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  1. #1
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    Default Creating a HTPC

    Currently I use a 750GB HDD in an NSA310 with a WD TV Live connected to the TV.

    Everything works well, only I'm liking the idea of setting up a new media center that can display thumbnails and full info for downloaded movies etc. Something like XBMC or Plex.

    I was going to build a machine like this...

    Novatech Media Center Case (Approx £50)
    Mobo Bundle H81M-PLUS, Pentium G3220 & 4GB Corsair XMS3 DDR3 Memory (Approx £105)

    Totalling £155ish.

    Would this make a good system? I'd eventually up the HDD to something larger when required.

    Then I stumbled across the HP Server on eBuyer at £130 and thought maybe with a graphics card this may be better on power and quieter - but wouldn't look so good in front of the TV but would it be powerful enough for playing local 1080p MKV's?

    Interested in peoples thoughts. We're going to then use the WD TV Live (Wireless) in the bedroom.

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    Default Re: Creating a HTPC

    I'm beginning to think that maybe using the HP Server as a NAS replacement and getting a Now TV box - would it function as a Plex server well and stream 1080p?

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    Default Re: Creating a HTPC

    I've got a HP server as have others and it just sits behind my tv, I put a low profile graphics card in which cost about £25.

    It has plex and Xbmc and plays anything I pit on including 1080. Although plex does freeze up with big files for me.

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    Default Re: Creating a HTPC

    Sold, what graphics card do you use/recommend?

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    Default Re: Creating a HTPC

    I think it was a hd5450 or similar when I'm home I will check.

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    Default Re: Creating a HTPC

    Hi
    How much Ram you got m8? I dont get any freeze on my HP N54L or is yours a N40L?
    many thanks
    LS
    Dear Lord, please grant me the ability to punch people in the face over Standard TCP/IP

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    Default Re: Creating a HTPC

    Quote Originally Posted by Lou_smorals View Post
    Hi
    How much Ram you got m8? I dont get any freeze on my HP N54L or is yours a N40L?
    many thanks
    LS
    Yeah mines a 40L with 4gb ram.

    I'm thinking of getting a newer on as this ones knocking on a bit and for the money it's well worth it.

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    Default Re: Creating a HTPC

    Hi
    Ahhh yes the 40 I believe cannot do 1080P.
    LS
    Dear Lord, please grant me the ability to punch people in the face over Standard TCP/IP

    Thanks to Lou_smorals

    Ashley (30th August 2014)  


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    Default Re: Creating a HTPC

    Both,

    Could I ask which OS you run?

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    Default Re: Creating a HTPC

    I use an i5 laptop ,i bought for peanuts with a smashed a lcd , works great and has
    A small foot print under the tv

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    Default Re: Creating a HTPC

    Hi
    Windows home server 2011
    thanks
    LS
    Dear Lord, please grant me the ability to punch people in the face over Standard TCP/IP

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    Default Re: Creating a HTPC

    I got windows 7

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