Would a mini-itx system be suitable for...

Youstolemyname · 14 Nov 2008 at 11:33

A basic HTPC?

I want something for the lounge that I can use as:

A PVR using a TV card for freeview
Playback MP3/DIVX etc
Playback Blu Ray
Basic surfing the net and emails etc

The other requirement is a nice case and silence!

agent_paul · 14 Nov 2008 at 12:08

depends on the setup really.

you can get mini itx systems with Via's C7 cpu (which are abit slow) or ones for Intel's Pentium m's or even duos now.

I've been using a commell lv-671 mobo for about 3 years now for my media (admittedly without any tv card) and it works a treat

Wayne~ · 14 Nov 2008 at 13:30

Would work fine just make sure the processor you get is quick enough for HD playback (If required) because of the size of them you may have to have external Blu Ray and freeview stick

gt_junkie · 14 Nov 2008 at 13:35

Got an ITX HTPC running an e7200 here: http://forums.overclockers.co.uk/showpost.php?p=12630078&postcount=316

Handles 1080p effortlessly.

My GF uses an Atom 330 dual core ITX system too - not sure if that would handle 1080p but i'd imagine it would have a good go.

gt

Youstolemyname · 14 Nov 2008 at 13:47

cheers for the spec gt...how much am i looking for that price wise?

spicypixel · 14 Nov 2008 at 13:48

http://www.anandtech.com/weblog/showpost.aspx?i=522

gt_junkie · 14 Nov 2008 at 13:53

Youstolemyname said:
cheers for the spec gt...how much am i looking for that price wise?

Getting the case is the difficulty as that hoojum's as rare as hens teeth - however, i'm sure you'd find a decent alternative.

All the other components would cost between £250 and £300 for the cpu, mobo, ram, hdd and optical drive. Getting something like an e5200 and a touch less ram will lower costs - also, getting stuff 2nd hand will help too.

Last thing to say is make sure that the PSU can cope. The pico psu i use is rated at 120w with a power brick that in turn is rated at 102w. Runs perfectly - is cool running and most importantly silent!

gt