Using a C2D Macbook as a HTPC

[clangro]

I currently use a modded Xbox with XBMC to play all my DiVX/XViD/etc movies.

I recently purchased a new Macbook and I'd like to replace my Xbox with an Xbox 360. However, I need another way to play downloaded movies if I decide to do that. So I was thinking why not use my new Macbook, as it can easily fit in an empty spot in my home theatre?

Now, here are the concerns:

- I'm having some difficulties finding a mini-DVI to HDMI cable. Do I have to buy a mini-DVI to DVI adapter then an DVI-to-HDMI cable?
- I currently have a Windows workgroup with a 320 GB NAS external enclosure. How can I set up the Mac to join this workgroup and map the NAS to the Macbook for easy access?
- What is the best way to eliminate overscan via a custom resolution output?
- What are some good media-centric apps?
- Can I use the remote that came with the Macbook to cycle through playlists when the Macbook is closed but plugged in?

[Doug_Eldred]

I think these answers are correct, but you should verify them - or look for dissenting opinions! :-)

I've not seen a mini-DVI-to-HDMI cable, but in theory mini-DVI-to-DVI plus DVI-to-HDMI should work. I don't LIKE multiple adapters, but it should work. Another alternative might be to use VGA, unless you HAVE to use HDMI for some reason.

You should be able to get the Windows share to auto-mount on login (or bootup and auto-login) by dragging it into the "login items" pane in the Users prefs for your user.

You'll probably want to use SwitchResX, or possibly DisplayConfigX, to get as close to 1:1 mapping as you can, if you end up with either black borders or cropped menu bars/dock. There's a SwitchResX tutorial here; I'm not aware of a good DisplayConfigX tutorial, AND you have to buy it before you can even test some of the resolutions!?

Both here and in the HTPC forum on 123macmini.com you'll see references to various free/commerical/in-development media center apps and add-ons. So far I just use Front Row, but my needs and wants are simple compared to some folks.

The remote works fine with a closed MacBook, as long as it otherwise works okay with your setup.

Doug

[ftaok]

See comments in bold.


- I'm having some difficulties finding a mini-DVI to HDMI cable. Do I have to buy a mini-DVI to DVI adapter then an DVI-to-HDMI cable? you will need the Apple mini-DVI to DVI adapter and then a separate DVI-HDMI cable. Also note that you will need to output the audio separately. A mini-jack to L/R RCA adapter works great. One question, does your TV's HDMI input have a separate audio input?
- I currently have a Windows workgroup with a 320 GB NAS external enclosure. How can I set up the Mac to join this workgroup and map the NAS to the Macbook for easy access?
- What is the best way to eliminate overscan via a custom resolution output? OS X works great with HDTVs. Many times, you don't even need to mess around with DisplayConfigX or SwitchResX. If the TV is relatively new and it passes the correct EDID information, then your Mac will just recognize it and offer the right resolutions. If the TV can do 1:1 pixel mapping, then you're golden, if not, there's an checkbox in OS X for overscan. If all else fails, then you could resort to DCX or SRX.
- What are some good media-centric apps?Front Row is free, but kinda limited
- Can I use the remote that came with the Macbook to cycle through playlists when the Macbook is closed but plugged in?when you close the lid, the Macbook will go to sleep. So you can't operate with the lid down. To defeat this, you'll need to plug in a keyboard and mouse.

[Doug_Eldred]

I'm not sure that's entirely correct. I have my MacBook (normally) in the same room as my HDTV and Mac Mini, and I had to disable the Apple Remote on the MacBook since it was waking up from sleep whenever I awakened the Mini. I could be mis-remembering, but I'm pretty sure this is what I encountered. And there definitely was NOT a keyboard/mouse attached to either the MacBook or the Mini.

Doug

[ftaok]

I'm not sure that's entirely correct. I have my MacBook (normally) in the same room as my HDTV and Mac Mini, and I had to disable the Apple Remote on the MacBook since it was waking up from sleep whenever I awakened the Mini. I could be mis-remembering, but I'm pretty sure this is what I encountered. And there definitely was NOT a keyboard/mouse attached to either the MacBook or the Mini.

Doug
If so, then I stand corrected. I thought I tried using the remote to wake up the closed Macbook while it's plugged into my TV. I'll try again tonight to confirm, if I remember.

ft

[tommylotto]

I just tested my macbook. The remote will awaken a sleeping macbook with the shell closed.

[diamondg14]

Just pair each Mac to their given remote.

Pair With Device

The remote can be paired to work with only one device. This can be achieved by holding the Apple Remote close enough to the device to be paired, and then pressing and holding the "Menu" and "Next" buttons for five seconds. Pairing can be removed by deactivating it under the OS X "Security" System Preference pane.

[vassillios]

I recommend that you download and install SMCfancontrol (do a search on macupdate), for those of you with heat issues, to alleviate any concerns of over heating with the lid closed.

this is my first post on avs and this hint has probably already been given...but better safe than sorry.