Second HTPC ('Client') (1 Viewer)

[GattoV]

Ok, here is a task I'm trying to resolve.

I have got a HTPC running MP 0.2.3.0. It's rather large, holds 2TB of data (mostly AVIs and DVDs), is included in big SilverStone chassis and so on.

Now I want do place another HTPC in the kitchen area. I suppose, the big one will be a server, so i want to make the second one as small and cheap as possible. Of course, I wold prefer it running MP too.

Anybody have any idea? As for now I consider these options:

1. mini-ITX / nano-ITX chassis + ITX MB from VIA (first it's not too cheap, at least here, in Russia, second I'm not sure if VIA CPU will manage with video-decoding, third - ITX chassises are not cheap too)

2. streaming / VOD from HTPC (for example VLC) and STB such as AmiNET instead of the second HTPC (really tricky)

 

[Marcusb]

for the client, in my opinion the cheapest and nicest mini option is to go with an nVidia 7050 (for HDTV) or 6150 (for regular TV). These boards are small (microATX) and cheap and work well with cheap AMD AM2 CPU's.
I've also been thinking about using a 4Gb CF card instead of a hard disk for my client, but haven't got around to trying it out yet.

 

[Ron Fitzgerald]

I am kind of in a similar phase with my home HTPC. I need a small client for the bedroom. Right now I have an e-Vectra from HP that I am restoring and I think the size os perfect and no loud fans. My only issue so far is that it is a celeron 1.7 so some of the higher end video can't be shown.

I would mention results but I am waiting on a power adapter from eBay. BTW there are hundreds of them on eBay. search for e-Vectra and you could get 1 for $20 but may need to power adapter.

Good luck.

 

[THDBASED]

Do not use the mini, nano-itx boards, they are just not powerfull enough to run MP stable...

 

[TommySharp]

I've got an HP D530U which has got some decent processing power but it's onboard graphics card is only directX 8.0 which means that Media Portal is not useable really....

Any suggestions on how I could McGyver something together and make it work?

 

[canarygsr]

Ill second dont go with the Via EPIAs, I have one and it will only play SD, which it does ok but Def not HD.

I'm now looking for a AMD AM2 MB with a good Vid card on it thats fanless and then put some kind of heat sink on the CPU.
I think the problem with a Fanless AMD will be the size the epia was so small