Easy HTPC

Building an AMD HTPC – Capable of Blu-ray HD – Audio Playback

Introduction

It has been quite a while since I last went under the hood of my current Home Theater PC (HTPC), but judging by the gradual degrading performance that I was beginning to see when watching the latest movies, it was pretty clear that an upgrade was in order.

While 720p HD video content plays back relatively well, action-packed and even regular scenes in 1080p HD content struggle quite a lot – the GIGABYTE H971 Home Theater PC, which we reviewed back almost exactly two years ago (here), still impresses us ‘till this day with completely rock solid stability. But when it comes to current day video and audio, it is now sadly dated. Don’t get me wrong, it’s perfectly fine for DVD playback and DVD quality audio, but now with Blu-ray HD audio from Dolby and DTS tracks out and in truck loads on Blu-ray discs, this HTPC has seen its day when it comes to high-end HTPC features.

With way too much Intel chip action in this office, we decided it was time to get some AMD silicon in play around here. So, we contacted our friends at AMD to see if they would hook us up with a processor to use in our new HTPC build. They obliged rather nicely with not only one, but four of their latest processors to try out – ranging from dual-core all the way up to quad-core – we’ll pick one today based on a range of tests.

We also have a bunch of other hardware to show you in this article, which go into building this AMD based HTPC. We searched long and hard for the right hardware for this Blu-ray playing beast and not only does it do it well, it does it probably better than any other HTPC that you have seen before. For one, it is able to output Blu-ray DTS-HD MA and Dolby TrueHD as it were intended by the movie studios (using bitstreaming). It also does it in style.

Let’s take a look here and see what we recommend for an AMD HTPC build in 2009 and then we’ll put it to the test and see just what it can do and exactly how much power it is going to suck out of your wall, all while entertaining you in your lounge room.

Read the whole build process-

via Building an AMD HTPC – Capable of Blu-ray HD Audio Playback Introduction :: TweakTown.

Small form factor computers have been growing in popularity recently with the introduction of Atom-based nettops. These low cost systems have proven very compelling options for consumers with budget and space constraints, but for the most part are limited to basic computing tasks such as web browsing, document processing and some audio / video playback.

If you are fond of the small footprint but not the low-end specs, however, you might be interested in Fujitsu’s latest addition to the Esprimo Q series. Dubbed Q1500, the top of the range model that was recently shown off at Germany’s IFA trade show sports a 2.8GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T9600 processor, 320GB Western Digital hard drive and 4GB of DDR2 RAM. Also inside were a Blu-ray optical drive and an accompanying HDMI port, making this 50mm tall system an ideal out of the box HTPC that uses a mere 19 watts of power when idle.

Intel’s GMA 4500HD graphics chip and Gigabit Ethernet complete the specification, with 802.11b/g/n wireless cards and Bluetooth available as optional extras. Although pricing for the model on display was not disclosed, Fujitsu said cut-down versions of the Q1500 will start at a rather pricey 699€ (about $1,000).

via Fujitsu unveils Blu-ray and Core 2 Duo packing mini PC – TechSpot News

Medion has never really been our go-to manufacturer for new hotness, but we’re really digging this new X9613 all-in-one model it’s showing off. Even better than the sexy, the computer is fronting a 24-inch multitouch display, a miniature SideShow screen, a gloriously large physical volume knob, and a bunch of convenient media controls along the bottom. Internals aren’t bad either, with a Core 2 Quad Q9000 processor and GeForce GT240M graphics. The price range, unfortunately, is rather steep at 1,499 to 1,900 Euro (about $2,142 to $2,714 US). Lucky for us, US prices are usually quite a bit lower than straight-up conversion, though there’s no promised roll-out just yet to bank on.

Via Engadget.com

Lenovo has introduced a new HTPC, the IdeaCentre Q700. The system is comfortably nestled between the size and specifications of a nettop and full-blown HTPC. It should fit in perfectly with your other home theater equipment, and its hardware ought to chew through basic HTPC-oriented tasks.

The IdeaCentre Q700 is equipped with an Intel Pentium E5200 2.5GHz CPU and X4500 integrated graphics, 4GB of RAM, and the choice between a 320GB, 500GB or 640GB HDD. Although it’s not available with a Blu-ray drive at the moment, it does come with a DVD burner.

It also houses an HDMI and VGA-out, TV tuner, eight USB 2.0 ports (split between front and back), Firewire, an eSATA connector, a 4-in-1 card reader, 5.1 surround sound outputs, gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity. Models are available with a remote and USB receiver dongle, and all ship with Vista Home Premium 64-bit installed.

Granted, you won’t be playing high-end games on max with smooth frame rates but the Q700 crams a lot into its 2.36″ x 7.87″ x 9.84″ box. The offer only looks better when you consider its $499 asking price.

Via Techspot.com

This time around I sought to one up the last Shuttle HTPC system in overall performance and appeal while reducing the price. The result is a liquid cooled quad core Intel processor, solid state hard drive, and a ATI Radeon HD4890 graphics card in a case that looks like a sexy glossy black AV Receiver.

I suffer from no delusions. I understand the fancy specifications may not interest many in the slightest. However, the less tech savvy crowd should take note at the possible everyday benefits that come with such a configuration. This particular computer is perfect for not only streaming high definition content (with the appropriate internet speed), viewing pictures, editing home video, and watching Blu-rays, it also is a fast gaming computer that can satisfy a PC gamer’s need with a better setup than a console gamer would have.

The parts are separated below with their various benefits described.

Read more.

Via Examiner.com

Netflix’s streaming service will appear on Windows Media Center within the next couple of days.

(Credit: Microsoft)

Microsoft has struck a deal to bring Netflix’s streaming movie service to Windows Media Center, the companies said Tuesday.

Netflix’s more than 12,000 “Watch it now” movies and TV episodes are only available to users of Windows Vista Home Premium or Ultimate. XP users won’t be able to access the service.

Owners of Windows Media Center will also be able to search the entire Netflix library, manage their DVD queues, and “filter searches by titles that are available to watch instantly,” Microsoft said in a statement.

Microsoft continues to try to boost the amount of content available on Windows Media. In March, the company launched a new sports channel, including replays of the past NCAA basketball tournament.

“We’re building on our broader vision to alleviate the need to jump from Web site to Web site to find TV shows, movies, sports and news,” Microsoft said in a statement. ” “With Windows Media Center, (users) can now find it in one place.”

For Netflix, the partnership offers the Web’s No.1 video rental service the chance to reach scores of of Vista users. Netflix’s deal with Microsoft’s Xbox videogame console proved to be a boon for the company.

Netflix has steadily been crossing the once wide chasm between the PC and the television by striking partnership deals with a wide assortment of set-top box makers, including Roku, and LG.

To access Netflix’s service, Windows Media Center owners must first subscribe to the rental service. Then, to stream movies, they can start Windows Media Center on their computers by selecting the new Netflix tile under TV+Movies heading.

Via Cnet.com

Acer’s Aspire Revo has been doing the rounds in recent weeks as the first nettop to sport NVIDIA’s ION platform – that’s GeForce 9400M-class graphics coupled with an Intel Atom processor.

Today, the supposedly-affordable-and-tiny 1080p-capable PC has become available at Play.com, and it’s… well, surprisingly affordable. Today’s listings show the base model – equipped with a 1.6GHz Intel Atom N230 processor, 1GB of RAM, an 8GB SSD, GeForce 9400M graphics and a Linux operating system – etailing at a cost of £149.99.

Not a whole lot, considering that the system is essentially a small-and-low-power HTPC that’s capable of high-def output. The Revo’s armed with HDMI or VGA out, eSATA, six USB ports, a memory-card reader, Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity, and a wired keyboard and mouse, too.

Of course, the Linux flavouring might not appeal to all users, and the single-core Intel Atom processor may struggle with certain tasks. But for a penny under £150, it’s hard to complain. If, however, you insist on doing so, there’s another option – the £249.99 Acer Aspire Revo, beefed up with 2GB of RAM, a 160GB hard drive and Microsoft’s Windows Vista Home Premium operating system.

Via Hexus.net

ZOTAC has today followed in the footsteps of Point of View by announcing a pair of all-in-one platforms built upon NVIDIA’s ION technology.

Continuing the trend, ZOTAC’s mini-ITX ION board comes in two unique varieties – one equipped with a single-core Intel Atom N230, and the second equipped with a dual-core Intel Atom N330.

Promising to deliver “a premium computing experience in a miniature mini-ITX form factor”, the ZOTAC ION features an NVIDIA GeForce 9400m IGP – complete with 16 processor cores – and makes light work of high-def video playback thanks to NVIDIA’s PureVideo HD technology.

Taking a slightly different approach, ZOTAC’s boards offer standard DDR2 DIMM slots, as opposed to the SODIMM slots found on Point of View’s ION boards. Elsewhere, it has opted to abandon the implementation of PCIe slots, though a Mini PCIe slot is available as an optional extra. External TV tuners only, then, for the standard model.

The board offers three SATA ports and one eSATA, as well as VGA, DVI and HDMI connectivity. There’s Gigabit Ethernet, but integrated Wi-Fi is an optional extra – as is an on-board DC-DC power supply.

With the number of optional extras, one would imagine that ZOTAC’s base bundles will be priced competitively. Those eyeing the board up for a HTPC build will also be happy to hear that ZOTAC tells us that passive cooling is possible – contrary to the above image.

Read.

Via  Hexus.net

I remember the HP Blackbird as being pretty much the zenith of custom computer-building. Its second-to-none specs and stunning design put it ahead of everyone else — although its was monumentally expensive. The Firebird is a sort of companion piece to the Blackbird: quieter, more compact, less powerful but still potent, and significantly less expensive. We got the latest version, the 803, to test out. Is it a good deal or is it style over substance?

Since the last time I bought a custom system (from Alienware, perhaps six years ago), the demands on PC manufacturers have changed. Increasing consumer knowledge and easier aftermarket customization have made it more important for someone like HP to offer something a little more exclusive. Therefore, they decided on a low-power, interestingly-designed, and extremly well-put-together PC. The first thing you notice about the Firebird is the case (well, necessarily, since it’s the first thing you see): it’s certainly unique-looking, with the box sort of suspended over a foot, giving it a swoopy rice rocket sort of look. There are also understated designs on the translucent side panels, which are eye-catching but not garish. The whole thing is actually a little bigger than I expected, but it’s still smaller and slimmer than your average mid-tower case (not much lighter, though).

Read.

Via Crunchgear.com

AspireRevo launched in London

ACER UNVEILED its nettop offering – the AspireRevo – coupled with Nvidia’s Ion platform boasting a 16-core setup, in deepest darkest London late last week.

How this offering of Acer’s differs from every other nettop is just simply down to the partnership with Nvidia, also it’s the first offering around with the Ion system.

The Ion platform  basically combines an Intel Atom 230 CPU and Nvidia’s GeForce 9400 for this multi-core wonderfulness.

Acer states the AspireRevo is capable of delivering a good solid 1080p. Most devices such as the Eee Box and the MSI Wind will struggle to even think about movie playback at that level. The INQ actually saw this in action,and  it actually performed rather well and decoded too at a seriously high bitrate.

Other than that the AspireRevo is a common old nettop running from the usual array of specs found in others. It’s around the third of a desktop’s size, the power consumption is a third of the usual computers’ requirements too – everything really expected, with no surprises.

All the ports are present and correct, which is something we cannot say about some  competitors. Onboard are the likes of VGA¸HDMI supporting 7.1 audio, multiple USB ports, audio and even eSATA’s been catered for.

From May the 5th there are three different SKUs on offer; the first with Linux, an 8GB SSD for £150. The larger capacity version comes in at £250 with Vista premium and a 160GB HDD. There is one other Acer AspireRevo option that’s the same as above, only with a Wii-like Wireless game controller, for £300.

We’ve been more-or-less exclusively informed the next Ion offering will be of a netbook flavour – you heard it hear first folks.

In terms of nettops around today, this could very well be the first tiddly gaming platform with a decent HD ability – thanks to NV.

Via TheEnquirer.net