Guide: *How to Build a Silent HTPC* (2 Viewers)

[globaldonkey]

Yes that is correct. If you want to stress test a GPU from a HTPC / video playback perspective, run 1080i H.264 through it. Everybody talks about 1080p playback, but most live HDTV is 1080i, either MPEG 2 or H.264. It is the de-interlacing (plus other post processing like edge smoothing and noise reduction) that will stress the GPU.

Jelmo, did you try using a DXVA codec? I saw some stuff on Doom 9 that DXVA on Core i3 was a problem.

 

[Jelmo]

AW: Guide: *How to Build a Silent HTPC*

I explained in my other posts that i have tested several codecs without any good results.
Only one thing gave me a better performance = Overclocking GPU.
But because i´m using a HFX mini without any fans i don´t want to work with a overclocked CPU/GPU only to watch 1080i matterial. So i decided to buy a dedicated passive GT430 from Sparkle. Now everything is fine and my CPU isn´t overclocked yet.

 

[zicoz]

Currently building a new HTPC with the Streacom FC5 chassis, and I must say I love having a silent HTPC. Still in "beta-stage" so more info to come:

http://www.streacom.com/products/fc5-od-fanless-chassis/

 

[Jay_UK]

Hi there,

I have just built a new client using one of those cases (actually its the slotless version).

Nice case, except I can not get the remote to work properly - usual MePo problems with MCE clones

J.

 

[elliottmc]

Hi there,

I have just built a new client using one of those cases (actually its the slotless version).

Nice case, except I can not get the remote to work properly - usual MePo problems with MCE clones

J.

Well, if the team were to get hold of one of those clone remotes, I am sure they could fix the problems. We need to know who makes them and get them to send samples. It is in their interest to make it work.

 

[Jay_UK]

Hi there,

I have several clones (about 4) which all claim to be MCE/RC6 compatible. Some have issues where they dont wake the PC (not a MePo issue, more like a receiver/USB issue), others where certain keys dont register (either the receiver appears as a HID device and not an eHome receiver, or it does appear as a eHome device).

I have found dealing with remotes to be the most fustrating (and often unsolvable) aspect of MePo (even more so than stuttering!) :O

I am happy to send the remotes/receivers to someone if I know they will work on the issues...

J.

 

[elliottmc]

I am happy to send the remotes/receivers to someone if I know they will work on the issues...

J.

I will find out who on the team is best to help. Hopefully if you can send someone a remote that has problems, they can work out what is wrong and take it from there.

 

[kiwijunglist]

@etheesdad

Add this to your guide

5x fan resistor $2.08 USD incl Worldwide P&P

http://dx.com/p/3-pin-pc-cooling-fan-speed-noise-reduction-cable-5-piece-set-35818

Variable fan speed controller $2.49 USD incl Worldwide P&P

http://dx.com/p/12w-variable-speed-controller-for-pc-cooling-fans-21320

Most of HTPC noise is related to fans, provides very cheap and easy way of slowing down the fans, especially the first item will slow fans for only $0.40 per fan (or $.80 if you use 2 resistors on each fan)