What is a HTPC

July 21, 2008 · Filed Under HTPC Information

HTPC stand for home theatre PC, although exactly what is a home theatre PC is debatable. Most people agree that a HTPC needs to be connected to some sort of screen, usually a television. But then there are so many wide uses for a HTPC that it is hard to outline all of them

A HTPC is a device that usually combines the functions of both a computer and a personal video recorder. Most people buy a HTPC to combine many of the features from separate components that would be in their home theatre setup into the one box. This often reduces the costs of components, as well as allowing everything to be controlled from the one location.

There are many uses that people use their HTPC for. Some examples of this include:
TV Recorder – by including a TV card in your HTPC, you can watch and record TV. This can do all the things expensive Video Recorders can, such pause and rewind live tv, record tv and store it to watch later, get local program information, and allow you to watch one channel while recording another.
Digital Photo Viewer – you can load photos and video from your camera or camcorder in order to watch them on the big screen. This is great for viewing with the family, or if you need to edit them.
Music and Media Player – you can use your HTPC to play your favourite music, CDs and even videos you have downloaded off the internet. It also allows you to have a backup of all your favourite data, so if you lose your CD you don’t have to worry.
Stream Media – if you have media stored on another coputer, you can easily watch it through networking your other PC and your HTPC together, so you don’t have to copy all the files over.
DVD Player - if you have a DVD drive you can watch DVDs. A computer also allows you to cheaply upgrade it with new technology when it comes out, for example you can put a Blu-Ray DVD player in it if you want.
Gaming – playing games on a large screen TV can be a very immersing experience. There are many games out for PCs, that would rival those of popular consoles such as the xbox or playstation.
Normal PC Usage - a HTPC can also do everything a normal computer can do. This includes word, browsing the net, voice chat, etc. A good example of this is using your HTPC to watch youtube videos.

So not only is a HTPC cheaper, more functional, and easy to upgrade, but it is also a lot of fun and satisfaction to be had in setting one up and getting it working to your exact requirements.

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