Hardware

Obviously you could go with any number of hardware combinations to create your HTPC, but the following is what we decided to go with to meet our requirements:

 
  • To play ANY file type (.avi, .mkv, .mpg, .ts) at any resolutuion (1080p, 720p, etc.)
  • Output sound to an AV reciever to decode DTS and Dolby Digital sound
  • Simple User Interface
  • The ability to simply upgrade to Blu-ray/HD-DVD if required
  • Operate at low noise levels
  • Build at a low cost

    •  

    The list above will probably apply to most peoples projects.  The addtional common requirements are to operate as a PVR to record TV, and incorporate Blu-ray/HD-DVD from the outset.  However, currently I do not have those requirements, but the beauty of a HTPC is its easily upgradeable. For example, I could very easily add in a Blu-ray drive and HD Graphics Card if and when required.

     

    The hardware I decided on was the following:

     

  • AMD 64 x2 3800 Athlon AM2
  • Antec Fusion Case
  • Abit NF-M2 nView Motherboard, which includes:

    • ---Onboard NVidia Geforce 6150 Graphics
    ---Onboard 7.1 Realtek HD Audio (ALC883)
  • Western Digital 250GB SATA2 Hard Disk
  • 2 x 1Gb Sticks of DDR2 800 RAM
  • DVDRW Drive
  • Keysonic Wireless Keyboard
  • Value 1 meter DVI to HDMI Cable

    •  

    At the time of purchase (11/2006), this kit came in at £420 Inc VAT.  Obviously as technology is constantly getting better, you can get much more for your money now, so please check our forums for the latest discussion on this.

     

    One factor which did increase the price was the Antec Fusion Case.  The decision justified, as its an excellently built case, with a clean/professional look.  Other good points of this case are; its design helps keep internal components cool, offers silent operation and includes a quality power supply.  These are important factors if you want maximum longevity out of your kit. 

     

    The hardware above has been tested with the software configuration on the next page, and has played anything I've thrown at it.  This includes H.264 encoded files (.ts .mkv), .wmv, .hdmov, all playing in glorious 720p and 1080p resolutions. 

     

    Reasons for choosing each component:

     

    AMD 64 3800 Athlon Dual Core AM2 - Supports 64-bit and dual core (Futureproofing)

    Antec Fusion Case - Asthetically pleasing, Excellent cooling, Quiet, Allows full size PCI cards

    Abit NF-M2 Mobo - Low cost, No Fans for Silent Operation, Onboard 6150 graphics, Optical SPDIF

    Western Digital 250GB SATA2 Hard Disk - Low Cost, Fast, Quiet

    1x1Gb DDR2 800 RAM - Low Cost, Fast, 1 Stick allows 2GB dual channel in future (Futureproofing)

    Netgear WG311 Wireless Card - Internet Access, Network with other PC's

    Keysonic Wireless Keyboard - Control videos and Media Center interface

    Value 1 meter DVI to HDMI Cable - Low cost, digital so arguably no different to expensive cables.











    Above is the final look of the HTPC, really fits in well with other Home Theater Equipment.

    Continue to the software section

     

    Software >