(suggestions welcome)
Please rate this thread and leave feedback here or via PM with any improvements, feature requests, corrections, etc. I want to make this a valuable starting point for those approaching HTPCs for the first time, or the first time in a long time. Thanks, -EvilGenius
FAQ
Q: What is an HTPC?
A: An acronym for "Home Theatre Personal Computer", the term HTPC is applied very broadly these days. Most often it's a computer hooked up to a television or projector that has a sole or primary function of playing some form of media files.
Q: What's the best way to get my HTPC question answered on these forums?
A: 1) Think of the two or three key words that describe your problem/question/idea, search for them in the forum, and spend 5 whole minutes looking at (and reading) the results.
2) Take those same few key words, put them in Google, and look at the first 2 pages of results--click on at least 1 link. Should take you 30-60 seconds.
3) Provide not just the problem/question/idea, but also the context. When relevant, describe all involved hardware (including, if possible, exact model number as well as version of drivers and firmware) and software (exact version number). If you're asking for more general advice, be sure to make clear not just what you're asking, but why you're asking.
Q: What are the advantages of an HTPC over other solutions?
A: While commercial products are available which each perform some of the functions an HTPC is capable of, a properly outfitted HTPC can combine all of the following: the PVR (personal video recording) functionality of Tivo, including scheduled recording and the ability to pause & rewind "live" TV; the playback of DVDs, HD-DVDs, and Blu-Ray discs, even from copies archived to your hard drive; an un-rivaled selection of games that will always expand; playing streaming media from sites like Pandora, YouTube, and Hulu on your own home theatre set-up; easily store & playback lossless multi-channel rips of your entire personal audio collection, regardless of format; and finally, allow you to quickly check your e-mail or favorite forums from the comfort of your couch.
Q: What are the DISadvantages of an HTPC over other solutions?
A: Compared to products which only perform one or maybe two of the many functions of an HTPC, the HTPC is likely to be more costly. Also, most will likely find it challenging to configure, and there's less certainty that it will "just work". Finally, there are some aspects where functionality of the HTPC will be limited compared to a stand-alone commercial competitor.
Q: What are the best parts to buy?
A: This is an example of a question that's impossible to answer without more information. How do you intend to use the HTPC? What types of media will you be playing? Which inputs and outputs are most important to you? A general list of recommendations, divided by budget, is now available in the post below. If you feel the systems described below will not fulfill your particular needs, I recommend you check out this guide.
Q: How does the HTPC stack up as a competitor to Tivo?
A: The biggest variable in answering this question is your input source. Various protection schemes make it challenging or impossible to view the bulk of HD channels provided by cable or satellite companies. While some of these protection schemes can be circumvented, you may then find it requires special hardware and software for the seemingly simple task of changing the channel. This, of course, can reduce the reliability of scheduled recordings.
On the other hand, an HTPC can have advantages to Tivo as well. Stored recordings are easier to manage, storage space can be added locally or remotely, your recordings can be accessed locally or remotely on a variety of devices, and you can even convert them into a variety of formats for playback on various portable devices such as iPods, PSPs, or DVD players.
Q: What channels will I be able to watch with my cable provider?
Check out http://www.silicondust.com/hdhomerun/channels! (Contributed by DuckieHo)
Q: Which OTA high def channels will I be able to pick up?
Check out http://www.antennaweb.org/! (Contributed by craigap)
Q: How does the HTPC stack up as a competitor to a stand alone Blu-Ray or HD-DVD player?
A: While the minimum cost for a HTPC is higher than either a Blu-Ray or HD-DVD player, only your HTPC is likely to be able to play both types of discs. Another big win comes in the ability of the HTPC to upconvert "standard definition" DVDs, and to play discs that have been archived to a local or networked hard disk.
Don't think that the only drawback of the HTPC is hardware cost, though. Software cost will also be substantial if you need support for multi-channel audio, and there may be some limitations on exactly what format of multi-channel audio can be passed and by what means it will be passed. Finally, there seems to be widespread difficulty with audio synching for playback from HD-DVDs at present time. While it's likely this can/will be resolved soon by a variety of software patches, at present time it seems necessary to perform a moderately lengthy transcode of any HD-DVD content if you need the audio and video in sync, while older "set-top" boxes can play any old HD-DVD disc that you feed them.
Q: How does a HTPC compare to a Wii, PS3 or X-Box 360?
A: While it may be more expensive than most of those, it also has (if you choose) a bigger selection of games than all 3 systems combined. However, depending on other concerns, such as noise and form-factor you may be prevented from playing the absolute latest titles. You may also have to deal with draconian DRM. Additionally, while you have more options for control systems, you may find some games only work well with a keyboard, others with a gamepad, and still others with a full size joystick.
Q: Is streaming media kind of a big deal?
A: Depending on your exact goals, you might find that support for streaming media is by itself a justification for building an HTPC. In addition to the "unique" content of YouTube, streaming media includes Hulu, ABC.com, NetFlix, Pandora, and dozens (hundreds?) of other specialized sites. With content from most major television networks (legally) available on-demand, with limited commercials and at your fingertips, you may never watch TV the same way again.
Q: Why are AMD CPUs frequently recommended for entry level HTPCs?
A: While both Intel and AMD make quality dual core chips, the integrated video processors on latest gen AMD motherboards are capable of handling 1080p video and full screen flash playback stutter free with even the most basic CPU. Add in the Hybrid CrossFire capability of 780G/785G/790GX chipsets and the balance tips still further in AMDs favor. Of course, if you don't plan to use integrated graphics other chipset and platform features will be more important in your case.
Q: What GPU do I need for HTPC use?
A: Generally if you ask that question you'll get the following recommendations:
ATI Radeon HD 4350 - entry level card, good for offloading with appropriate software, capable of 1080p playback (incl. PIP offloading to the GPU) and 7.1 audio over HDMI with integrated sound
ATI Radeon HD 3450 - roughly the same capability (except no Blu-ray PIP offloading to the GPU) of the 4350 but also able to run in Hybrid Crossfire with 780G/785G/790GX chipsets & game at about the level of an HD 4550 or slightly better
ATI Radeon HD 4550 - same as the HD 4350, but with more gaming capability & also fully capable of upscaling standard def DVDs (with appropriate software); also true of any higher Radeon HD card, with increasingly better gaming as you go: 4550 < 4650 < 4670 < 4830 < 4770 = 4850 < 5750 < 4870 = 5770 < 4890 < etc.
nVidia GeForce 9xxx - all capable of 1080p playback and with an S/PDIF internal cable to your motherboard, 7.1 audio over HDMI; good for SD upscaling in comercial software like ArcSoft TMT3 Platinum (w/ SimHD) or CyberLink 9
nVidia GeForce 2xx - same as the 9xxx cards but some are without the need for the S/PDIF internal cable in order to do 7.1 audio over HDMI
Anything older than Radeon HD3xxx/GeForce 9xxx - don't spend money for it, you can get something newer that will work as well or better; if you already have one & absolutely need to know, ask--but be sure to clarify how you intend to use it
Q: Is this system (insert specs) powerful enough for HTPC use?
A: Depends on several factors, but most variably is what you mean by HTPC use. Your intended use, and the software on which you intend to do that work, can make a big difference in the answer to that question. Most dual cores will be capable of everything up to & including full screen "high def" Hulu playback, especially if coupled with a modern GPU & appropriate software. Older single core chips will likely run into some amount of bottlenecking with HD content, but (esp. with overclocking) chips such as the AMD 939 single-cores & later Pentium 4s will do some subsection of HD playback.
Q: How can I get video signal from my HTPC to my TV?
A: This depends greatly on the output & input options available. I'll try to address some common options and provide links to solutions.
O = output (from computer), I = input (into television)
O: VGA -> I: Composite (Yellow RCA plug)
O: VGA -> I: S-Video
O: VGA -> I: Component (YPbPr - red, green & blue plugs)
O: VGA -> I: SCART (European, mostly)
O: DVI -> I: VGA
O: DVI -> I: HDMI
O: S-video -> I: Composite (Yellow RCA plug) (or 6' cable set, with audio cables/adapter)
Evil's HTPC Self-Examination Take once before buying!
It's important to recognize that your goals for you HTPC may change over time. While I heartily endorse taking this survey before you purchase any components for the first time, you may want to re-evaluate things before buying upgrades or building a new machine. Also, one thing these questions don't emphasize is budget. Issues of budget are highly specific to individuals and times, but should be kept in mind as you make your decisions.
5- This functionality will be my guiding principal in all decisions
4- This functionality is highly important and I would prefer not to sacrifice it
3- This functionality should be present given reasonable compatibility with my other goals
2- If this functionality is present it will probably be used
1- If this functionality is present it may be used
0- This functionality is insignificant
Video features:
*Playing DVD:
*Playing Blu-Ray:
*Playing HD-DVD:
*Playing archived video files at up to 1080p:
Audio features:
*High-quality output for external amplifier:
*Multi-channel positional output for 5.1/7.1 audio:
PVR (Tivo-esque) features:
*Scheduled recording & playback of HD signals:
*Time-shifting of "live" TV:
*Simultaneous recording & time-shifting:
*Viewing and recording a combined total of more than 2 HD channels simultaneously:
Storage features:
*Store compressed audio files:
*Store uncompressed audio files:
*Store compressed video:
*Store high-def video:
*Read from SD/MMD/Compact Flash etc:
"Computing" features:
*Browse web & send/read e-mail:
*Archive CDs/DVDs:
*Archive Blu-Ray discs:
*Archive HD-DVD discs:
*Burn DVD (+R, -R, DL):
Gaming features:
*Play "classic" video games:
*Play "modern" video games:
*Play "latest" video games:
Network features:
*Playing streaming internet video (Hulu, YouTube):
*Play streaming internet/local audio (Pandora):
*Play streaming local compressed video:
*Play streaming local high-def video:
*Serve streaming audio:
*Serve streaming video:
Aesthetic features:
*Small physical footprint:
*Attractive/professional appearance:
*Outward appearance indistinguishable from home audio/video components:
*Low noise levels:
*Low power consumption:
Edited by EvilGenius007 - 11/4/10 at 9:12am
Please rate this thread and leave feedback here or via PM with any improvements, feature requests, corrections, etc. I want to make this a valuable starting point for those approaching HTPCs for the first time, or the first time in a long time. Thanks, -EvilGenius
FAQ
Q: What is an HTPC?
A: An acronym for "Home Theatre Personal Computer", the term HTPC is applied very broadly these days. Most often it's a computer hooked up to a television or projector that has a sole or primary function of playing some form of media files.
Q: What's the best way to get my HTPC question answered on these forums?
A: 1) Think of the two or three key words that describe your problem/question/idea, search for them in the forum, and spend 5 whole minutes looking at (and reading) the results.
2) Take those same few key words, put them in Google, and look at the first 2 pages of results--click on at least 1 link. Should take you 30-60 seconds.
3) Provide not just the problem/question/idea, but also the context. When relevant, describe all involved hardware (including, if possible, exact model number as well as version of drivers and firmware) and software (exact version number). If you're asking for more general advice, be sure to make clear not just what you're asking, but why you're asking.
Q: What are the advantages of an HTPC over other solutions?
A: While commercial products are available which each perform some of the functions an HTPC is capable of, a properly outfitted HTPC can combine all of the following: the PVR (personal video recording) functionality of Tivo, including scheduled recording and the ability to pause & rewind "live" TV; the playback of DVDs, HD-DVDs, and Blu-Ray discs, even from copies archived to your hard drive; an un-rivaled selection of games that will always expand; playing streaming media from sites like Pandora, YouTube, and Hulu on your own home theatre set-up; easily store & playback lossless multi-channel rips of your entire personal audio collection, regardless of format; and finally, allow you to quickly check your e-mail or favorite forums from the comfort of your couch.
Q: What are the DISadvantages of an HTPC over other solutions?
A: Compared to products which only perform one or maybe two of the many functions of an HTPC, the HTPC is likely to be more costly. Also, most will likely find it challenging to configure, and there's less certainty that it will "just work". Finally, there are some aspects where functionality of the HTPC will be limited compared to a stand-alone commercial competitor.
Q: What are the best parts to buy?
A: This is an example of a question that's impossible to answer without more information. How do you intend to use the HTPC? What types of media will you be playing? Which inputs and outputs are most important to you? A general list of recommendations, divided by budget, is now available in the post below. If you feel the systems described below will not fulfill your particular needs, I recommend you check out this guide.
Q: How does the HTPC stack up as a competitor to Tivo?
A: The biggest variable in answering this question is your input source. Various protection schemes make it challenging or impossible to view the bulk of HD channels provided by cable or satellite companies. While some of these protection schemes can be circumvented, you may then find it requires special hardware and software for the seemingly simple task of changing the channel. This, of course, can reduce the reliability of scheduled recordings.
On the other hand, an HTPC can have advantages to Tivo as well. Stored recordings are easier to manage, storage space can be added locally or remotely, your recordings can be accessed locally or remotely on a variety of devices, and you can even convert them into a variety of formats for playback on various portable devices such as iPods, PSPs, or DVD players.
Q: What channels will I be able to watch with my cable provider?
Check out http://www.silicondust.com/hdhomerun/channels! (Contributed by DuckieHo)
Q: Which OTA high def channels will I be able to pick up?
Check out http://www.antennaweb.org/! (Contributed by craigap)
Q: How does the HTPC stack up as a competitor to a stand alone Blu-Ray or HD-DVD player?
A: While the minimum cost for a HTPC is higher than either a Blu-Ray or HD-DVD player, only your HTPC is likely to be able to play both types of discs. Another big win comes in the ability of the HTPC to upconvert "standard definition" DVDs, and to play discs that have been archived to a local or networked hard disk.
Don't think that the only drawback of the HTPC is hardware cost, though. Software cost will also be substantial if you need support for multi-channel audio, and there may be some limitations on exactly what format of multi-channel audio can be passed and by what means it will be passed. Finally, there seems to be widespread difficulty with audio synching for playback from HD-DVDs at present time. While it's likely this can/will be resolved soon by a variety of software patches, at present time it seems necessary to perform a moderately lengthy transcode of any HD-DVD content if you need the audio and video in sync, while older "set-top" boxes can play any old HD-DVD disc that you feed them.
Q: How does a HTPC compare to a Wii, PS3 or X-Box 360?
A: While it may be more expensive than most of those, it also has (if you choose) a bigger selection of games than all 3 systems combined. However, depending on other concerns, such as noise and form-factor you may be prevented from playing the absolute latest titles. You may also have to deal with draconian DRM. Additionally, while you have more options for control systems, you may find some games only work well with a keyboard, others with a gamepad, and still others with a full size joystick.
Q: Is streaming media kind of a big deal?
A: Depending on your exact goals, you might find that support for streaming media is by itself a justification for building an HTPC. In addition to the "unique" content of YouTube, streaming media includes Hulu, ABC.com, NetFlix, Pandora, and dozens (hundreds?) of other specialized sites. With content from most major television networks (legally) available on-demand, with limited commercials and at your fingertips, you may never watch TV the same way again.
Q: Why are AMD CPUs frequently recommended for entry level HTPCs?
A: While both Intel and AMD make quality dual core chips, the integrated video processors on latest gen AMD motherboards are capable of handling 1080p video and full screen flash playback stutter free with even the most basic CPU. Add in the Hybrid CrossFire capability of 780G/785G/790GX chipsets and the balance tips still further in AMDs favor. Of course, if you don't plan to use integrated graphics other chipset and platform features will be more important in your case.
Q: What GPU do I need for HTPC use?
A: Generally if you ask that question you'll get the following recommendations:
ATI Radeon HD 4350 - entry level card, good for offloading with appropriate software, capable of 1080p playback (incl. PIP offloading to the GPU) and 7.1 audio over HDMI with integrated sound
ATI Radeon HD 3450 - roughly the same capability (except no Blu-ray PIP offloading to the GPU) of the 4350 but also able to run in Hybrid Crossfire with 780G/785G/790GX chipsets & game at about the level of an HD 4550 or slightly better
ATI Radeon HD 4550 - same as the HD 4350, but with more gaming capability & also fully capable of upscaling standard def DVDs (with appropriate software); also true of any higher Radeon HD card, with increasingly better gaming as you go: 4550 < 4650 < 4670 < 4830 < 4770 = 4850 < 5750 < 4870 = 5770 < 4890 < etc.
nVidia GeForce 9xxx - all capable of 1080p playback and with an S/PDIF internal cable to your motherboard, 7.1 audio over HDMI; good for SD upscaling in comercial software like ArcSoft TMT3 Platinum (w/ SimHD) or CyberLink 9
nVidia GeForce 2xx - same as the 9xxx cards but some are without the need for the S/PDIF internal cable in order to do 7.1 audio over HDMI
Anything older than Radeon HD3xxx/GeForce 9xxx - don't spend money for it, you can get something newer that will work as well or better; if you already have one & absolutely need to know, ask--but be sure to clarify how you intend to use it
Q: Is this system (insert specs) powerful enough for HTPC use?
A: Depends on several factors, but most variably is what you mean by HTPC use. Your intended use, and the software on which you intend to do that work, can make a big difference in the answer to that question. Most dual cores will be capable of everything up to & including full screen "high def" Hulu playback, especially if coupled with a modern GPU & appropriate software. Older single core chips will likely run into some amount of bottlenecking with HD content, but (esp. with overclocking) chips such as the AMD 939 single-cores & later Pentium 4s will do some subsection of HD playback.
Q: How can I get video signal from my HTPC to my TV?
A: This depends greatly on the output & input options available. I'll try to address some common options and provide links to solutions.
O = output (from computer), I = input (into television)
O: VGA -> I: Composite (Yellow RCA plug)
O: VGA -> I: S-Video
O: VGA -> I: Component (YPbPr - red, green & blue plugs)
O: VGA -> I: SCART (European, mostly)
O: DVI -> I: VGA
O: DVI -> I: HDMI
O: S-video -> I: Composite (Yellow RCA plug) (or 6' cable set, with audio cables/adapter)
Evil's HTPC Self-Examination Take once before buying!
It's important to recognize that your goals for you HTPC may change over time. While I heartily endorse taking this survey before you purchase any components for the first time, you may want to re-evaluate things before buying upgrades or building a new machine. Also, one thing these questions don't emphasize is budget. Issues of budget are highly specific to individuals and times, but should be kept in mind as you make your decisions.
5- This functionality will be my guiding principal in all decisions
4- This functionality is highly important and I would prefer not to sacrifice it
3- This functionality should be present given reasonable compatibility with my other goals
2- If this functionality is present it will probably be used
1- If this functionality is present it may be used
0- This functionality is insignificant
Video features:
*Playing DVD:
*Playing Blu-Ray:
*Playing HD-DVD:
*Playing archived video files at up to 1080p:
Audio features:
*High-quality output for external amplifier:
*Multi-channel positional output for 5.1/7.1 audio:
PVR (Tivo-esque) features:
*Scheduled recording & playback of HD signals:
*Time-shifting of "live" TV:
*Simultaneous recording & time-shifting:
*Viewing and recording a combined total of more than 2 HD channels simultaneously:
Storage features:
*Store compressed audio files:
*Store uncompressed audio files:
*Store compressed video:
*Store high-def video:
*Read from SD/MMD/Compact Flash etc:
"Computing" features:
*Browse web & send/read e-mail:
*Archive CDs/DVDs:
*Archive Blu-Ray discs:
*Archive HD-DVD discs:
*Burn DVD (+R, -R, DL):
Gaming features:
*Play "classic" video games:
*Play "modern" video games:
*Play "latest" video games:
Network features:
*Playing streaming internet video (Hulu, YouTube):
*Play streaming internet/local audio (Pandora):
*Play streaming local compressed video:
*Play streaming local high-def video:
*Serve streaming audio:
*Serve streaming video:
Aesthetic features:
*Small physical footprint:
*Attractive/professional appearance:
*Outward appearance indistinguishable from home audio/video components:
*Low noise levels:
*Low power consumption:
Edited by EvilGenius007 - 11/4/10 at 9:12am
Of course, you can also run USB extension cords or use your front ports for direct-connected set-ups as well.
