The PS3/XBOX 360 htpc - possible build log!

tommytinkle · 14 Nov 2010 at 20:23

Hey all,

I've been toying with the idea of making a htpc for the living room since upgrading to i5 in my desktop. I have a fair few left over components from this and have just aquired a broken 360 and a faulty ps3 60gb.

I was going to split the htpc between the two chassis but I think it looks odd doing so. Am currently sizing up options for boards, power supplies and similar but anyone with suggestions regarding any part of the build would be appreciated!

I have a core 2 duo, various choice of ddr2 memory, a 4850 if required, various hard drives and other bits and pieces. The biggest issue is getting it all to fit!

Looking at power supply options I'm realistically left with something shuttle sized, or a 1u power supply. The easy fit alternative is a dc to dc power supply but I have a feeling they won't be able to supply the required juice to the system?

Teq · 14 Nov 2010 at 21:14

Sounds an interesting build

tommytinkle · 14 Nov 2010 at 21:32

Hey,

Thanks mate! My current issue as most people can work out is space! Looking at the 1u power supply my original mock up was wrong so thats freed up some more space. Just after any suggestions from anyone really

Teq · 15 Nov 2010 at 22:29

Have you thought about an external power brick? That'd give you more space to work and with the Xbox360 version you could modify the hot plug HD caddy in as a feature giving you much more space to play with. I haven't cracked open my PS3 but I'd think that's a bit more of a space challenge due to the shape?

tommytinkle · 15 Nov 2010 at 22:35

Hey Mate,

The xbox 360 pc has been done before, so its definately do-able, I just liked the idea of the ps3 pc! As you say though, space is a big issue. The only way I can see of fixing it is to use a dc to dc supply or buy a motherboard that has a dc source like the zotac's.

The problem with those boards is they are all atom/ion based and lack the power I'm looking for!

Teq · 15 Nov 2010 at 22:43

Do you think you'll be able to rig a slot loader and use some of the features of a PS3 case? (those funky buttons would be awesome)

You'll be able to get a 1U with decent power output but that'll leave you with a mountain to climb space wise and the biggest DC to DC's I've found are maxing out at 150 Watts which isn't going to leave you with much room for a powerhouse.

A bit OT but where in Cornwall do you live? I spent a good portion of my life in St Blazey near St Austell.

tommytinkle · 15 Nov 2010 at 22:54

Hey mate,

Live near truro or I did, currently inbetween Helford and Truro quite a lot though I far prefer Helford!

The 1u indeed as you say takes up considerable room! I had thought of stacking the two together to get masses of height available to me but it doesn't look right to the eye if you get what I mean

Teq · 15 Nov 2010 at 23:01

Cool, that is quite a nice area, like Cornwall in general really (a few areas are pants but hey that describes pretty much any place of earth) but I had enough of the wages and sought my fortunes elsewhere :-)

Okay so back on to topic - I think with this I'd mock out a box for this to sit on and either go for a floating look or expand on the feel of the lower part of the PS3 (shouldn't be difficult she isn't the most attractive thing on the underside).

If you really must stay within bounds then I guess you'll have to get really cut throat with features, perhaps do away with optical drives for a start and see how much space you have for cooling your preferred options. Really don't envy you here though, I like having room to work!

wakayoda · 16 Nov 2010 at 13:46

Go itx, when planning an Nintendo 64 pc everything fitted with it in scale model within Google Sketchup just never had enough money to buy the components.