Build a HTPC 2009 Edition
Ok so with the start of a new year, it’s time to look at the HTPC build, and what the best build for the new year is.
So have there been many developments since we did the last build in July last year? Well not really any major development. All parts are still pretty similar and the technology is still the same, so everything that was said in the extensive guide still applies. However as always with computers, things are newer, so you get more value for money and quieter components for the same price.
Case: Antec NSK2480B
This is still the best value for money case. It is a full size case, meaning you can fit any motherboard, and most TV tuner and graphics cards in there. It also comes with a 380W power supply and two fans. This saves you money on having to buy these components, and they are good quality and quiet.
CPU: AMD4850e
AMD runs cooler then Intel. Cooler means less cooling is required so you have less noise, which is very desirable in a HTPC. We go for the 4850e because it is energy efficient CPU as it only uses 45W (less energy consumption also means cooler). It still provides enough processing power to have smooth DVD playback, and at a reasonable price. Read more
Build a Budget $550 HTPC – Part 2
Welcome back. In part 1 we looked at some of the features of our HTPC, and some of parts to building it and why we chose them. In this part we will finish off our HTPC, and install an operating system to get it all set up and ready to use.
HDD: Western Digital SATA 7200rpm 640GB
When it comes to hard drives you want the biggest you can get in your budget. Recording TV, especially HDTV, takes up a lot of room, and you don’t want to run out of space. Read more
Build a Budget $550 HTPC – Part 1
This is an affordable HTPC. We want to show that you can build a great system for about the same price as a standard DVD recorder or PVR, while getting a lot more functionality.
This HTPC will be an all in one solution, making it do everything that we would normally expect from multiple devices. We want it to be upgradeable in the future, and offer a lot of storage and a decent performance. It also has to look nice, as it will be in the living room either on its own, or in a rack with other devices. Read more