far as PC remotes can go.
 
Windows Media Center is probably the best software to view common media types when you're a distance from your PC.

64-bit should be no problem at all, I've been using it with Vista and 7 for a few years now and it's been no trouble.
 
The OcUK one looks good, but can anyone tell me what kind of general functionality I should expect within Windows? I've just tried Win Media Center and found that it won't play my MP4s... therefore, would a remote work with say normal Win Media Player or VLC? If the basic remote functions work with various programs then all good.
 
It won't work with VLC as far as I know. Mine does work with Power DVD though, but I'm not sure if that plays what you want.

There is software you can get to map keys to remote buttons so that you can use any program you want, but I can't recall the name. There's probably more than one program to be honest. It'll be a bit fiddly and will take a little time to set up though.

Could I suggest something like this instead? That should take care of everything.
 
jmp_78 said:
Ooooo, yes - you most certainly can! That, I reckon, answers all of my problems. Thanks Alex :D
Click to expand...

Cool, glad to help. There is another similar one listed on the OcUK site, except it has less favourable reviews, specifically concerning the range, so I linked a slightly more expensive model that has good reviews.

Remember to shop around though, it may be cheaper elsewhere, but usually I find when you factor in free delivery from OcUK (and a good track record for service) it's best from here. You need to up your post count a tiny bit and then you qualify.

EDIT: Actually it looks like you already qualify for free shipping!
 
if you are genuinely interested in HTPC's you should look over at XBMC.net


or read how to get MP4's working in Windows media centre (sharks 007 codec help with this)

you should not really be using media player or VLC and class it as a htpc
 
I keep thinking about getting a remote... but so far I just use a long stick to poke at the keyboard from across the room. :D
 
Hah, I never thought of it that way. Had the nickname for years but only recently invented my Stick-Remote. :D I originally got the name because I was real skinny... but since inventing the Stick-Remote I've put on an extra 60lbs. So a lot less 2D than I used to be. :D
 
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another site worth a mention if you a building a htpc is hack7mc.com. it has plenty of stuff for your media pc. codecs, plugins etc.
 
Indeed, that's a good resource.

I also started a dedicated thread on Windows Media Center with a list of useful plugins and apps. I always appreciate any input, and if you have something that works well on your HTPC, drop it in the thread and I'll add it to the OP.
 
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