Looking to build an HTPC

[hotpurple]

go for DVI as a minimum for quality.

That's fine but I output to a CRT TV, how can I get DVI to a CRT?

Isn't the Core 2 a bit overwelming for this build?

I want to play games on it

Thanks for all the advice guys. Keep it coming!

Chris

[blue73]

Agree with some of the points above. S video is v bad, go for DVI as a minimum for quality. And as for VIIV - it's suspend thingy is rubbish.

I have a SFF with MCE, and I can turn the unit on and off with the MCE remote into S3 within a few seconds either way. You need a reghack for this, but it's easy to do. So, the only power being used is that which is going to the mem modules (I believe), to keep data info alive. Same level of energy than when switched off, but still plugged into wall. Great stuff. The PC can also wake itself from this state, when a programme needs recording.

Isn't the Core 2 a bit overwelming for this build?

Core 2 a bit overwhelming. Hmmm it all depends on what You want from a Home Theatre PC. At the end of the day an HTPC is meant to do all kinds of tasks all at the same time, I believe, which might include recording media, playing media and maybe muckin about with photos or anything You care to do. As well as streaming media to other parts of the house and if the kids or You for that matter have an Xbox live account play online too. So no I dont think its over the top to use a Core 2 CPU to do these things. If any thing the more powerful the better IMHO.. Mind it's all about the wonger, if the readies are available then crack on and have Yerself a very good PC at the end of the day. But if money is'nt an option there are still alternatives..

[stud]

Fair enough. I suppose the new Core Duo 2 processors are low in power usage. I was probably still thinking about those who stuck a P4 Extreme in their HTPC, then wondered why it wasn't quiet as the fan went into overdrive.

Just got myself a 26" lcd tv with DVI connection. Looks good using a DVI cable (which I borrowed from the office).

[UpTheToon]

Here's a good article on a HTPC build using the antec fusion mentioned earlier in the thread, it looks like a great case but it is a mini ATX format ;

http://www.extremetech.com/article2/...2016613,00.asp

[R3MF]

i am gonna go LC16-M in about a week.

alternatively:
Silverstone LC11-M
Antec Fusion