My setup no1
Asus A7N266-VM Nforce 1 MB
athlon 1600xp
ATI AIW 8500DV w/ component Dongle
256 MB
40GB HDD
Liteon DVD-rom
Planned New setup
Redfox M7NCG - nforce 2
Athlon 2500xp
512 MB
40GB HDD
undecided on video and Dvd drive...
Lian-li 9300 case
My setup no1
Asus A7N266-VM Nforce 1 MB
athlon 1600xp
ATI AIW 8500DV w/ component Dongle
256 MB
40GB HDD
Liteon DVD-rom
Planned New setup
Redfox M7NCG - nforce 2
Athlon 2500xp
512 MB
40GB HDD
undecided on video and Dvd drive...
Lian-li 9300 case
Hey I checked out that Lian-li case pc-9300 it only allows a 150watt psu.. diba kulang yun for an AthlonXP ? baka pumutolk lang ang psu. I looked it up.. it says that the case allows for a 150wat SFX psu.
Yes it does say 150 watts, but mine came w/ 235watts.. Also my other rig an enlight case w/ has a similar size psu also has 235 , and only the psu fan as exhaust is running fine....
Pls. note that the shuttle XPC's have 200 watts only. But they are running 3000xp bartons and 2 hard disk + dvd writer and ati aiw 9800 pros on their small case
P.S. the lian-li 9300 is not assembled yet as don't have the mobo .. I got my toshiba running so the pixel plus is not a big priority too.
My primary HTPC setup
Asus A7N8X Deluxe w/ Soundstorm
AthlonXP 2400+ TbredB
Swiftech H20-8500 Water cooling
1GB DDR333 Kingmax
ATi Radeon 9700 Pro
Sony Wega 25 in.
Logitech Z-680 THX certified 5.1 Speakers
120GB HDD
Liteon 163D DVD-rom 16x/48x
HP DVD Writer 300i 4x2.4x8x - 16x10x40x
Pardon my ignorance jpadua. What does the 1080i setting do? Is it primarily a setting for TV out or for CRT? What are its effects? If it is for CRT, wouldn't it be stretched for a workstation and smaller for a desktop resolution?
I use this PC as my HTPC but as my 3D authoring and video compositing station as well. If it only works at 720x540, then it's not for me.
Thanks.
my DVD resolution now is 960x720 scaled to 540p (normal DVD resolution on a standard player is 720x480 in 480i or p) plus since its running on a PC you can tweak it even more. I'm also using a sharpening filter which puts the DVD content slightly under HD quality. This is the closest we can get to an HD picture, but its quite stunning.Hi jpadua,
Hi jpadua,
From my understanding of the DVD standard it can only go up to 720x480 (NTSC) & 720x576 (PAL). Where did you get the additional resolution?
PS. updated my HTPC setup.. The PSU on the 9300 seems to be fine.
jpadua,
PLEASE HELP :-[ I assembled my PC but the bad thing is I didn't follow your advice on the spec of an HTPC. My setup are as follows:
AMD Athlon 2.4 XP Copper Cool
Asus A7V8X 8X gp kt400 DDR
INNO3D GF4 MX440SE 64MB DDR TV
VOLCANO 6 CU+ FAN
VGA EXTENSION CABLE 6 FT.
SEAGATE 40 GIG 5400RPM
SAMSUNG COMBO 48/24/48CDRW/16X
256MB PC333 DDR
Now, the installation of the windows XP worked fine with some visible wavy lines, then when the windows was loading after the installation, it went blank.
Hindi ba kaya ng set-up ko yung resolution na kailangan ng pixelplus? the screen prompted that the pc set up resolution is set to low and asked whether to adjust the resolution to fit the current monitor (pixelplus). When we clicked yes it went blank.
Will increasing the RAM from 256 to 512 or more will do the trick? Masyado na kasing mahal kung bibili pa ako ng Raedeon na video card worth P8k right? Hindi ba enough yung videocard ko or yung setup ko ??? What should I do to make it work without incurring additional cost aside from increasing the RAM ???
I hope you can help me and also the other guru out there.
Thanks :)
jpadua,
Oh s**t!!! I didn't expect you will answer my query this fast and this loooong :o
Whatever the outcome is JAY, THANK YOU VERY MUCH ;D ;D ;D
I'll try this when I go home today
Thank you ng maramiiiiiiiiiiii
PS mine is only 29"
Dongkhoi
ahh sayang naman, my psu is an HEC 475 watt, baka di kasya
Talagang hindi kasya, but if you will not be using the power I don't think you need more. The quality of the psu is just as important really.
7. now its time to setup your HD resolutions. right-click powerstrip icon on tray, then click on display profiles-> configure->advanced timing options, custom resolutions.
Now its time to add a resolution, scan the list for HD resolutions. Select 960x540 hdtv derived, look at the right panel, and change 960 to 720 (since our pixelplus is 4:3 not 16:9) make sure that the vertical and horizontal frequencies are 60hz and 34khz respectively.
then click add resolution. Powerstrip will inform you whether your video card has accepted the resolution, or will ask you to reboot. After this, click all the nesessary buttons to close the powerstrip window, make sure the power strip is still active and sitting on the tray.
5. go back to your desktop and rightclick properties->settings->advanced->adapter->list all modes. Look for 720x540@60hz. And select it. After your desktop settings have changed, test it again on your TV by removing your monitor and plugging your video card to the vga port on your TV and select AV3 again. You will now see your desktop on the TV! you may notice a little overscan or maybe the screen isnt centered. To fix this, right click on the powerstirp icon on the tray, select display profiles again->configure->advanced timing options. on the left panel you will see arrows, position and size, only move the left and right arrows to center, do not click on the other arrows cause this will make changes to the vertical and horizontal frequencies. Adjust to your liking then click OK. Then click save as. 720 x 540 pixels, TrueColor (32 bit). then OK to exit. Now when you right click powerstrip display profiles, you will see a new resolution 720x540!
jpadua,
I tried to set it up last night, everything worked fine except when :
I'm already trying to add a resolution, by scanning the list for HD resolutions. When I selected 960x540 hdtv derived and look at the right panel, and change 960 to 720 and vertical and horizontal frequencies are 60hz and 34khz respectively.
I did all that and the pc asked me to reboot which I did, then I went back to the desktop and rightclick properties->settings->advanced->adapter->list all modes. Look for 720x540@60hz
I can't find the 720x540@60hz among the choices, that's why the tv screen overlapped on all sides.
What should I do about it? the powerstrip is version 3.4 already.
The tv screen is also a little bit grainy as it moves like a wave around the whole screen, what should I do about it?
Next is how do I set up the sound? can I connect my soundcard directly to my AVR? What cable should I buy?
I hope you can help me again jay and thank you. :D :D :D
dongkhoi
hi jay,
my pc setup is as follows:
Atlon xp 2100 ghz
globalwin cak-488 fan
epox 8rda nforce 2 mobo
512 mb pc333 ddr
128 mb geforce 4 ti4200-8x
40 gig maxtor 7200 rpm
sony 8/2/32 cdrw
pioneer dvdrom drive
enermax 350 watts psu
19" samsung syncmaster 900nf monitor
I was planning to get 36 sony xbr450 with drc-mf my friend is selling.do you think it can handle the resolutions you've mentioned above.tnx
Hi, did you remember to specify the Sony GD-W900 monitor? Windows XP bases the resolutions displayed by your monitor. Make sure you have the Sony GD-w900 selected as your monitor connected. When you view the list.. you will find 720x540@60 :)
I'm not sure about the grainy part and the wavy picture.. thats not supposed to be there. anyway.. once you get 720x540 running, maybe you will lose the grainyness and the wavyness... experiment first.
With regards, to your output to your AVR. Make sure that you have a digital Spdif output. What soundcard are you using? you have to have a soundcard with a digital out, like the Audigy. With the audigy just use a mono minijack to RCA plug then plug it into the Spdif Coaxial on your amp and select it. On you mixer board sa xp, select advanced then, place a tick on digital output. make sure that AC-3 decoding is turned off (this is if you are using an audigy)
Tell me what happens to your setup ;D
Are your monitors larger than 27"?
Yes, I already specified the Sony GD-W900 I'm already in the: adding a resolution, by scanning the list for HD resolutions. When I selected 960x540 hdtv derived and look at the right panel, and change 960 to 720 and vertical and horizontal frequencies are 60hz and 34khz respectively.
Then the pc asked me to reboot, done that, then I went back to the desktop and rightclick properties->settings->advanced->adapter->list all modes. Try to look for 720x540@60hz, which I can't find among the choices.
Apparantly my soundcard is built in the motherboard...so I need to buy another one? My mother board is ASUS A7V8X 8X AGP KT400 DDR.
Thanks
Nope you need a micro ATX Psu so it is smaller. Mine was rated at 235watts.
Maybe next week we could schedule some time .
I'm from QC near Kamias. I can't seem to adjust the screen to 720x540 hence, all the sides overlapped the whole screen. I tried it many times pero ayaw talaga.
With regards to the grainy screen, I think it has something to do with interference or something.
Sige dude, if you have the time please tell me so we can schedule kung kailan tayo magkikita. My number pala is 0920 921-6414.
Thanks ;)
Yikes! layo pala! hehe I'm from Las Pinas hehehe... actualy I was thinking it also could be that your Geforce MX doesnt support this resolution. I'm using a GeForce 4 Ti4200 and I get this resolution easily... were you able to get other resolutions?
i haven't tried it yet but if i do, do you have any other resolutions in mind? ::)Actually I'm using 960x540p its the best one...
hi guys,i've been doing some research on the net and here is what i came up with.for those hdtv sets that doesn't have a vga/rgb connection and only has component connection .i found two ways to go about connecting your pc to your hdtv.one is through the ATI hdtv component adapter for use with the radeon series of cards,basically its a dongle that adds a component out to your radeon video card.the other way is through a transcoder which is a device that converts vga/rgb to component.my only problem is that I dont think its available locally.
Where did you buy your card and how much,I'm also thinking of upgrading my geforce4 ti4200-8x,is it true that there is a big difference in performance between the geforce and the radeon when it comes to dvd playback?
ATI branded ba yung card mo?
As far as I know, ATI cards cards are officially available in North America only. This is part of their agreement with OEMs that make cards with ATI chips. What I'd like to know is if the ATI component video dongle works with OEM cards like Sapphire (which is availabel here).
If you'd like to go ATI on the cheap (relatively), go with the 9100 series cards (64mb version available for less than P4,000). It's really a renamed 8500, ATI's previous king of the hill. According to the Sapphire website, it has vga, dvi-d and s-video outs.
what's the range of the IR keyboard?
I'm thinking puwedeng gawing remote control (a bit clunky though) in conjunction with some freeware. RF keyboards might perform better, I think.
bardigones - review naman ng tv mo when using it as a monitor ..yun desktop view nya and browsing? ayus naman ba?? clear naman ba?
Ive been trying to get the IR module to work with girder but to no avail, apparently all the IR plugins for girder only work for serial type IR ports and not USB (mine is USB)
I used to have an s-video setup before going HD, if you are using a Geforce card, use TVtool... this is way better than using the default s-video driver or Nvidia. Didnt I send you TV tool before?
tanong lang po mga experts. what video card do you recommend for HTPC. i am planning to connect it to my pixel plus tv.
initial specs:
P4 2.4C 800MHz FSB
Asus P4P800 Deluxe i865
2 x 256MB Kingston PC3200 DDR Memory for Dual DDR Channel Config
Video Card--?????? is GEForce4 128Mb FX5200 OK?
thanks :)
Lakas ng Machine mo! ayos yan. Actually you can use any graphics card. Of course I would recommend ATI since you can do interlaced resolutions with it (1080i) and I suggest you should. I use an ATI 9600pro but even an ATI Radeon VE is good for video playback, just go choose higher ATI's cards if you want better game performance. Geforce cards are ok but you can only go up to 540p. Before connecting your computer to your Pixelplus, you have to make sure that the special resolutions are already set. Set them using a regular monitor first to avoid damaging your TV. Use powerstrip to create custom resolutions. Remember your TV can only support 50 to 60hz vertical resolutionthanks. will update you soon to get more advice.
(pixelplus, we have the same TV) anything under or more than that can damage your TV. Make sure that the resolutions you create with powerstrip fall under the allowable vertical frequencies.
Made my own LCD display screen over the weekend, still have to integrate this within the case but at least I got it working! here are some pics.
(http://www.jaypadua.com/ht2/cable.jpg)
Opened up an old Printer Cable, took note of wiring of the pins. Soldered a small reheostat to control the LCD contrast.
(http://www.jaypadua.com/ht2/circuit.jpg)
connected the wires to the correct pinouts on the LCD, connected a molex plug to power the backlight.
(http://www.jaypadua.com/ht2/lcd.jpg)
Just plugged my DIY LCD into the Parallel port, run the LCD Software. (LCD Winamp Plug-in is so cool!)
pare, ang lupet mo talaga ! ;D
This is great ! where did you source your LCD display and how much did you ended up paying for it?
For the schematics, did you patterned it from somewhere or just followed a gameplan you developed yourself.
Galing 'pre ! ::)
hello jay, tanong ulit...pwede na bang gamitin yung ATI Radeon 9200 256MB TD or VIVO by Powercolor para sa HTPC setup. di ko alam kung pwede sya sa 1080p o lahat ba ng ATI kaya ng 1080p at pwede ba yun sa pixel plus? di kaya ang presyo ng ATI9600pro, e. pasensya ka na sa katatanong ko ha?
shalom :)
ok. ano ba gamit mong resolution sa pixel plus tv mo o ano ba yung recommended? pwede na ba yung 9200? ty ulit :)
INTEL PENTIUM 4 2.6Cnice one :) malufet!
512MB DDR400
80GIG CHEETACH ULTRA320 SCSI HDISK
20 GIG FUJITSU SCSI HDISK
ULTRA 2 WIDE SCSI CONTROLLER
ASUS P4PE MOBO
SAMSUNG DVD/WRITER COMBO
LG DVD-ROM
SAMSUNG CD - ROM
SONY DVD WRITER DRU500AX
SAMSUNG LCD 15INCH
MSI TI4200 8X
actually bitin ako e,and newbie for htpc kaso pag naadik ako sa htpc yari to hahaha,wuts yer set up?
whats gonna be better?vga is possible svideo is possible too,but whats better?
tnx master,i have a kiss dvd player which i am not so familliar it has an option of rgb and its resolution for progressive scan and it has vga out put resolution changes too,whats better?
some pics of my widescreen, connecting to my PC via s-video cable.
http://www.pbase.com/bardigones/widescreen
WOW MASTER,its a good feedback.....tnx very specific and clear,even a newbie like me would understand :P ,what video card would you suggest?mines LOKBU hehehe compared to your radeon prolly ul say radeon too :)
widescreen ko naka vga hehehe Holrayt!!! yup naka nvidia lang ako na ti4200 ,actually concerned on encoding decoding videos and playback of course,game not really
widescreen ko naka vga hehehe Holrayt!!! yup naka nvidia lang ako na ti4200 ,actually concerned on encoding decoding videos and playback of course,game not really
onga chong balita ko nga na mas maganda 9700 bakit kaya?
chong sorry dami ko na ata pm hehehe paano ba gamitin yung ffdshow d ko magets hahaha tsaka how do you change the resolutions to make it simple lets start from using my monitor lang muna
@jpadua,
besides the interlaced option, ano pa ba advantages ng radeons over the nvidia cards?
im using Palit Daytona GF4MX440 - 8x 64mb
im planning to use a radeon din e, and i have no experience with radeons...
im interested in:
1. Radeon VE 7000 - Php2,000.00 est.
2. 9100 Sapphire - Php3,500.00 est.
3. 9200 HIS Radeon - 8x -- Php4,500.00 est.
im interested in:Confusing (intentionally, I think) talaga ang naming ng ATI cards. If I understand it right 9200 to 9800 series share the same core.
1. Radeon VE 7000 - Php2,000.00 est.
2. 9100 Sapphire - Php3,500.00 est.
3. 9200 HIS Radeon - 8x -- Php4,500.00 est.
Just wanted to update my htpc case adventures :) finally got my DIY LCD on my case. Here are some pics.
(http://207.150.221.97/m2systec/images/lcdhtpc2.jpg)
Painted the LCD Area silver, top coated with clear matt laquer for a flatter finish
(http://207.150.221.97/m2systec/images/lcdhtpc3.jpg)
A closer view of the LCD - cut the rectangular hole with a my Talon rotary tool and used a flat file for finishing.
(http://207.150.221.97/m2systec/images/lcdhtpc4.jpg)
finally made a case badge :) printed on HP photo paper for a better effect.
By the way I will be putting up a website soon, all about HTPCs Setup, Modding, My DIY Projects, maybe links to HTPC resources I find useful.
I have a temporary URL up
http://207.150.221.97/m2systec
I will update as soon as the real Domain goes online
http://www.m2systech.com
Cheers!
1. sapphire 9100 - P3500.00 in PCOptions Gilmore or try tipidpc's waycoolph - ok siya sa radeon!
2. HIS radeon 9200 (8x agp) - PC Express www.pcx.com.ph - Php4500?
3. Radeon 9500 - Php5,950.00 PC Express
4. Radeon 7000 VE - around 2,200 sa pc options / pcx?
all have s-video out, and accdg to jpadua (the HTPC master) can do interlaced options...
here's my rig:
AMD thundebird 1ghz (overclocked at 1.3MGhz)
ASUS A7v 133
1gig PC133
SB LIVE!
GEFORCE 4 440MX 128DDR
LITEON 16X48X DVD
LITEON 48X24X48X
CREATIVE 52X IR
120 GIG SEAGATE BARRACUDA
2 1.44 FDD
AOC 17inch KVLR
HP895C
ACER SLIM SCANNER
Creative Cambridge Digital 5.1
Altec Lansing 45.1
Intel web Cam
CASIO EXILIM 2.0 MEGAPIXEL DIGICAM
Looking forward to AMD 3GHz processor+compatible setup.Plus Dell CPx650 laptop courtesy of Analog Devices .
Operating System:
Multiple boot:
1. Win ME
2. Windows 2000 Advance Server
3. WinXP
4. Redhat Linux 6.0
5. Linux Mandrake
Now im itching to "real" HT. Hay naku buhay, walang katapusan sa new technology.
Wow... sabi ko na nga ba your leading to that road of wealth generation ;D
Jay, I think you are also better off looking at their slimline series... baka mas okay, we also need to come up with a Linux type implementation so that when you turn it on direct dvd boot agad similar to Xbox boot-up. :o
oooohhhh niiicceeee!!!! jpadua kindly inform me kung magpaparaing ka ng ganyang case!!! im interested!!! WWOOOOOWWW!!!! gusto ko nyan!!!!!Fafa_Roland, cge I'll let you know once we start getting the shipments :D so far under negotiations pa kami with the manufacturer
jay try mo directdvd 5.0 es edition kung ok din thats what i have now,and as for my tv problems i got a 51 incher na :P ill hook it up later tapos try the htpc kaso walang vga in could u help me out thanxs
i cud send u a copy wit a crack bro malakas k sakin ehehehe ;)
if i ahve tvtool na what do i do next?
i have tvtool 7.2.5 but it doesnt support my GF4MX440-8x (w/ s-video)
madaming options doon na grayed out. help naman.
ok jay, for $10, is it okay if i keep my GF4mx440-8x and buy tvtool8?
or will i just sell my gf4 and get a radeon 9100?
also, id like to ask for tweaking tips on how to improve my viewing experience.
28" Widescreen sony (1024x768 res)
Connected to my PC via s-video
i use latest detonator on GF4mx440-8x,64ddr
nforce2 mcpt
creative 5.1 5300inspire
although i get a decent viewing experience, is till like to tweak it more. maybe try other types of connections or other software?
i want to try a different resolution e. 720x480?
should i get a radeon-powerstrip?
nvidia-tvtool?
my tv is currently at 1024x768 and i just set the software's (WinDVD Platinum 5) Aspect Ratio to the OFF setting, so i can fill in the whole screen (pero the image is a little taller, onti lang naman and i can get away with it hehehe)
pero siyempre i still want an excellent resolution.
any other connection i should try other than the s-video? you can see the TV's connectors here: http://www.pbase.com/bardigones/widescreen
thanks.
Ey JPADUA u stil use the TheaterTek? i have the full version of PowerDVD4 with DTS, PrologicII and more.. u can download it FREE..
i cant wait to get the full version of Powerdvd5
anyways try to use YXY software its great so u can manipulate the screen size and screen location of ur dvd softwares...
Here's my partial setup (kabubuo ko lang)
Pentium4 2.4C 800Mhz FSB
ASUS P4P800 Deluxe Motherboard w/ SPDIF-out
2 x 256 PC3200 DDR in Dual DDR400 config
80GB Seagate Serial-ATA
256MB Powercolor Radeon 9200-powered by ATI
Logitech Navigator Trio (Cordless KB & optical mouse and webcam)
17" MAGView Flat CRT Monitor
Liteon 52x52x32 CD writer
**no Soundblaster Audigy yet, will try first the sound output from the built-in 6-channel audio of the motherboard.
'will post pics soon.
JayPadua, pwede bang magpatulong kung paano i-setup itong video card ko para i-output sa pixel plus tv (like yours) via VGA cable. Also, what good softwares to use for HTPC...thanks in advance.
Shalom :)
how about its price? 8)
Hey BNG long time no see, here at PDVD :) musta na... yeah I still use theatretek, removed all my other soft DVD players. Ok ba talaga ang PowerDVD 4? I like theatretek cause it takes the whole screen, sort of like a real DVD player.
I kinda like PowerDVD4 when it comes to sounds kasi im not using spdif
u can also take the whole screen with it if u use YXY http://www.keohi.com/keohihdtv/htpc/yxy/yxy.html
try it, its great
:)
heres my pc specs
athlon xp 1.7
256 ddr
radeon ve
sb live
samsung dvd 16x
sony cdrw drive
15 inch mag monitor
win xp
power dvd xp
im planning to buy a used 21" monitor from eqmi, is it advisable to purchase 2nd hand monitors?the performance/dvd playback in my pc is ok. but the screen is too small and also the budget for a bigger one. has anyone tried the diy projector?
bardigones, actually if I'm just goin to use as a standalone HTPC, not for gaming, I guess ok na yan, as long as I can use powerstrip. The MX400 has a Mpeg2 harware decoder so I'm sure it will have no problem displaying DVDs.
What processor are u planning to use for this? kasi kung wala sya IDCT it will depend on ur processor
and jay, alam ko pwede mo alisin yung bracket ng video card mo so it will fit in an HTPC case. yung sa palit daytona mx440 ko, they even supplied a smaller bracket, that have holes for svideo vga and rca.yung 128mb model ng video card ko has that low-profile option:
yung 128mb model ng video card ko has that low-profile option:
http://www.power-color.com/r92le-c3.htm
JayPadua, thanks for the tips and i already got powerstrip 3.45. meron bang site na pwedeng i-download ang theatertek?
The Lian Li 9300 is very nice but , i just don't have the proper space for it . too long to fit on top of my RPTV and also on the table of my projector... It's Ideal if you have the right space for it w/c I don't have. I am thinking of selling it but it's a one of a kind case, and I put a lot of effort it getting it too..
Match sana siya sa Philips na Pixel Plus stand , kaso di ko tinuloy pagbili ng pixel + kasi naayos na ang toshiba RPTV ko.
I like AMD , since it's value for money that's why I choose the SN45G... also the soundstorm is so convinent for me. The SN61B ( Intel 865 PE) is also available but it would cost me at least a P25K adder, as this one is more expensive + 10K for the cpu + 7K for 400 fsb ddr ram, for that money I can get another SN45G w/c I might.
Also first choice ko talaga ito, it was the SN42G2 pa nga , but just could not get it from the local dealer, ayaw nila ipasok, this one looks better but a bit more expensive and also the built in video at higher resolutions is not very good.
Late ko na discover ang elektroniks depot.
Finish na setup ko ng SN45G , Tahimik siya ,magaan , and can fit in the places I would like to put it. sa top ng RPTV at table ng projector.
Jpadua, pare nadisplace siya ng Xbox ng anak ko kaya wala ng mapaglagyan.
I can only sell it at the price I got it, and it has to go w/ the motherboard I bought for it w/c is a redfox/Biostar M7NCG , NF2 din. The rest of the parts I put in the SN45G
You can text or call 09178422429
PM mo sakin ulit yung price I forgot na eh
Hey guys, I'm new here....
and here's what I have first .......
Pentium 166Mhz ( MMX )
32 MB Ram
1.6 Gigabyte HDD
4MB PCI Video Card
Creative DVD ROM
Yamaha YXG Sound Card
Creative Soundworks Speaker ( 2.1 )
and.....the best of them all, my Creative DVD Decoder CARD.....inlay type ( connected inside to the Video Card, so u can watch at the same time on ur monitor and TV screen )
......video out ( RCA ) is incomparable to those video out that is integrated to the Video CARD....
I've already flushed the Creative DVD_ROM Drive so ......it's region free.....
this is what I got ....and still I'm using it....I've just change my HDD to 3.2 GB......the rest is still in perfect condition.......
if only u can hear and especially see the output....
tnx
;)
Hi Aragorn !
Welcome to the board ! I think you meant "flashed" vs "flushed" ;-)
Cheers!
-jackryan 8)
I would like to know how can I connect my pc to my tv. I tried connecting it once using an rca cable since its the only input of my tv. The problem is nothing comes out on the tv screen when i play dvd. help!!!!! Im not a techy person.try this, shutdown pc or before booting, connect the rca cable to the video-out to the video-in of the tv then boot it up. see how it goes.
I would like to know how can I connect my pc to my tv. I tried connecting it once using an rca cable since its the only input of my tv. The problem is nothing comes out on the tv screen when i play dvd. help!!!!! Im not a techy person.
Hi dge29,
You might have to access the advanced video settings.
Right click on your desktop and select properties, when the window comes up, click on the settings tab, then click the advanced button. You will find a new set of tabs, look for nview, or click on all the tabs till you find the page that shows a monitor. From there you can select your monitor and an option to use the video out to your TV. I'm guessing the TV output is not activated.
:) hope this helps
sir jpadua,
i am quite interested in building my very own htpc...can u give me some barebone specs on what i need to have...i would like to keep the price at the minimum as it will be on experiment...ty po
I tried it already. it works, I could see the desktop and everything elsw on my tv. But nothing comes out when Im playing DVD movies and other videos.
Am trying to update myself, though no plans yet. Sorry can't track the whole thread. Could I ask some questions...
Processor
------------
Doesn't Microsoft recommend a faster processor for WMP 9? Sabi nila - 2.53 GHz Intel or AMD Athlon XP 2200+ or higher processor for 720p and 3.0GHz or greater processor for 1080p?
Video Card
--------------
What can you say about ATI Radeon 9800 Pro series?
Does it have DVI? If not, which cards (w/DVI) would be good? And where to get DVI cables in Manila?
Case
------
Were to get those cool horizontal, audio-component-looking cases?
Thanks!
Thanks jp. Mukhang matarik nga ang learning curve ano.
What do you mean by -- "you cant use Dolby digital on your amp. You have to have powered speakers directly connected to your soundcard." No digital out, analog out only?
How much to spend for a good HTPC?
hi dge29
hmm, I see... what are you using to play DVDs? I had that problem before with my laptop also. I found out that when I used Windows Media Player, it doesnt display on my TV, when I switched to a soft DVD player like PowerDVD or WinDVD it displays on the TV. I upgraded my windows media player to windows media player 9 and it finally displayed on my TV.
Try using a soft DVD player like PowerDVD, WinDVD or try upgrading your windows media player to version 9.
Hope this helps.
JPadua
My HTPC:
AthlonXP 1800+ w/ Thermaltake Volcano 7+ HSF
Epox 8KHA+ VIA KT266A
1x 256MB Apacer DDR266
1x 512MB Elixer DDR400 (Generic)
17" ADI Microscan 5P
Inno3D GeForce4 Ti4200 64MB DVI
Leadtek Winfast TV2000XP Deluxe (TV w/ FM)
Audigy 1 SE (soon to be Audigy 2 ZS)
Creative Megaworks 550 5.1 THX Cert.
2x 80GB Seagate Baraccuda 7200RPM ATA100
Sony CD-RW 24/10/40
Sony DVDRom 16/40
G3 Casing w/ 4 fans
Enermax 300W PSU Dual Fan
Logitech MX700 mouse (cordless)
Logitech MOMO Force feedback wheel
Generic Boka keyboard
C-net 10/100mbps Lan card for broadband net
HT Softwares:
WinDVD 5 Platinum
Windows Media Player 9
Winamp 5 with *.mp4/*.aac/*.ac3/*.flac support
DirectX 9 as always...
I just bought a Sapphire Radeon 9600XT. With my Turtle Beach Santa Cruz soundcard I think I would like to give this a shot.the software included in you Leadtek Winfast tv200xp should be included there, or you got this card as OEM? if you don't have the installer download one at leadtek's website they have that PVR program and is also updated
I have the LeadTek WinFast TV2000XP Tuner PCI card. Is there software out there that would allow me to use my PC as a PVR?
I just bought a Sapphire Radeon 9600XT. With my Turtle Beach Santa Cruz soundcard I think I would like to give this a shot.
I have the LeadTek WinFast TV2000XP Tuner PCI card. Is there software out there that would allow me to use my PC as a PVR?
For those of you who use "myhtpc" frontend, I made some myHTPC specific wallpapers, you can download them for free hehehe :p
http://jaypadua.fotopic.net
just click on the "myHTPC" Wallpapers
* myHTPC is a free software program that allows you to customize a front end graphical interface for your HTPC, easy to configure and launch different programs. It's also girder compatible.
http://www.myhtpc.net
Actually may kasama nang software yung Leadtek mo, but if you want to try other software, you can try ChrisTV Pro... I like ChrisTV pro because its very simple, no fancy graphics, and works well with shortcuts (easy to program with a remote). Very small program so its not a memory hog. TV viewing is the best ive seen (I have PowerVCR and I've tried other bigger name software) the picture is crystal clear (much clearer than my TV) and you can set TV viewing resolution to DVD resolution 740x480 (standard PVRs are only 640x480) Recording is good too, you can record in Mpeg1, Mpeg2, DivX and other codecs.
http://www.christv.com
Thanks! :) ... I've used the bundled software before but I don't like it. There seems to be a bug in the recording feature. I'll try out that programs that you suggested.
Link wont open actual size of the image... thanks.
PEACE!!!!
http://www.mediatexx.com/
uICE, use your remote control to control your PC and softwares.
i'm using this with my leadtek winfast tv remote and the configuration is easy to figure out anyway. btw it's free!
Here's my rig
AMD Athlon XP 3000+
DFI LanParty NFII Ultra B
AEROCOOL EXTREME COPPER SOCKET A/478 HSF
120gb Maxtor Sata drive
160gb Maxtor Sata drive
1024mb Kingston ValuaRam chip 333ddr (2x512mb)
Sony DRU-510A DVD-RW
Liteon DVD-rom
Sony 1.44 Floppy Drive
CFC and SMC Card reader with 2 usb
Hercules Prophetview 9800xt 256mb
17" Hercules Prophetview Pro LCD monitor
Turtle Beach Santa Cruz 5.1 surround sounds
Antec 550w psu w/ 2 gold fans
Creative 56k int. Modem
Linksys Wireless 802.1b PCI Adapter Connected to
Linksys Wireless Broadband router
Logitech Black Comfort Duo Keyboard and Mouse
I'm still looking for a good speaker. Is Creative Inspire 6.1 6600 any good? recommend some good speakers for an htpc. thanks!
Here's my rigWhy are you planning to get a 6.1 speaker when you have a 5.1 soundcard? If you like creative products, there are two good speakers in the market: Creative Megaworks 550 5.1 THX and the Creative Gigaworks S700 5.1 THX(best). I suppose you have the money to buy those since your setup is expensive. OR you could build your own Home Theater Audio Setup, (Main Speakers, Surround Speakers, Center Speaker, Subwoofer, and Amplifier). For me I'm fine with my Megaworks 550 since I don't have the money to build my own audio setup.
AMD Athlon XP 3000+
DFI LanParty NFII Ultra B
AEROCOOL EXTREME COPPER SOCKET A/478 HSF
120gb Maxtor Sata drive
160gb Maxtor Sata drive
1024mb Kingston ValuaRam chip 333ddr (2x512mb)
Sony DRU-510A DVD-RW
Liteon DVD-rom
Sony 1.44 Floppy Drive
CFC and SMC Card reader with 2 usb
Hercules Prophetview 9800xt 256mb
17" Hercules Prophetview Pro LCD monitor
Turtle Beach Santa Cruz 5.1 surround sounds
Antec 550w psu w/ 2 gold fans
Creative 56k int. Modem
Linksys Wireless 802.1b PCI Adapter Connected to
Linksys Wireless Broadband router
Logitech Black Comfort Duo Keyboard and Mouse
I'm still looking for a good speaker. Is Creative Inspire 6.1 6600 any good? recommend some good speakers for an htpc. thanks!
how about Klipsch Promedia 5.1?that is an excellent 5.1 for your computer, you can find reviews of these speakers on google, just search for it to help you decide better. thats what i did.
HTPC = Home Theater Personal Computer
you build a PC to be used as your home theater dvd player and a lot of other functions ;D
to the expert (jpadua), tama diba? ;D ;D
thanks guys, when budget permits i would consider having one.
jpadua, the case looks great, is that available locally already?
hey jp, would you know kung anong magandang wireless keyboard and mouse combo that i can use?...
i'd like to get the one that uses RF signal so I can get away at having to point it to its transmitter para lang gumana... wadyatink?...
you see, my PC is inside our room and my TV is outside (at the sala). i was planning of hooking its video, to the TV in the sala and have my keyboard and mouse go wireless para mabitbit ko na rin dun.
i need to know the tested brand of wireless kb and mouse brand.
TIA man... mabuhay ka pre.
How's this for an HTPC ... HTPC 400 series from ACCENT.
(http://kanam.co.kr/kanam/admin/cate1/admin/file/HT-400S_02.JPG)
Price is S$480+ after shipping with Imon remote controller and USB VFD.
Tanong ko lang po mga Sirs,yun nga ang idea behind an HTPC. PC siya tapos Home Theater rin siya in one. ginagamit rin namin PC's namin for watching movies, sound trip, web surfing, etc. kung meron kang mas malaking monitor mas maganda siyempre. para sa receiver and speakers, hanap ka ng soundcard na maganda na pupwedeng mag Dolby Digital and DTS na DVD audio and DVD movie. yung speakers, kahit pang PC na speaker okay na rin. kung meron kang mas malakas siyempre mas maganda basta kelangan mo lang mabuo ung 5.1 (5 speakers + 1 subwoofer) na configuration para maenjoy mo ung mga DVD media.
Kung palitan ko po ang sa akin ng malaking monitor, mga 21 ok parin kaya?
Onboard po ang videocard ko(pero may available pa na agp) at 14 monitor ko hindi branded. Ok naman po ang monitor, Ive been using it for almost 2 years and been using it to watch dvds for one year now pero round edges and screen at hindi siya flat.
Hindi ko yata ma afford ang bumili ng receiver tsaka mga speakers, so yung pc ko nalang.
How's this for an HTPC ... HTPC 400 series from ACCENT.
(http://kanam.co.kr/kanam/admin/cate1/admin/file/HT-400S_02.JPG)
Price is S$480+ after shipping with Imon remote controller and USB VFD.
Sayang nga nagsisisi ako I could have gotten that model! what was I thinking of! hehe anyway the one Accent sent me was the first unit, will be ordering HT-400 as well, makaka upgrade rin ako :)
The one I have is this one
(http://kanam.co.kr/kanam/admin/cate1/admin/file/1058723885ht-101s.jpg)
Came with Vacuum Flourecent Display and the Accent IR Remote.
hey JP,
don't you think this one is better?... with all the features printed up front and an additional slot for a floppy drive or a CD/DVD RW?...
jpadua,
Bat walang DTS and DD logos yung casing?
jpadua,
Bat walang DTS and DD logos yung casing?
pareng jp,
ordinary casings like the mini or the full towers are cheap items... how will these HTPC casings be priced?
i would love to get one but its price, as always, would be my driving factor...
Would probably be as expensive as a SFF barebone. First of all it should not be compared to regular PC casings, its truly a class on its own. It's a novelty. The object of HTPC casings is to hide that it is a PC. Casings like Antec Overture, Sonata, dont really cut it. Other casings in the same class would be DIGN, Silverstone, Coolemaster ATSCs. The lian-li HTPC case is actually smaller and is already 12k, Not available here though.
jp, just starting to plunge (a little deeper) into this stuff (I wouldn't call it a hobby yet as my PC is still intact - i mean as a fully functional workstation/terminal only) and am a little, should i say, amazed, at what's out there...
heheh, ang gaganda din pala.
here are some of the exciting - and very nice htpc casings i've browsed through on the net.
The SilverStone Lascala SST-LC01
The SilverStone Lascala SST-LC02
The SilverStone Lascala SST-LC03
The Lian Li PC-9100
The Lian Li PC-9300
The Antec Overture
The Cooler Master ATC-620C-BX1
WOW!!! ang gaganda. Pero mas maganda pa rin yata ang casing mo jp.
Hey JT,
I was just contacted by Kanam Informing me about the Release of the HT400. The great news is that, the HT400 will come prebuilt with its own electronic PCB that hooks up to a USB header on your motherboard. Integrated on the PCBs are the USB ports, IMON Ir Reciever which will control both Power on and Reset all from the IMON Remote. They will start shipping the case next month packaged with the IMON Remote and the Vacuum Flourecent Display. I hope they will also sell the case without these options for lower cost.
Can't wait to get my hands on them!!!
there's also this case that uses only SLIM type cd/dvd-rom drives. wtf is that :o. it's still a pc desktop not a laptop.
comment on the HT400:
as you can see, there is plenty of room to put another HD. why can't they do that? give room for hard drives to breath. if i'm going to use a desktop type case i would use heatsinks and fans to cool my hard drives. and how about a side mount floppy drive just in case you need to use the FD? i'm just upset to see these HTPC casings go to waste due to internal design flaws.
jpadua: if you have contacts with the makers of such HTPC casings could you be their R&D for the internal design of these casings because to tell you the truth, they suck. no offense meant. i hope you also know that :) since you own one already.
comment on the HT400:
as you can see, there is plenty of room to put another HD. why can't they do that? give room for hard drives to breath. if i'm going to use a desktop type case i would use heatsinks and fans to cool my hard drives. and how about a side mount floppy drive just in case you need to use the FD? i'm just upset to see these HTPC casings go to waste due to internal design flaws. there's also this case that uses only SLIM type cd/dvd-rom drives. wtf is that :o. it's still a pc desktop not a laptop.
jpadua: if you have contacts with the makers of such HTPC casings could you be their R&D for the internal design of these casings because to tell you the truth, they suck. no offense meant. i hope you also know that :) since you own one already.
I so very strongly agree with schlamm, jp...
(http://www.silverstonetek.com/images/photo/lco1/photo/lc01-1.jpg)
These are already available at XtremeModz...P6,999 lang
ATI has that HDTV adapter for their Radeon line of Video Cards.... component out yun.
Yup, kaso wala dito as usual... you might have to get it sa US pa... There are two kinds by the way, so better check what is compatible with the ATI that you have or will buy. If you are lucky you might be able to find an ATI All In wonder here its usually bundled with the ATI RF remote and the Dongle... I think the 9800 AIW has the remote and dongle.. dont know lang if you can find it here. It's also a TV-tuner card by the way.
yaiks!!! ibig sabihin pahirapan pa rin to?...
haaaahay...
If you can afford it, here a nice mobo for a powerhouse HTPC:
(http://www.commell.com.tw/Product/SBC/LV-671/lv671-s.jpg)
www.commell.com.tw/Product/SBC/LV-671.HTM (http://www.commell.com.tw/Product/SBC/LV-671.HTM)
A Pentium M mobo in mini-ITX form factor. Just pop in a Pentium M retail proc, you get a very fast, fan-less system!
Both are available in Akihabara for about Y150K(!).
8)
hmm I never had a problem with anamorphic wide screen. On PowerDVD isnt there an option if you want to watch in widescreen?
powerdvd plays widescreen correctly, but i'm wondering why it cannot output the same as the creative dxr2 dvd hardware decoder pci card. powerdvd makes widescreen into letterbox.
Probably its the software. I'll try some other players. What programs do you use? is it the same programs as the ones you used with the LOTR screenshots?
As i mentioned before, my tv is a 4:3 (square) type and *not* 16:9 (rectangular). Despite this, the TV has two settings (standard and widescreen mode). In widescreen mode, the screen is reduced to accomodate a rectangular (16:9) viewing therefore black bars appear on the top and bottom part of the tv screen. Watching anamorphic ws dvds in this mode looks very clear. Btw, watching letterbox dvds in this mode, makes the picture look stretched that's why I use the standard mode, meaning 4:3.
Btw, since I have dvds that are either letterbox (ie. The Rock and Conair) and anamorphic ws (ie. LOTR), i can readily discern the difference bet. the two. Comparing the two modes on my tv, anamorphic dvds look much clearer in the widescreeen mode on my tv.
Now onto the problem. Using my PC connected to the TV to view an anamorphic encoded dvd, the tv does not switch to its widescreen mode which means that the PC video output is not sending any anamorphic signal to the TV. Comparing, a regular set top dvd player and the PC playing the same anamorphic encoded dvd, the regular dvd player outputs a clearer picture simply because it sends an anamorphic signal to the tv, making the tv switch to its widescreen mode. While the PC software player does not do that.
Here are Pics of my Latest HTPC Setup
Accent aluminum HTPC Case w VFD and Remote
Athlon XP 2500+ 333mhz barton
512MB DDR
ECS KM400M2 microATX
Spdif digitial output
6 channel audio
USB 2.0
HEC 475w Dual Fan
Radeon 9600pro
ASUS TV/FM capture card
Thermaltake Silentboost HSF cooler
Zalman VGA Heatpipe with Opt. Fan
(http://www.m2systech.com/images/htpc_setup/8.jpg)
Dude this is so cool! Ngaun I will appreciate the "real thing" HTPC. Parang Marantz! Pls keep on pushing the local sales/distribution of Accent aluminum HTPC Case w VFD and Remote!
I assume the LCD comes with the case right? Where was it connected? How about the remote? Other programs that the remote can offer?
Pls inform us kung may alam kana na sales nito locally.
Thanks!!!
Hi JPadua. It seems you are the most advanced HTPC user here. I admire your knowledge. I am quite new with this and perhaps you can help me. I am using FP from Epson. It's EMP 30 which is an svga one. Could powerstrip do anything good with it in terms of enhancing picture quality, let alone fixing the resolution?
Thanks for any input.
Eddie
Hello again Jay. Thank you very much for the great info. That's a nice HTPC setup you got there. But i saw in one of of your posts that it costs quite a bundle. But I really can't stop drooling over it. I noticed you seem to have a marantz amp. It sounds great too.
Eddie
I got into thinking about HTPC due to the restrictions of where I live... very small home.
I just started this when I got my computer a month ago, currently my set-up:
Athlon XP 2600+
inno3d GFX5200
on board sound card
LG Colin DVD-rom
My future upgardes are:
Gainclone amp
M-Audio Revolution 7.1 soundcard (hopefully within month ;D )
TV-tuner card (any recommendations?)
21" or larger computer monitor (hmm... this one will take some time, plan on selling my TV, Monitor, VHS and Radio for this ;D )
For your TV-tuner card... this may not be the best... but I think its one of the most compatible cards in the market... Winfast XP tv-tuner by Leadtek.
An HTPC enthusiast recommendation for a TV-card would be a Hauppage PVR250 or 350 but I have yet to see one here...
The rest of your set-up is fine at the moment. If you plan to use a big TV for DVD viewing, I highly suggest you download TV-tool... this GREATLY enhances tv-output for Nvidia cards other cards dont apply.
maybe if you already have a 21" or bigger you can already connect this to your PC via s-video. Keep your monitor for your computing needs and only use the TV for DVD and PC Games :)
not to be OT but are you still interested in the revolution 7.1? I tracked down its local distributor a month ago.
medyo OT...
jpadua - saw your site... where did you get your lcd display... the one mentioned in the guides section? and how much did the display set you back?
Boss Rasteq is not selling anymore LCD eh. more on project kits na sila.
If Anyone interested with Character LCD display i Can sell you one but a little expensive din eh I have 2x16 & 4x20 . Just PM me if want to know the price.
Hi Jpadua. How are you?
I have a few questions about my video card if I may. I bought radeon 9600 se from sapphire and audigy ls sound card. My problem is when I installed Need for speed underground, the video is garbled as in many lines appear when I am playing. And the ati driver from time to time does not work saying the ati control panel did not initialize. I had to reinstall it each time it happened. Would you please help me to find out what's wrong?
My cpu is athlon 2000xp 256 ram just in case you need to know. Another one is I can't see any difference between my old inno 3d 440 geforce and the radeon. Could it be my setting? Now it is 1024x768 at 85 refresh. They look just the same for me.
Thank you very much for the time.
Eddie
jp, what do you think is the best HTPC player, PowerDVD or WinDVD?... what are you using right now?... are there any players that we can get for free?... Ang PowerDVD ko kasi (repackaged as AsusDVD XP) nag-due for registration na, so am now down to 2-channel with the S/PDIF connection to my receiver.
My HTPC is my HD Tivo.
I posted this in the Audio Forum but I think this is the proper venue for this.
--------------------------------------------------
THIS IS MY COLLECTION OF HIGH DEFINITION VIDEO FILES (Playable via a powerful Home Theater Computer-or can be trasferred to D-VHS).
Be cautioned though- these eats up Hard Drive space like Pacman on Steriods!
Number1,
Each minute is 114 MBytes.
How long is the movie?
Anthony
Meridian-Audio,
By your call sign, I presume you use a lot of Meridian gear.
I used to have a 508-24 CD player.
Anthony
jp,
Heheh.. Actually I was an HTPC user since 2001 coz I am connected to Listening in Style & video is my specialty since 1997. Pero d kmi nag concentrate gaano sa HTPC dhil marami kaming hawak na video scalers. Pero ako more on HTPC talaga.. Kaya kudos to all HTPC users... ;D Kaya if u have some questions also about any video matters dont hesitate to pm me.. more power to pdvd members..
I also design hometheater acoustics & offer audio & Video calibration.
jpadua and to other masters,
I am starting to build-up HTPC... I would like to ask your suggestions for the cheapest and most ideal video card for HTPC use.
My Philips TV has VGA input, progressive capability and supports 1080i sources.
very very limited bugdet only.... I mean limited, meron kayang maganda for 2K budget, hehehheheh...
Thanks in advance.
jpadua and to other masters,
I am starting to build-up HTPC... I would like to ask your suggestions for the cheapest and most ideal video card for HTPC use.
My Philips TV has VGA input, progressive capability and supports 1080i sources.
very very limited bugdet only.... I mean limited, meron kayang maganda for 2K budget, hehehheheh...
Thanks in advance.
Thanks a lot number1 and jpadua...
jpadua,
What is a powerstrip, ignorante ako...
Thanks.
(http://store1.yimg.com/I/mrtech_1801_463412)
MSI MEGA 180 DIGITAL HOME ENTERTAINMENT BAREBONE PC SYSTEM
Features:
Software and Other Features
?Bundled MSI Media Center Deluxe III Software
?Microsoft PC 2001 Compliant
?Suspend to Ram/Disk Function
?Top Tech III (Thermal Overheat Protection Technology)
?PC Alert System Hardware Monitor
?250W(PFC 5V/12V SB) Full Range
?Dimensions: 202 (w) x 320 (d) x 151 (h) mm
Do we have this here already? It is pegged at $300.00
Oh oh sori di ko na explain... its a system utility that allows you to customize display output settings. You need it especially if you want to create HDTV signals like 540p and 1080i. Ang standard monitor resolutions kasi was meant for a computer monitor which is multiscan ang HDTV especially yung philips natin di multiscan so kelangan talaga yung timing frequency is the same as the ones it supports lang. You can download it at www.entechtaiwan.com Its trail ware.. it works naman even if you dont purchase, if you dont mind the nag screen... the longer you use it, the longer the nag screen stays on before powerstrip activates itself. You can always re-install it to reset the duration time of the nagscreen pero hassle. Once na setup mo na and you find it to be of real use to you, purchase mo nalang para at least entitled ka to free upgrades.
(http://store1.yimg.com/I/mrtech_1801_463412)
MSI MEGA 180 DIGITAL HOME ENTERTAINMENT BAREBONE PC SYSTEM
Features:
?Home Theater PC
- Create, Watch, Edit Rich Media Content in Your Living Room
- Surf the Web and Play Internet Games Wirelessly
- Instant on CD / Radio / MP3 support
?Bundled MSI Media Center Deluxe Software
?5.1ch Surround Sound
?Intelligent Color LCD Display
?Built-in WiFi
?6 in 1 Media Card Reader
?AMD Processor Support
Specifications:
System Features
?Supports Socket 462 for AMD?Duron?and Athlon?XP processors up to 3000+
?nVIDIA nForce2 (Crush 18G) + MCP2T Chipset
?Supports up to 2 DIMMs , 2.0GB DDR 333 memory
?Supports 1 x 8X AGP Slot
?Supports 1 x PCI 32 bit Slot
Audio Features
?Instant-ON CD / MP3 and Radio Features
?Support for 5.1ch Surround Sound Audio
?nVIDIA SoundStorm?Dolby?Digital (Needs Dolby Receiver)
?Dual Optical SPIDIF In / Out (Front / Rear)
Video Features
?Integrated nForce2 (8X AGP)
?Dual VGA out
?S-Video Out
Communication Features
?Wireless LAN 802.11B
?10/100Mbps LAN
?56K Modem
Front Panel Connectivity
?Optical SPIDIF in
?Mic-In
?Headphone Jack
?USB 2.0 x2
?IEEE 1394 Firewire x 2 (6 pin and 4 pin)
?6 in 1 Media Card Reader
Rear Panel Connectivity
?Dual VGA
?PS2 Keyboard and Mouse
?LAN Port (RJ-45)
?USB 2.0 x2
?Parallel Port
?S-Video
?Optical SPIDIF Out
?Speaker-out / Line-in / Mic ?in (5.1ch)
?56K Modem
?AGP Slot
?PCI Slot
TV Tuner Functions (Optional with MS-8606-040 MEGA TV Tuner Card)
?Free Scan
?Time-Shifting
?Scheduled Recording (MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4)
?Channel Preview
?Screen Capture
?Parental Control
?DVD / Photo / Video Authoring Software bundle
Software and Other Features
?Bundled MSI Media Center Deluxe III Software
?Microsoft PC 2001 Compliant
?Suspend to Ram/Disk Function
?Top Tech III (Thermal Overheat Protection Technology)
?PC Alert System Hardware Monitor
?250W(PFC 5V/12V SB) Full Range
?Dimensions: 202 (w) x 320 (d) x 151 (h) mm
Do we have this here already? It is pegged at $300.00
Hi! My soundcard is a REALTEK ALC655. One of the features that it has is that it has S/PDIF output. In my limited understanding, with S/PDIF it can output digital signals such that I can attach the output of the soundcard to the coaxial digital input of my receiver so I can achieve surround sound using my receivers' DD/DTS decoders? Can I do this?
hey JayPadua et al.
can you please give an estimate on how much a similar system would cost if purchased in Manila ?
Shuttle SFF case
3.8 GHz Pentium 4 with hyperthreading
1 GB RAM
160 GB HD
on board VideoAdapter
on board SoundCard with optical out
rough estimate lang .
thanks in advance
SFF = 18k
3Ghz+ = 25k
1 GB ram = 20k
160GB = 7k
XPC SFF comes with onboard video and sound card.
But with the specs that u hav in mind kakatawa naman onboard video and sound ang gusto mo. teehee...
ati x800 = 24k
audigy zs = 6.2k
Hi! I have a Fujitsu Biblo notebook with S-video TV out. Is there a certain resolution that I have to lower in the display settings so I can view the display on TV?
I tried attaching the computer via S-video cable to my Samsung Tantus, changed the display to 640 x 480 and pushed the S-video button on the keyboard there was a flicker but no display was on the tv. Help needed......
New HTPC configuration:
1.) Pentium 4 3.4GHz 550 Procesor 800 MHz FSB, 1MB Cache
2.) Asus P5AD2 Motherboard, PCI Express, 1394B Firewire 800
3.) Radeon X800 Platinum PCI Express Video Card DVI Out
4.) Two 250 GB Each SATA Drives, RAID 0 Array
5.) Two 250 GB Each EIDE Drives,
6.) 1 GB DDR500 RAM,
7.) DVico Fusion 3 Gold HDTV card ATSC/QAM,
8.) M-Audio Revolution 7.1 Sound Card,
9.) Sony DVD DRU-700 Dual Layer DVD+-R/RW drive.
10.) Monarchy Audio 24/96 Digital Interface Processor (DIP) for jitter reduction.
11.) CoolerMaster Wave Case
New HTPC configuration:
1.) Pentium 4 3.4GHz 550 Procesor 800 MHz FSB, 1MB Cache
2.) Asus P5AD2 Motherboard, PCI Express, 1394B Firewire 800
3.) Radeon X800 Platinum PCI Express Video Card DVI Out
4.) Two 250 GB Each SATA Drives, RAID 0 Array
5.) Two 250 GB Each EIDE Drives,
6.) 1 GB DDR500 RAM,
7.) DVico Fusion 3 Gold HDTV card ATSC/QAM,
8.) M-Audio Revolution 7.1 Sound Card,
9.) Sony DVD DRU-700 Dual Layer DVD+-R/RW drive.
10.) Monarchy Audio 24/96 Digital Interface Processor (DIP) for jitter reduction.
11.) CoolerMaster Wave Case
My HD Movie Listing:
NOT DVD- Full HD, NOT 480p but 1080i/720P
Mission Impossible
Mission Impossible 2
Monsters Ball
Monsters Inc
Moulin Rouge
Patriot, The
Professional (Leon), The
Pulp Fiction
Queen of the d**ned
Raiders of the Lost Arc
Resident Evil
Road to Perdition
Rock, The - OAR
Saving Private Ryan
Shanghai Nights
Showtime
Shrek
Silence Of The Lambs
Spiderman
Star Trek - The Voyage Home
Star Trek - The Wrath of Khan
Star Wars Episode II: Attack Of The Clones
Starship Troopers
Stuart Little 2
Swordfish
Terminator 3
Thelma and Louise
Titanic
Toy Story 2
Unfaithful
Vertical Limit
What About Bob
What Women Want
Wild Side
Wild Things
Wrong turn
X-Men
X-Men 2
XXX
New additions
Ginger Snaps
Princess Bride
Okinawa's Coral Treasures
The Gift
Final Destination
There's Something About Mary
Frequency
Anna And The King
Predator
Stir of Echoes
Kill Bill Vol 1
Lara Croft - Tomb Raider
I wonder if JP took my advice concerning how to get HD content. ;)
if you want the best possible way to record your family vacation videos that's the cam to get. SD will become passe when your kids are your age. everyone will be on hdtv!
if you want the best possible way to record your family vacation videos that's the cam to get. SD will become passe when your kids are your age. everyone will be on hdtv!
I recently setup my own HTPC using Microsoft Windows Media Center (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/mediacenter/evaluation/tours/default.mspx). i bought a Shuttle SB61G2R(20th Anniversary Edition) (http://www.newegg.com/app/viewproductdesc.asp?description=56-101-417&DEPA=0), installed a P4 2.8Ghz with HT on it and 512MB RAM and a 200GB SATA Drive.I have a ATI 9800 Pro and Hauppauge PVR250MCE TV card
Sa ngayon, its my primary recorder of TV shows(I have TiVo pero ang hirap mag extract ng recorded videos, I'm not a big linux user kasi kaya nangangapang madalas sa mga shell commands).Sa Sony 27" CRT ko lang sya naka connect since yung Tosh 46" HD RPTV ko wont accept PC video signals thru DVI
anyways, I got hooked into using Microsoft Windows MCE and planning to upgrade soon since may HD support na sya.Planning to get this case, Ahanix (http://www.ahanix.com/dvine6sq.html), a VBox HD Tuner (http://www.vboxcomm.com/product3.htm) and dump my Tosh RPTV to either a Samsung DLP or Sony LCD.
nagsimula sa pagbuo ng computer, nagtuloy tuloy ang gastos. :'( :'(
Okay lang yang master GM... ahem green buck earner ka naman eh ! hehehe... btw, yung Samsung DLP sulit... the 2nd generation available sa Best Buy looks great too but definitely yung LCD... whether Sony or Samsung is much better... though a little bit more expensive depending on size... would be nice how to see your set-up now... the TSS1 that i inherited from you is well used on my son's xbox naman...
-jackryan 8)
Jackryan, nagbaba yung price ng Samsung DLP... yung dating 60" DLP rptv na dating 250k ay 199k nalang.. sayang ubos na yung mga 50" that would have gone down din sana to a more affordable price... 199k is still toooooooo much for me :D I want one waaaah I think its just really great with HTPCs.
Need GAMING Advice:
A PC store saleman suggested that I should try PC Gaming with a rig like mine.
I have been doing a lot of video editing and Hi Def Archiving but have not looked at what seems to an exciting world of PC Gaming. Maybe I just did not have the time.
I am a newbie when it comes to Gaming.
I asked a couple of friends and I'll ask you guys:
What do you recommend? What gear?
I have always like Flying, so maybe I should start with a Flight Simulator. Any suggestions?
Few changes I made to my HTPC :
1.) Pentium 4 3.4GHz 550 Procesor 800 MHz FSB, 1MB Cache-Overclocked to 3.9 Ghz
2.) Asus P5AD2 Motherboard, PCI Express, 1394B Firewire 800
3.) Radeon X800 XT Platinum PCI Express-16 Video Card-OVERCLOCKED
4.) Two 250 GB Each SATA Drives, RAID 0 Array
5.) Two 34 GB Each RAPTOR Drives (10,000 RPM, SATA) for OS and Program Files RAID 0 Array
6.) 1 GB DDR2 PC2-4300 RAM Overclocked to 600 Mhz
7.) DVico Fusion 3 Gold HDTV card ATSC/QAM,
8.) M-Audio Revolution 7.1 Sound Card,
9.) Sony DVD DRU-700 Dual Layer DVD+-R/RW drive.
10.) Monarchy Audio 24/96 Digital Interface Processor (DIP) for jitter reduction.
11.) CoolerMaster Stacker Case with Crossflow fan
(http://www.coolermaster.com/product_common_images/16fe07d26de5c6a4c2d13bf4493fd8b2.jpg)
12.) Two 550W Antec True Power Power Supplies
13.) Two Antec Hard Drive coolers
14.) Two Removable 250 GB EIDE Drives-
Need GAMING Advice:
A PC store saleman suggested that I should try PC Gaming with a rig like mine.
I have been doing a lot of video editing and Hi Def Archiving but have not looked at what seems to an exciting world of PC Gaming. Maybe I just did not have the time.
I am a newbie when it comes to Gaming.
I asked a couple of friends and I'll ask you guys:
What do you recommend? What gear?
I have always like Flying, so maybe I should start with a Flight Simulator. Any suggestions?
Few changes I made to my HTPC :
1.) Pentium 4 3.4GHz 550 Procesor 800 MHz FSB, 1MB Cache-Overclocked to 3.9 Ghz
2.) Asus P5AD2 Motherboard, PCI Express, 1394B Firewire 800
3.) Radeon X800 XT Platinum PCI Express-16 Video Card-OVERCLOCKED
4.) Two 250 GB Each SATA Drives, RAID 0 Array
5.) Two 34 GB Each RAPTOR Drives (10,000 RPM, SATA) for OS and Program Files RAID 0 Array
6.) 1 GB DDR2 PC2-4300 RAM Overclocked to 600 Mhz
7.) DVico Fusion 3 Gold HDTV card ATSC/QAM,
8.) M-Audio Revolution 7.1 Sound Card,
9.) Sony DVD DRU-700 Dual Layer DVD+-R/RW drive.
10.) Monarchy Audio 24/96 Digital Interface Processor (DIP) for jitter reduction.
11.) CoolerMaster Stacker Case with Crossflow fan
12.) Two 550W Antec True Power Power Supplies
13.) Two Antec Hard Drive coolers
14.) Two Removable 250 GB EIDE Drives-
"Momo Racing Force Feedback"
I like the thought of that!
Speed is always addictive .
I'll post pictures later.
The SATA's are 300 GB each with 16MB buffers.
I just bought two more. I run the the system at RAID 10.
Two Raptor SATA drives (34GB, 10K RPM) run at RAID 0 for the Operating System and Program Files.
I have just recently built a similar system minus the Hi Def tuner and Sound Card for a Cardiologist for his Medical Imaging. It takes images off his Nuclear Camera and UltraSound . A superb group of Heart Doctors then use this as a reading station.
Cool, this is thing isn't just for fun after all!
That's why the CoolerMaster stacker is a logical choice.
I like the cooling options on it too, especially the CrossFlow fan. You can overclock without resorting to liquid cooling. I'd rather use the resources for more Hard Drives.
The motherboard can actually support 14 hard drives.
1. Would a more powerful power supply that you mentioned require that I get a bigger ATX casing, or wiill they have the same form factor so that the current one will do?They have the same form factor size, it is the wattage where their difference starts to crop. Power supplies nowadays are available from a lowly 350 watts to an all brawn 550 watts. Which one you should get will largely depend on your what devices you have. If you have like 4 or more hard drives and dvd-roms, dvd-writer or powerful graphic cards like Ati Radeon 9700pro, 9800pro/xt, x800 or Nvidia 5950, 6800 then you would need 450 watts at least. Also take into consideration the various case fans that you might have.
2. Can a SATA drive co-exist with an IDE drive? I currently have two 80gb and one 120gb IDE drives. My motherboard is an Asus P4P8000 SE.that supports SATA. At the rate I am putting in umcomrpressed wav files from new CDs, seems I will need a few more HDDs within the next 6 months. What's the maximum number of drives I can put in? Assuming a mix of IDE and SATA?SATA and PATA drives can co-exist without any problems. Since you have an Asus P4P8000 SE, you may actually attach 6 hard drives provided that you don't use an optical drive. If you do have an optical drive, then you can attach 5 drives. 3 PATA drives and 2 SATA drives.
3. Should I need a hard drive cooler if I go beyond 120gb?In my opinion, you don't need a hard drive cooler. Since most PCs have the hard drives located at the bottom front portion of the case, just put a 80mm or even better a 120mm fan in front of it (assuming of course there is a provisional vent hole). Just allow proper ventilation of your PC case is enough.
4 With the maximum HDD on board, what's the recommended power supply?Just to be sure, try 450watts and above. Better overpowered than underpowered.
5. Is the athlon 64-bit processor and motherboard better than the intel prescott and assosiated motherboard like the P5dv2?
6 On quiet afternoons and evenings, I can still hear a whinning noise on my PC. I am not sure if that's the powersupply fan or the CPU fan. What would be the culprit here? As an audiophile, I really would like to have complete silence with only the music to hear. (I often turn off the aircon for this purpose and suffer the heat. ;D Are there quiet CPU fans and power supply fans out there? Any recommendations? Thanks.
been looking for a 160gb sata drive with no luck... lahat out of stock... you know where I can get one thats readily available?
That was quite enlightening, jpadua. I already have a P4 2.8 PC more for wav files and games than HT, but at least I know which parts to upgrade if I want to give it more muscle. Thanks. Just some concerns you may be able to help:
1. Would a more powerful power supply that you mentioned require that I get a bigger ATX casing, or wiill they have the same form factor so that the current one will do?
2. Can a SATA drive co-exist with an IDE drive? I currently have two 80gb and one 120gb IDE drives. My motherboard is an Asus P4P8000 SE.that supports SATA. At the rate I am putting in umcomrpressed wav files from new CDs, seems I will need a few more HDDs within the next 6 months. What's the maximum number of drives I can put in? Assuming a mix of IDE and SATA?
3. Should I need a hard drive cooler if I go beyond 120gb?
4 With the maximum HDD on board, what's the recommended power supply?
5. Is the athlon 64-bit processor and motherboard better than the intel prescott and assosiated motherboard like the P5dv2?
6 On quiet afternoons and evenings, I can still hear a whinning noise on my PC. I am not sure if that's the powersupply fan or the CPU fan. What would be the culprit here? As an audiophile, I really would like to have complete siilence with only the music to hear. (I often turn off the aircon for this purpose and suffer the heat. ;D Are there quiet CPU fans and power supply fans out there? Any recommendations? Thanks.
5. To what I know, prescotts run really really hot. So if you want to shave off some degrees in your case an Athlon64 would be better.
Hi,Do they have something in BLACK? And any idea on their prixe? Thanks.
Was reading PC Buyers guide last week, and I found another local retailer selling an HTPC case.
Cooler Master Cavalier 4
(http://www.kustompcs.co.uk/acatalog/1242.jpg)
I think I remember it was Axis Global. I think its 7k if I remember it correctly.
SATA and PATA drives can co-exist without any problems. Since you have an Asus P4P8000 SE, you may actually attach 6 hard drives provided that you don't use an optical drive. If you do have an optical drive, then you can attach 5 drives. 3 PATA drives and 2 SATA drives.
Boy, that's a mouthful alright. Thanks number1 and jpadua. That's another enligtening round. Let me digest those recommendations Seems I do have a lot to work on to bring down the noise and optimize my PC as an HTPC. .
I think I'm using an ATi Radeon 9800 for my video card. Though i'm not sure if its a pro or something else. I'll check the box tonight. But it was supposed to be better as it was more expensive than the stock GE Force video card they were offering at PC Exchange Corner at Glorietta where I got my PC last July. Can't even recall if it has a fan.
I didn't know I could specify the fans or cooling system to use when I specified my PC at the shop. I had the impression they came stock with the case, the cpu and the psu. Those nitwits never advised me though I told them I wanted a dead silent PC to be used as a music server. And they recommended an Audigy LS when I said I wanted a professional soundcard with dtx decoding. Supposed to be better with its 100db S/N ratio than the motherboard sound card. Turns out it's just another so-so sound card. Well. the shortcomings seem to appear over time. Now I know better. Thanks to this forum with you guys. I might as well get a new PC with all the right stuff for my purpose. Later na lang when finances allow. And with the rate of technological advances, i'm sure ther'd be cheaper and better options out there in 6 months time, right? Hopefully the exchange rate doesn't get worst. ;D
Nice to know the Athlon runs cooler. But is this the only benefit? I heard it's 64-bit archecture beats anything that Intel has to offer with its 32-bit limitation. Just not sure if there are already 64-bit PC applications and games to maximize this feature.
Optical drive, you mean a DVD/CD reader/writer? I have one. I plan to have another dedicated CD-writer. So that means If i have two optical drives, I can only have ONE more HDD to add to my existing three HDDs??
What if I use a external CD writer connected via USB, is this as good as an internal one? Are external drives available out there just as fast? Thanks.
Do they have something in BLACK? And any idea on their prixe? Thanks.
I guess the Audigy LS is fine but I'm getting some residual noise I can hear when no disc is playing. Not audible from my listening position but it's there when I place my ears close to the tweeters at hgh volume - whereas my usual CD and DVD components are dead silent at that level. I am not entirely certain if that's the fault of my soundcard or my Liteon DVD/CD writer.
Thanks bumblebee and jpadua
That black HTPC case is really something. Makes me want to upgrade now. ;D Have to control myself. I just have other priorities at the moment, like a new SACD or universal player. Well, since we're on the subject, are there DVD-A and SACD players for the PC? Or soundcards to decode the MLP and DSD data streams?
I plan to have another dedicated CD-writer. So that means If i have two optical drives, I can only have ONE more HDD to add to my existing three HDDs??Yes one more hard drive. With that configuration you must have two PATA hard drives and two SATA drives. Here's why, your motherboard (the Asus P4P800 SE) has two IDE channels (Primary and Secondary). Each channel can accomodate two devices each only, either as Master and Slave drives. Since you mentioned that you plan to connect two optical drives so they would occupy the Secondary channel already. Which leaves you with the primary channel which can accomodate two PATA drives. Lastly, the another two SATA drives can be connected to the two SATA ports. Total of 4 hard drives (2 PATA and 2 SATA) and 2 optical drives.
What if I use a external CD writer connected via USB, is this as good as an internal one? Are external drives available out there just as fast? Thanks.The internal one is better. USB 1.1 connection may not be sufficient. I dont know about USB 2.0. If you plan to get an external drive, try getting one with at least a USB 2.0 or better yet a Firewire (IEEE 1394) connection. Or you might consider putting one of your hard disks in an external enclosure instead.
Number1,I dont think so. ;D I dont think there is a market or the market is really small for exotic PC hardwares here. I highly recommend purchasing any PC component not available here, at (www.newegg.com). Although you need to have relatives in the US who would readily lend you their credit card and mailing address as newegg does not accept any Philippines issued credit cards nor do they accept any international orders.
hey Ive heard about the new Thermalright heatpipe HSF (The one that looks like a souped up engine) that can accommodate a 120mm fan... Is that available in the philippines?
Thanks bumblebee and jpadua
I've also read and heard good things about this M-audio soundcard lately so it will definittely be on my list for any new PC or upgrade.
That black HTPC case is really something. Makes me want to upgrade now. ;D Have to control myself. I just have other priorities at the moment, like a new SACD or universal player. Well, since we're on the subject, are there DVD-A and SACD players for the PC? Or soundcards to decode the MLP and DSD data streams?
jpadua, that's a cool rig you got there. ang linis palang tingnan ng silver :). i built my rig piece by piece, and medyo nagmadali ako sa pagkuha ng Ahanix case.microATX PSU lang yung pwede sa kanya though fullATX mobo yung gamit ko.limited ako sa power kaya hindi pa ko makapagRAID. 2 250 SATA HDD sana yung ilalagay ko kaso 300W lang PSU ko.my cpu is athlon xp 2800+ stock.
i'm also using Powestrip kaso medyo annoying rin yung overscan ng Tosh 46H83 ko.i've spent several sleepless nights trying to figure out the right combo pero etong huli sya na yung pinaka matino.right now, 1280x720p lang resolution ko but my TV can do 1080i kaso pag nagsetup na ko ng 1080i, nasisira display ko.with my nVidia GeForce FX5700, i could easily setup my display hanggang 1080i pero tong Radeon 9800, nangangapa ako masyado.the reason why I'm stuck with the 9800 is that its the minimum requirement for HD playback(that I have right now)
By the way I have a Raid Question.....
I have no experience in setting up RAID...
I just got a new 160SATA drive, I found out that my sata ports only work for RAID setup.. .so what I did was I plugged my sata, and setup the raid to strip performance mode 1 array... then I setup windows on that drive.
My question is... if lets say I plug another drive on my sata port and configure it as array 2 what will happen?
1. if I plug in another identical drive 160GB Sata... will my total space increase to 320GB or will it still be 160Gig but twice the speed.
- if you set it up as raid 1 you will only create a mirror of your 160GB hdd.. unless you configure it to use raid 0 which is striping then
you will get the whole 320GB as a single drive..
2. Will I I have another additional drive (currently C:) D: or will it be treated as one drive ?
- one drive only..
3. If I Plug a 200GB Sata drive will it work? what will the outcome be?
- it should also work.. meaning 160+200=360GB whole drive if you choose raid 0..
Pasensya na, I'm totally new to SATA and Raid Configurations... I have no Idea of what I did, but I got my Rig working with one 160GB sata drive and no IDE drives. I'm just thinking ahead if I want to add more drives to the sata port.. what will happen.
Yeah, thanks! pero maganda yung design ng Dign, aesthetically, mas mukhang hi-end compared to the HT-400... design flaw lang talaga yung pag gamit nila ng mATX... they reserved the space kasi for an ATSC tuner na never naman lumabas .... di ba kaya i modify yung standoffs to fit a full atx board?.
Hey Guys,
Finally HTPCs are catching on, T3 contacted me a few months ago to write a very basic how-to-guide to build an HTPC... anyway its out now in T3's december issue. Its a very basic guide... as in! but at least im on T3 baby!!! my article even has a front cover mini-headline .... cool
Grab a copy if you see one! Thanks!
Jay
Currently there are very few options for DVD-A.
The Audigy2 ZS Platiunum and the M-Audio revolution 7.1 are the only ones, that I have tried and tested. I think the m-audio Delta 2496 can also output DVD-A im not sure though.
Audigy uses its own mediaplayer for DVD-A and you may also use WinDVD6 Platinum for DVD-A with Video
M-Audio Revolution also can decode DVD-A and uses WinDVD6 Platinum as the Player.
These are the only two that I know of... when using DVD-A Discs only Analaog Audio output will pump out high resolution audio, spdif will down convert the stream to CD Quality.
Now that gives me more argument to upgrade to an M-Audio sound card.
I recall that PC had been fast to catch on with CD playback years ago and spawwned this multimedia revolution. Then came VCD playback in PCs. I thought the convergence road was clear. Now it seems high resolution playback in PCs are hard to come by.
I really would like to see the day when sound systems, HT and PC become one happy ijtegrated family. There has been so much talk about "INFOTAINMENT" or "EDUTAINMENT" as well as "MULTIMEDIA" systems - all bannering the convergence of various technologiex once reserved exclusively for this or that hobby. About the onlly real convergent home entertiainment and PC system I've seeen in the SONY VAIO multimedia system.
I think many computer makers have been sidestepped into another convergence - that of mobile cellphones and computers. That's just fine. But I would like to see the day when even mobile computing and telecomms converge with audio and video entertainment - like hearing your wav files or watching DVDs stored in your home entertainment server via your cellphone hooked up to an entertainment center in the office or elsewhere. ;D
there's this one article ive read from tomshardware.com about convergence. this was a part of his review for the 100$ creative ddts decoder (decodes all formats from dd to pl2x).
http://www6.tomshardware.com/consumer/20040120/index.html
Hey Guys,
Finally HTPCs are catching on, T3 contacted me a few months ago to write a very basic how-to-guide to build an HTPC... anyway its out now in T3's december issue. Its a very basic guide... as in! but at least im on T3 baby!!! my article even has a front cover mini-headline .... cool
Grab a copy if you see one! Thanks!
Jay
Thanks Bumblebee for pointg this out. This is a neat piece of hardware which otherwise , I must say, is another argument for me why the convergence is not getting anywhere.
Why on earth this PC -related makers insist on using baby jacks for connecting their sound and video devices to powered speakers and to sources baffles me no end. They either have no idea about the connection standards used in audio and video or they are plainly stiupid. ;D
Next, why do they have to come out with another box just for this purpose, Isn't a PCI epxress or PCI sound card sufficient to have all the decoding for DD/DTS and their variants? Where will I put this new boc that won't even match my component system in looks? With connectors that won't make use of my existing RCA cables? What a total waste!!!
The way the ad-article is written seems to ne that this DDTS100 is being positioned to compete with Hi-Fi products with claims about its superior price-performance that aims to overturn long-held perceptons among audiophiles. NOt the right way to win adherents to this convergence effort. The product, at least the way it wwas bannered in that artidle, seems to succeed better at alienating audiophiles.
Tsk tsk. :( But it is a good product on its own. Certainly adequate to give you HT features for a misleading price. For just $150, you get all the format decoding you need to enjoy DVD-videos. But you have to pair it with the Creative 7.1 powered speakers costing $600. Total of $750. What is the vendor thinking about? For that amont, you can get a decent Onkyo or Yamaha HT receiver as well as excellent hi-fi quality Wharfedale and Mordaunt-short 5.1 speakers. ;D
MCE is still useful even without the EPG. you can still manually record TV shows(w/c any TV software does anyway). other features like online spotlight where you can download movies(that is if you have broadband),synching with your portable device and streaming medias anywhere in your house by using MCX are other stuff to consider in getting MCE.sa ngayon, walang plans ibenta ng retail ang MCE2005 e but you can buy one in newegg.com(and baka available na rin sa GH yun ;D).
i used to be a TiVo user but hacking tivo is not that fun(im not that good in linux) and may subscription fee pa.i also considered using BeyondTV kaso ms-fanatic ako kaya nauwi sa MCE. :)
by the way, i'm planning to upgrade my audio card for DVD-A and SACD playback but seems like M-Audio can only do analog or digital but not both(i read it in avsforum but forgot the link).i think Audigy 2 can do both.anyone have experience using Audigy cards?
RAID 0 is indeed a risky proposition. You lose one disk and you lost the data on both.
RAID 0 is a stripping configuration. Two drives acting as one!
Love them though. They are blazingly fast!!!!! I use two 300 SATA in RAID 0 configuration but I follow your advice YrNeh, I do external drive back-up. Two 300GB drives appear as 600GB.
RAID 1 is Mirror configuration. Anything on one drive is replicated in the other drive. Good redundancy. If you use two 300GB drives, it would appear not as 600GB but 300GB. For most application RAID 1 is sufficient.
For the best of both, use a RAID 10. Four drives- stripping and mirroring.
My previous machine was actually "donated" to my best friend who is a Cardiologist here in Chicago. He lost his Reading Station for his Echocardiograms. Good his data was backed up on a network NAS!
We upped the ante in my old RAID 0 configuration and added two more 300 GB SATA's for a RAID 10. Four 300 GB SATA's with 16MB of buffer runs amazingly fast!! Images come up in his screen with details never before seen. Hopefully the better images and how motion of the valves in the heart is better rendered will aid my Cardiologist buddy to better diagnose his patients.
Now-to building another one.
hey bro jpadua or anybody, just a short q, i want to upgrade my pc audio so i can use properly my 5.1 pc speaker set. what SOUNDCARD can u recommend please ? ;) -- thnks.
hey bro jpadua or anybody, just a short q, i want to upgrade my pc audio so i can use properly my 5.1 pc speaker set. what SOUNDCARD can u recommend please ? ;) -- thnks.
Bumble / jpadua TY for your answers. :)
Bumble i just got the creative 5.1 speakers-- cheap but better than my previous one na tunog lata ng gatas. ;D
Sirs problem ko kasi this creative 5.1 speaker set requires 3 terminal output from the PC ( fronts/rear/center-sub) but my pc has only 2 (left and right). May i ask whether the 5.1 soundcard has 3 outputs already?
Sir jpadua, if i have the money ill pm u na lang, i hope ur soundcard would still be avlable.---- ;)
Tama si pareng bumblebee :)
Most motherboards with integrated Multichannel audio only have the analog outputs (left-right, Surround L-R, Center / Sub) but a lot of newer motherboards have either a (digital coax) spdif out bracket or a Digital Coax on the rear panel. Some have them on a jumper and you need to make your own Digital Coax to use it.
I'm not too familiar with the latest motherboards out today... but in choosing a motherboard make sure to check the following.
Multi-Channel Audio
Spdif out bracket or Digital output
USB 2.0
SATA (para future proof ka na)
If you will be upgrading to an AthlonXP
The best talaga are Nforce2 chipset based motherboards. Look at the chip if its MCP or MCP-T (MCP-T has dolby digital encoding which will convert all analag output to digital). MCP-T is great because even games that are multi channel, and also WMV-HD video that are multi-channel can be converted into AC-3 on the fly and straight into your reciever/amplifier
I'm not too familiar with Intel and A64s yet.
Ala syang kasamang SPDIF out bracket talaga nung mabili ko sya 2001 eh. But I have an Audigy SE 5.1 na kaya lang gusto ko lang masubukan yung on board audio if any good. Pwede ko pa mabenta yung card + 5.1 speakers ko then just connect to my receiver.
Anyway, thanks for the inputs.
http://www.aopen.ru/tech/techinside/spdif.htm
QMAN,
Wala pa ngang official distributor and silverstone pero meron nagbebenta ng silverstone dito, sa GH Xtreme-Modz, they have different silverstone products like the LCO3 and LCO2 also some silverstone Accessories like the bay card reader and also their Silent PSU.
ive been downloading the hidef clips from wmhd, natry nyo na ba? makes me want to setup an htpc!
@Qman
pls check this post @ tpc
http://www.tipidpc.com/viewitem.php?iid=171508
Asus A8N-SLI mobo - In Stock Now!
If it won't be a problem, can I ask how much you got the Syntax LCD tv?
My still messy HTPC Setup:
Intel P4 2.6c
2 x 256 MB DDR400
2 x 80Gb Seagate Harddisks
Samsung DVD-ROM Drive
Sony DRU-510ULX External DVD Writer
Inno3D GeForceFX 5600 128mb
1 x Jetway PCI-TV TV Tuner Card
Altec Lansing PowerCube 45.1 powered by onboard audio (I know, i know!!!)
Logitech RF wireless keyboard and mouse
Snapstream Firefly RF Remote
Driving a Samsung ST-50L2HX 50-inch DLP Widescreen TV via VGA port
Running Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005
Watching WMV-HD content at 720p and 1080p is awesome!!! Doom 3 is also a sight to behold... :)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v376/rene_canlas/IMG_2577.jpg)
Yeah, MCE can do all of those which is cool... I just feel sad that we dont have EPG data here to take advantage of a TIVO like system here. Another drawback I have about MCE is that its not that flexible when it comes to decoders and post processing. You are basically stuck with what MS recommends.
I'm in negotiations with silverstone, we might get cases from them. Pero not sure yet... the problem is getting here, mahal kasi and duties and taxes pag mukhang malaki ang box. Maybe in the next month or two pa kami mag import a few cases.
Ngayon since wala yun Xtreme Modz, I dont know where to find them. Mag tanong tanong tayo sa pinoypc.net... malamang alam nila kung saan sila lumipat.
I have a Prolink PlayTV@7000 MPEG-2 Card... I think this is compatible with MCE2K5. I've been wanting to test this card with MCE for a long time :)
Have you tried Meedio? Its an alternative to MCE but it has a kinda steep learning curve to configure. I bought a copy last yr. Although the thing that sucks is that you have to buy the TV component of Meedio which is another cost.... why didnt they just bundled that thing together!
I'm experimenting now with DivX HD. The new DivX 5.2.1 codec has a new HD profile. I downloaded this free software called XMPEG, its pretty good! anyway I tried to direct convert a DVD to DivX HD and the picture looks great! DivX HD automatically converts the material to 1280x720p and does some of its own resize sharpening. I only managed to test a few seconds of Attack of the Clones... it looks really sharp! Anyway I left my computer on today at home. Converting the whole DVD now to HD I want to see if there really is a major difference, but it sure looks super clean based on my test conversion of a few seconds. Will post back my results. My only problem now is encoding AC-3 5.1 into the DivX file... I can't seem to find the setting, so far it will process AC-3 and convert it to stereo and encode it on the DivX file, I guess that will have to do for the time being until I figure it out.
Hi sir jay,
Okay po yun exploration nyo ah. You are converting the dvd to DivX HD--> for viewing purposes only on your pc right? Does the software includes converting a 720 x 480 avi file/mpeg2 file to HD 1280x720?
Thank you very much! More questions to come:)
onie.
hi jpadua and other experts here, i want my pc to have digital out, will i need to buy something here?
Mine is intel pentium 4 2.8 / asus p4pez-x 800 / 128 mb radeon power color 9200 se/ 2 x 256 ddr 400 / 80 gb seagate -- tnx
Hi sir jay,
Okay po yun exploration nyo ah. You are converting the dvd to DivX HD--> for viewing purposes only on your pc right? Does the software includes converting a 720 x 480 avi file/mpeg2 file to HD 1280x720?
Thank you very much! More questions to come:)
onie.
I'm experimenting now with DivX HD. The new DivX 5.2.1 codec has a new HD profile. I downloaded this free software called XMPEG, its pretty good! anyway I tried to direct convert a DVD to DivX HD and the picture looks great! DivX HD automatically converts the material to 1280x720p and does some of its own resize sharpening. I only managed to test a few seconds of Attack of the Clones... it looks really sharp! Anyway I left my computer on today at home. Converting the whole DVD now to HD I want to see if there really is a major difference, but it sure looks super clean based on my test conversion of a few seconds. Will post back my results. My only problem now is encoding AC-3 5.1 into the DivX file... I can't seem to find the setting, so far it will process AC-3 and convert it to stereo and encode it on the DivX file, I guess that will have to do for the time being until I figure it out.
One group has managed to create an application that will convert the MS-DVR format used by MCE 2005 to MPEG2 for DVD burning.
TMPeg Express can convert dvr-ms files directly to mpeg,avi or wmv. i always use dCut (http://www.inseattle.org/~dan/Dcut.htm) to archive recorded SDTVs, TMpeg for recorded HDTV shows
Hello,
Hi sir jay, thank you very much for your reply on the personal message i have sent you. This is a little bit out of topic, i just want to ask if there is anyone here using progressive scanning of there dvd player? I tried connecting my kebao 6089 dvd player which has an input for progressive scanning as well to our tv. But when i tried watching, it appears scrambled using a progressive scan and color red using an interlace configuration. Related ba sya sa bala ng dvd? or cable? gumagana ba talaga yung progressive scan na yun? i believe mas malinaw sya dapat compare to s-video and video-rca.
Thanks everyone.
Onie.
Salamat po sa reply sir jay ,
I havent tried out other cable, i just began experimenting kagabe, when a friend of mine told that the input R G B, Yca etc something like that is the progressive scan. All along, akala ko, progressive scan is the VGA output compatible for the pc and the HDTV. Try ko bumili ng magandang cable. Talaga bang RCA lang ang ginagamet duon?
Does all dvd support a progressive scan? or meron bala ng dvd na okay ang progressive scan meron Hindi? o Hindi lang talaga related on what movie im watching.
Thanks again,
Onie.
I saw the Syntax LCD at Gateway mall today. Maganda! I was really really tempted to buy one on the spot - but of course with this being a major purchase, I would need the opinion of those who already own this. I don't have an HTPC (yet) but my PC system is more than capable .
jay, I've never seen these 16:9 screens side by side with "normal" TVs. How does the size compare to a 25" TV? Also, how's the quality if you have it hooked up to cable tv. I would think there would be some black bars on the sides so that the image is shown as 4:3.
For the benefit of everyone (including Hubes who asked if there was a 20" model), I am posting the prices that I got:
SLC-2083 (20") - Php 44,995
SLC-2706 (27") - Php 89,995
SLC-302C (30") - Php 129,995
They had another model which has PIP. In the demo unit that they had, the screen was split in half vertically with the two halves showing different channels)
KLT-2701 (27") Php 114, 995
KLT-3001 (30") Php 154, 995
- Jett
Hello guys, I need tech help! My current setup in P4 3.2 g on a MSI NEO board with SPDIF and 1 g of RAM, Video card is 6800 XT Nvidia. I am using Thearter Tek 2.0 w/ ffdshow. My problem is the irritating lag which occurs, especially when viewing video sources and cartoons. I tried ReClock, but it is imcompatible with my video card. Also how do you upscale without appearing like it was zoomed up image? My monitor is the 55" Hitachi 55MA550 using DVI-D set at 1024 x 768.
Hello Jay,
I'm using the 20041012 release of ffshow. After going though AVS forum and HTPC news, I see that the stuttering problem isn't an isolated problem. I couldn't find a specific fix in the forums :'( :'(.I went to Listening Room Megamall to compare my HTPC with their DVD player, especially the Pioneer DV-969AVi. We agreed that the PQ is only comparable to a 420p picture using the Theater Tek. :-[ :-[ He was using HDMI while I used DVI. How did you set yours up to beat the 1080i quality of HDMI dvd player? :o :o :o
Mouldingo,
Oh by the way why dont you post a picture of your setup here too! What HTPC case are you using?
Question though... There are 2 YPrPb inputs right? Or is one the DVI/VGA port? And do these ports automatically switch to YCbCr? (Need to know coz of this insane thing Sony did w/ the new GT4 game) Also what did you mean about the DVI and VGA ports? Don't you or can't you put two different sources, and just switch over w/ the remote or the on display buttons?
Thanks Jay for your input. My HTPC case is the Siverstone LC01, got it from Xtreme Modz. It was connected to the (ahem) 55" Plasma of Hitachi. You're right with the price of TheaterTek, quite painful. But the nice thing about it is you can adjust the custom resize of the screen per DVD. And you can set it up directly with ffshow. Monitor resolution is set at DVI with 1024 x 768. Can't get any higher than that. I have another computer now with HTPC config. The other one has the Themaltake Tsunami Dream Silver case. This one runs a AMD 64 3.0 g, 512 mb ram, ATI 9800SE 128 mb connected to a 19" Samsung 193P LCD set at 1280x1024. Becuz of this stuttering thing, I tried using WinDVD 6 on both machines. Both still stutters but not as bad as the TheaterTek. I turned off ffshow and they still stutter. Is there a one off program that can help me? :'( :'( :'( I currently decommisioned the Silverstone and got the Denon 3910s from AVD in Shang.
on going Im building 2
1st rig (tested once)
Silverstone LC03
1 gig DDR400
Asus K8V SE Deluxe
80 Gig & 160 Gig SATA
Innod 3D 6600 GT 128mb
Athlon 64 3200+
LG Super DVD writer 16x
Hex (something forgot) 475 watts
2nd rig
Asus A8n SLI
SATA 250 Gig
X600 powercolor ATI
iyong ibang parts wala pa di available sa pinas, like socket 939 Athlon 64 FX etc.... trying to buy sa labas.
Questions:
1. The DTS soundtracks in DVD movies or DiVx files are not being decoded at all, what additional codec(s) or filter program(s) do I need to install to decode the soundtrack properly? AC3filter is useful for decoding DD5.1 in DiVx files but not DTS.
2. How and what software can I use to make or force an anamorphic (16:9) signal output from the video output of a graphics card connected to a 4:3 TV (through S-Video)? I have tried the trial version of PowerStrip and its quite frustrating to use.
3. Is it possible to take advantage of the postprocessing features of a HTPC when used in conjunction with an outdated 4:3 Standard Definition TV not even capable of any Progressive Scanning?
Current System:
Laptop: Compaq 2800
Specs-
CPU: Intel Pentium 4 Mobile 1.8 Ghz
RAM: 512 MB PC266
VID: Ati Mobile Radeon 7500
Screen: 15" LCD UXGA (1600x1200 native res.)
WinDvD 6
PowerStrip Trial Version
Windows XP Home Edition
FFdshow
Zoom Player
2. Are you talking about DivX or DVDs? With DVDs? with DivX you can encode it into your desired aspect ratio. For DVD's You can change the aspect ratio using zoomplayer by pressing "R". To use a 16:9 hardware resolution on a 4:3 SDTV thats not possible. To connect to an SDTV your only option is to use Composite or S-Video. The output from your card is a hardware scaled resolution. Your video card has to convert the hi resoultion image to 480i with its own (DACS) Digital to Analog Converters so even using powerstrip its imposible, your video card will always convert whatever resolution you have into 480i (which is 4:3).
mga sir.... how much po kaya abutin paggumawa po ng htpc setup now?
sir jpadua , jackryan n sir andaleon...hehe...dami ko nang nababasa..tnx sa mga info..para tuloy nakakaingganyo magassemble nito..kaya lang madugo sobra.....hehe... congrats ngapala mga sir..ganda nung mga setup and mga napopost niyo... :)
PaxPower Akasa Powesupply - This is very interesting... Dual 12v rails (one dedicated for the CPU)... rock stable... and almost in audible at 18db.
This is what I plan to buy next. You can order this through Waycool of TipidPC (he brings in all the akasa stuff) This PSU can power a rig full of drives, lights, fans, intensive video card. Best of all its almost inaudible, really silent. (about 24db is what your ear can hear in normal situations)
about 5K
Jay,
Are there potential PSU modifications such as changing the internal fans perhaps to more specialized fans that generates much less noise?
thanks,
-jackryan 8)
What do you mean exactly by outputting Anamorphic widescreen to a 4:3 TV?
Once my 4:3 SDTV detects an incoming anamorphic signal (from the set top dvd player), it(TV) will automatically switch to convert the signal into LBWS. I call this "outputting an anamorphic signal" because the TV literally switches to widescreen mode with black bars appearing on the top and bottom part of the screen. So while playing an anamorphic dvd, the TV is in this "widescreen mode" and, say, I flip the TV channels, the TV images will appear squashed similar to viewing 4:3 material on a 16:9 screen. I was hypotizing that if I can make my video card output to the TV an anamorphic signal (just like what the set top dvd player does when playing anamorphic materials), then perhaps it would trigger the TV to swtich to its "widescreen mode" and therefore the output from the laptop will at least look similar to the set top players. I hope this is much clearer. ;D
So basically there are no apparent benefits in using HTPC ONLY with a SDTV due to resolution limitations of the latter.
question lang po.
meron po bang s-video to component output adapter or cable?yung available locally..eh kamusta naman yung picture quality nun? plano ko kasing gawin htpc yung pc ko ngayon.thanks!
Question for sir jpadua, what is the native resolution of your philips pixelplus when connected via VGA and using NTSC videos? I have a 29" 4:3 pixelplus tv and I am building an HTPC for it.
Thanks
Jpadua,
how much ram would be needed? Would Windows XP be sufficient already? Also, can you pm the price of the Accent HT-400.
with my experience with the pixel plus the best resolution was 720x540. I was also able to use 800x600@50hz full screen. These interlaced resolutions also work with the pixel plus. 1024x768i, 1280x1024i and 1920x1080i. 1024x768 has black borders top bottom and sides so its not good. 800x600 is good for games but 1280x1024i is the best full screen. Good for games if your PC is fast enough. 1920x1080i is ok for movies but you can barely read any text. 1280x960i is also allowed but there will be a slight distorion of the image, streched horizontally.
Make several profiles.
720x540p for DVD Progressive scan
800x600p @50hz for Web Browsing and Gaming
1280x1024i for gaming
1920x1080i for DVD Interlaced (Picture is slightly better than 540p)
Jay
jay any development sa silvestone transaction mo?
Hi Dokie, I'm not sure if there is an s-video to component adaptor or if there is (acc. john doe's post) you would still be getting an s-video signal. Just through a different kind of cable. The video output coming from the s-video port is already a downsized pc resolutions permanently configured at 480i. I doubt you will see much of a difference using an s-video to component cable ot a straight s-video connection to your TV.
You dont have to spend for a component cable.. just plug the s-video cable straight into your TV's s-video inputs. Most modern TVs have an S-video video input.
jpadua,
what kind of connection do you use to connect your PC to your TV? component? what videocard accomodates component output? thanks!
I'm a newbie in HTPC set up and now thinking of getting one in order to take advantage of my soon to be purchased Samsung DLP that has both DVI & HDMI input. I'm so confused with many things & seek your kind advices. Recently got even confuse when a salesman told me in ATI Radeon 9000 series, there are at least 5 different models??
Found the following specs in Windows Media High Definition Video site:
Optimum Configuration
(to play 1080p video with 5.1 surround sound)
Windows XP
Windows Media Player 9 Series
DirectX 9.0
3.0 GHz processor or equivalent
512 MB of RAM
128 MB video card
DVD drive
1920 x 1440 screen resolution
24-bit 96 kHz multichannel sound card
5.1 surround sound speaker system
I'm totally loss of what the above are all about. All I know I need a good video card & sound card. All those RAM or REM beats me :-[ May I know any good & realiable computer shops that carry or can set up the above specs & what brand/models do u recommend?
I presume the above recommended specs should have DVI & HDMI output so that I can connect to my HDTV display. Thanks guys! :)
Correction on the Syntax LCD,
I posted before that you can only use either VGA or DVI one at a time. Mali pala ako :D I have it connected to 2 PC's isa VGA and another sa DVI and I can switch pc's via remote of the TV.
jay,
yung syntax lcd mo ba yung olevia? muntik na kong makakuha nyan nung magsale dito for $799 :)
btw, Windows Media Center 2005 will be released to 20 additional countries (http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=4186) HK,Taiwan & Singapore included. susunod na Pinas dyan(sana... :))
i recently added a Hauppage PVR250 MCE in my HTPC. now, I have 2 SDTV and 1 HDTV recorder, most of the time, recording at the same time. hehehe. addict na sa TV.
Need GAMING Advice:
A PC store saleman suggested that I should try PC Gaming with a rig like mine.
I have been doing a lot of video editing and Hi Def Archiving but have not looked at what seems to an exciting world of PC Gaming. Maybe I just did not have the time.
I am a newbie when it comes to Gaming.
I asked a couple of friends and I'll ask you guys:
What do you recommend? What gear?
I have always like Flying, so maybe I should start with a Flight Simulator. Any suggestions?
Few changes I made to my HTPC :
1.) Pentium 4 3.4GHz 550 Procesor 800 MHz FSB, 1MB Cache-Overclocked to 3.9 Ghz
2.) Asus P5AD2 Motherboard, PCI Express, 1394B Firewire 800
3.) Radeon X800 XT Platinum PCI Express-16 Video Card-OVERCLOCKED
4.) Two 250 GB Each SATA Drives, RAID 0 Array
5.) Two 34 GB Each RAPTOR Drives (10,000 RPM, SATA) for OS and Program Files RAID 0 Array
6.) 1 GB DDR2 PC2-4300 RAM Overclocked to 600 Mhz
7.) DVico Fusion 3 Gold HDTV card ATSC/QAM,
8.) M-Audio Revolution 7.1 Sound Card,
9.) Sony DVD DRU-700 Dual Layer DVD+-R/RW drive.
10.) Monarchy Audio 24/96 Digital Interface Processor (DIP) for jitter reduction.
11.) CoolerMaster Stacker Case with Crossflow fan
(http://www.coolermaster.com/product_common_images/16fe07d26de5c6a4c2d13bf4493fd8b2.jpg)
12.) Two 550W Antec True Power Power Supplies
13.) Two Antec Hard Drive coolers
14.) Two Removable 250 GB EIDE Drives-
Out Intel, In AMD..
New configuration:
1.) AMD FX-55 CPU
2.) Asus AN8-SLI motherboard
3.) Two NVidia 6800 Ultra in SLI Mode
4.) 2GB DDR-400 RAM
5.) M-Audio Audiophile 24/192 Soundcard.
Other than that everything stays the same.
A question. If I use the DVI output from my HTPC & connect it direct to a TV say the Samsung DLP with DVI input (which has this HDCP protection), is this compatible? Acoording to reviews both DVI terminals must support the HDCP otherwise the high definition contents will be scale downed?? How can I be sure the DVI from my HTPC is with HDPC? :(
A question. If I use the DVI output from my HTPC & connect it direct to a TV say the Samsung DLP with DVI input (which has this HDCP protection), is this compatible? Acoording to reviews both DVI terminals must support the HDCP otherwise the high definition contents will be scale downed?? How can I be sure the DVI from my HTPC is with HDPC? :(
A TV, like the Samsung DLP,? treats DVI video from a PC differently from the DVI output of say--a DVD player.
When it sees a PC signal, it does not expect a HDCP handshake. Some TV you have to set the DVI input to PC-DVI? input or Video-DVI input. I don't know of any PC that transmits HDCP. Your set-up should work.
Hmmmm, Actually I'm not sure... DVI is still pretty tricky, sometimes it depends on the Set, on some HDTVs DVI works without a hitch on some, ayaw talaga mag sync ng tama... The best way is to look for someone who has the same TV to test it, look for other users who have tried it. Anyway the newer HDTVs are mostly PC ready, unlike the older ones which didnt have PC connections in mind (HDTV Set Top Boxes only). The model prior to the latest one works in DVI, There are several PDVD members who use the Samsung DLP with DVI you can ask them. In anycase that is an awesome TV.
Thanks guys. Yes I do hope the DLP DVI will ignore the HDCP from my PC signal....I hav epurchased all my HTPC parts na....in teh process of assembly...unfortunately I can't find a proper Sound Blaster Audigy 2 card that has a digital optical output (24 bit 192 khz) so that I can connect it to my HI-FI.
Sir Jay,
Pinoydvd member ba yun owner ng HTPC and HT room that was featured sa DTour last night?
Hi Rydent,
Yung owners hindi ata eh, cliente lang namin nag paalam kami if we could use thier HT room for the Dtour Feature. (BTW ako yung kalbo iniinterview dun heheh)....
Jay
Need some help here. What else do I need to have the ultimate HTPC??
Here's my current setup
Foxxconn Motherboard (661FX4MR-ES)
Intel Pentium 4 Processor 3E Ghz (imb L2-Cache, 800 Mhz FS8, PGA-478 Pkg)
512 RAM
Aoc monitor 5nE (15")
What the best sound card,Video card.or what the best hardwares to have the best HTPC??? ;D
Need some help here. What else do I need to have the ultimate HTPC??
Here's my current setup
Foxxconn Motherboard (661FX4MR-ES)
Intel Pentium 4 Processor 3E Ghz (imb L2-Cache, 800 Mhz FS8, PGA-478 Pkg)
512 RAM
Aoc monitor 5nE (15")
What the best sound card,Video card.or what the best hardwares to have the best HTPC??? ;D
Thanks for your reply. I will browse through the site.
Read this guide (http://www.2cpu.com/articles/113_1.html) for more info.
*You might consider adding a good TV tuner, which the guide discusses thoroughly.
*Assuming you are in the market for a video card, get one based on the Nvidia 6600GT chip with the DDR3 memory
*Get a sound card like M-Audio or use you may use your motherboard's sound port to save on some cash.
What is your budget?As long as I can afford it.
sa us ko pinabili USD 1199 list price ...a bargain considering the other alternatives.
ito manual
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/monitors/2405fpw/English/index.htm
1. what are your comments on my rig? are there other improvements necessary?
2. i cant get to use my tv / fm tuner with mce front end which i guess is because it is not yet supported so i decided to try meedio in its trial version, i cant get to use it either but according to the forum, puede naman daw...any advice on this one?
3. what is the girder software? can i use it using my winfast remote?
ty po to any of your comments an inputs.
The AGP Fast Write is disabled. Each time I enable it & later restart the computer, the AGP will be automatically disable! That's strange. Do I need to install any special driver to enable my AGP?
sir i have 43in samsung hdtv rptv...meron sya dvi / vga in...sinubukan ko i-hook sa computer ko pero parang nag double sya ng lumabas...tipong parang naduling ako...any tips on how to correctly set this thing up. ty po
nawawala yung settings nya sa BIOS? you might need to upgrade your AGP driver though I'm not sure if it matters for WMV HD playback
Speaking of DVI...geez.... I didn't realize this cable isn't available in the local market....after searching everywhere... Then I tried to purchase online & to my surprise...there r many different types od DVI?? About 10 different types of DVI? Whoa.... I'm still confused if mine is either DVI-D Dual Link or DVI-D Single Link? Anyone can shed some light? ;D
GM,
sir thanks for head-up..tried searching pero unfortunately wala ata dun eh...according to the manual my tv can accept xga..whatever that is...i am using a vga-to-dvi (tv to pc) connection since ala akong mahaba na dvi cable (for a dvi-to-dvi connection). any general guides to follow on powerstrip thing? ty po
i have an ati radeon 9600 video card.
the tv manual says it can support the following:
vga
640 x 480 60hz
640 x 480 75hz
svga
900 x 600 60hz
900 x 600 75hz
xga
1024 x 768 60hz
1024 x 768 75hz
it further says that it cannot support interlace mode (whatever that is)
sa us ko pinabili USD 1199 list price ...a bargain considering the other alternatives.
ito manual
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/monitors/2405fpw/English/index.htm
nice monitor n very nice price! do you find the 1920x1200 resolution too big for the 26" screen or just right? have you tried 1080p on 'em? how is it for watching dvd's? thanks!
interesting new HTPC case..
http://www.htpcnews.com/main.php?id=x15
:)
(http://www.iuneed.com/prodimages/X15e/x15e-blk-1.jpg)
(http://www.iuneed.com/prodimages/X15e/x15e-blk-2.jpg)
sana lang e makakuha at a discounted price.. bale wala VFD and IR ng Ahanix ko (1st gen Ahanix D4), hindi ko magamit sa MCE. anyways, this seems like a better solution than me getting a seperate touch-screen monitor to control my MCE machine without turning on my TV.
Gyus,
Check ous cases also by www.hifiatx.com.
These cases make your PC look like a true high grade audio electronics.
Para bang, Mark Levinson or Classe.
ok to a! may distrubutor ba to sa US? and june '05 pa available.
as in totally fanless. may option kaya to install diffrent VFD besides iMon? yung directly supported sana ng windows mce
Gyus,
Check ous cases also by www.hifiatx.com.
These cases make your PC look like a true high grade audio electronics.
Para bang, Mark Levinson or Classe.
Jay,
Do you have HTPC case for sale? pero yung medyo affordaboys ha!!? ;D
Quite tired looking at my ShuttleX HTPC. I might sell this unit nalang.
Medyo nakakasawa. Limited PCI card slot kc puro external tuloy gamit ko kakainis. :(
Here's a very good one from Silverstone:
(http://www.silverstonetek.com/products/lc14m/34%20view/LC14BM.jpg)
I'm using one of this. I love the remote function.
Plenty of room and can accomodate a full ATX board.
Here is the link:
http://www.silverstonetek.com/products-lc14m.htm
Pasingit lang po -- ;D
got dual 256ddr, 80 gig HD (30 for os / 50 video file).. i am presently trying to enter the video editing world so upgrade is in my mind..
what would u think should i upgrade first, the memory or the HD? thnks for any insights.
bro Bumble, ur saying that i have to start my upgrade with the memory? if ever .. i will have to get two 512 -- right?
btw, my HD is 7200 rpm already... ty. :)
nice monitor n very nice price! do you find the 1920x1200 resolution too big for the 26" screen or just right? have you tried 1080p on 'em? how is it for watching dvd's? thanks!On what display do you display 1080p? AFAIK they're coming out months from now.
My still messy HTPC Setup:Not that I dont believe you but can your Samsung really do 1080p?
Intel P4 2.6c
2 x 256 MB DDR400
2 x 80Gb Seagate Harddisks
Samsung DVD-ROM Drive
Sony DRU-510ULX External DVD Writer
Inno3D GeForceFX 5600 128mb
1 x Jetway PCI-TV TV Tuner Card
Altec Lansing PowerCube 45.1 powered by onboard audio (I know, i know!!!)
Logitech RF wireless keyboard and mouse
Snapstream Firefly RF Remote
Driving a Samsung ST-50L2HX 50-inch DLP Widescreen TV via VGA port
Running Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005
Watching WMV-HD content at 720p and 1080p is awesome!!! Doom 3 is also a sight to behold... :)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v376/rene_canlas/IMG_2577.jpg)
On what display do you display 1080p? AFAIK they're coming out months from now.
i dont, my display is limited to 720p. i was talking about jambam's dell monitor which does 1920x1200. 1080p has been available for some time, mostly in some 40+ inch lcd tv's (i.e. samsung has one, sharp has one, etc), prohibitively expensive though... the 24" dell monitor that jambam got has a native resolution of 1920x1200 and can therefor display 1080p resolution
Finally! Realtime AC3 encoding in hardware (http://www.bluegears.com/soundcard_xmystique.html)
im not sure about the price (http://www.bluebonepc.com/catalog/detail.asp?id=SD-BG-HDA%20X-Mystique) though but it seems worth it. hintayin ko muna mga personal review before diving into getting one.
how much na ba m audio ngayon jay?
guys, I have an idea, buildin HTPC via bluetooth interface. the idea is to bypass the IR-Remote which uses line-of-sight.
Bluetooth enable mobile phone + FMA + bluetooth dongle combination.
FMA is an application interface software that enables you to control PCs via bluetooth enable cellphone. You can use the mobile phone as your remote, you can open applications on your computer using only your mobile phone. PowerDVD, Winamp, WinDVD, etc. Audio Volume can also be regulated thru the mobile phone.
here's the FMA link:
http://fma.sourceforge.net/
Cheers,
-LtCool-
ask ko lang about TV Tuners...
ano po ba ang pinaka ok na TV Tuner dito ?? pano po yung Sound nun ?? san ko kakabit ?? thnx
im planning on building an HTPC / Gaming PC setup kc e.. pero ung 19" Viewsonic na Monitor ko lang gagamitin.. :)
so bali yung cable ng skycable kakabit ko nalang sa TV tuner ko?? what about the sound po?? ???
Tanong lng po! San b nkakabili ng mga HTPC cases. puro kc tower case nakikita ko eh. HTPC rulez!!!!!!
San b nkakabili ng water cooling system? gusto ko kc palitan ung sa MSI 865 ingay kc ng fan and sobrang init. San ba meron nun Aquagate? Thanks!!!
Pasali mga Bosing ;D ;)
Processor Amd Athlon 64 3400
Motherboard ASUS K8V SE Deluxe
Video card ASUS N6600 GeForce 6200 256MB AGP-8X
RAM Geil 2 GB PC400 DDR SDRAM W/ RAMSINK
Hard Drives 1 SEAGATE 120GB SATA
1 SEAGATE 200GB SATA
Sound Card Creative Sound Blaster Audigy 2 Platinum Pro THX/DD/DTS
Speaker Logitech Z-5500 Digital, a THX®-certified, DTS/DD 500-watt 5.1 speaker system
Monitor ViewSonic E90f+SB 19-inch Monitor
Optical Drive Lite-On SOHW-1653SX 16x Dual Layer DVD±RW External Drive
Sony DRX-800UL 16x Double Layer/DUAL LAYER DVD±RW Drive
PIONEER 16X DVD ROM
Tv Tuner Leadtek WinFast TV USB II
Casing Lian Li PC-7 Black Aluminum Mid Tower ATX Case
Power Supply HEC WinPower 550-Watts Power Supply
UPS APC Back-UPS RS 1000VA
Floppy Drive Sony Black 1.44
Keyboard Logitech Cordless MX 700 Duo Optical
Mouse Logitech® MX™1000 Laser Cordless Mouse
Mouse Pad Thick bond paper ;D
Gaming Accesories Logitech® MOMO® Racing
Microsoft SideWinder Dual Strike
Microsoft SideWinder game pad
Decoder Sigma Designs’ REALmagic Xcard™
REALmagic™ Hollywood Plus
hi! i have this sort of a card-a videologic with a sigma design chipset (dvd decoder). para saan ba ito? it was included in the computer that was given to me by my cousin eh, but have since not used the computer at kinahuyan ko na lang. can anyone shed me some information on this. i have surfed for it in the internet pero di ko pa rin ma gets kung para saan ito...i mean what can it do my system? i have an athlon64 with leadtek winfast tv. will this card improve my dvd watching via my pc? btw here is a link of the now discontinued product...http://www.videologic.com/Products/VL-60355/ProductFeatures.asp?Product=VL-60355
hi! i have this sort of a card-a videologic with a sigma design chipset (dvd decoder). para saan ba ito? it was included in the computer that was given to me by my cousin eh, but have since not used the computer at kinahuyan ko na lang. can anyone shed me some information on this. i have surfed for it in the internet pero di ko pa rin ma gets kung para saan ito...i mean what can it do my system? i have an athlon64 with leadtek winfast tv. will this card improve my dvd watching via my pc? btw here is a link of the now discontinued product...http://www.videologic.com/Products/VL-60355/ProductFeatures.asp?Product=VL-60355
mga sirs. may question ako. I'm planning to setup my HTPC. I just purchased a LCD/TV with only HDMI as tv out nya. Walang DVI na pwede ko connect sa PC ko. If ever, saan nakakabili ng connector para sa DVI? I already have an adaptor to convert DVI to HDMI. yung cable na lang ang kulang. Thanks!
senor rene,
this is a very good keyboard... can you tell me via pm where you got this?
thanks!!!
-jackryan 8)
no need for pm, it's right there - Columbia Megamall
Wala bang PC input yung LCD/TV mo? (VGA) To what I know, DVI to HDMI is still flaky, you can try it though, in a lot of forums, a lot of people have problems getting the correct resolution, or some dont even send out a signal. Although there are some who report that it works fine with their displays. You can order DVI-D cables in Greenhills (the parking lot in front of Virramall) the name of the store is smart systems corporation. Their store doesnt really look like a store, it looks more like a repair center, but they have DVI-D cables and VGA cables for sale.
If you can in the meantime try using VGA instead. The difference is hardly discernable.
Anything new on the HTPC front? havent heard from this thread in a while, by the way I finally got my Silverstone LC16m! will take pictures and post later!
Other heads up,
the latest pure video decoders are out, use them with the latest nvidia drivers, they can now process 1080i material. If you have a 6600GT and up, go grab the new drivers and codecs :)
you're right... i think i need to upgrade my glasses pretty soon.... :-) might be the effect of too much airsoft pellets coming may way every weekends hehehe... ;D
btw, this is much cooler than the wireless acer keyboard i got from HK before... hope there is a unit being sold somewhere near makati though... have to check whether columbia has a branch within Makati area...
thanks...
-jackryan 8)
Here's mine:
HP Media Center m7160n Photosmart PC
Processor Pentium D 820
RAM 1.5 GB PC2-3200 DDR2 SDRAM
Video card NVIDIA GeForce 6600 GT
Hard Drive 250GB 7200RPM Serial ATA
Speaker Logitech Z-5500
Built-in tv-tuner, fm radio tuner, card reader, dual sound panel (front and back), dual av connector (front and back), media bay drive, media center remote control
Monitor HP vs17 LCD
Optical Drive HP Lightscribe Dual Layer DVD±RW External Drive
HP DVD-ROM
UPS APC Back-UPS
Mouse Logitech MX1000 Laser Cordless Mouse
Hi there, HTPC newbie here :).
I just got my LCD TV for my bedroom so I thought of exploring the HTPC path. I already have a separate setup in my HT room, and I have spare speakers and amplifiers. This will be a 2nd setup, so I wont be pouring too much budget on it.
What sound cards are available in the local market for this (for external amps) ?
Around how much are they and where can they be bought?
The only one I learned about was the Audigy 2.
Thanks :)
Kindly PM me the price and which one (Xraider or Xplosion) can be connected to power amps without the need for pre-amps.
Thanks :)
@jpadua
sir jpadua, meron pala kayong dvi to component adapter for ati cards.. pwede po ba yan sa sapphire radeon 9100? kasi nabasa ko sa net na ang core daw ng 9100 ay pareho ng 8500.... thanks!
Hi! Just wondering if upgrading my 32mb video card to a 128mb ATI Radeon would improve the video quality of my dvds on my computer monitor? I am not a gamer just wanted to improve the quality of videos in my pc. BTW, I am using a 21 inch HP flat screen monitor. ???
Thanks for the info jay. I will scout around with the videocards you've mentioned. ;D
sir jpadua...can one have a decent HTPC or if not pang HTPC eh atleast a Decent Computer on a budget? ex is between 30k to 35k? it can run na ba yung mga video na medyo nagrerequired ng high performance videocard?pwede po pa pm yung marecommend niyo sir. :) thanks in advance sir jpadua.
is this 30-35K without a monitor?
Definately:
Recently built a decent computer for my Mother, we only spent 24K So if your budget is 10K more you can get a better video card and more ram or a faster processor.
This is all with stock cooling.
Casing: G3 PC Case w/power supply
CPU: Athlon64 +2800
Board: ECS Nforce3A (nforce3 250)
Ram: Generic 512MB
Video: ATI 9200 128mb
Sound: On Board
Hardisk: 80 GB Seagate Baraccuda
Optical Drive: Lite-on DVD/CDRW combo
is this 30-35K without a monitor?
Definately:
Recently built a decent computer for my Mother, we only spent 24K So if your budget is 10K more you can get a better video card and more ram or a faster processor.
This is all with stock cooling.
Casing: G3 PC Case w/power supply
CPU: Athlon64 +2800
Board: ECS Nforce3A (nforce3 250)
Ram: Generic 512MB
Video: ATI 9200 128mb
Sound: On Board
Hardisk: 80 GB Seagate Baraccuda
Optical Drive: Lite-on DVD/CDRW combo
Now here are some suggestions for a better setup on a budget
Athlon64 +3000
1 GB Ram
Nvidia Card 6600GT AGP
Benq DVDRW (currently the best DVD writer in the market, its really quiet and suuuuuper fast)
you would also want a TV Tuner if you really want to use this machine as an HTPC. Leadtek winfast expert (budget 2.8K) Leadtek winfast PVR2000 (about 5K)
Mix and match nalang, balance the hardware with your budget. :)
Even Better Suggestions
Go for a 939 socket mobo
Nforce4. Foxconn is really good. has 4PCI slots and only 1 useless PCIE, 1 PCIE for video. Most Nforce4 Boards only have 2 or 3 regular PCI slots.
BTW Foxconnn is the OEM provder also for a lot of Branded PCs (HP for example).
For PCIE video card here are some suggestions
Nvidia 6200 = good for video, not really for gaming
Nvidia 6600GT = good for video decent for gaming
Both cards support Purevideo WMV HD acceleration in hardware.
Goodluck!
If your budget will fit.
sir , about naman po dun sa 2nd suggestion niyo po sir? kasya pa po ba sa budget yun pagnagmix and match nalang po sa hardware? and sir whats foxconn po? sorry di kasi talaga familiar sa mga manufacturer(brand) eh..if it will fit to our budget,e di mas ok po sir.. thanks in advance po uli :)
sir ano ba talaga pinagkaiba if ill get a athlon64 to pentium? kasi naguguluhan ako sa mga salesman, they insist na pentuim daw! lalo na if magrequire ng highgraphics... ???
Thanks for the very informative info & price computations above sir JP!
I met Jamie (BNG) yesterday and he says he knows you. I bought my speakers from him a year ago, and yesterday I got his Rotel power amp that he used to connect to his HTPC.
QUESTION: When you say 7.1 capable, is that for pc speakers? or does it mean it comes with 7 output jacks that can be connected to amplifiers?
7.1 meaning you can connect it to a 7.1 direct input amp, or 7.1 PC speakers. You have to use a software decoder though, like winDVD or PowerDVD That supports Dolby Digital EX and DTS ES decoding in software. If the Board has spdif out (optical or coaxial) that means if you amp/receiver has ddex or dtses then, the amp will do the decoding, windvd will just send the digital data to the reciever.
Finally an Nvidia Nforce 6150 board is out in the philippine market. Asiantech has just posted on the latest PC buyers guide. Gigabyte 6150 mobo!
Just to give you an idea the potential of this mobo:
MicroATX
Support for the latest Athlon64/FX Procs
Nforce4 Chipset Family
The onboard GPU is a Geforce6 class, so it supports HD video acceleration
Breakout Box with Component output and S-video
VGA out on board.
Spdif Header (you can just make a digital coax and connect to the spdif pins on the board)
High Definition Audio with 7.1 Analog output
Sadly no DVI output but atleast its got component out which most HDTVs support.
All in one multimedia board in microATX form factor.
ive asked pc corner if they have a stock of the 6600GT. by order daw yun?
hehe. mukhang makatiis naman ako bago mag assemble, matatapos na kasi feb :D
Pare,
You may want to also post approximate cost per component of what you listed and also when/where you got them.
This will give prospective new hobbyist to start thinking about the possibilities of HTPC in their HT set-ups :-)
I've been eyeing this for awhile, for now, I have to strike it out with an Xbox modified console and standard dvd player on my HT set-up.
regards,
-jackryan 8)
Maybe the earlier versions of the Gigabyte board had problems, here's a review from bjorn3d 8/10 score.
http://www.bjorn3d.com/read.php?cID=874
I like the Asus 6150 board too. Is it available here as well? The only thing I have against it is that they skimped on the Audio, only 5.1 and not the new 7.1 HD audio.
hi - how much would a "beginner's" HTPC cost if built from scratch?
ty
Hard to say unless you put down what specific parts you want/need or what you plan to use it for.
It differs from a regular PC because you may need the ff parts to really make it a genuine HTPC per se:
1.) Tv Tuner
2.) Wireless Keyboard and mice
3.) etc..
Resident HTPC Guru, jpadua, pls add some more.... ;D
Just a thought...
Imo, 7.1 is really not needed since most materials (whether DVDs or HDTV) are mostly formatted in 5.1 . Die-hard audophiles would have opted for a separate high-end soundcard anyways since on-board wont really cut out for them. By the time, 7.1 materials become more prevalent or the industry standard, then it would be the start of the hardware upgrade (incl. HTPCs) for most people.
:)
Dali lang yan ;)
A PC is really a machine tailored to what its going to be used for. Office computers, Computers in recording studios, Computers for 3D animation, etc. In our case, we use a PC for Home Entertainment. HTPC Home Theater PC. Home Theater meaning you're supposed to be able to do the following:
1> Watch DVDs in 5.1 surround sound
2> Watch TV / Record TV / Schedule
3> Listen to Digital Music / Organize your music collection
4> Backup DVDs
5> Backup CDs
6> Watch video files on your TV
7> PC gaming on your TV
8> Surf the internet on your TV
and so on....
All your media in one box centered around your home theater system.
based on what you want it to do, that what would compose your parts list. Of course you would want to control it from your couch right? so a Wireless Keyboard and mouse or a PC remote control.
Based on that your HTPC should have:
1. DVD-Rom / DVD-RW
2. 5.1 Soundcard preferably with Spdif output
3. TV-tuner
4. Wireless Keyboard / mouse
With those four you can make any PC an HTPC.
Anyway I gathered some market prices for you: Rough estimates.
Case/PSU/Keyboard/Mouse = P1,500 (Most cases come with PSU/Keyboard/Mouse just look for a nice looking case) - PC Express
Processor: Athlon64 +3200 socket 939 = P9,800 - PC Corner
Motheboard: ECS Nforce4 = P5,100 (has 5.1 Audio outputs, and coaxial digital output) - PC Corner
Ram: Kingston 512MB = P2,800 - PC Corner
Video Card: Inno3d FX6200 = P4,650 (supports Nvidia Purevideo and WMV-HD acceleration) PC Corner
Harddisk: Seagate 7200rpm 120GB = P4,350 - PC Corner
DVD Writer: Benq 1640 DVDRW = P3,100 - Computer Farm Festival Mall
TV Tuner: Leadtek winfast Expert =P 2,850 - PC Corner
Total: 34,150
This is pretty solid na for an HTPC. You can get an Inno3D 6600GT PCIe instead if you also want to use it for decent gaming, maybe add around 2-3K? or you could also use a lower CPU to cut your cost by about 1-3K either an Athlon64 3000 or Athlon 64 2800.
sir nirv... i was thinking of it too. :) looks good nga. dont know lang kung how much. i think sir jpadua can answer this. meron sa link niya sa sig na binebenta
sir iceman90a... yup. yan nga yun.. meron pa si sir jpadua na ni list down aside from that. wala lang dyan is yung monitor
I was thinking if those HTPC casings or those horizontal casings can accomodate all of the peripherals like cards and all the accessories that can be placed in a tower casing? What are the limitations? What motherboard can fit? Can I just transfer all of my stuff inside my tower casing to the horizontal one? I'm interested coz it will look good with all of my audio video stuff in an AV rack.
Yup saw those at PC Buyers Guide and this one also caught my attention:
(http://www.pcabusers.com/reviews/antec/overture/pic2.jpg)
Antec Overture in Black Piano Finish
Features:
~ TruePower 380 Watt ATX12V Power Supply features a single-fan design for ultra quiet operation.
~ Front mounted USB & IEEE 1394 (FireWire®) ports
~ Washable Air Filter
~ Front Audio ports
~ 7 Drive Bays:
- 2 x 5.25" external drive bays
- 2 x 3.5" external drive bays
- 3 x 3.5" internal drive bays in individual trays with rubber grommets to absorb hard drive vibrations
Cooling: 1x92mm Fan
- 1 rear (standard) 25mm thick
~ Motherboards up to Standard ATX
Review: http://www.pcabusers.com/reviews/antec/overture/page1.html
This retails at P6950.00 based on PC Buyer's Guide price list.
Hi,
Please recommend naman kayo ng video card for HTPC use, mga 2.5K lang po ang price.
Thanks.
Hi fellow HTPC enthusiasts :)
- a good sound card (probably Audigy 2?)
- a nice HTPC casing with LED panel and IR remote (saan kaya merong sleek designs?)
- RF wireless keyboard with touchpad (hard to find this one...)
- TV Tuner and PVR (any suggestions on this one?)
Did I miss anything else? :)
Cheers!
- TV Tuner and PVR (any suggestions on this one?) - sir jpadua also suggest some few pages back. you may also check it out. ;)
Hi JP. Is it possible to connect a laptop to a receiver for decoding of dvd sounds? If so what do I need? Thanks for any input.
Eddie
hey guys, what front end sw are you using for your htpc? any one here uses winfast tv2000xp with a particular front end with success? thanks in advance.
Hi JP. Is it possible to connect a laptop to a receiver for decoding of dvd sounds? If so what do I need? Thanks for any input.
Eddie
By the way I still have 3PCs left of the Xmystique 7.1 Dolby Digital Live sound card. PM nyo nalang ako if you want. Thanks!
been fooling around with the EPG for windows MCE 2005, have been able to create an EPG for Philippines but the time is screwed up, does anyone have any thoughts... oh yeah hi to everyone
running a celeron box with windows XP MCE 2005, hauppauge tuner card and a Microsoft remote v2
Does MCE have the option to offset in hours?I dont know yet I will fool around with it some more. Any other solutions I am really stuck?
hi jay, this is tim the friend of hans(focal), havent had much time to fool around with MCE but I sold a few setups awhile back for a crazy amount ;). This is actually the first time I installed MCE for myself that's why I'm actually taking time to explore other aspects of the OS. I imported the hauppauge tuners from hauppauge in NY, their dual tuners work great! I also imported cases form Silverstone before, I can help you get dealers prices if you dont have them yet, I got my company listed under the Philippine dealer for a huge order I did a while back. I also brought in a few MS remotes before from the states. I just used the parts I had left over and decided to put together a low cost MCE box for myself. I still have one OEM hauppauge tuner(single tuner) but its MCE 2005 version so it comes with a FM tuner. Regarding my problem with the EPG, yes, I am using TVXB and Bladerunner pro I dont know yet I will fool around with it some more. Any other solutions I am really stuck?
by the way nasira yung remote ko ng marantz saan ba nakakabili ng replacement?I'll have to ask hans or baka I can still get in touch with the importer of marantz. I got my first case from kanam, shipped straight from korea, mahal!
I have an order for a licenced MCE OS which im still waiting for.meron pa ako sealed OEM 2005 version, but I dont have a spare remote right now. If you want the OS bigay ko sayo mura. ;) I can try to convince Silverstone to go below 20 pc min. order if you need a small volume order.
they have a guide to use MCE with TVXB langcan you point me to that guide, all I got was "TVxb with Bladeruuner pro MCE guide" I thought bladerunner was the one used to fool MCE into thinking it was downloading from from the internet? anyway I guess magpupuyat pa ako :'(
I'll have to ask hans or baka I can still get in touch with the importer of marantz. I got my first case from kanam, shipped straight from korea, mahal! meron pa ako sealed OEM 2005 version, but I dont have a spare remote right now. If you want the OS bigay ko sayo mura. ;) I can try to convince Silverstone to go below 20 pc min. order if you need a small volume order. can you point me to that guide, all I got was "TVxb with Bladeruuner pro MCE guide" I thought bladerunner was the one used to fool MCE into thinking it was downloading from from the internet? anyway I guess magpupuyat pa ako :'(
what's the coolest running Athlon processor?
A64 with venice cores
A64 X2
Dual Core opteron?
Goin to build a new HTPC but I'm forced to use a 1U rackmount size heatsink fan specially made for the case, I'm not expecting really good noise/cooling efficiency with this cooler so I need a processor tha will generate the least heat on load, any ideas?
I heard dual core opterons run at 24c idle with stock cooling... not sure though
Thanks
Jay
pre-processing.bat is a batch file I madenice idea. Can you list the contents of the batch file so I can customize my own(in short pa-copya) ??? I'm inserting the UTC command line, let you know what happens. Thanks Jay.
nice idea. Can you list the contents of the batch file so I can customize my own(in short pa-copya) ??? I'm inserting the UTC command line, let you know what happens. Thanks Jay.
When HD videos are available na, will the HDCP issue affect the direct connection from a HTPC to a HDTV? It's reported the earlier DVI/HDMI chipset version isn't compatible with current HDTVs, hence resolution will be down-graded :-[
When HD videos are available na, will the HDCP issue affect the direct connection from a HTPC to a HDTV? It's reported the earlier DVI/HDMI chipset version isn't compatible with current HDTVs, hence resolution will be down-graded :-[
@ mr. jpadua,
sir ask ko lang ... i have a ioc 17 lcd monitor with vga and dvi input, can i install my vhs player with composite video ?? in tthere any adapter to make this connection posible?
thanks and more power
-doughn
@ mr. jpadua,
sir ask ko lang ... i have a ioc 17 lcd monitor with vga and dvi input, can i install my vhs player with composite video ?? in tthere any adapter to make this connection posible?
thanks and more power
-doughn
@ sir jpadua,
magkano sir score nyo sa case? is this available locally? ty sir
@japdua,
The case looks really nice! What boards can it accept? Can it only use half-height cards or may riser sya for full height cards?
Keep us posted on the developments, sir!
Rene
Wow! thanks for the quick update. I'm might be going to the US this month so I'm thinking of bringing back an HTPC case, pero this one is a great alternative.
Does it have other PCI slots for TV tuners and sound cards? Does it use 2.5 inch or 3.5 inch harddisks? May space ba sa harap for an LCD or Vacuum Display, and media card readers?
Sana pala gumamit sila ng Heatpipes instead of HSF technology.
The case can only use 1 expansion slot so either a Video Card, or a Soundcard or a TV card. The best motherboard would be an all in one, a mobo with video and audio so you can use that extra slot for a TV tuner.
This black case looks sleek, but the slim 1U size configuration may be a bit too limiting for some who need a really good video card and sound card combination. Some audiophiles might want to add a professional Lynx 2 sound card. Serious gamers and/or videophiles may need a stronger video card too.
On-board A/V modules are usually of low to average entry-level quality. What motherboards would you recommend that have "relatively" good on-board video (with DVI or HDMI out) and audio (with S/PDIF) for High Definition HT applications?
Also, has anyone here tried setting up a Linux-based HTPC box yet? I'm into Linux and there are tons of open-source media center apps available. The Linux OS, media center applications, codecs, etc. are all free, making the Linux HTPC box a cost-effective and formidable (if not better and more stable) alternative to a Windows-based HTPC. Hardware support on Linux has matured over the past few years so this may be an ideal platform for HTPC enthusiasts too.
Cheers!
Hey Jpadua,
Looks like nocturnal creature ka rin ah hehehe ;D
I really like that slim black casing since it deviates from the typical HTPC look. The ATI X300 on the DFI RS482 Infinity is good enough for most video playback up to 720p (maybe even up to 1080p with a fast Athlon). The lone slot can be reserved for a good sound card na siguro. What other mobo's would you recommend for 1U configurations? Di na ako updated sa mga bagong motherboard brands/models after a long hibernation from PC hardware/modding. May mga modders din ba dito sa PinoyDVD?
Marami na bang slot-loading DVD drives available for this black casing?
By the way, I've been looking for a good wireless keyboard with touchpad (preferably RF) na black. Maybe you have something like this? http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00083Y0YG/ref=ord_cart_shr/103-6907445-6993425?%5Fencoding=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&v=glance&n=172282 but this one's silver.
I'm also looking for good heat pipes. Any local sources?
Dami kong tanong. Thanks in advance.
Cheers!
nice one sir jpadua :D ... how much naman kaya it will cost..???
Ive been using the BTC wireless keyboard which could be had at 2K sa Octagon. Its pretty good. Its RF and has very good range compared to logitech keyboards. Also the BTC has a built in Joystick/Mouse controller. You can switch from Mouse mode to Joystick game mode with a function keypress on the keyboard. I'm loving this keyboard, although I still find it hard to type since I am not used to the key layout (parang laptop) compared to a traditional keyboard.
What do you mean by heatpipes... you mean CPU heatsinks that use heatpipes? I can recommend some if this is what you are looking for but usually these HSFs need big cases.
Hey Jpadua,
Thanks for all the recommendations and leads.
I saw this one too, but the built-in joystick won't work for me. I already ordered the Adesso RF Keyboard with built-in Touchpad from Amazon. The touchpad is a major advantage and convenience for me since I'm used to my laptop's touchpad. Plus, touchpads give me more precise control. RF wireless devices are much better than IR since you don't need a direct line of sight to get a connection between the host and controller.
Yeah, I prefer using heat pipes for CPU cooling. I'll check out the ones you listed.
Most probably, I'll settle for an HTPC case that I can get locally, since I'll just be converting my existing desktop PC (ATX form factor mobo) into an HTPC. I pretty much have everything na, except for a nice looking case. If I have the time, I might just custom-build the front panel and case just like the good ol' modding days. The black slim 1U case is just tempting, pero too constricted for my needs siguro.
Thanks again! Keep us posted on your slim HTPC project.
Cheers!
The reason why I chose to use the DFI Rs482 becuase it looks like the best all arounder. The fact that it has VGA/DVI/S-VID/Component/Spdif optical/USB/Firewire/Gbitlan all on the back port is phenomenal for a mATX board. The X300 like you said would be sufficient enough for DVDs 720p.
There are other boards out there that have better video capabilities also aimed at the HTPC market which use the Geforce 6150/nforce430 chipset.same ba yan sir sa nakita ko? (ASUS brand)
hi sir jpadua, i saw some nice looking case at cyberzone mega yaesterday, not sure lang if its for HTPC. i think the brand name is ASUS. malapit siya sa apple center ata. but the balck case you had posted is much nicer i think.
The price that you'd mentioned ba ($135 + shipping and $495) is the one with updated front panel with VFD? same ba yan sir sa nakita ko? (ASUS brand)
Hey Jpadua! ;D I found an RS482 for around USD 110. Is that a good price?
Hey JP! Good morning! 8) I saw the DFI RS482 Infinity too. Ricky's planning on building his own HTPC, so he might be interested too. How's the Athlon 64 in terms of running Windows XP and XP 64?
Also, what are good PSU brands these days (400W and up)? Are Enermax and Task still good?
Anyone know how to connect DVI from computer to those surplus TV's in Pier? Or where to find the D4, D3 cables? Or is there a converter cable that converts DVI to Component video?
Im currently using S-Video to connect the computer to the Wega but Im thinking there should be a way to connect to the TV digital to digital.
Sorry if this off-topic or highjacking the thread....
But where can one buy mid- to high-end to speciality computer parts, ie. motherboard, cases, cooler, cpu....
Brands like DFI, Asus (mid to high end), gigabyte, thermalright...etc
If you go to Gilmore and other places, all they sell there are the low-end stuff, which are sufficient enough for some people but not for the purposes that I'm building a PC for.
For example, I was looking for an Asus A8N32-SLI and Coolermaster Stacker 830, but no one seem to have them here. One shop offered to special order the Asus but will take a very long time....
I wish we had something like newegg.com over here.
A. Motherboard (Socket 939):
Option 1. Foxconn 6150K8MA-8EKRS (4.5K)
Option 2. DFI RS482 Infinity (5.5K)
B. Processor (Socket 939):
Option 1. AMD Athlon64 3000+ (7K)
Option 2. AMD Athlon64 3200+ (9.5K)
hi everyone, hi jay -- boss, I got the some channel guides to work but some are still out of sked. have you had a chance to fool around with TVXB and MCE yet? can you send me the .ini files... thanks
I think mura lang yung chenbro, shouldnt be more than 2k... if it is indeed the one used for POS
Hey Ricky, the mATX DFI RS482 motherboard has on-board video and 7.1 channel audio na. Pero if you're going for upgradability, siguro settle for an ATX board and casing. Sexy lang talaga ang mga mATX casings. ;D So siguro try to weigh which route you wanna go... sexy (but on a diet) or fat (but strong and mean)? hehehe
congrats sir voj :D :D
i just saw lang nga pala last march30 sa Octagon(tama ba?yung sa center 4thflr) MEgamall.dami pa nilang stock dun na BTC wireless RF keyboard... dont know lang if may stock pa ngayon... :) box is color blu and yellow ata.
nakakainip talaga, I have all my parts waiting... case nalang...
Athlon 3500 venice
1GB Dual Channel Geil Value
200gb Seagate Sata
DFI RS482 Infinity
Sapphire Theatrix Theater550
oh the wait is agony hehehe....
Just bought 2 more Western Digital 250Gb drives from TPC. I plan to set up a 500Gb File Server for my HTPC.
congrats sir voj :D :D
i just saw lang nga pala last march30 sa Octagon(tama ba?yung sa center 4thflr) MEgamall.dami pa nilang stock dun na BTC wireless RF keyboard... dont know lang if may stock pa ngayon... :) box is color blu and yellow ata.
Thanks, I'll try Megamall later. Told my sis to hold off ordering the keyboard while I look if Mega has one.Sir Voj, sigurado namang sulit yan pagdumating na!!! :) konting araw nalang naman !!! :)
To Jpadua, ricky, ronjet
Nakakainip waiting ;D
got a BTC keyboard at Octagon Mega. Thanks for the tip. Meron pang stocks available doon. P2047.00
nakakainip talaga, I have all my parts waiting... case nalang...
Athlon 3500 venice
1GB Dual Channel Geil Value
200gb Seagate Sata
DFI RS482 Infinity
Sapphire Theatrix Theater550
oh the wait is agony hehehe....
Hi Rene,
please report how those drives do... I was planning on getting the 250GB WD but I got dettered by the warranyty compared to Seagates 5yr warranty... How's the speed, Noise Etc. ?
(http://img.dell.com/images/global/products/optix/170L_sd_front_314x314.jpg)
(http://img.dell.com/images/global/products/optix/L_sd_rear_314x314.jpg)
What do you guys think of this case for a possible HTPC?
(http://img.dell.com/images/global/products/optix/170L_sd_front_314x314.jpg)
What do you guys think of this case for a possible HTPC?
ok yan voj, ha? is it available locally? want to build an HTPC myself but can't seem to find a good looking case. congrats on your upcoming toy :)
saw this at HMR, kaya lang they're selling complete CPU units. Visit jpadua's site - there's a lot of info there on building HTPC.
Voj,
How much do they sell this kind of Dell PC's nowadays at HMR ?
(http://img.dell.com/images/global/products/optix/170L_sd_front_314x314.jpg)
(http://img.dell.com/images/global/products/optix/L_sd_rear_314x314.jpg)
What do you guys think of this case for a possible HTPC?
Will do. This is my second and third drive actually. I put the 1st one directly onto my HTPC. Performance is good. Can't tell you much about the noise since all sounds from the PC are drowned out by the fans :(
hi! share ko lang for your comments and recommendations. i have the following specs in my computer:
athlon 64 sitting on k8n neo platinum mobo
1 Gb ram (512x2)
160Gb SATA HDD
20Gb IDE HDD (boot)
lg dvd/cr-r/w combo drive
winfast tv 2000 expert
ati radeon 9600 video card
sound blaster audigy
i am still not able to use it as an htpc kasi gamit ko pa sa work but will be doing so in the near future. anyways, i sometimes experience "freezing" in the display...minsan matagal ang reaction ng computer especially multi-tasking of various office softwares. i figure na if use this as a htpc, baka mag-hang lalo. ano kaya ang kulang ko at bakit parang hindi seamless ang dating ng video display? dagdag pa kaya ako ng ram or my video card is not up to the task?
do you have any suggestions on how to improve this system for a htpc set-up including the price for budgetary purposes? do you have any suggestions for a htpc case na affordable? tia.
agmjr
Hi guys,
I have set aside a budget for a CD player. But I am also interested in HTPC, but my priority and budget is allocated for a CD player.
Is there a way that I can convert a HTPC to a good CD player? Say by using a good PC DAC? Is there such a thing in the local market?
I am seriously considering this option. I think it would save me a lot (depends on the cost of the DAC) and I would get both a good CD and DVD player.
Thanks
thanks for your replies bros.
Yes, I listen to 2 channel only.
Question: If my receiver has 192khz/24bit DACs in its specs, does that mean it will do the DAC work?
Also another problem I suddenly thought of (for the HTPC/CDP) was that I will be using a projector, so it will be impractical to open the PJ just to see which track is playing. Will the wireless keyboard handle the forward/rewind controls?
Hey Matz, you can use a secondary display like a small LCD/TV monitor or if you're using an HTPC with a VFD panel, you can program it to display the tracks or other media info.
For control, you can use an IR multimedia remote or a wireless keyboard. Like I'll be using an Adesso RF keyboard with touchpad (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00083Y0YG/), which is perfect for me since I also plan to use the HTPC for surfing and other stuff while laying on the sofa. Technically, I'll be using my 43" Sony RPTV as a huge monitor, but of course, mainly for viewing HD videos. ;D ;D ;D
For serious audio, I'd still recommend an external DAC. Otherwise, if you're looking for an all-in-one-box high-end solution, I'd recommend professional sound cards from Lynx Studio (www.lynxstudio.com). They make professional sound cards used in many recording studios for mastering many of the CD's we have today. These are expensive though (USD 1,000 and up).
Looks like sabay-sabay tayo nila Ricky with our HTPC projects ah. Sabay na kayo ni Ricky mag shopping.
Yaiks! I am allergic to more spending, so $1k sound card and small LCD monitor is out of the question ;D.
But the wireless keyboard solution is a relief.
Thanks bro. It looks like an external DAC is the solution to my problem now :-\
Baka di ako makasabay. I still have to priritize audio for now than video, I already have an upconverting player.
Baka di ako makasabay. I still have to priritize audio for now than video, I already have an upconverting player.
QUESTION:
I assume that you can use your TV as monitor and monitor as TV in a typical HTPC setup, Can you use both? Like the TV showing regular broadcasting or playing downloaded divx and the monitor doing computing stuff?
What do you need to install 2 monitors and 1 TV on an HTPC setup?
I'm looking at a scenario wherein you can transfer to another room and bring your wireless keyboard. Also, what is the limitation in cable length from your PC to a monitor.
Cool! ;D What player did you get? Did you get the Oppo? Muntik na kami bumili ni Ricky.
Back to topic: Why buy Oppo when a HTPC is better? HTPC na lang, definitely. I had another member (pchin) come here so we could compare his HDMI upconverting DVD player vs a PC VGA connection and the PC was definitely better and had higher resolution. We used the LCD TV for reference, not the PJ.
Really excited na nga,i just hope kasya yung budget ko :P Yeah mat,kato and i almost bought an oppo but after some review(and convincing from kato ;D) I've decided to build a HTPC instead,kahit medyo mahal sya pero atleast future proof na ;) pati si munskie bubuo na din ;D
Kato im not into gaming so do you think hindi ko na ba kailangan ng separate audio and video card? ??? will the on-board ones be enough to play 720p,1080p and hd dvds? ??? sorry ha wala talaga ako alam pa dito,and everytime i try to read things about htpc eh mas nalilito ako kasi mas madami na terms na im not familiar with ;D For now my idea is to get a fast one with atleast a 250gb hard drive memory and 1gb ram :)
Really excited na nga,i just hope kasya yung budget ko :P Yeah mat,kato and i almost bought an oppo but after some review(and convincing from kato ;D) I've decided to build a HTPC instead,kahit medyo mahal sya pero atleast future proof na ;) pati si munskie bubuo na din ;D
Kato im not into gaming so do you think hindi ko na ba kailangan ng separate audio and video card? ??? will the on-board ones be enough to play 720p,1080p and hd dvds? ??? sorry ha wala talaga ako alam pa dito,and everytime i try to read things about htpc eh mas nalilito ako kasi mas madami na terms na im not familiar with ;D For now my idea is to get a fast one with atleast a 250gb hard drive memory and 1gb ram :)
thanks for your patience guys ;)
I scoured the Cyberzone stores in SM City and found no mobo with 6150 chipset.
Asus and Foxconn 6150 mobos are available here in the philippines by special order look for distros and give them a call ask where you can get one... normally stores wont stock them due to limited market...
Hi JP. Wala ba equivalent yun in terms of HD processing sa Intel? Thanks.
Hi Ricky how's your build going?
Pwede naman ang intel, wala lang ako masyadong alam sa intel ngayon, been with AMD for the past few years.... I think heat parin ang kalaban with intel chips. Athlon64s runs cooler talaga compared to intels.
Hi again JP. Pero I checked speed of Athlons parang mas mababa compared to intel but more expensive. Btw Athlon din ako xp nga lang as of now.
Tama ka mang eddie, mas medyo mahal athlon at slower speeds pa compared to intel, consider ko lang din sabi ni sir jpadua na may heat issues yung intel :)
Sir jpadua i think you know my brother-in-law,si glenn na bassist ;D
hi jpadua. do you have an x-plosion soundcard or know where do get one? thanks! :)
Thats true... but the way the athlon is marketed is different. Athlon64 are actually much faster than their intel counterparts.... for example a P4 3.2GHz is an equivalent of a Athlon64 3200+ in performance but the actual running speed of an athlon64 3200 is only 2.2GHz. Intel needs more speed to run at the same performance level. Thats also essentially why intel CPUs run hotter than Athlon64s. Athlon64s also have cool and quiet, which actually lowers your temp when the PC is not in full load.. sometimes, the CPU gets so cool, the fan will automatically stop since its not needed and turn on again when cpu loads up again.I think I will need it for graphics and ht in a 50/50 basis. Makes it a little harder to decide huh?
Intels are good no doubt... but for HTPC / Media PCs I really prefer Athlon64s... for Workstations and Graphics editing, Video production intels are preferred because of raw power. So if you are building an HTPC A64s really fit the bill.
I think I will need it for graphics and ht in a 50/50 basis. Makes it a little harder to decide huh?
aahhhh I see... hmmm A64 :D no really you should have no problem with an A64. You want power go for an A64 X2 3800+ Performs better than Pentium Dual core in reviews... search reviews nalang... A64s got my voteI think that's way beyond my means, JP. I saw the price of 3200 at P9000. I don't know about the 3800. Could be well over 10k. Not in my league anymore. Thanks .
G. CPU Cooler
Scythe Ninja is the best one coupled with a 120mm fan - most efficient and very very silent... 120mm fan on low is better than a Zalaman9600 on high. I can get one also... have to check the price though and availability.
Thermaltake tornado 120 best budget HSF, just change the fan to a 120 panaflo
Hey Jay, I've already completed my HTPC. I just need to replace my Intel P4 3 GHz LGA775's default CPU cooler/fan with a quieter one. Where can I get the Scythe Ninja with 120mm fan and around how much is it?
Also, just curious, what's a good heat pipe cooler for video cards? Mine's an AGP MSI 256MB GeForce 6600 (NX6600).
Thanks! 8)
Master jay,
How do you stress test your PCs? What applications do you use?
Hi which is better graphic card for low end HTPC. Nvidia 6200 or ATI Radeon 9550?
Thanks
I suggest going for the latest video card offerings. Either a nVidia 7300 GS (P4000) or an Ati x1300 Pro (P6,400) They both have native support to drive HDTV displays offering 720p or 1080i via component. The 7300 is already a series 7 geforce card that supports the latest purevideo technologies like h.264 acceleration. The X1300 pro already the x1000 series which supports ATI AVIVO and the AVIVO encoder (AVIVO is ATI's answer to nVidia's Purevideo).
I suggest going for the latest video card offerings. Either a nVidia 7300 GS (P4000) or an Ati x1300 Pro (P6,400) They both have native support to drive HDTV displays offering 720p or 1080i via component. The 7300 is already a series 7 geforce card that supports the latest purevideo technologies like h.264 acceleration. The X1300 pro already the x1000 series which supports ATI AVIVO and the AVIVO encoder (AVIVO is ATI's answer to nVidia's Purevideo).Hello JP. I was at SM Cyberzone this afternoon and I saw that x1300 and x700. Guess what? The x1300 was P3900 and the x700 was priced at P6400! I asked them to check but they said it was correct. You may want to check them at PC Quarters.
Hello JP. I was at SM Cyberzone this afternoon and I saw that x1300 and x700. Guess what? The x1300 was P3900 and the x700 was priced at P6400! I asked them to check but they said it was correct. You may want to check them at PC Quarters.
I am informed that if you're a game hog, and with those video intensive games like Doom 3, the more exotic the video card the better(read: more expensive). Those with 128bit 256mb ram video cards with their own cooling fans are said to be better at it. Otherwise, even for DVD watching, the mobo's built-in video can do the job.
Low end ng X1300 (128MB) series as low as Php 3,800.00 sa pcx. While yung X700EZ (256MB) is Php 4600.
By the way, which is better? X1300 or X700?
Thanks Master jpadua,
If I can only find 7300 in AGP...
By the way, a little bit OT, I think my TV can only do 1080i and 480p. Is there a way (even by hardware modification) that it will support 720p?
Thanks.
unfortunately your TV can handle a straight 720p connection. You can play files on your PC that are in 720P, but your actual resolution should be either in 480p or 1080i and the video will be scaled to that resolution.
Thanks.
Question again.
What if my HDTV, has only HD-component input and since Graphics cards has DVI or VGA output, how can I then connect my PC to my TV?
You need a card that has native HDTV output via component. The x1300pro and the Palit 7300 has this. Problema mo lang talaga is that its PCIE. During the time of AGP kasi di pa uso masyado ang HDTV.
are you not considering upgrading to PCI-e?
So the x1300pro and the Palit 7300 may build in-component out connection sila?
I can't upgrade yet to PCI-E, kasi, mauupgrade lahat, I only have socket A processor... HD and optical drives lang ang matitira, I'm using XPC so pati casing, etc...
By the way, my HDTV has VGA input, it can output native 480p and 1080i resolutions without any problems.
I'm just asking kasi, based sa mga forums, my TV supports (Philips 34PT8420) 720p, but I can't seem to enable it.
So baka through component lang sya magwowork.
I'm using my TV as my main monitor, pag 480p (640 x 480) ang lalaki ng icons at di mo mairun yung ibang applications. While 1080i, since interlaced, ang sakit sa mata lalo na sa text, its only good for video (overlay) viewing and some games....
are you sure? kaya ng 720p? I also have a philips pero pixel plus and di talaga pwede mag 720p yun only 480p and 1080i
720p kasi mataas na res yun for this type of TV. kaya kasi mag PAL progressive 575P and NTSC 480P and 1080i signal is = 540P which is between 480p and 576p thats why kaya nya mag 1080i. 720p medyo malayo na from the 576p@50hz.
I just put together a starter HTPC last weekend with:
Shuttle XPC SB77G5
P4 2.8 GHz
512 MB RAM
80 GB Seagate Sata
LG Combo drive
PowerColor Radeon 9550 256MB
Logitech cordless keyboard and mouse
Am using Zoom Player, and Microsoft Media Player 11.
The audio out (using coax SPDIF) from the built-in video cards goes to a Denon AVR and am using the VGA out from the video card to a Samsung 32" LCD.
So far, the PQ is a lot better from the HTPC than my Pioneer 655A DVD player. Sound is as good from the HTPC compared to my Pioneer.
Next weekend, I will test using my Infocus projectors.
Any suggestion for a decent remote control?
Hi Alexg congratulations on your HTPC. Problem is there is no available remotes here in the philippines, if you plan to get a TV Tuner, the sapphire theatrix TV tuner comes with a Cyberlink remote control. Its very good actually, problem is its not programmable but it is compatible with MCE by default. If you know all the shortcuts you can change the remote control options of zoomplayer to use the shortcuts of MCE so that the remote will work with it. In other words you will have to reprogram keyboard shorcuts of zp to accomodate the remote.
If you can have this bought in the states, The imon remote is pretty good, you can program it to any software that supports keyboard shortcuts.
I was experimenting with ffdshow and some denoiser, resizing and sharpening filters from the other forum I am member of (AVS) and the results are fantastic on my LCD, better than the upscaling DVD player that my brother-in-law have me tried!
I will post pix soon!
Thanks for the quick reply,
Now I have to look for the cable around here in the Singapore computer shops or maybe Audio video stores.
Thanks again.
Gubs
Wala e its a KV-hr34m61 a 2003 model still sold in the Sony.com,ph site got it at a very good price at the Abenson walthermart sale.
only has hiscan components and this rgbhv 5 bnc input.
Anyway ok narin kung vga input na analog I dont think theres much difference with dvi at this size of screen.Sana nga normal vga in na lang kesa tong professional grade video 5bnc input.
Ty
Gubs
I just put together a starter HTPC last weekend with:
Shuttle XPC SB77G5
P4 2.8 GHz
512 MB RAM
80 GB Seagate Sata
LG Combo drive
PowerColor Radeon 9550 256MB
Logitech cordless keyboard and mouse
Am using Zoom Player, and Microsoft Media Player 11.
The audio out (using coax SPDIF) from the built-in video cards goes to a Denon AVR and am using the VGA out from the video card to a Samsung 32" LCD.
So far, the PQ is a lot better from the HTPC than my Pioneer 655A DVD player. Sound is as good from the HTPC compared to my Pioneer.
Next weekend, I will test using my Infocus projectors.
Any suggestion for a decent remote control?
I just upgraded my processor to a 3.2GHz P4 and installed a TwinHan DVB-S card, and the XPC is not very happy about this, the cooling fan is always at maximum RPM and it is very noisy.
So I would need to get a new motherboard and use a spare Lian Li case that I have (tower case).
I can retain my old P4 3.2 or get an Athlon64 processor, in either case, I would need to get a new motherboard with SLI. Which one should be better the Intel or the AMD for Zoom Player, ffdshow and avisynth?
Thanks.
Ive had numerous successes with Athlon64s with both heat and silence. and Athlon64 3200 venice core is a good starting point, I use AMDs cool and quiet also.
Ive had numerous successes with Athlon64s with both heat and silence. and Athlon64 3200 venice core is a good starting point, I use AMDs cool and quiet also.
I just put my Shuttle for sale on the Member's Exchange section (http://pinoydvd.com/board/index.php?topic=53224.msg587769#msg587769), I will be going ahead and gettign the MSI mobo with SLI and a new Radeon 6600GT graphics card in SLI config. I will be retaining my P4.
Based on other forum, the Athlon 64 is quite hard to configure using zoom player, ffdshow and avisynth, they have more success on P4, beside, I was able to configure zoom player, ffdshow and avisynth including trimension on my shuttle, I should be able to do it again on my new setup.
Thanks!
Im into upgrade nrin ng HTPC. I have purchased VENICE A64 3000+.
Im planning to use MSI K8N4 n diamond series board okey ba combination?
Or any board recommendation?
Thanks
Im into upgrade nrin ng HTPC. I have purchased VENICE A64 3000+.
Im planning to use MSI K8N4 n diamond series board okey ba combination?
Or any board recommendation?
Thanks
it seems that most of you go for the Athlons.
Q.: Asus and DFI (the RS482), if I read the specs correctly can handle both the Athlon 64 or the Athlon 64X2, did I read the specs correctly? That means I can use the Athlon 64 3200 now (which fits my needs) and later on upgrade to an Athlon 64X2 when the price drops considerably without changing mobo?
Q.: Do you know who sells these boards? If it is tipidpc, please supply username of seller.
Hard disc question:
Q.: Is it advisable to get a separate smaller HD for boot/programs? Or should I just partition the 250GB hD that I have with a small one for programs and the rest for storage. Should I waste precious real estate on my case for this? My PC case can handle 4 HDs aside from the usual optical drives.
Thanks.
voj
it seems that most of you go for the Athlons.
Q.: Asus and DFI (the RS482), if I read the specs correctly can handle both the Athlon 64 or the Athlon 64X2, did I read the specs correctly? That means I can use the Athlon 64 3200 now (which fits my needs) and later on upgrade to an Athlon 64X2 when the price drops considerably without changing mobo?
Q.: Do you know who sells these boards? If it is tipidpc, please supply username of seller.
Hard disc question:
Q.: Is it advisable to get a separate smaller HD for boot/programs? Or should I just partition the 250GB hD that I have with a small one for programs and the rest for storage. Should I waste precious real estate on my case for this? My PC case can handle 4 HDs aside from the usual optical drives.
Thanks.
voj
IMHO i'd go for the DFI ATI RS482 Infinity with it's DV I-D, TV-out, HDTV (Y/Pb/Pr component) video output I say it's totally design for HTPC setup. Another thing I notice with this mobo is its form factor (microATX) you won't have much problem installing to a small HTPC casing. The downside I foresee its lack of expansion slot which is common for microATX board's. If your still waiting for the price to drop for the video card you yearn for or in a budget setting up a HTPC but wan't it working and running ASAP this board is a good choice.
(http://us.dfi.com.tw/Upload/Product_Picture/rsinfinityb.jpg)
Just my two cent. :)
sirs,
ask ko lang, what is the best software / program for dvd playback / viewing sa htpc?
thanks!
I personally use Zoomplayer and WinDVD. With Zoom player you can use any DVD codec. So I use Nvidia Purevideo Decoder for Zoomplayer.
sir, where can i get these files?
also what are the resolution settings to achieve 720p, 1080i and 1080p?
Would having an HTPC improve the quality of my DVD viewing in an 800x600 projector as compared to just having a DVD player in component video output? Presently I am watching in 525p using my DVD player in prog scan but can still notice the screendoor effect. Would it diminish the screen door effect of my LCD projector if I upgrade the resolution to 720p using powerstrip? In the manual of the projector it says it can accept both 720p and 1080i signals.
Any response would be appreciated. Thanks! ;D
Thanks jay for the quick response. I am still looking at my options as of the moment and of course how far my wallet will go.....upgrade...upgrade....upgrade ;D
FFdshow is a filter that can run with your software DVD player (like zoomplayer) to do further postprocessing like, video resize, sharpening, denoise and such, but you will need a hefty processor for FFDshow.
May I ask if you are using a dvd drive for postprocessing. or you have ripped the dvd to the hard disk.
Is this similar to extacting and saving wav files to the hard disk then play the files from the hard disk. I would prefer this setup although this need a lot of disk space. I am avoiding disk being read by the laser.
thanx.
louie
Hi htpc experts,
I want to connect by PC (desktop) to my AVR (Audio/Video Receiver) thru digital connection. My sound card(built in) currently does not support SPDIF, what are my other options (besides buying a sound card with SPDIF)? Are there dauther boards that I can coonect to my sound card that have SPDIF? Are there softwares needed to be able to pass DTS/Dolby Digital from my sound card to my AVR?
TIA
Hi htpc experts,
I want to connect by PC (desktop) to my AVR (Audio/Video Receiver) thru digital connection. My sound card(built in) currently does not support SPDIF, what are my other options (besides buying a sound card with SPDIF)? Are there dauther boards that I can coonect to my sound card that have SPDIF? Are there softwares needed to be able to pass DTS/Dolby Digital from my sound card to my AVR?
TIA
May I ask if you are using a dvd drive for postprocessing. or you have ripped the dvd to the hard disk.
Is this similar to extacting and saving wav files to the hard disk then play the files from the hard disk. I would prefer this setup although this need a lot of disk space. I am avoiding disk being read by the laser.
thanx.
louie
Why are you avoiding the disk being read by the laser?
I have tried Audio CD ripped to a hard disk, I prefer the result. The sound is comparable to a dedicated CD player.
Louie
sirs tanong lang po. i have a creative SB audigy soundcard that is supposed to be 6.1. I tried to connect it to my avr (yamaha rxv750) by way of coax pero stero lang output nya ( i mean front lang ang tumutunog). ganun din ang result pag optical gamit ko. same result for the pci card and front drive connections. i am using the speaker test software of creative and it is indicating that signals are being sent to the speakers. ok naman avr ko if i used its test tone function ( gumagana lahat ng speakers). ano kaya problema? compatibility? ty po
When ripping DVDs to your hard drive, it would be best if you rip at full quality, so you get the exact digital version of the DVD on your HDD. That will take up a lot of space. If you rip with compression naman, playing a DVD on the DVD drive would produce better results.
Make your own sling box (watch videos on your computer from any internet connected PC)
sir jpadua,
thanks for the tip, i havent done that yet but sure enough there is a config in the dvd sw...i am using a version of power dvd that is included in the dvd rom...i will try to hook it up with my avr again...
hi Sir Jay, quick question lang po, what's this "sling box" all about? thanks. ;)
hi guys, can anyone suggest a mobo for the pentium d930? im looking for one with onboard video and spdif. it will be used 70% torrent downloading(and watching)/ 30% gaming. tia!
a sling box is a machine (PC based) that you hook up to your Cable, and you can set it up to record TV shows. Then you can view them anywhere from the internet. Of course the slingbox has to be connected to the internet vial DSL or Cable.
sling box is getting a lot of buzz... Some people set up sling boxes in the states so that they can view US TV programming from here via the internet. The sling box is configurable via HTTP, so if you have a friend in the states, setup a slingbox over there, and you can watch US TV here.
alexg,
thanx for replying, hows the performance of your pentium d? does it give a better pq than an upscaling dvd player when playing divx? i use an oppo and dvd playback is terrific but divx playback looks a little weird.
RU9,
That board is very good. But I suggest to get the board that support dual channel DDR2 and the latest Socket AM2. Then get a good video card: Nvidea 7 series or ATI X1300 up.
I have compared my HTPC with upscaling DVD player, and I would prefer my HTPC over upscaling DVD player. I am using Zoom Player pro with ffdshow, avisynth and I have enabled trimension. I hardly use my DVD player now, except for playing DVD-Audio and SACD. ;D
Using either my Infocus and my Samsung LCD, I get very good PQ.
Heya, how did you get trimension working? are you using the older winDVD6 Codec with trimension? To what I know the newer winDVD codecs have locked down the trimension feature to only the winDVD player...if you are using newer codecs, let me know how you did it. Thanks!I was able to find WinDVD6 on the net. The newer codecs will not work. (Lucky for me, I do not use WinDVD so I can have the old version, 6, installed). ;D
I was able to find WinDVD6 on the net. The newer codecs will not work. (Lucky for me, I do not use WinDVD so I can have the old version, 6, installed). ;D
Oh I figured :) I have 6 also... But the trimension is not as good as the new one.. lots of artifacts... have you tried watching lightsaber fights with trimension in windvd6? you can see blocks of pixels on the light sabers, the new trimension has fixed the artifacts and is so much cleaner, but has locked out trimension to only the winDVD player
I have tried windvd6 on Star Wars and other DVD's, and I did not remember seeing the blocks of pixels. Anyway, will look for it tonight.
My new case...
(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e274/edpenas/pcv300.gif)
voj ,
Order thru tipidpc ...5900
How do you order from tipidpc?
Would this case take a full size ATX mobo?
join tipidpc and PM babinang
micro atx lang...
Tried hooking my HTPC to my Epson EMP-S3 projector and definitely resolution and video quality kicks the butt out of my Philips DVD player with progressive scan. I'm happy I made the right decision. ;D
Courtesy of a friend from HK
(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e274/edpenas/DSC00130.jpg)
MSI K8NGM2-FID is the best overall Socket 939 GeForce 6150 board
Comes with DVI / VGA / Component /S-Video/ ouputs spdif header and 7.1 Audio outs
ano gagamitin mo processor dyan?
thanks
sir ano specs ng HTPC mo?
Thanks
P4 1.6Ghz
512MB DDR
80GB HDD
ATI Radeon 7000
Sound Blaster Audigy via SPDIF
DVD Combo Drive
As I have said this is a budget HTPC but ok na sa DVD viewing and listening to my music connected to my Denon 1803 AVR. Still in the process of upgrading.....
Courtesy of a friend from HK
(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e274/edpenas/DSC00130.jpg)
MSI K8NGM2-FID is the best overall Socket 939 GeForce 6150 board
Comes with DVI / VGA / Component /S-Video/ ouputs spdif header and 7.1 Audio outs
sir jambam... how much score mo dyan? nice! ;)
Nice one Voj!!!!
Mel, the onboard spdif can only pass AC-3 , DTS and PCM Stereo. The Xmystique that Voj got from me, can do realtime AC-3 encoding. So even analog sources, sounds from computer games, mp3, VCD, TV Tuner, will be converted to Dolby Digital. :)
Just sold the last Xmystique yesterday!
Jay
Thanks mel and jay ;D,
Sayang, Jay, one guy at TipidPC HQ kept asking me to sell the Xmystique to him and I told him to contact you (come to think of it baka siya na nga bumili nung last mo ;D) Anyway, papatulong pa rin ako sa iyo, ha. Hindi nila forte HTPC marami pang fine-tuning kailangan.
Babinang lent me an Athlon 64 3200+ just so we can boot test the parts so that I can return any defective parts I might have bought. The Ninja Plus CPU cooler turned out to be too big for the case, luckily, someone took it off my hands there for a little less than what I bought it for. Now waiting for the price drop.
Nice one Voj!!!!
Mel, the onboard spdif can only pass AC-3 , DTS and PCM Stereo. The Xmystique that Voj got from me, can do realtime AC-3 encoding. So even analog sources, sounds from computer games, mp3, VCD, TV Tuner, will be converted to Dolby Digital. :)
Just sold the last Xmystique yesterday!
Jay
Hi to all you guyz here, I'm just stumble on with this sound card over the net just want to hear comments from you about this card. Thankz!!! :)
(http://www.auzentech.com/images/box_xplosion/front4.jpg)
(http://www.auzentech.com/images/xplosion_card.jpg)
(http://www.auzentech.com/images/box_xplosion/back5.jpg)
http://www.auzentech.com/products_xplosion.html#tour
Building my HTPC:
(http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/6308/voj01iy6.jpg) (http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/2876/voj02lv1.jpg)
(http://img71.imageshack.us/img71/8741/voj03il7.jpg) (http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/2103/voj04lg8.jpg)
(http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/2185/voj05js0.jpg) (http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/5619/voj06zw3.jpg)
more pics to follow.
Special thanks to the people of TipidPC who actually assembled this for me yesterday: babinang and his people, darthmaul, piso, axlrose, etc. Notice the neat cable management
Processor to follow. Awaiting price drop. ;D
Hi voj,
Wer did u get ur HTPC case & how much did u get ur DFI lanparty?
Is it the one being sold by waycool of tpc?
Thanks
How come when I watch DVDs using my DVD player, my projector reads that the resolution is 525p. But when I use the PC to watch DVDs in my projector, it reads 800x600 up to 1260x768 not 480p, 525p or 720p.
Is there any equivalent on the computer's resolution to the dvd's resolution? I'm kind confused with these values.
Ano gamit mo connection between PJ & DVD player?
Meron ka ba gamit na specific software to manage resolution sa HTPC mo? like Powerstrips or equivalent?
..., I use component video to VGA cable...sir saan nyo nabili yung component to vga cable? ty po in advance
sir saan nyo nabili yung component to vga cable? ty po in advance
Tried experimenting again with powerstrip and the highest resolution that my EMP-S3 projector can accept is 1280x960p :o. The picture seems smaller with bigger black bars top and bottom but can still occupy the whole screen horizontally when watching dvds compared to the resolution I usually use which is 1280x768. Guess I rest my case.
Thanks jay for the help! I really appreciate it ;D
Mel, try to find out what the native resolution of your projector is. The projector, just like an HDTV can scale images. For best PQ you would want to have 1:1 pixel mapping. That is matching the HTPCs output resolution to your projector's native resolution. For example... the native resolution of my LCD monitor is 1280x720. If I display anything other than that the text is a bit fuzzy... when I use 1280x720 as my resolution, text is extremely sharp compared to higher resolutions...thats why projectors that are 720p native or 1080p native are really really expensive... Normally a projector in the 80-150k range, the native resolution might be 800x600.
I have a file that can check your pixel mapping. Download this, and make it your wallpaper, set it to centered or tiled but not streched. Then if the dots are not clear (there is bleeding, a bit fuzzy) then that means you are not in 1:1 pixel mapping. Try different resolutions till you get the sharpest definition.
http://www.m2systech.com/files/720x576.bmp
Hi to all you guyz here, I'm just stumble on with this sound card over the net just want to hear comments from you about this card. Thankz!!! :)
(http://www.auzentech.com/images/box_xplosion/front4.jpg)
(http://www.auzentech.com/images/xplosion_card.jpg)
(http://www.auzentech.com/images/box_xplosion/back5.jpg)
http://www.auzentech.com/products_xplosion.html#tour
Thanks for the reply. My PJ has a native resolution of 800x600 and I can say that in terms of text, this is the most clear among the other resolutions (maybe because it has the biggest letters, I dunno). But when it comes to video, the highest resolution which is 1280x960p which my PJ can accept is the most clear as compared to the 800x600 mode. Well, this is subjective though. So to reaffirm my observations, I invited friends and relatives over to really compare the DVD video quality of the native and upscaled resolutions and they vouched for the latter as being more clear. Why? As compared to the native 800x600, the higher resolution has more color separation. I tested ANTZ for instance and the flying insects' closed up skin was more detailed on 1280x960p. In the 800x600 mode, there was just one shade of yellow (sort of a mixed blend) but on the higher resolution there were shades and contours which was more defined; edges were more sharp, colors have different gradations...more of HDTV-like already. The difference was very evident. So when I watch DVDs, I use 1280x768p (which has narrower black bars top and bottom of the screen but with superb video quality) and I just shift to a lower resolution when using the internet for a clearer text.
Just posting my observations. I'll try to download what you've posted and also check it out. Although I think the answer to this is already predictable. Ciao! ;D
I hope you don't take this negatively and I will be glad to be corrected if I am wrong. If this is the case, the scaler built in your PJ is better than your HTPC since the built in scaler will downconvert the signal from your computer to its native resolution. Putting out 800*600 via HTPC is actually bypassing the scaler of your PJ. Any resolution other than 600*800 will trigger the scaler of the PJ whether up or downconvertion to its native resolution.
alvin, don't you have the Toshiba HD DVD player? A friend says it's like an "HTPC without the hassle" in terms of its upscaling capabilities. Could you comment please? thanks.
To answer which is better HTPC or a Video processor(not upscaling dvd players), heres one response;
They don't. If you read past the marketing hype it's basically just hardware acceleration that they are talking about. If you really want the best picture out of an HTPC it means using ffdshow for quality scaling and sharpening (and possibly some NR). This means that all of the fancy hardware accleration is turned off. HW is only a part of the equation though. To fully render a DVD a PC uses a "filter graph" utilizing a lot of different software components and renderers. Microsoft's Renderless VMR9 is the best renderer at this time, but it's still a work in progress (check the archives in the HTPC forum about Renderless VMR9 issues compared to the older Overlay renderer and VMR7). Judder is still a big problem, HTPCs also have deinterlacing problems with non-standard cadences, they don't have the power to perform per-pixel MAD. The available sharpening and NR (ffdshow) isn't close to what an Algolith Mosquito can do. The list just goes on...
I don't see the balance shifting anytime soon because HTPC's are such a small segment of the PC market. nvidia and ATI are much more focused on gaming performance than something like judder reduction. While at the other end VP's have gained steam and are including more features and improved performance specifically for HT.
Don't get me wrong though, an HTPC still offers great performance and when it comes to bang for the buck it's untouchable. But it doesn't set the bar on performance anymore (if it ever did). It's forte is really in mixed media playback.
I probably sound like a VP zealot, but I have been using a HTPC exclusively for most of the past 7 or so years. It was after spending a lot of time dialing in a good picture with ffdshow and then seeing that there were products that do a better job with less artifacts that really got me to look hard at the new developments in VPs. Now that I've had the chance to use several VPs, an HTPC just doesn't cut it for me as far as top PQ. I see much less artifacts, judder and better colors on a VP even something as inexpensive as a DVDO Iscan HD+ than I do with my HTPC. My HTPC is still in my rack however and I don't have any plans on removing it. Its purpose has changed into being more of a swiss army knife than the PQ scalpel that it once was .
sir, i would love to do that, to preview the magic of hd-dvd....near lang ako... :)
I would invite anybody near my place ;D ;D (Mabalacat, Pampanga) to see what I have done.
alvin, thanks for your response to my question.
jpadua and gubs, appreciate your responses as well.
I didn't mean to start a "vs" debate, just wanted to ask specifically about the Toshiba. D*mn the list of HD-titles is starting to look better all the time... :)
(http://images6.theimagehosting.com/DSC00132.b0c.JPG)
kasama po ito sa videocard, my question is: are the red,green, blue sockets for component video outputs? if thats the case, will i just connect it directly to my rear projection component input? may configuration p bang dapat gawin? pardon my ignorance ;D ;D
hope you guys can help me out.....
my video card: Geforce 6600 256mb pci express.
Cool rig bro! Did you make it from scratch? Pwede ba magpacustom ng HTPC case sayo?
MSI in the Lead
HDMI ATC Granted MSI the World's First VGA HDMI Certification
MSI has successfully passed the inspection test by HDMI ATC in July 2006 and became the world's first certification for HDMI VGA card. To keep our pace of cutting-edge technology, MSI has been implementing extreme research and development abilities to establish the HDMI compatibility in MSI VGA cards that extend a wider scenario of PC usages.
HDMI, the latest audio/video interface standard with only one cable required , is able to transmit high resolution digital video and 7.1 surround-sound audio quality. For bringing users consistent experience, HDMI Workshop has regulated a guideline for this latest standard to ensure all HDMI-compliant equipment is compatible each other.
Among numerous VGA card manufactures, MSI received the first certification with the out performance RD ability that has been continuously contributing to the latest, superior, and stable products to users on the fast-moving technology filed.
MSI NX7600GT Diamond Plus is the first VGA card equipped with the HDMI technology today. Along with this simple connectivity, the audio/video signals on PC will be correspondingly transmitted to LCD or Plasma TV for users. In addition, MSI NX7600GT Diamond Plus has the solid and powerful 3D engine technology that is smoothly complaint to the most 3D games available on the market nowadays.
By the exclusive D.O.T. II over clocking technology, MSI NX7600GT Diamond Plus will dynamically adjust the accordance of power-consumption and performance. Users will also enjoy the astonishing visual reality and HD-audio contributed from MSI's 3D performance and HDMI technology through a home theater PC.
From: http://www.msi.com.tw/program/newsrelease/news_page.php?UID=487
Anybody know what apps can playback .ts (transport stream) file?
Download Zoomplayer (free) from inmatrix.comThanks! My video card is non-Nvidia but just a GeCube Radeon 9550 128MB. I hope it works.
Install nvidia decoders (they can decode .TS files)
You can also try HDTVpump (google it) you can play .TS files with that too.
Nvidia does play .TS files pretty well, I just installed Zoomplayer and the nvidia codecs and it played the .TS files
Hope this helps.
Jay
Thanks! My video card is non-Nvidia but just a GeCube Radeon 9550 128MB. I hope it works.
I don't see the balance shifting anytime soon because HTPC's are such a small segment of the PC market. nvidia and ATI are much more focused on gaming performance than something like judder reduction. While at the other end VP's have gained steam and are including more features and improved performance specifically for HT.
Is it true that presently, there are no Video cards out there that can support playback of hd dvd nor blu-ray because of the lack of HDCP chips?
Is it wise then not to purchase any expensive vcards out there because there will be ones with the hdcp chips on the last quarter?
This is not so.
PC video cards can play 720p and 1080p which is the video resolution of high definition video.
The question is, how would an HTPC handle copy protection of HD DVD (DRM)?
If your video card does not have HDCP, vista will downsize the video to 480p.
What app upsamples or upscales DVDs or any video source to 720p or 1080i?
What app upsamples or upscales DVDs or any video source to 720p or 1080i?
Hi fellow HTPC enthusiasts, just a few questions:
1. Any suggestions on which TV tuner/PVR card to get? Is Hauppage still a good brand nowadays?
2. Are there still any issues regarding external tuners/PVR's? A few years ago, there were some USB bottleneck issues.
3. I'm currently subscribed to Skycable Gold, but plan on upgrading to a Skycable Platinum account due to better quality. My only gripe is... since the Platinum subscription is digital, I would need to get an addressable box for each TV (or tuner). This means no more cable splitters, PIP/POP, etc. unless I spend more for extra boxes. How then will this impact existing owners of tuners/PVR's?
Thanks :)
J,
Quick question, is there a reasonable USB type PVR / Cable Tuner that anyone has much success with ?
I've seen LEADTEK branded ones but not sure if they're okay...
-jackryan
Nice pics...
what is the brand of your LCD monitor ? How much did you get it for ?
Also, for the TV tuner what is the brand and model ? At what price did you get it and where ?
Lastly, do you have pics of your set-up with cable tuner enabled... just wanted to see if (hope you don't mind) how the tuner fares with local cable providers...
guys bumili kasi ako ng samsung la32r71, pede ko po ba gamitin dvi to hdmi cable?malaki ba difference compare sa vga cable?thanks!
I am planning to go HTPC. Since I am just starting, what is the easy and cheap way to connect computer video output to my composite (RCA) input of my TV?
Wala ng gumagamit ng RCA. Old cards uses S-Video the least. Presently DVI na and HDMI in the near future. There some TVs (Japan surplus) with VGA connection.
Wala ng RCA but if you insist use break-out box or Vcards na sobrang obsolete na.
share ko lang po :).
cheap second hand PC parts from tipidPC.
HTPC for my kids
(http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c75/rmpmla/LCD.jpg)[/img]
(http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c75/rmpmla/screenshot.jpg)[/img]
(http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c75/rmpmla/bryan1.jpg)[/img]
details:
27" widescreen LCD
Shuttle XPC Athlon XP2000+
ATI 9200 128mb AGP
512 X 2 PC2100 memory
80 gig HD
Lite-On DVD drive
A4tech wireless KB/mouse
Labtec 2.1 speakers
sigma PC table
Sir san available yung LCD? can u give us the specs? Thanks
Just upgraded my HTPC with this case:
http://www.lian-li.com/Product/Chassis/Desktop/D_PC-880.htm
sir, sorry to inform , sold out na po ito. pero sa bilis nitomg naubos malamang na mag parating uli yung seller. check nyo lang from time to time sa tipidPC.
hind ko na matandaan yung ibang specs but it has 220volt input voltage, VGA input socket ;D. screen resolution is best viewed at 1280 X 768
can't find the post... what is the name of the seller?
sir alexg,
saan nyo po nyo nabili yung lian-li desktop case? and magkano, if ok with you. ty po
I have downloaded Zoomplayer and I find it really superior to PowerDVD. My problem is I downloaded the freeware and I can't seem to make it run without being connected to the internet. What could I be doing wrong. Thanks in advance for any input.
Eddie
newbie question.
may Video card ba na pang WideScreen? yung support resolution nya is Widescreen?
or lahat ng video card pwede Full Screen and Wide Screen? gagamit na lang ng powerstrip for the correct resolution?
Thanks
Most if not all new video cards support widescreen. For older ones, an updated driver should do the trick.
You guys got me thinking into going to HTPC.
Planning to start with this:
DFI ATI RS482 Infinity mATX Socket 939 Motherboard
Features:
*A finest solution for PC's rich media
*AMD Athlon 64 X2 CPU(Socket 939)
*ATI Radeon Xpress 200 RS482 Chipset
*Integrated ATI Radeon X300 GPU
*FSB 2000MTps & Dual-Channels DDR400 memory
*TV-out(HDTV supports)/ VGA/ DVI-D output device,
the best DVD playback experience
*Gigabit PCI LAN & 4 x SATA
*8channels High definition Audio
*8 x USB2.0 ports
http://us.dfi.com.tw/Product/xx_product_spec_details_r_us.jsp?PRODUCT_ID=4497&CATEGORY_TYPE=LP&SITE=US
Please comment.
Thanks.
Louie
Hi,
I'm planning to buy this mobo. my question is, does this support 720p (1280 x 720) using component?
Thanks
Just upgraded my HTPC with this case:
http://www.lian-li.com/Product/Chassis/Desktop/D_PC-880.htm
I use to have the classic PC60 Lian Li case (upright tower).
I will post pix soon.
My setup consists of:
MSI P4N SLI motherboard
3 GHz Pentium IV
1GB RAM
2 pcs 180 GB Seagate SATA
MSI NX6600GT graphics card (single card only, soon will be using 2 cards for SLI)
Sony DVD burner
Logitech wireless mouse and keyboard
Dlink USB wireless lan
Toslink cable going to the AVR
For monitor, I use a 32" Samsung LCD and Infocus projector using the VGA port.
For AVR am currently using a Denon 1804 driving Acoustic Research S40 fronts and center, and Wharfedale surrounds.
Software: Zoom Player with all the filters and tweaks, Xlobby for Music.
http://www.sudhian.com/index.php?/articles/show/dfi_rs482_infinity_review/h264
Am trying to re-arrange my setup and I need longer VGA cable (am using D15 to D15).
Where can you get a 5 meter VGA cable?
Thanks.
Hi sir,
from this review is says that is supports 720p and 1080i. pero baka via DVI connection ito.
pag ganito ba it means via component 720 and 1080i din?
Thanks
Am trying to re-arrange my setup and I need longer VGA cable (am using D15 to D15).
Where can you get a 5 meter VGA cable?
Thanks.
Sir I have an extra brand new Tripplite 15 foot VGA extension cable which you might be interested in. Just contact me at 09175298004.
a little help please - my new pc:
SAGE AMD ATHLON 64 3500+, ALL BLACK
• AMD Athlon 64 3500+ Processor, socket AM2
• ASUS M2V-TVM Motherboard w/ built-in Audio, Video & LAN
(SATA ready; AM2 133; U.ATX 2000; VIA K8M990; 2 PCI ; 1 PCI-EX; 2x DDR2, max 2GB; Realtek AL655 6-channel CODEC; 10/100 LAN; Dual Channel Architecture)
• Kingston 1GB DDR2 PC533 Memory
• Seagate 250GB 7200rpm SATA Hard Drive
• Liteon 16X DVDRW Drive
• GeForce 7300GT 128MB/128-bit PCI-Express Video Card
• ATX Casing w/ 400watts Power Supply
• PS/2 keyboard & Mouse
• 56K Internal Modem
• Extra Chassis Fan
what programs do i need to use it as a htpc with a panasonic ae900 projector?
thanks
question - the first time i played a video on my pc the color was very red, was able to fix it by clicking something.
last night i connected my pc to the projector via hdmi, the colors were correct but when i played a video, the colors were red again. anyone know what i should do?
result is the same for both powerdvd and zoom player
thanks
Check your cable. I had a problem with colors also before with my pj hooked to a PC. The cable was defective and when I changed it to a better one, colors were corrected and accurate. ;D
question - the first time i played a video on my pc the color was very red, was able to fix it by clicking something.
last night i connected my pc to the projector via hdmi, the colors were correct but when i played a video, the colors were red again. anyone know what i should do?
result is the same for both powerdvd and zoom player
thanks
gaano kahaba ang hdmi mo?
or configure your video card to 720p or 1080i
@iceman90a
I also get reddish tones when using overlay mode using powerdvd also blacks are burnt.I click enable vmr in the Nvidia control panel (classic) Video overlay tab.This corrects the colors and has a wider dynamic range where blacks have more detail.
Hope this helps.
Hi
Need help.
I have an NVIDIA GFORCE 7600GS connect to a Samsung LCD TV via VGA. My problem is the picture does not fit the screen (res 1260x768). There is a thin (about 1cm or less) black line on the left and the right side is a bit cropped. Parang naka usog sa right yung picture.
I tried to adjust it and move the screen a little to the left but there appears some glare on the left side as thin as the black line before.
What do you think is the best solution to this.
TIA
Hi
Need help.
I have an NVIDIA GFORCE 7600GS connect to a Samsung LCD TV via VGA. My problem is the picture does not fit the screen (res 1260x768). There is a thin (about 1cm or less) black line on the left and the right side is a bit cropped. Parang naka usog sa right yung picture.
I tried to adjust it and move the screen a little to the left but there appears some glare on the left side as thin as the black line before.
What do you think is the best solution to this.
TIA
are you referring to the picture during dvd playback?
Hi
Need help.
I have an NVIDIA GFORCE 7600GS connect to a Samsung LCD TV via VGA. My problem is the picture does not fit the screen (res 1260x768). There is a thin (about 1cm or less) black line on the left and the right side is a bit cropped. Parang naka usog sa right yung picture.
I tried to adjust it and move the screen a little to the left but there appears some glare on the left side as thin as the black line before.
What do you think is the best solution to this.
TIA
try powerstrip also:)
hey does anyone know where i can find asus vento casing here in the Phil?
thanks
sir jpadua long time pag ganito ano settings?Display Resolution 1366 x 768 pixels
and 1 more thing my lcd has hdmi only no dvi my agp has 2 dvi outputs can i use my dvi cable tapos vga cable then hdmi adapter papunta lcd or it wont give a good pic na?tnx
How can I make my display widescreen in my PJ? I have an Epson multimedia projector with a native 4:3 ratio (800x600 resolution) and can be converted to 16:9. When I use my DVD player, I can change from 4:3 to 16:9 but when I use my PC, it only displays 4:3 even if I push the resize button on the remote, it stays 4:3. The reason I am asking this is that I want to change my screen from 4:3 to 16:9 widescreen but I will be using my PC for DVD watching. How can I manipulate this so that I can display the projected image in widescreen mode? Thanks guys in advance.
Thanks rmpmla for the response. But in your response the desktop would still be 4:3 and would only be widescreen when playing DVDs. Would there be a possibility to also show the desktop in widescreen mode such as changing my video card or using a program to display the desktop in widescreen? In this way even on desktop, it would fill the whole 16:9 screen such as the case as using it in an LCD widescreen monitor.
BTW, my video card is just a 16mb ATI videocard.
share ko lang po :).
cheap second hand PC parts from tipidPC.
HTPC for my kids
(http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c75/rmpmla/LCD.jpg)[/img]
(http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c75/rmpmla/screenshot.jpg)[/img]
(http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c75/rmpmla/bryan1.jpg)[/img]
details:
27" widescreen LCD
Shuttle XPC Athlon XP2000+
ATI 9200 128mb AGP
512 X 2 PC2100 memory
80 gig HD
Lite-On DVD drive
A4tech wireless KB/mouse
Labtec 2.1 speakers
sigma PC table
Ok thanks bro! ;D
jay need to get in touch with you asap tnx
anyone can help me out i need a cable to connect to my lcd 14ft away pc - dvi lcd - hdmi tnx tnx
a dvi to component cable perhaps? is this possible?
thanks
I understand the LG drive indicated is a dual-format drive and quite expensive. Will check that site for the parts. Thanks.
But if there's anyone who has built his HTPC locally for high definition, I'd like to hear. Thanks. ;D
gday jay and htpc gurus. i just want to know what video card can do a 1:1 mapping on my WXGA plasma (1365 x 768) ? thanks
to those who asked/PM about the widescreen LCD, the seller is again selling used 26" widescreen LCD for only P14,900.
check this out - http://www.openpinoy.com/shop/step1.php?number=749
good luck ;)
Have you found a BD drive to use? to what I know BD drives cost about 30K and the Xbox HD drive costs around 10k... some people have had success using an Xbox HD drive, but only to read the disc, no playback... they rip the HD movie into the hard drive.
I have about 50-60K to burn for an updated pc set-up and would like to go thru a simple HTPC route that I can also use for my PJ. Or laptop na lang kunin ko? Any advise on rig specs sana would be helpful kasi ang dami ng selection ko especially the mboard, video and sound card, etc. Thanks.
Salamat bro, are there optical drives already that can read BD and HD DVD or software lang kelagan to read this hi def discs? I'll try to configure hardware specs and post it here for comments.
Regards and great set-up, really. Galeng!!!
For BD and HD DVD discs...you will need hardware (optical drives) for that...I haven't seen any locally...nor have I seen any BD or HD discs locally.
If you download it...you might be okay with a codec.
Haven't tried, since BD and HD content isn't that available(to me at least).
if you can get this: http://www.auzentech.com/site/products/x-plosion.php it would be great:) otherwise there are a lot of motherboards with an spdif out that you can use to connect to the receiver.ganda!!! ;D ;D ill try rounding up pc shops.......
Can you guys recommend a good TV tuner with PVR? Would it be worth it to get the ones with hardware encoding?
@jpadua
Can you give me an estimate of how much is the PVR3000 and the theatrix? Saw some reviews on the net and the theatrix looks promising. ;D Btw, where have you seen the theatrix?
Hi guys, I plan to use a spare PC (athlon 1.8g) to use for my secondary setup (for divx) soon.
Where can I buy that sound card where I can plug an optical cable to my receiver?
I saw it here somewhere but I forgot where to look for it. TIA :)
Would be ripping DVD, HD DVD and BD into the external NAS drives with future expandability. 6 TB is only good for about 150 HD films. Not for me but for an office colleague looking at high end high definition viewing. Price is still an object so a reasonable quote is still welcome. TIA.
again, the question is which is the best way to go?
should one go NAS or build a new file server. what are the benefits of either options. the main concern now is real estate of your original system. expanding to an outside box becomes the only option - which option. NAS is easier to configure, I guess, but is also expensive than setting up a cheap file server. But is there any other benefit in going NAS than a standalone file server? what am i missing?
disc size is just a matter of how much money you want to sink in.
You can buy a board with 6 SATA ports (quite common).
Then buy the Hitachi 1TB SATA drives... each is $400.
Nice to know. And then after that, how do I scale up beyond 6TB? With an external NAS, you can just add another box with its HDD array and connect to a network switich, so on and so forth. I think if storage is critical to your requirement, server or channel -attached storage has its limits.
Easy... add a PC card with more SATA ports
here's one with 4 SATA ports.
http://www.firewire-1394.com/4-port-serial-ata-pci-card.htm
That should give you 4TB per PC card added.
When you've loaded all the slots in the mother board, some boards have 4 PCI slots...just get another PC and network the two via switch or router. ;D
Depending on the board, sata controller, it should also support a form of RAID.
Naturally I have no first hand experience, if such a PC can actually access so many 1TB drives given the PC sata card approach. Theoretically, it should work....
Then of course you have the physical limit of how many you can actually put inside the PC case.... larger cases can handle 9 to 12 devices....so you could have 9 to 12TB in once case...compare the final cost to a dedicated
NAS with 9 to 12 HDD bays... I think the PC approach will come out cheaper.
I should add that 500GB Seagate drives are $100, and comes with 5 yr international warranties.
These are the drives I got.
Another approach...buy external hdd enclosures...attach to a PC via USB...when you run out of USB ports, either buy a USB card ... or perhaps a USB hub/switch might work.
Some mother boards (costs about P10000) also support 8 SATA ports on the board.
But there must be some advantage using NAS, rather than another PC.
If using SATA drives via USB, how about power supply? And housing? I can't imagine using 4 -6 individual SATA drives stacked up on top of each other as the risk of falling gets high. And I have to spend on individual external housing. I think a NAS housing would take care of better organization and powering. A NAS is really just another PC with stripped down OS and NOS just dedicated to storage management. The consumer NAS on the net starts at around $200 for a 6-bay config. I could get a stripped down PC ofcourse with more PCI slots for SATA drives and that's also a viable option. Storage capacity can be addressed by both. But there must be some advantage using NAS, rather than another PC.
which is my original question :D what am I missing.
oh, and can you post the link where you found 6 sata drives NAS enclosures for $200?
NAS ...seemingly cheap - but not really once you realize its an empty case you are getting,
It isn't really empty is it? You have a case and a power supply and a also some circuit with built-in OS and NOS plus your connectivity options. It's really a stripped down PC dedicated for storage management only.
Here's my PC Setup, will post the photos soon
Intel Dual Core 2 E6600 2.4Ghz 4Mb L2 Cache
1GB PC800 DDR2 Corsair Extreme 2 Memory
MSI 975X Platinum Edition V2 Motherboard
PowerColor ATI 1950XT 256Mb DDR3 PCIE VGA Card
1.44Mb Floppy disk Drive
1pc. 250GB Seagate SATA Hard Disk
2pcs. 160GB Seagate SATA Hard Disk
2pcs. 200GB Seagate SATA Hard Disk
Asus CDRW CD Rom Drive 52x32x52
Asus 1604P DVDRW Drive
Asus DRW-1814BL DVDRW with Lightscribe Technology
Altec Lansing VS4121 Speaker
Gigabyte 3D Rocket II CPU Cooling System
17 Inch Viewsonic Ultrabrite E70F+ SVGA Monitor
Changing the cable is not the answer, rather, look for the appropriate resolution setting and you can fill up your screen.
It's easy, just go directly to the taskbar of NVDIA and look for the appropriate screen resolution.
Done that. The SXRD's manual also states that the PC screen resolution is fixed at 1360x768. It can't go any higher than that.
help...need advice re htpc vs hdd
i would like to play dled files on my plasma. my options would seem to be a mediagate 350 hdd player and an htpc.
could the gurus recommend an htpc setup for less than 10k. i just need it for playing pc files of tv programs. if it can do wifi that would also be nice. small form factor would be ideal.
thanks!
thanks a lot sir voj!
does the mediagate have a web browser?
Help guys... what is the cheapest sound card carrying a digital out? thanks ::)
Will the sound card be a big factor in sound quality when you watch divx, dvds and play mp3s? Are those fancy creative sound cards really a whole lot better that the built-in sound?
sir i've been using Creative Audigy value through its digital out by using a 3.5mm stereo baby jack to RCA adapter, then Phillips Digital coaxial cable to my receiver. SPDIF pass through should be selected on the Creative console and other players you will use such as PowerDVD.
For my ears there is a big difference. Sound is cleaner, have more details and bass is tighter. Using Creative Audigy Value.
question lang po, kailangan pa ba nang amplifier pag naka HT PC ka or kaya na direct na lang sa mobo yung mga speakers?
Are HDMI capable motherboards now available locally?
thanks Dan. Do you know if their HDMI supports sound as well? Just wanted to be sure. ;D
thanks Dan. Do you know if their HDMI supports sound as well? Just wanted to be sure. ;D
mga sir ,
asan po na store pede ako makabili ng horizontal cpu cases na nice looking to match my ht stuff kc ngayon naka vertical cpu lang kc di kasya sa audio rack thanks
Just came fresh from greenhills & got a horizontal case for 1600. But I changed the power supply to HEC, as recommended by PC enthusiast friends.
i'm gonna share mine...
my simple HTPC
(http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p229/rmapua23/IMG_2247.jpg)
(http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p229/rmapua23/IMG_2423.jpg)
(http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p229/rmapua23/IMG_2432.jpg)
(http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p229/rmapua23/IMG_2390.jpg)
(http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p229/rmapua23/IMG_2391.jpg)
best keyboard and mouse combo (remote works like the wii-mote)
(http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p229/rmapua23/IMG_2388.jpg)
next up would be decent speakers..
thanks!
i'm gonna share mine...
my simple HTPC
best keyboard and mouse combo (remote works like the wii-mote)
next up would be decent speakers..
thanks!
Hi! I've been having problems with my HTPC lately. I've been using it solely as a DVD player connected to my pj without any connection to the net. I didn't have any problems whatsoever before watching my DVDs. Lately, I noticed that everytime I load a DVD, it doesn't continue loading and it hangs. If ever I get to watch the movie, it just hangs around 4-5x per movie and the PC resets again.
Should I replace the RAM, HDD or reformat windows? Any help would be appreciated. TIA
@demented_
normally the built-in media player of windows has already good upscaling capabilties for dvd and for other formats, you just need to install the right codecs, which can be downloaded sa net, for outputing DTS and AC3 codecs, you also need some audio codecs naman to do that
for the DVI-HDMI cable, meron nyan nagbebenta dati dito sa buy and sell section, kaso its currently down, you can also try tipidpc.com, cdr-king meron din ata, and i think meron din sa mga audio/video shops
you connect your PC through its spdif out (coax/optical) to your reciever, or if your board supports it (and your reciever), you can connect it through hdmi also, you wont have Dolby/DTS with just RCA jacks )unless your pc is the one that will decode the audio, which I wouldnt recommend
post ko na rin dito,hehe, my still in progress htpc setup :)
(http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/1376/htpcib2.jpg)
Does your HTPC case support a front temp monitor? The usual cause for hang-ups and resets for PC is high temperature, specifically processor temperature. The second usual suspect is the power supply starting to fail because of capacitor aging.
You may want to inspect the processor fan if its working correctly. You can do this by either installing a monitoring software like PC Wizard or Speedfan, or by physically checking the inside of the HTPC if dust has infiltrated the inside and has cause bad airflow within the case.
Just came fresh from greenhills & got a horizontal case for 1600. But I changed the power supply to HEC, as recommended by PC enthusiast friends.
audiofreak ... where did you buy the keyboard and mouse and remote combo?
Hi! I've been having problems with my HTPC lately. I've been using it solely as a DVD player connected to my pj without any connection to the net. I didn't have any problems whatsoever before watching my DVDs. Lately, I noticed that everytime I load a DVD, it doesn't continue loading and it hangs. If ever I get to watch the movie, it just hangs around 4-5x per movie and the PC resets again.
Should I replace the RAM, HDD or reformat windows? Any help would be appreciated. TIA
Hi! I've been having problems with my HTPC lately. I've been using it solely as a DVD player connected to my pj without any connection to the net. I didn't have any problems whatsoever before watching my DVDs. Lately, I noticed that everytime I load a DVD, it doesn't continue loading and it hangs. If ever I get to watch the movie, it just hangs around 4-5x per movie and the PC resets again.
Should I replace the RAM, HDD or reformat windows? Any help would be appreciated. TIA
Anyone here uses GOM Player? 720p high def movies look ridiculously gorgeous on this media player but playback is rather stuttery and audio tends to get out-of-synch. Any recommended settings within GOM Player itself or should I simply upgrade my 7600GT graphics card?
Thanks for any info.
Can you post your specs? I suspect that your computer might not be fast enough to play the 720p movies. Haven't tried using GOM player but if it really makes movies look extra gorgeous then I'm pretty sure there is some extra processing going on in the background. Have you tried coreavc? Coreavc uses the least cpu power in playing hd movies but also slightly tradeoff some quality. As for upgrading graphics card, only upgrade to the newer gen cards if you're playing hd movies in h.264 format or bluray/hddvd disk. If you're watching movies through x.264 format then there will be no hardware acceleration.
Core 2 Duo Intel 2.4GHz
2GB DDR2 5300 (667) RAM
500 GB HD
Nvidia 7600 GT 512MB, HDCP compliant
On-Board 7.1 Channel Audio with S/PDIF and Optical Out
Logitech Z-4 2.1 Ch. Speakers
22-inch Dell P1230 CRT set at 1600x1200, 100Hz
Vista Home Premium
Before I tried GOM player, I've been regularly using VLC player which handles those large hi-def files in mkv containers distinctively smoother with no audio synch problems. However, GOM player does produce better picture quality because of the high level of customizations available. Parang may kabigatan nga lang. Kapag 1080p rip na, lalong mabigat ang mundo nya. :)
For those using both VLC and Windows Media Player, notice how much more vibrant the color saturation of WMP is compared to that of VLC when playing standard avi stuff and DVD. Unfortunately, WMP cannot play hi-def files in mkv containers while VLC is rather almighty, albeit the color reproduction may seem to be rather dull. Since the contents are eye-popping hi-def in the first place, I didn't really mind the color saturation until I tried GOM player. And like I previously posted, it's ridiculously gorgeous (comparatively speaking). But because of the stutter and out-of synch audio issues, I just stuck with VLC.
Yeah my PC is likewise connected to the Xbox360 HD DVD add-on drive and it handles playback well enough using PowerDVD Ultra at its present configuration.
Your specs are already quite good. Have you tried using media classic using ffdshow as the decoder? I believe ffdshow has the best image quality and has loads of options too. Try the Combined Community Codec Pack or K-lite pack. VLC player is not really recommended to play hd videos as the quality is not so good.
nice! could you please share specs and also where to buy the case. thanks!
Pero sa avi, I use WMP with ffdshow. Yun nga lang after watching hi-def movies in fullscreen, can't tolerate watching avi in fullscreen anymore. Well ok rin naman minimized screen :) :) :)
My understanding is that playing movies are I/O and memory-intensive applications on the PC. Same with playing audio WAV files. They are loaded and buffered into RAM before playing. You may have a video card memory problem. Over time, PC components can fail. Memory shortage will often hang a PC. It also stutters WAV files and MPEG files when playing.
There may be background applications running that can hinder smooth movie playing. Some anti-virus tools can interpret a multimedia file as a virus and can disrupt the play as new data streams are loaded into memory. Or the PC might be using virtual RAM on your hard drive and there's not enough hard disk space for this.
Or your DVD ROM might be the culprit. You may have to clean the lens. If as you say, it can't continue with the loading, the drive lens might not be able to read the inner tracks containing the header files on your DVD. Try borrowing and hooking via USB2.0 a working external DVD ROM and see if the problem persists.
I am presently using the onboard video of my HTPC using the VGA output. I'm planning to buy a video card with higher memory and will be using a DVI-HDMI adapter and will be using an HDMI cable to my PJ. Would the video quality improve greatly with my planned set-up? TIA
Alfie- Nice to hear from you. I was just contemplating that a dedicated video card would be better than onboard video. I am satisfied with the video output though as I have posted in the AX100 thread. I also remember you posting that you find the video better with component upscaling than thru HDMI. Presently still using DVDs and not yet dipping into HD. Maybe if I jump into HD then the HDMI route would be of better use. Thanks for the input.
question po..pag yung video graphics card nyo pa ba may HDMI na..hindi na kailangan ng soundcard na external para sa audio? makakabit ko na ba yung reciever ko via sa HDMI ng video graphics card?
question po..pag yung video graphics card nyo pa ba may HDMI na..hindi na kailangan ng soundcard na external para sa audio? makakabit ko na ba yung reciever ko via sa HDMI ng video graphics card?
HDMI video cards can pass S/PDIF signals from a sound card or onboard audio codec over the HDMI connector, so it will only be stereo PCM and 5.1 Dolby Digital/DTS.
The ATI HD 2000&3000 series GPU has a built-in audio controller for 5.1 digital surround sound.
If you want 7.1 PCM audio, you have to wait for the Auzentech HDMI sound card.
Here's an article regarding HTPC playback with standard DVD's. It's quite old though, the video cards used were 2 generations ago (Nvidia G70 & ATI X1000).
Link: ATI and nVidia crush high-end DVD players (http://www.hardware.info/en-UK/articles/am9nY2pqZA/ATI_and_nVidia_crush_highend_DVD_players/1)
Also, there seems to be a notion that you will need a very expensive Video card for video playback, ever since the introduction of ATI's Avivo and nVidia's PureVideo, any card from the same chipset family will perform the same with regards to video playback.
For gaming however, the higher end video cards will be able to handle higher resolutions and till be able to support full anti-aliasing and anisotropic filtering. Though, more powerful video cards often run hotter and will need bigger & noisier fans as opposed to the entry level cards which feature passive cooling via just a heatsink.
So for HD movie video playback, the Php1,900 ATI HD3450 will offer the same video quality as say the Php20,000 HD3870X2. (both generation 3 ATI Avivo cards)
For games like Call of Duty 4, the HD3450 will get you around 800x600 resolution no AA or AF and around 30 frames per second while the HD3870X2 might give you 1920x1200 res AA&AF 40-60fps.
huh? you just need to download the matroska pack to play mkv videos. media player classic & vlc can also play mkv files the need for codecs
Yup I know. Sorry I wasn't clear, I was referring to the hardware acceleration support. As far as I know, even though the video cards can support h.264 videos it still can't properly support the .mkv files (x.264). I've read that there are some driver hacks out there that try but none works perfectly.
Have you tried using Core AVC codecs? they require less CPU usage when decoding x264 compared to ffdshow
i upgraded yesterday from HD2600XT to this:
(http://www.hardwarezone.com/img/data/articles/2008/2450/Box.jpg)
(http://www.hardwarezone.com/img/data/articles/2008/2450/Topdown.jpg)
(http://www.hardwarezone.com/img/data/articles/2008/2450/Cooler.jpg)
i upgraded yesterday from HD2600XT to this:
(http://www.hardwarezone.com/img/data/articles/2008/2450/Box.jpg)
(http://www.hardwarezone.com/img/data/articles/2008/2450/Topdown.jpg)
(http://www.hardwarezone.com/img/data/articles/2008/2450/Cooler.jpg)
Mga sir I'm planning to replace my old-reliable pc with an HTPC. I need your help on what specs and brands I need for my setup. Can you give me a qoute of how much they cost? My budget is around P35k-P40k pero mas masaya kung pwede pa ibaba.Will the htpc be used solely for ht? I the specs of the htpc would vary greatly on what your planning to do with it. I use my old p4 3ghz pc for my dedicated htpc. Works great, i use it for playing music and 720p movies. You could buy a setup like mine for less than 20k. You really have to decide whether you will play games on it or not because that would be the biggest factor in determining what kind of setup you will do.
Thank you! ;D
Ano po ba maganda brand? And how about for sound card and mobo? What do you recommend. I saw this at tipidpc - AMD X2 4400 + EMAXX EMX-NF7050HD-PRO + 1gb Corsair Value ram ddr2 667 - P6800. Okay na po ba 'to? Or should I go higher?
FFDShow Settings (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=922773)
Any brand will do, just make sure the shop you get it from has good after sales service. The more expensive brands like bfg or evga is usually built better and clocked higher. It will be up to you if it's worth the extra money or not. If your not specially picky about sound then you can use the hdmi out of your video card, all the HD 3xxx has built in 5.1 audio.
Not really sure with the amd 4400. If you can, you should go for a better cpu and more ram. You should have at least 2gb of ram. Regarding the mobo, don't sweat about the mobo. In my experience the mobo doesn't add much performance. It's really the cpu, ram and video card that affects game speed the most.
Thank you for the info. :) Question lang so eventhough hindi ganun kaganda yung bibilhin kung sound card as long as top-of-the-line ang video card card ko I can still enjoy 5.1 audio?
Thank you for the info. :) Question lang so eventhough hindi ganun kaganda yung bibilhin kung sound card as long as top-of-the-line ang video card card ko I can still enjoy 5.1 audio?
I see...how about the dvd drive? Does this matter? Sensya na sa dami ng tanong ko kasi 'tong pc na ginagamit ko bundle, ayaw ko na kasi mag-isip ng mga specs nung binili ko 'to kaso hindi ko na sya pwede i-upgrade kaya ngayon natuto na ko. Kaya next time na bumili ako kelangan sigurado na. :)
I see...how about the dvd drive? Does this matter? Sensya na sa dami ng tanong ko kasi 'tong pc na ginagamit ko bundle, ayaw ko na kasi mag-isip ng mga specs nung binili ko 'to kaso hindi ko na sya pwede i-upgrade kaya ngayon natuto na ko. Kaya next time na bumili ako kelangan sigurado na. :)
anybody who can recommend a good cpu to be used only as a dedicated mp3/wav jukebox to be connected to an onkyo 705. i would prefer a small case for this as i will place this side by side with the avr.. what us the best soundcard and processor for this? No need for a video card i guess since i will not be using it as a video source..
Here is the pictures I promised. I scanned a chinese pc magazine review instead so that you can see the insides better. Btw mine is in black. Size of the casing is 140x370x450mm.
(http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/5359/cci00000bo9.th.jpg) (http://img301.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cci00000bo9.jpg)
Buy a 3.5mm (M) to RCA (F) adapter like this (usually can be bought at Ace Hardware or Handyman):
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21sTIw4gJnL._AA115_.jpg)
then insert the 3.5mm (M) end to the SPDIF port of your soundcard. Then get a 75ohm cable with both (M) RCA ends and insert one end of the cable to the (F)RCA end of the adapter connected to your soundcard and the other end of the RCA cable to the coaxial input of your receiver.
Activate the SPDIF out option of your soundcard. When using a DVD program like PowerDVD in the audio configuration, just select SPDIF or digital out.
Hope this helps! ;)
Nice toys jambam. How much did you spend on your new rig? I'm drooling over the casing, very nice. :o
hi guys casing was 10K... The cpu+mem+motherboard was less than 10k
hi guys casing was 10K... The cpu+mem+motherboard was less than 10k
Hey guys. I'm experiencing shaky video playback on my htpc. Any idea what's the problem?
What do you mean by shaky? Up, down, left, right shaking? What's your setup? Does it only shake when you playback videos? How are you connecting your pc and TV?
mga sir, wat do u min by HTPC?
na dadownload na b mga movies?
thanks!
Monitor: Samsung 226BW
Logitech Rumble Pad 2 USB Game Controller
(http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/5254/rumblepad2gw9.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
guys patulong naman, kakasetup ko lng ng mini htpc ko with my 32" pana LCDTV. I was able to connect it via DVI-HDMI. Probelma lng is medyo ang hrap lng basahin ng text, hindi siya blurry pero parang ang sharp msydo. Pero when i watch videos everything seems fine. is this normal?
Ano nga pla reso gamit niyo sa mga nka 32"? 1366x768 is the native reso of my lcd pero walang option un pc para ma support un. Ano reso gamit niyo?
I use 1360x768 at 60Hz.
Is this the preferred setting for all 32-inch lcd or just for Pana? I tried to use my lcd pero hindi gumana. I don't know why. Sir glacierfrost told me to check my manual to see what reso my tv supports but I haven't check it yet. ;D Different brand ba ng 32 inches different reso din ang kailangang gamitin?
Question: I'm planning to build HTPC but my big concern is about the audio, if i will buy a soundcard with analog and digital out, i'm thinking to use the analog out instead of the digital out, correct me if i'm wrong coz what am i thinking is because i will connect it to my HK-AVR135 only and to think that the decoder of my AVR is up to DTS only so if i connect it via digital the receiver will decode the audio, but if i connect it to analog the computer will decode the audio in much higher than the receiver. Am I right?
Baka maguluhan kayo:
Sound Card Digital Out -> AVR Digital In = AVR will decode the audio (Paano kung DTS HD MA yung i-play like the HD r*ps the audio will be downgraded to DTS only)
Souncard Analog out - > AVR Analog In = The PC will decode the audio (So if i have the right codecs ang ma-re-recieve nag AVR is the the right Audio track kasi nadecode na sya ng PC and yung AVR will just Amplify it.
Tama ba itong naiisip ko?
oo nga tagal ko na naghihintay ng sagot mga gurus... pls enlighten me.. Thanks...
will a pentium 4 2.4ghz be able to play 720 and 1080p files?
anyone knows the answer to this? mas maganda ba analog ang out.. as of now Digital out yung gamit ko.. meron din sya point of having the pc decode the audio.
If you have the new ati cards that have UVD it should be able to play 720p files even if your pc is p4 2.4ghz. I have p4 3.0ghz and the cpu load when playing 720p files is less than 20% (I think it is even less than 10%). Before getting the HD3450, my cpu usage is more than 50%.
so i think there is hope for older pcs to play hidef, the solution powerdvd8 ultra
Tried this one bro and the PQ is outstanding. Far better than MPC. Problem is its audio decoding. My 5.1 files plays only 2 channel audio. :'(
just a question.
i'm using my htpc with my toshiba 32' lcd tv (native resolution of 13** x 768).
my current resolution (xp setting) for my htpc is 19** x 1080.
watching videos is great.. but for xp use, surfing the web, etc.. the text is really small (thin)..
how do i address this problem? should i just set up htpc at 1020 by 768 resolution?? or would my playback for my 720p and 1080p .mkv, .avi, etc. files be affected? or would this "hd files" play better if i set my resolution lower?
advise please.
thanks!
@glacierfrost: what is a UVD?
Sir glacier, does this mean that those latest video cards has this uvd? If my video card has uvd does this automatically do the decoding or I have to set it first.
nabasa ko nga somewhere sir ung feedback niyo about this... ginamit niyo ung PDVD8 for mkv files diba? tinatry ko ding iplay ung mkv file sa PDVD8 kaso hindi yata supported e... with the vob files, kaya niya naman i pass through spdif ung DD sir... pero since 2.1 lang ung PC speaker ko at malayo ung receiver ko sa PC hindi ko na try via pc to receiver connection...
paano mo nga pala sir napagana ung mkv file sa PowerDVD8?
@glacier
I'm already using K-lite as recommend in another thread wo far it works perfectly naman w/ the mkv files I downloaded. I just want to try lang yung sinabi nyo about uvd because I'm using Inno3d 9600gt at tama kayo it features purevideo hd. I just don't know how to do it lang. :)
With the readings in this thread, i am now developing the interest of building an HTPC which i intend to use as an alternative while prices of bluray is still painful to my pocket. In fact since march, I have only five blurays.
To those who just built an HTPC can you kindly recommend the BASIC hardware i need, please. I only need the CPU. I will use my AX100 as my monitor. Will a 20k budget be enough? ;)
it may be enough. 2 weeks ago a friend of mine built a cpu for his htpc for 25K and it had above average specs.
just research and see what may fit into your budget.
try tipidpc.com they usually have cheap tuff for sale there. you never know... yo might get lucky
To those who just built an HTPC can you kindly recommend the BASIC hardware i need, please. I only need the CPU. I will use my AX100 as my monitor. Will a 20k budget be enough? ;)
check this site bro
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972)
there's a lot of suggestions on HTPC setups ranging from low-end to hi-end.
hope this helps ;)
Nice and rich info from this site -- but are these parts available kaya locally and in what shop bros?
I am not a computer techy and and when i purchased my first desktop i just relied on what the shop recommended. So if ever, i will have to do the same. ;)
BTW, how come nobody seems to factor in the cost of the OS license in the budget??? Is it "free" in the Philippines??? An OEM OS would cost me at least $100 in Tokyo ;D ;D ;D
cheap HTPC setup:
proc: amd x2 4800+ = 3500
mobo: emaxx 780g = 3400 (built in hdmi out and can decode mkv)
mem: 2x1gb ddr2 800 = 2100
hdd: 500gb = 4500
odd: 20x dvdrw = 1500
casing: 2500 (901 microfly/DIVA)
psu: 3000 hec (you need a stable psu for a HTPC)
total: 20.5k
i can help you build this setup - pm me..
merong SPDIF yung emaxx..
i suggest sana yung gigabyte kasi merong optical out kaso wala pang stock..
hec 550ab yung psu costs around 3k+
yung casing is like the xpc shuttle style.. 10"x12"x14" HxWxL (approximate lang ito)
a more cheaper alternative would be: (no particular with the looks, psu, hdd)
proc: amd x2 4800+ = 3500
mobo: emaxx 780g = 3400 (built in hdmi out and can decode mkv)
mem: 1gb ddr2 667 = 1000
hdd: 80gb = 1500
odd: 20x dvdrw = 1500
casing/psu: 1500 (generics)
total: 12.4k
no one includes the OS in the computation as most pinoys use the tiangge copies ;D
a more cheaper alternative would be: (no particular with the looks, psu, hdd)
proc: amd x2 4800+ = 3500
mobo: emaxx 780g = 3400 (built in hdmi out and can decode mkv)
mem: 1gb ddr2 667 = 1000
hdd: 80gb = 1500
odd: 20x dvdrw = 1500
casing/psu: 1500 (generics)
total: 12.4k
If you plan to store hi-def movies and lossless music files 80gb is definitely not enough.
Sirs, my set-up.
Intel E2160 1.8 Dual Core
Emaxx NF7050HD
2GB DDR2 Memory PQI
250 GB HDDSeagate SATA
Palit Daytona 7300GT 256MB ddr Sonic
Pwede na ba for HTPC set-up? Ano kulang maliban sa monitor?
a more cheaper alternative would be: (no particular with the looks, psu, hdd)
proc: amd x2 4800+ = 3500
mobo: emaxx 780g = 3400 (built in hdmi out and can decode mkv)
mem: 1gb ddr2 667 = 1000
hdd: 80gb = 1500
odd: 20x dvdrw = 1500
casing/psu: 1500 (generics)
total: 12.4k
Hi guys, just want to ask if its ok to play your hi-def files from an external hard drive? Hindi naman mag lag or mag off sync yung audio? Especially with 1080p files.
Yeah that AVS thread is really like an encyclopedia when it comes to HTPC set-up. So I'll try to give some practical guidelines to complement all the information you can get from that site. These are just my opinions.sir clondalkin, hd_movies, Gnew, john5479 thank you very much for the suggestions, insights and recommendations ..... more ideas the better
CPU: AMD or Intel. Doesn't matter. Just buy the fastest, meanest multi-core Intel or EQUIVALENT AMD that you can afford. Intel's E6xxx and Q6600 seem to be very popular examples. Any of these multi-core CPU's will make you happy but the more powerful the CPU is, the happier you will be for that blood thirsty MKV contents, especially 1080p ones. Just like to stress once again, CPU is the most critical component at the moment for MKV playback. You need to do some reading on the current line of CPUs and find your sweet spot in terms of budget. No need to delve on full technical details. For starters just look at the clock speed, the number of cores and the front side bus speed - and then make 100% sure that your chosen MOBO supports the CPU. New models of MOBOs are OK in terms of compatibility but if you are buying an old model MOBO, then be very careful
MEM: It appears the mainstream type right now would be the 667 or 800Mhz DDR2 (dual channel types). You don't need to buy those expensive and cool looking Corsairs with 1066MHz clock, but I would recommend reliable makes such as Crucial, Kingston, Buffalo, I/O Data, etc. Nowadays there are 2 types of "bulk" memories; the "totally generic" bulk and those with rather "unpopular makes. You can save money by trying them as well. Compatibility with popular MOBOs is not 100% guaranteed but working chances are very high. If your PC is retail (Dell, etc.), then stay away from generic mem. For Vista, you need at least 2GB. For XP, you need at least 1GB. However, I personally think the sweet spot for MKV is at least 2GB. BTW, dual channel memory banks should be installed in PAIRS, otherwise, it would run at half the rated clock speed. So if you want 1GB of mem, then you have to install 2x512MB using the appropriately paired (usually color coded) mem bank slots in your MOBO.
HDD: A 720p MKV is at least 4.5GB big. 1080p can range from 6B to 40GB. Get as much GB as you can afford. Seagate, Western Digital, Samsung, Hitachi...doesn't matter which make. 7200 rpm, 16GB cache has become the mainstream. You don't need those expensive models with higher cache for your personal application
Sound Card: If you are not that picky, the on-board 7.1 channel audio of most modern MOBOs is more than sufficient. Confirm that optical out (SPDIF) is available on the MOBO (it usually is for new MOBOs) if you want to go multi-channel connected to an AVR. Otherwise, you need a GOOD 2.1 channel set of PC speakers at the very least. Something with powerful subwoofer like that of Logicool Z4 would be nice. But if you already have a multi-channel AVR and speakers set HT, then just connect your PC to the extra optical input of the AVR.
Video Card: You mentioned "little gaming" but how little is little? Once the word gaming comes out, then you can forget about the on-board video unless your image of gaming is Free Cell. The general consensus is that Nvidia is better for gaming overall but AMD/ATI is better for HTPC, BUT, if you are interested enough to analyze the detailed performance of each particular model, you'd find out that it really depends on the particular GPU. Doesn't matter which maker you choose because most of them follow the reference design provided by Nvidia or ATI, then just put their logo on the fan.
As I personally confirmed recently, you definitely don't need a high end card like HD3870 or 8800GT for an HTPC. Depending on your gaming needs, I think you'd find your balance on any of the following GPUs: HD2600XT, HD3650, HD3850, 8600GT, 8600GTS. Cheaper cards MAY work just fine but the determining factor here is the kind of games you want to play, not the MKVs you want to watch. More expensive cards are definitely overkill.
You may also want to read on the reviews of the new MOBOs based on ATI's 780 chipset with integrated graphics.
Casing: Totally subjective. Some like it vertical, some like it horizontal with "AV equipment look". Some like it in whatever kind of color, some prefer vanilla beige or pitch black. Some like it with transparent window with a nice view of the innards of the PC, some prefer the traditional "closed" container. Some like it cute and slim, some like it huge and imposing with lots of spaces for future expansion and additional cooling.
Power Supply Unit: If your interest in gaming is not that much, PSU wattage and amperage are not critical. However, the given ratings of the PSU should be HONEST and not simply overhyped specs, that's why popular and reliable makes are recommended.
I only started to browse through tipidpc this year. Yeah you can find some nice parts there at good prices. You don't need to buy brand new items, but make sure they are in perfect working condition. Stay away from "REPAIRED" parts.
The member Tambutsoo started a thread under Sources for an entry level HTPC less than 20K (including part models). Please have a look at that one.
BTW, how come nobody seems to factor in the cost of the OS license in the budget??? Is it "free" in the Philippines??? An OEM OS would cost me at least $100 in Tokyo ;D ;D ;D
Finally, if you suddenly get afflicted with SARS of the HTPC strain, then PM me your hard to find exotic PC part and I can source it out in Tokyo. ;D ;D ;D
well done, ser clondalkin. if you're not really in to gaming, a 20k budget is ok for a decent htpc. for me, i'd spend the extra cash for the speakers and a plasma. :)sir ganda naman ng nasa luob ng htpc mo parang sa auto (sasakyan) hehehe paki share naman po ng set up nyo ganda din nung casing ... tia
OT: i'm a noob here in pdvd so pardon my ignorance. but what is SARS? ;D
anyway, here's my htgpc (home theater and gaming). i try to minimize noise as possible by using low-speed, mid-cfm fans on the radiator. sometimes i connect it to the tv kasi sya yung nasa gitna ng living room (not in pic). ipon mode muna sa plasma.
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u254/equint/lc20mwc/16-front.jpg)
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u254/equint/lc20mwc/18-frontsideremote.jpg)
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u254/equint/lc20mwc/23-res.jpg)
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u254/equint/lc20mwc/24-loop.jpg)
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u254/equint/lc20mwc/31-unisinkcloseup.jpg)
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u254/equint/lc20mwc/20-top.jpg)
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u254/equint/lc20mwc/15-front.jpg)
i need to renovate the living room. furniture is all wood, no upholstery. tsk... >:(
i'm using theatertek software, and currently using windows media player with codecs installed by my great friend to play mkv files in 720p and 1080p format. my friend updated the codec so i can play bluray type files through my computer, now comes the problem, whenever i'll use theatertek for my dvds, it'll ask me to reinstall theatertek, there seems to be some conflicts with the bluray codec and theatertek. does anybody here who's using theatertek with a bluray optical drive who's not facing same problem with my htpc? just want to know the proper settings
check also this ready-made HTPCs
http://www.okoromedia.com/index.htm (http://www.okoromedia.com/index.htm)
here's one of their product at US$3795 ONLY ;D
(http://www.okoromedia.com/workpics/xserBsm.jpg)
A very cool casing Gnew but with that price you already can build your own htpc. ;D ;D ;D
mahal nga dyerds no? naghahanap din me ng casing like the antec fusion na around 4k max kahit walang volume control. meron naman antec na mga 5k na may kasamang 380watts psu, pero gusto ko sana magkabit ng hec 550watts. meron kaya nito?
Just to share my recent PC upgrade to experience HD on my desktop...
Am actually checkin' out Quad and branded pc's for the first time. ;)
Hope it's worth the investment...
HP Pavillion M9299D [mod]
Neptune / Intel Core 2 Quad - Q6700 2.66GHz
3GB ram / 320GB SATA / Super Multi Drive + Lightscribe SATA
NVIDIA GeForce 8400
HP w2207h 22" monitor
The screen's HDMI-in allows 720p / 1080i HD viewing via PC. Still ordering a BD player / burner via the web to complete the set-up. ;D
Cheers!
Marl_1
Just to share my recent PC upgrade to experience HD on my desktop...may i know ilan bit ang panel ng hp lcd monitor na yan?
Am actually checkin' out Quad and branded pc's for the first time. ;)
Hope it's worth the investment...
(http://g-ec2.images-amazon.com/images/I/41wugJu148L._PC_.jpg) (http://resources.vr-zone.com/newspics/Sep06/28/ic2q_rgb_1670-s.jpg)
HP Pavillion M9299D [mod]
Neptune / Intel Core 2 Quad - Q6700 2.66GHz
3GB ram / 320GB SATA / Super Multi Drive + Lightscribe SATA
NVIDIA GeForce 8400
HP w2207h 22" monitor
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41Y60Tmw2UL.jpg)
(http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:UJnka4s3aZ1XWM:http://tech.china.com/zh_cn/hardware/diy/hangqing/11063184/20071030/images/2007103014331843658300.jpg)
The screen's HDMI-in allows 720p / 1080i HD viewing via PC. Still ordering a BD player / burner via the web to complete the set-up. ;D
Cheers!
Marl_1
upgraded to 1TB Samsung SpinPoint HDD with external esata HDD enclosure.very nice HDD ha with that massive storage, you can store lots of mkv files. talagang prepared kna to enter the HD world.
(http://img.kakaku.com/images/productimage/fullscale/05391010747.jpg)
HDD cost is roughly Php6,800.
i can regularly get hdd from japan.
anyone interested, just msg me.
i can regularly get hdd from japan.
anyone interested, just msg me.
Warranty coverage costs a lot of money, especially in a country like Japan. If you want 1-year warranty or 3-year warranty (boxed sets), then you have to pay the price for that.
I don't know, personally I haven't had a single bad experience with any hard drive. I've got Seagate, WD and Samsung in my rigs. The last desktop PC I threw away lasted for 9 years with its WD hard drive still in perfect working condition.
I am not sure if they have any "extra" QA/QC checklist for "bulk" (NOT BOXED) HDDs sold in Japan although that is quite common for other commodities imported to Japan (brand clothes in particular). In any case, these "bulk HDDs" in Japan are made by the big players such as Seagate, WD, Hitachi, Samsung, Toshiba. And although they lack the "box", they certainly are brand-new and properly packed.
Momay, I'm not sure if you can even do RMA to manufacturer for brand items "handled as bulk." AFAIK, for instance in popular DIY store like T-Zone and Clevery in Akihabara, after the store's own limited warranty for a certain bulk item, or a "special store item" expires, that's it. But then again what are the chances of total failure in 3 months anyway? Well, for a 17,000 yen 1TB hard disk drive, that may or may not be worth the risk depending on your situation.
Earlier, I tried to play an original LOTR DVD on my PC, sobrang laki ng difference ng PQ compared sa ripped Bluray ng LOTR (720p). Hindi maganda yung DVD sa PC.
Would you say na pareho or minimal difference lang ang PQ ng ripped HD-DVD/Bluray (720p) at regular DVD played on Upscaling DVD player?
I,m on the stage of planning a HTPC set up. Whats the cheapest videocard w/ hdmi connectivity available in the market?
Regardless how you play the SD, the HD ripped source which is 720p will be always better PQ than the SD. But some good SD source if upscalled tru a good upscalled player may give you a "near HD" look. :)
I,m on the stage of planning a HTPC set up. Whats the cheapest videocard w/ hdmi connectivity available in the market?
It should be near the price of an x-fi platinum, any price higher might alienate a lot of its target users.
Hi sir,
Would it have a difference in performance when playing if I were to put all my movies (720p and 1080p mkv) onto an external hard disk and connect via usb, than on a hard drive that is connected directly through sata? Since this hobby is a storage hungry, i'm planning on having several external hard disk as storage for
my increasing library of HD mkv's and playing them via usb. Thanks.
I suggest getting a larger tower case. (Some are as cheap as P1500 like mine) My PC for example has 5 drives, with a total 2TB capacity.
I can probably fit 3 more.
USB is really slow in terms of data transfer.
The external enclosures will cost more in the long term.
hi sir,
I am having stutter problems with my KM player when playing 720p mkv's though not very often. It is not very noticeable on movies but on music videos it is annoying. How can I totally remove this stutter problems. I notice that when using zoom player it does not stutter. I love KM player and would want to know it anyone here experience occasional stuttering on mkv's. My specs for my HTPC are:
Core 2 Duo E6420
Asus mobo
3 gb ddr2 667
500 gb hard disk sata
Palit 8800gt sonic 512 mb
5m hdmi cable
Monitor -> set to dual monitor with independent view for each
for pc use 19" samsung lcd
for watching mkv's a plasma 42pv70h connected via hdmi
built-in 6 ch audio on mobo connected to a 6 ch analog amplifier
thanks.
Try uninstalling your codecs and reinstall. I use K-lite (comes with media player classic).hi sir,
I use this for 720p mkvs
I had a video/audio stutter problem with another player. All I had to do was uninstall all
previous codecs, then install one to be used by all the other players.
hi sir,
I went through the list on my add/remove programs and have this (im not sure if this are all codecs).
DC-bass Source 1.1
directvobsub
dscaler 5 mpeg decoders
ffdshow rev 1685
haali media splitter
open source flash video splitter
shoutcast source
dna
Some may not be codecs but I just would want to know do I have to uninstall all of this. the last three I`m not sure it they are codecs.
Thanks.
Try using uninstall first. ie. uninstall all the players you have installed.hi sir, ok will try to do that. thanks
Then check and see if anything is left in the add/remove programs from your list below.
I can't tell which one is a codec, but one of K-lites pre-requisite is to remove all previous codecs.
When I didn't do that, I had an audio-video stutter problem.
Your hardware is sufficient for sure. I have an E4400 and an E6300, both capable in playing 720p .mkvs
hi sir, i have tried uninstalling all codecs present and even my mkv players,then installed K-lite codec full pack but still the ocassional
stutters still there when using KM player and very noticeable when playing musicals. Let me describe in detail what I meant by stutters in KM player. The scene suddenly fastforwards a word or two, but every thing is in sync( audio and video). And this always
happen in split seconds. There is no out of sync problem at all between the audio and video. But when using the Zoom player I don't see any stuttering/skipping at all.
Is this cause by my processor choking? Or is it cause by my built-in audio 6ch? Is KM player a resource hog? I Will try to upgrade all my drivers (audio and video) later today and see if the stutters are gone.
Thanks
I suggest getting a larger tower case. (Some are as cheap as P1500 like mine) My PC for example has 5 drives, with a total 2TB capacity.
I can probably fit 3 more.
USB is really slow in terms of data transfer.
The external enclosures will cost more in the long term.
i'm experiencing that problem too, yung biglang bumibilis parang nadudulas... bakit nga kaya...
hi sir, i have tried uninstalling all codecs present and even my mkv players,then installed K-lite codec full pack but still the ocassional
stutters still there when using KM player and very noticeable when playing musicals. Let me describe in detail what I meant by stutters in KM player. The scene suddenly fastforwards a word or two, but every thing is in sync( audio and video). And this always
happen in split seconds. There is no out of sync problem at all between the audio and video. But when using the Zoom player I don't see any stuttering/skipping at all.
Is this cause by my processor choking? Or is it cause by my built-in audio 6ch? Is KM player a resource hog? I Will try to upgrade all my drivers (audio and video) later today and see if the stutters are gone.
Thanks
Hi sir,
Would it have a difference in performance when playing if I were to put all my movies (720p and 1080p mkv) onto an external hard disk and connect via usb, than on a hard drive that is connected directly through sata? Since this hobby is a storage hungry, i'm planning on having several external hard disk as storage for
my increasing library of HD mkv's and playing them via usb. Thanks.
hi sir,
I am having stutter problems with my KM player when playing 720p mkv's though not very often. It is not very noticeable on movies but on music videos it is annoying. How can I totally remove this stutter problems. I notice that when using zoom player it does not stutter. I love KM player and would want to know it anyone here experience occasional stuttering on mkv's. My specs for my HTPC are:
Core 2 Duo E6420
Asus mobo
3 gb ddr2 667
500 gb hard disk sata
Palit 8800gt sonic 512 mb
5m hdmi cable
Monitor -> set to dual monitor with independent view for each
for pc use 19" samsung lcd
for watching mkv's a plasma 42pv70h connected via hdmi
built-in 6 ch audio on mobo connected to a 6 ch analog amplifier
No problem at all with your system.
What you're experiencing with 720p and 1080p is what I consider GROWING PAINS of a format that is not yet legally accepted and still a challenge to encoders and decoders.
There are quite a number of media players but there is always a trade-off. KM Player is awesome but it's still buggy. I'm not sure if the latest beta (1431) would perform better, but it's stable so perhaps you should give it a try. The KM Player still has some kinks to be fixed but I like it the best nevertheless.
In any case, if you feel like Zoom Player performs best, or any other media player for that mattter, then you should stick with it.
Some contents are simply NOT PROPERLY encoded, or perhaps better optimized for certain players, but I'm thankful for their availability and playability (though sometimes imperfect) just the same.
1080p contents will push any system to its limits with the current generation of media players, and lack of hardware decoding. If a 1080p content plays perfectly, then that is indicative of the adeptness of the person who ripped it. I have not seen how those standalone players would perform on a 14GB-30GB 1080p 12Mbps and higher 1080p mkv.
Tanong, is it still true that the HD PureVideo Engine (not the 3d engine) of the 8800GT is inferior/older to that of 8600 and 9600/9800 series??? - Nvidia's assumption was that the 8800GT would have be installed with a very powerful CPU in the first place, thus no need to power up the HD video engine. Or has the new drivers rectified that?
1080p contents will push any system to its limits with the current generation of media players, and lack of hardware decoding. If a 1080p content plays perfectly, then that is indicative of the adeptness of the person who ripped it. I have not seen how those standalone players would perform on a 14GB-30GB 1080p 12Mbps and higher 1080p mkv.
Although I'm using a different brand of media player than ert I can say from my personal experience that my player has played a 1080p 23.98fps 6ch AC3 mkv file (Earth) flawlessly.
Can you possibly test any of these 1080p titles on your standalone player and give us some feedback. Not just browsing through scenes but full-length viewing. Medyo mahaba ang more than 10 hours of viewing but thanks kung sakaling puede.
3:10 Yuma (10.7GB)
The Other Boleyn Girl (8.4GB)
Elizabeth The Golden Age (8.4GB)
Total Recall (10.4GB)
LOTR Return Of The King (12.5GB)
By the way, the same request goes for those using media players other than KMP. If your player can play the above 5 absolutely flawlessly, then your player is arguably the best right now. For those who want to try but would rather not download, I'm vacationing in Manila sa last week of July. I'll give anybody these test 1080ps for the sake of science, in our common quest to determine the best media player ;D ;D ;D
FYI, KMP exhibits some synch problems at certain scenes of the above titles, but automatically resynchs somehow (humahabol). VLC is totally hopeless. GOM has worse synching issue. As for the rest of 1080ps I've watched so far (about 40 other titles), they're OK with KMP - thanks to the geniuses who "repackaged" them brilliantly.
As for 720ps, you can watch them with anything available out there.
@Clondalkin
The only one among your list that I have is Total Recall. I've only gone through about 30 minutes of it and have had no problems. Since it was shot natively on film and then transferred to HD it is not as good visually as Planet Earth which was shot in HD natively. By the way, Total Recall movie file is at 1920x1040 so it's not 1080p strictly speaking ;).
sa laptop k0 na vista basic walang stutter pero sa vista ultimate at home premium meron.siguro less resource hog ang basic kaya walang stutter.when playing HD movies dapat walang ibang application na nagrurun sa background.
@momay
sir, may I know what mkv player you use on your laptop? thanks.
My htpc: amd4600/2gig/512mb vc
-watched some mkv files using benq pj! Very Nice!!! ;D
(http://h1.ripway.com/docelmo/htpc.JPG)
enable digital passthrough dun sa control panel ng sounds.. then sa ac3filter, as-is lang ang output..
has anybody tried using mac mini as HTPC...
medyo newbie on htpc wanna get one kasi
has anybody tried using mac mini as HTPC...
medyo newbie on htpc wanna get one kasi
enable digital passthrough dun sa control panel ng sounds.. then sa ac3filter, as-is lang ang output..
Bro! i was able to output DTS thru Optical Cable playing mkv files!
-Realtek HD Audio Manager: Output source:"Output digital audio source"
Channel Config: DTS Interactive
Thanks!
;D
That is what I 'm using before kaso parang sa lahat ng speakers, kasama yung surrounds, lumalabas yung dialogue kaya I preferred using my receiver and set it to DTS Neo. Mas okay sa'kin yung ganung setup. Just IMO. ;)
mga sir, ngayon lang ako napadaan sa forum na ito at naengganyo naman ako na magbuo din ng htpc, pede ba ko makahingi ng tulong dahil sayang, halos kakabili ko lang ng pc ko. anu ba maipapayo nyo sakin? magbuo ako ng bagong HTPC setup, iupgrade ko ung PC ko? or pede na tong pc ko for HTPC.. panu kaya gagawin ko mga sir..
eto po ang specs ng pc ko
ASUS P5S-MX SE
C2D E4500 2.2ghz
2gb RAM Kingston
Nvidia Geforce 8500GT
160gb hdd
ok n kaya to mga sir.. TIA:)
^^more on videos sir, and konting autocad.. d ko naman gagamitin for gaming.. tnx sa reply sir.
Define mo yung "vision and understanding" mo ng HTPC. What do you plan to do with your system? As is, your current equipment should be able to play all popular formats of audio and video.
One thing I notice, maraming matipid sa internal hard drive space ne. Hindi nyo kelangan?
^^ malamang un na din gawin ko magdagdag n lang ako ng hd. may idea ba kayo kung magkanu mag assemble ng bagong HTPC setup?Item Model Link Price
^^more on videos sir, and konting autocad.. d ko naman gagamitin for gaming.. tnx sa reply sir.
@Clondalkin
sir ung onboard video ng mobo EMAXX AMD780G-PRO SB700 + 64mb Sideport Mem, is this enough na or still mas maganda pa din kung may separate video card?
am using the 45W of amd BE-2350.. less noise at less power/heat..
sir where did you get your BE-2350?
ke sir dex of T.I.E. Online Sales
Tel. (02) 494-4640
dunno if me stock pa sila.. last May ko pa nabili.. hirap maghanap ng mga 45W (BE2350, 4850e, etc)
:D
Upgraded my rig to become a HTPC. Sold my old shuttle XPC and got the following setup.
All from PCX Greenhills
GIGABYTE GA-MA780GM-S2H
AMD x2 5200
Transcend 2.0gig DDR2 PC800 memory
Astone Enforcer Casing + 500watt PSU
Then used my old Samsung 18x DVD Writer / Logiteck KB + Mouse
Ganda ng performance if connected to LG Plasma.
HDMI CONNECTION.
Ok na sa akin ito... I just connect to my wireless LAN for surfing... :)
MAX resolution 1280X768. :)
Hello everyone... my first post here.
Sir, Pareho tayo ng mobo na gamit and I have no plan to put a dedicated GPU for now... are you sure max resolution ng HTPC mo eh 1280x786 lang?... afaik, it can handle 1080p very well...
I'm planning to put my HTPC on a Sony Bravia 40" @1080p as its native resolution.
i'm experiencing that problem too, yung biglang bumibilis parang nadudulas... bakit nga kaya...
Bro! i was able to output DTS thru Optical Cable playing mkv files!
-Realtek HD Audio Manager: Output source:"Output digital audio source"
Channel Config: DTS Interactive
Thanks!
;D
built one the other day ;D
AMD x2 4600
Emaxx 780g
2gb mem
320gb hd
micro atx case
vista ultimate 32bit
Problem:connected to th42pv using hdmi and can handle video without any issues, thing is no audio using hdmi. Anyone using emaxx 780g or had the same issue and was resolved? Mukang medyo luma na itong issue na ito or late lang po talaga ko sa technology Patulong naman po. TIA
I think yung hdmi nung mobo para lang talaga sa video not sure about it though. ;)
Up ko lang po baka may makatulong diyan, sobrang newbie lang. Tnx
ninjababez Send Message View User Items on July 05, 2008 09:10 PM
mga bro .. sinong may htpc setup dito using HDMI? wala kasing sound sakin eh ..
gusto ko sana yung speakers lang din ng plasma yun gamitin as speakers ... thanks in advance .. btw my motherboard is emaxx 780g pro .. (builtin audio and video*hdmi*dvi*vga*)
yuff i was able to use the hdmi audio driver from ati .. successful naman .. hay salamat at di ako pinahirapan .. mga 5 or 6 drivers and applications yata ang dinownload ko .. tapos random ako nagdouble-click ng file .. hehehe
pagka-install na pagka-install nagkaroon kagad ng sound .. kewl!! :)
Someone in TPC had a similar problem and was able to resolve it. Check mo post ni ninjababez at page 136.
Resolution:
http://www.tipidpc.com/viewtopic.php?tid=88421&page=136 (http://www.tipidpc.com/viewtopic.php?tid=88421&page=136)
my htpc rig: :)
(http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i207/engr_matt/htpc.jpg)
amd x2 4600+
emaxx 780g pro
1gb ddr2
500gb hd
frontier rondo matx case w/ 206w psu
i can watch two hd movies simultaneously with no lag/stutter whatsoever :)
@Giospike
wahh .. binuking mo naman pagiging noob ko .. hahaha ;D
medyo pinahirapan ako nyan .. almost 24 hours bago ko naayos .. ;D
my htpc rig: :)
(http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i207/engr_matt/htpc.jpg)
amd x2 4600+
emaxx 780g pro
1gb ddr2
500gb hd
frontier rondo matx case w/ 206w psu
i can watch two hd movies simultaneously with no lag/stutter whatsoever :)
my htpc rig: :)
(http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i207/engr_matt/htpc.jpg)
Thanks mga Bros. I was able to resolve the no audio issue using hdmi last night. I installed ATI HDMI driver and catalyst 8.6 downloaded from amd/ati website. Ganda rin tumunog kahit sa tv lang. Many tnx po Sir Gio and Ninja ;D
+1
For the patience. :) It's very helpful. :)
Ganda din po ba tunog kahit sa tv lang?
(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e274/edpenas/DSC00883.jpg)
Just got this new remote ,
Normally I use a wireless keyboard w/ built in trackball to control the PC , and the AVR remote 99% for volume control.
Hopefully this is sufficient for me to control the PC and reciever volume..
Sir Jambam how are you doing? Where did you buy it and for how much?
Mga sirs tanong ko lang kung paano tatanggaling yung subtitles when you're playing MKV? I just downloaded TF the Movie 720p. I am using KMPlayer or K-Lite. TIA
1. Right click mo yung movie while playing. Go to "Navigate > Subtitle Language". Disable mo dun.
2. Delete mo yung subtitle file (*.srt) sa folder where the movie file is located.
Guys, which would you suggest I buy to hook my HTPC to my new Wharfedale speakers? Amplifier only or receiver? I don't have any yet.
Was considering Onkyo 606 but I think baka mas okay kung amplifier lang muna since I'm exclusively into HTPC at the moment then later on receiver with pre-outs. No plans on buying bluray player, wii, dvd player, etc. anytime soon. Anyway HTPC can play downloaded Bluray rips and even full Bluray backup, decodes the latest audio formats through PowerDVD like TrueHD, DTS-HD, etc., plays FLAC, mp3, avi, mkv, etc. so there might be no need for a receiver. In short, my HTPC will act as a "pre-amp". Can this be done?
Any comments or suggestions would be highly appreciated. Thanks. :)
I just bought an Acer Aspire X3200 Desktop PC at 16.8T, Small Form Factor Casing, with HDMI & SPDIF out built-in already. check out the specs at google.
I installed K-Lite Codec. and connect it to my 40" lcd tv. And presto, instant HTPC.
I connect my HTPC to a receiver.
I like the option of having a radio tuner on the receiver. Amps dont have it.
I just bought an Acer Aspire X3200 Desktop PC at 16.8T, Small Form Factor Casing, with HDMI & SPDIF out built-in already. check out the specs at google.
I installed K-Lite Codec. and connect it to my 40" lcd tv. And presto, instant HTPC.
The price difference differs in the monitor size. I was quoted at 27T with a 19" monitor. But I only need the CPU.
I played some 720p mkv files, result was flawless. I even played some 1080p, again smooth. BTW, I upgraded it to 2gb mem.
I used hmdi to connect to my lcd tv & spdif cable to my amp.
(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e274/edpenas/DSC00883.jpg)
Just got this new remote ,
Normally I use a wireless keyboard w/ built in trackball to control the PC , and the AVR remote 99% for volume control.
Hopefully this is sufficient for me to control the PC and reciever volume..
January 9, 2008
(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s71/gio_spike/13th%20month%20pay/Momo.jpg)
2 weeks ago, birthday ng parents ko sa province. Binigay ko na as a gift yung Logitech Z5300 at 32" LCD na gamit ko dito sa Manila(Para may reason ako mag-upgrade rin! hehehe!).
Kaya last week, start na ako magcheck ng ipapalit sa Z5300. I was thinking of replacing it with Klipsch Promedia or Logitech Z5500. I ended up buying this yesterday...
May 18, 2008
(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s71/gio_spike/HT%20Room/Front-Wharfedale84640x480.jpg)
(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s71/gio_spike/HT%20Room/Rear-WharfedaleWH2640x480.jpg)
Receiver: Yamaha Natural Sound AV Receiver RX-V620
Speakers: Front: Wharfedale 8.4, Rear/Center: Wharfedale WH2
PC Specs:
Mobo: ASROCK Conroe1333-D667 R2.0
Processor: Intel® Core2Duo E6750
Memory: Team Elite PC6400 DDR2 800MHz 1GB*2 (Dual)
Power
Graphics Card: Powercolor ATI HD 3850
Soundcard: Sound Blaster Audigy 2 ZS
HDD: 160gb Seagate SATA HDD (Primary), 320gb Seagate SATA HDD, 250gb Seagate SATA HDD
ODD: LG 16X Multi DVD Writer with Light Scribe
PSU: HEC Winpower 550 Watts
LCD: Samsung 22" 2232GW
GioSpike's HTPC
May 27, 2008
(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s71/gio_spike/HT%20Room/MyHTPC-May272008.jpg)
Toshiba Regza 37C3500 37" LCDTV
Yamaha Natural Sound AV Receiver RX-V620
Speakers: Front: Wharfedale 8.4 Rear/Center: Wharfedale WH2
Intel® Core2Duo E6750
ASROCK Conroe1333-D667 R2.0
Team Elite PC6400 DDR2 800MHz 1GB*2 (Dual) Power
Powercolor ATI HD 3850
Sound Blaster Audigy 2 ZS
160gb Seagate SATA HDD
320gb Seagate SATA HDD 250gb
Seagate SATA HDD
LG 16X Multi DVD Writer with Light Scribe
HEC Winpower 550 Watts
Logitech MX™5000 Bluetooth Keyboard
Logitech MX™610 Laser Cordless Mouse
Updated:
CURRENT BEDROOM HT SETUP
Panasonic Home Cinema PTAX200U
80" DIY Projector Screen
10" Portable DVD Player with VGA input
Yamaha Natural Sound AV Receiver RX-V620
Front:Wharfedale 8.4, Center:Wharfedale WH2, Rear: Wharfedale 9.1
(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s71/gio_spike/PTAX200U/AX200-2008_07_14.jpg)
(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s71/gio_spike/PTAX200U/AX200-2008_07_14rear.jpg)
(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s71/gio_spike/PTAX200U/AX200-2008_07_14controlcorner.jpg)
Share ko lang po yung aking simple HTPC setup...
(http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e364/larry_anda/forum/c62a92e6.jpg)
(http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e364/larry_anda/forum/65ef80af.jpg)
Bro... inquire lang... ano yung software / application running sa HDTV mo? ganda naman... can you give me info and more close up pics of the application?
TY
if i'm not mistaken it's Windows Media Center
i want to upgrade my pc to htpc
my old pc specs:
p4 1.6
512+256mb ram
128mb ati vcard
what doi need to buy to be a 1080p htpc?
-doughn
Bro... inquire lang... ano yung software / application running sa HDTV mo? ganda naman... can you give me info and more close up pics of the application?
TY
Buy a new mobo that is compatible with at least Intel's Core2 Duo or having the new AMD chipset. P4 doesn't have enough horsepower for 1080p. Maiinis ka lang sa out of synch AV. If you stick with 720p, then just add more RAM and upgrade your video card to at least an HD2600 ATI or 8400 Nvidia.
Get at least 1GB of RAM if you're running XP. 2GB if you're running Vista.
Get an excellent monitor, kahit anong type (CRT, LCD, Plasma).
Get a decent set of speakers, kahit 2.1 ch. You may have to buy a separate sound card for that.
Pero eto unang-una mong gawin, get some high def contents and try them muna with your current PC.
Hi CNN, Yes It's Windows Media Center that is built in for Windows Vista Home Premium and Ultimate edition. If you want to see some screenshots ad feature of this Media center please head on to: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-vista/features/media-center.aspx
I will also recommend Cyberlink PowerCinema if you just want the Media Center for your HTPC and not planning to upgrade your OS...
Thank you very much for the reply. Really appreciate your comments. :)
Question lang sa mga experts.
Im currently using 6600GT in my htpc setup. AFAIK it doesnt support HDMI, but for some reason it worked for me using dvi to hdmi adapter. Now Im planning to upgrade my video card to an ATI hdmi enabled card (low end lang). My question is, would I see significant improvement since I'll be using an HDMI enabled card?
Also how would I make it output 1080p?
TIA
Amigo Ninjanbabez
Post mo naman ung setup mo ;)
Hoonga naman... Pics... Pics... NINJABENZ :)
Amigo Ninjanbabez
Post mo naman ung setup mo ;)
tried watching MKV's with sony 32" hdtv crt although maganda talaga, mas prefer ko pa rin manood sa samsung 32" lcdtv kasi mas tipid sa kuryente.. hehehow much is the average power consumption of 32" crt tvs?
how much is the average power consumption of 32" crt tvs?
My Sony KV-32DX850 is rated 190W. It came out in 2003. This TV is heavier than my 50 inch plasma. ;D Kung mas lumang CRT model, malamang mas mataas ang power consumption.i see .. no wonder our electric bill skyrocketed last year (additional 700 pesos) when i replaced my 26 lcdtv with a 29" crt (bought in pier) .. :)
baka ma-strain mata nyo sa sobrang kalat .. hahaha :)
specs nalang para malaman nyo kung gaano ako kabarat .. :)
windows vista ultimate trial (reformat every 20 days *sold my vista ultimate already ;D )
amd x2 4600
2x1gb team elite
250gb seagate internal hdd + 1tb wd external
combo drive (borrowed from a friend)
pink eforcer case
780g emaxx
(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e274/edpenas/DSC00883.jpg)
Just got this new remote ,
Normally I use a wireless keyboard w/ built in trackball to control the PC , and the AVR remote 99% for volume control.
Hopefully this is sufficient for me to control the PC and reciever volume..
bro, with this setup, kayang kaya na mga 720p mkvs?well as per my experience ..
ganyan din plano ko isetup soon :D
hintay ko sana yung Gibagabyte na may 128MB sideport pero parang hindi lumabas dito sa atin eh
Is there a big difference between C2D 2.53GHz and 3.0GHz in terms of video conversion, HD playback?
Is there a big difference between C2D 2.53GHz and 3.0GHz in terms of video conversion, HD playback?in video conversion, Yes .. media encoding is frequency dependent .. ;D
in video conversion, Yes .. media encoding is frequency dependent .. ;D
HD playback, No .. just like what Clondalkin posted, smoother lang during fast forwarding and back .. ;)
btw how much is the price difference of the two? just remember media encoding and playback is frequency dependent .. ;)
P2500-3000 is the difference. Worth it?
well as per my experience ..
our local distro here does not order new stocks/revisions unless the old stocks/revisions are depleted ..
bad thing is that the old revision of gigabytes 780g has so many negative feedbacks ..
so as you see most guys already bought emaxx .. heck, i even got the 2nd or 3rd revision already .. ;D
btw this plays 720p and 1080p without hiccups .. ;)
bluray and hd dvd playback is also flawless (i have and identical setup with my friend who has a bluray/hd dvd combo drive)
How often do you upgrade? With no new high def video format in the immediate horizon, any C2D system you build right now would not be underpowered for at least 3 years. Nothing beats a system that can play whatever video/movie/game you put into it smoothly, especially those CPU-power hog 1080p contents.
3,000 in 3 years is like 2.74 pesos per day.
But if you are considering the 3.0GHz C2D, you might as well choose the 2.4Ghz Quad Core assuming your mobo supports the Quad since you mentioned video transcoding. Set up a dual monitor so that you can watch high def stuff on one while encoding/rendering on the other (or looking at your patient's charts on the other ). I think the current price level is about the same. Many mainstream apps ang games may not be optimally "parallelized" at the moment but you'd surely get better leverage out of a Quad 3 years down the line.
thanks! kelangan ng mag ipon ipon ulit, P4 2.4Ghz lang yung HTPC ko eh, japanese pa yung OS, hirap basahin :Dhey if you want to setup a new htpc .. feel free to send me a pm for advise .. we can go to techjunctions shop in bf parañaque .. ;)
How often do you upgrade? With no new high def video format in the immediate horizon, any C2D system you build right now would not be underpowered for at least 3 years. Nothing beats a system that can play whatever video/movie/game you put into it smoothly, especially those CPU-power hog 1080p contents.
3,000 in 3 years is like 2.74 pesos per day.
But if you are considering the 3.0GHz C2D, you might as well choose the 2.4Ghz Quad Core assuming your mobo supports the Quad since you mentioned video transcoding. Set up a dual monitor so that you can watch high def stuff on one while encoding/rendering on the other (or looking at your patient's charts on the other ). I think the current price level is about the same. Many mainstream apps ang games may not be optimally "parallelized" at the moment but you'd surely get better leverage out of a Quad 3 years down the line.
Bro where did you buy this? How much?
Thanks
My CRT Monitor is showing signs of retirement. I want to replace this with a 22" LCD Monitor with HDMI. Any suggestion folks? thanks ;D
Bro where did you buy this? How much?
Thanks
most computer shops have these multimedia remote .. ;D
nemesis91 also sells logitech remote (forgot the model name though) ..
I previously had an HP w2207h, this monitor already has HDMI, tested it with my dv600 and it already accepts both the video and audio(though the built in speakers are a bit weak). Some other features it has are: USB hub, portrait and landscape orientation.
Also I think the latest HP is the w2228h, you may also want to check that out.
Bro thanks for the info.. ill check this out ;D
BTW, will this be nice too f i use this as a monitor for my PIO 600 DVD player?
My CRT Monitor is showing signs of retirement. I want to replace this with a 22" LCD Monitor with HDMI. Any suggestion folks? thanks ;D
My new rig:
(http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d178/nirvblakr/PinoyDVD/DSCN0170.jpg)
Monitor: Viewsonic 22" VX series
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-P35-DS3L
Processor: Intel Core2 Quad Q6600 2.4GHz
Video: Palit Geforce 9500GT
Memory: Geil 2GB RAM
HDD: Samsung 320GB
Optical Drives: Lite-on Combo Drive, Lite-on Multi Drive w/ Dual layer support
Powersupply: Powerlogic 550W
Thanks guys for helping me decide on my PC upgrade. ;D
nice choice sa video card bro :)
you might want to change your psu bro .. pm me maybe i can give you a good deal ;)
Sir how much po umabot for that setup? thanks.
P40k for the CPU and monitor more or less. ;)
My HTPC - dual monitor setup.
(http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk8/mojako8/htpc.jpg)
Wow Doc. congrats! Nice specs. :)
magkano ba wireless keyboard and mouse? anong brand/model ang bang for the buck and where to buy?
ok ba yung wireless keyboard and mouse combo sa CD-R King? anyone tried it?
...Laser na, silver & Black pa....bagay sana sa setup ko. :-\
What do you mean laser? Is this different from IR?
Laser is the tech of the mouse sensor itself and is more sensitive than the previous gen which was was optical. IR (infrared) is the tech of standard wireless with up to 6 feet range only. Short range high radio frequency (2.GHz - bluetooth) is the more advance wireless tech with range well beyond 6 feet.
Be careful ng ibang Microsoft mouse/desktop combo. Laser nga yung mouse pero ordinary wireless lang yung keyboard so the transmitter is ordinary IR (limited din ang range). The higher (more expensive) models lang yung bluetooth both yung mouse and keyboard.
BTW, start downloading Iron Man 720p. Katatapos ko lang panoorin. ;D
BTW, start downloading Iron Man 720p. Katatapos ko lang panoorin.
Clodakin- Wala na bang German Subs iyun' HD ? Kal-labas din nagyon lang nang(Axxo & Dash) Divx DVD Retail. ;)
If cdr king's wireless keyboard and mouse combo is 2.5k, why not go with this? This is what I'm using and I got this for only 2k - 2.3k
Logitech LX 310 Laser
(http://i38.tinypic.com/2enazxf.jpg)
I wouldnt be surprised kung lalabas na 1080p soonest.
Because of time....completed it in 2 hours with my measly download rate and converted it to DVD in 28 minutes, with DD5.1 audio sans any pixelization, anyway....the latest Axxo and Dash Divx rip is really from a retail R1, even the hard coded subs are now in english, BTW Axxo subs are availaable via Subscene and Dash release included subs however, for those who prefer teh srt, it's available in subscene and Opensubs (for info to those interested)
HTPC Specs:
Graphic Card: 512mb Inno3d GeForce 9600GT ddr3 (256bit)
RAM: 2gb ddr2-800 pc2-6400 Corsair
Will this be enough for a 1080p? TIA
If your CPU is C2D or more powerful, BAKA. Smooth 1080p mkv playback through an HTPC is content dependent also. Ewan ko ba, meron talagang magaling mag-encode siguro, or probably when they encoded, they used a very powerful PC so walang sinok yung resulting compressed file.
Buti hindi bawal ang torrent dyan sa japan. Yung friend ko sa singapore
bawal na daw eh! Yng internet provider na ang nag wawarning sa mga subscriber.
Tokyo. 100Mbps fiber optic network for about $40 a month with multiple subscribed email addresses. 15 mins yung download ng 4.5GB Iron Man kase sustained at about 5MB/sec ang DL speed sa dami ng seeders (this only happens dun sa super popular na torrent - otherwise, a normally healthy 4.5GB torrent would take about 1-3 hours to download depende sa seeds).
@#$%^!!!!! :o :o :o Sana ganyan din dito. 4.5g will take me about 1 11/2 - 2 days to download sometimes abot pa ng 3 days kapag minalas.
Demmet,
May account ka ba sa rapidshare / megaupload?
Yung download manager kasi applicable dito eh!
Bilis din ng internet mo...
took me 1hr 10 mins sa 720p ni septic...
http://********/Iron.Man.1080p.BluRay.x264-1920 <--this one took me twice the hour.
using jdwnloader and internet download manager.
BTW no htpc for me..
ps3/tversity streaming over gigabit switch.
sent u pm.. sorry mods.. OT na kami.
baka ma-strain mata nyo sa sobrang kalat .. hahaha :)
specs nalang para malaman nyo kung gaano ako kabarat .. :)
windows vista ultimate trial (reformat every 20 days *sold my vista ultimate already ;D )
amd x2 4600
2x1gb team elite
250gb seagate internal hdd + 1tb wd external
combo drive (borrowed from a friend)
pink eforcer case
780g emaxx
hello mga sir i also have the same set up as sir ninjababez hirap sya pag mga 1080p mkv ang naka salang
any advice how to maximize my htpc setup currently using the vga to vga connection mas prefer ko to kasi ang pangit pag HDMI gamit ko text really unreadable tapos ung video from hdmi connection not as flawless compared pag sa vga im using windows XP
sir ninjababez help naman sir
(http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/4989/speedpd1.th.jpg) (http://img246.imageshack.us/my.php?image=speedpd1.jpg)
I also download through rapidshare so I dont worry about seeds and get full bandwidth. I can get one for 200php/month. Well worth it IMHO
hello sir,
ano ang isp mo? ang bilis ng connection speed mo ah, saan place ba ito?
Bro, where did you get a rapidshare account at 200php/month?
I read that usenet followed by rapidshare are good sources of files. But they are paid subscriptions only so no worries about sharing/ratio. How's the HD contents in rapidshare?
Bro, where did you get a rapidshare account at 200php/month? I got mine for 400+/month.. It's definitely worth it.. I get max speed at 180kb/sec and average at 100kb/sec..
I read that usenet followed by rapidshare are good sources of files. But they are paid subscriptions only so no worries about sharing/ratio. How's the HD contents in rapidshare?
is the P400/month rapidshare account premium? did you pay online in pesos? demmet got a good deal on his premium account, he paid only $30 for a 6-month subscription and his download speed reaches up to 1mbps (using 4.3 mbps ISP).
my bittorrent speed average at 80-90 kbps and max at 120kbps when downloading mkv. if the P400/month subscription can only speed up to 100kbps (ave) & 180kbps (max) then it's not a lot of improvement pala.
sir john,
what is your rapidshare download speed? i am willing to pay the subscription but first i want to know someone who has the same DSL connection speed (1mbps) that i have using rapidshare premium account. if it has vast improvement than my current 120kbps (max) download, then i will plunged into it. but if i can only get 180kbps (max) like oreoshake, i guess i will have to think twice. but good thing with rapidshare is you don't have to seed.
@Oreoshake: Are you using a router at home?
I'm using the PLDT myDSL 384kb/sec plan both for my home and office connections. With the rapidshare premium account, I ocassionally get a sustained max of 250kbps in my office but at home I only get a sustained max of 180kbps.. Bakit kaya ganito?
hello mga sir i also have the same set up as sir ninjababez hirap sya pag mga 1080p mkv ang naka salang
any advice how to maximize my htpc setup currently using the vga to vga connection mas prefer ko to kasi ang pangit pag HDMI gamit ko text really unreadable tapos ung video from hdmi connection not as flawless compared pag sa vga im using windows XP
sir ninjababez help naman sir
The EEE pc is ideal for that because of its low power consumption, plus you can tweak it so its optimized for downloading.
that's right, i think it consumes the same or less power than the popcorn as the eee pc power brick is smaller than the popcorn.http://portforward.com/help/pfprogression.htm
i lost interest in downloading using the popcorn due to slow speed. but i have now an alternative means using the eee pc. i have not even tried port forwarding coz i don't know how to do it.
http://portforward.com/help/pfprogression.htm
you can pm mhark13 of www.tipidpc.com, im sure he can help you setup your router ;)
The EEE pc is ideal for that because of its low power consumption, plus you can tweak it so its optimized for downloading.
Wow panalo yan. Parang malaking remote control lang...
Meron na ba yan dito. Available na sa local pc store?
(http://www.logitech.com/repository/620/jpg/5818.1.0.jpg)i was hoping sub 3k .. :(
I remember seeing this in V-mall the other day and inquired about it. Costs something like P6+++. :o
Dinovo Mini looks prety cool and madaling ibato (katabi) sa bed but is good only for those who like to type using PDAs or cellphones which is not my cup of tea. Full-sized keyboard is still the fastest and the most comfy, and for nearly the same price as a Dinovo Mini, you get premium line bluetooth mouse/keyboard combo from Logitech or Microsoft.
uy i like the 2nd pic :)
how much is that jay?
(http://www.btc.com.tw/product/key9019urf.jpg)
got this last year, binenta lang ng fellow tpc'er.. antagal ko rin naghanap ng ganitong style ng keyboard..
I have this keyboard. BTC keyboard sold at Octagon Computers at the malls. I think I bought it for less than 2k
ganda nga ng Dinovo edge!
just a quick question lang guys if na try nyo na.
Pede naman mag work yung mga wireless KB in parallel sa ordinary KB right? I mean... for movie viewing, I would use the wireless KB(for fast FF, REW) and for normal PC use, I would still be using those full sized wired keyboards(of course not simultaneous use but rather simultaneous connection). I tried it with a wireless mouse and a USB Mouse and it works so I would assume same principle sa keyboard? Pa confirm na lang sana kung may naka-try na.
Puiding puidi. I have connected 2 keyboards and 2 mouse(s) simultaneous many times already. Pag nang-aasar anak ko, she would type simultaneously as I do.
Anybody tried the air mouse?
(http://www.logitech.com/repository/172/jpg/1490.1.0.jpg)
Sa tipidpc meron story ng mama na umaangal daw sa internet cafe because low tech daw yung mouse ng cafe as it wouldnt work in air. ;D Sabi nung nag-kwento na medyo payabang din - eh engot naman pala daw yung mamang yon dahil ala namang mouse na mag-work in air. Di nalang ako sumagot dahil natawa ako both sides. ;D ;D ;D
Anybody tried the air mouse?
(http://www.logitech.com/repository/172/jpg/1490.1.0.jpg)
meron na ba yan dito doc oreo?
saw it in Amazon.. its Logitech Air Mouse.. Ok sya kasi puwede na rin sya presenter.. but i dont have any experience first hand..logitech has a discontinued multimedia remote mouse .. but the range is just 6ft .. good enough for me though .. :)
Has anyone converted their htpc for use as a music server? :)
Guys, meron ba kayong nakita na USB extension cord na umaabot ng 10-15 meters?
I have this keyboard. BTC keyboard sold at Octagon Computers at the malls. I think I bought it for less than 2k
san kaya ako makakabili ng AMD Socket 939 Athlon64/Athlon64 FX/Athlon64 X2/ Processors yung mga 3800+ or mas mataas pa? upgrade ko sana yung cpu ko. eto lang kasi supported niya Processors.(A8N-SLI Deluxe)it would be very expensive but i know someone who sells opteron processors (s939) .. sana may stock pa sya ;)
(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a2/joey1355/IMG_2871.jpg)
just got a new 8600Gt Video card. Bumigay na yung old card ko.
@mojako musta?
Im using an rme fireface800 as my soundcard and use its digital out to an emm labs dcc2. Pretty Expensive :-[ but I like the results ;D
I've been considering either Rotel RCD-1072 ($700) or Rega Apollo ($1,200) as a dedicated CD player but like the flexibility and manageability of HTPC as a music server. However, the sound quality output of a HTPC playing FLAC or mp3 would not rival that of a dedicated CD player in terms of imaging and soundstage.
So in search of a device that could enhance music playback in HTPC, I came across these external DACs:
- Benchmark DAC1 http://www.stereophile.com/budgetcomponents/108bench/index.html (http://www.stereophile.com/budgetcomponents/108bench/index.html) $1,275; and
- Musical Fidelity X-DAC V8 http://www.stereophile.com/digitalprocessors/208mfx/ (http://www.stereophile.com/digitalprocessors/208mfx/) $1,500.
Both have usb input for connecting to htpc. If my understanding is correct, these products may dispense with a sound card since the input is via usb and not via optical or coaxial input found in sound cards. Any thoughts about these external DACs? or could you recommend any better bang-for-the-buck DACs?
I just bought an Acer Aspire X3200 Desktop PC at 16.8T, Small Form Factor Casing, with HDMI & SPDIF out built-in already. check out the specs at google.
I installed K-Lite Codec. and connect it to my 40" lcd tv. And presto, instant HTPC.
found this ad at tipidpc
http://www.tipidpc.com/viewitem.php?iid=2108008 (http://www.tipidpc.com/viewitem.php?iid=2108008)
(http://i29.tinypic.com/oa3kn4.jpg)
how much kaya aabutin kung upgrade to 2GB RAM, 500GB HDD and wireless keyboar/mouse.
It should play mkv files without a hitch, for gaming you need to upgrade your video card if you'll play crysis :)
thanks... got one na :-)
Is this powerful enough to help me play the newer PC game titles? Also, would this play mkv files flawlessly with its built-in HDMI port able to do 1080p?
Thanks,
JackRyan
My HTPC/Gaming Rig
Processor: Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 2.4 ghz
MOBO: Asus P5Q P45
RAM: 4gb DDR2-1066 Corsair Dominator
Storage: 500gb Seagate sata/640gb Seagate sata
Optical Drive: Lightscribe 20x dual layer
Video Card: Palit ATI Radeon HD 4870 1gb
PSU: Corsair 620HX
Casing: Gigabyte iSolo
Monitor: Samsung T220
Keyboard/Mouse: Logitech LX 310 Laser
Sir Munskie parang galit na galit yung setup nyo ah. ;D Ano po ba mga nilalaro nyo sa PC?
It should play mkv files without a hitch, for gaming you need to upgrade your video card if you'll play crysis :)
I have an Acer X3200, I dont think you can upgrade the video card. There's no more space inside.what is the exact specs of this model? nakakalito kasi when i searced it online . :(
I have an Acer X3200, I dont think you can upgrade the video card. There's no more space inside.
what is the exact specs of this model? nakakalito kasi when i searced it online . :(
I have an Acer X3200, I dont think you can upgrade the video card. There's no more space inside.
My niece added a 8400 GS and it improved the gaming performance.
The max you can use is an geforce 8400, i have seen some with a low profile. I saw a model that is passively cooled and given the power supply anything more powerful than this (assuming it fits) wont work.
Can the HTPC solely replace the DVD player in terms of playability? What brand of DVDRom is the best in terms of playability?
Can the HTPC solely replace the DVD player in terms of playability? What brand of DVDRom is the best in terms of playability?
LITEON
Can the HTPC solely replace the DVD player in terms of playability? What brand of DVDRom is the best in terms of playability?
pasingit lng po..may question po ako..dapat po ba sa laptop naka specify kung yung headphone out ay pwedeng gawing din spdif out? thanks...:)