Hey guys
I'm looking to build a HTPC using a Psile case (http://www.psile.com/index.php?page=catalog_details&CID=1) but for all my research I'm having difficulty with working out the optimal components. The site suggests a few motherboard options but I'd really appreciate some 'real' advice.
What I'm after :
- The machine will run Windows Media Center. It won't be used for anything else.
- I don't need a lot of storage as my collection mainly resides on my Windows Home Server.
- Quiet as possible since it's located by my TV. That and decent resposiveness from Media Center (I run a couple of SQL addons - My Movies and myTV but that's about it).
- TV input is obviously HDMI so an ouput for that.
- Low operating temp (limited on fans in the case)
My initial conclusion was to go for something like this :
Motherboard : Intel DG45FC
Processor : Intel Dual Core E5200 (Or perhaps the Intel Core 2 Duo Mobile P8400 ?)
Memory : OCZ 2Gb PC2-6400C4
CPU Cooler : Tricky. The idea is to use passive cooling and position the adjustable case fan next to it, thereby allowing a single fan setup. Case is only 22.5x22.5x19.1cm and the workable space is limited beyond that.
HDD : Not worried about this. Probably a Samsung Spinpoint. Or a Solid State Drive if I'm feeling flash, although having read about the problems with some of them operating with the Intel Chipsets I'm not so sure.
Video/Audio : Need to be integrated into the motherboard.
Ok, so here are the issues.
- Motherboard : The DVD drive which is built into the case has an IDE output, yet the Intel board only appears to have SATA inputs. This is weird because it's a recommended mobo on the Psile site. Oh, and I heard the mobo 'whines'. That would be irritating in a silent/quiet machine
The advantage of that mobo is the fact it basically has everything I need - onboard graphics, HDMI output etc etc. I can't seem to find a decent alternative.
- Processor : I know in 'theory' I should go with a mobile processor for heat reasons, but the most recent advice I can find on this is dated and I'm not sure whether I still need to do this. Maybe it's all I need, I don't really know.
- CPU cooler : There's not a lot of room in there. Any thoughts on a passive cooler to replace the stock one ?
I've spent ages trying to get answers on this but can't find anyone who's built a Psile recently. There are companies who sell them pre-built (for a fortune) but I don't know how recent their specs are.
Would really appreciate a bit of help from anyone who has a couple of minutes to reply
Thanks guys
Sphere
I'm looking to build a HTPC using a Psile case (http://www.psile.com/index.php?page=catalog_details&CID=1) but for all my research I'm having difficulty with working out the optimal components. The site suggests a few motherboard options but I'd really appreciate some 'real' advice.
What I'm after :
- The machine will run Windows Media Center. It won't be used for anything else.
- I don't need a lot of storage as my collection mainly resides on my Windows Home Server.
- Quiet as possible since it's located by my TV. That and decent resposiveness from Media Center (I run a couple of SQL addons - My Movies and myTV but that's about it).
- TV input is obviously HDMI so an ouput for that.
- Low operating temp (limited on fans in the case)
My initial conclusion was to go for something like this :
Motherboard : Intel DG45FC
Processor : Intel Dual Core E5200 (Or perhaps the Intel Core 2 Duo Mobile P8400 ?)
Memory : OCZ 2Gb PC2-6400C4
CPU Cooler : Tricky. The idea is to use passive cooling and position the adjustable case fan next to it, thereby allowing a single fan setup. Case is only 22.5x22.5x19.1cm and the workable space is limited beyond that.
HDD : Not worried about this. Probably a Samsung Spinpoint. Or a Solid State Drive if I'm feeling flash, although having read about the problems with some of them operating with the Intel Chipsets I'm not so sure.
Video/Audio : Need to be integrated into the motherboard.
Ok, so here are the issues.
- Motherboard : The DVD drive which is built into the case has an IDE output, yet the Intel board only appears to have SATA inputs. This is weird because it's a recommended mobo on the Psile site. Oh, and I heard the mobo 'whines'. That would be irritating in a silent/quiet machine
The advantage of that mobo is the fact it basically has everything I need - onboard graphics, HDMI output etc etc. I can't seem to find a decent alternative.- Processor : I know in 'theory' I should go with a mobile processor for heat reasons, but the most recent advice I can find on this is dated and I'm not sure whether I still need to do this. Maybe it's all I need, I don't really know.
- CPU cooler : There's not a lot of room in there. Any thoughts on a passive cooler to replace the stock one ?
I've spent ages trying to get answers on this but can't find anyone who's built a Psile recently. There are companies who sell them pre-built (for a fortune) but I don't know how recent their specs are.
Would really appreciate a bit of help from anyone who has a couple of minutes to reply
Thanks guys
Sphere
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