Guide to Building a HD HTPC [Text View] - Page 54

kevinqian

03-30-10, 10:43 AM

Hopefully someone has seen this before as I can't think that I am the only one with this problem. I have just installed an additional drive into my Win 7 64 bit htpc. It is a 1.5TB WD Caviar Green sata drive WD15EADS. I have installed it and formatted it no problem. However when I put the pc to sleep and then wake it up again, the drive disappears from the system. The only way to get it back is via a reboot. Anyone got any suggestions? Is it a driver issue or a drive issue?
Thanks.
Are you a victim of this:

http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/30/amazons-frustration-free-packaging-is-anything-but-for-hard-dri/

rmmeli

03-30-10, 10:58 AM

Are you a victim of this:

http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/30/amazons-frustration-free-packaging-is-anything-but-for-hard-dri/
Nope. I bought mine from a local tigerdirect. It actually works fine when I reboot the machine, just it disappears if I put the machine into sleep.

renethx

03-30-10, 11:02 AM

Thanks - One more concern as I run the system - under load, the temps via Speedfan climb to 68-69C and stabilize with what sounds like full speed on the CPU fan. (regor 240 65W processor and NSK heatsink). Best I can tell, this family of CPUs has a max operating temp of 70-74C. Too close? I see you updated the recs to 240e 45W processor. I'm thinking add a fan in the sideways HDD slot, replace the CPU when deteriorates, if ever. Any reason to replace sooner?
Yup, Tcase Max (the maximum case temperature [the temperature at the center of the heatspread]) of Athlon II X2 240 is 74°C (http://products.amd.com/en-us/DesktopCPUDetail.aspx?id=587&f1=AMD+Athlon%E2%84%A2+II+X2&f2=240&f3=2800&f4=1024&f5=AM3&f6=C2&f7=45nm+SOI&f8=65+W&f9=4000&f10=False&f11=False&f12=True&f13=Active). I wouldn't worry unless 68-69°C causes a stability issue (and there shouldn't be such an issue).

Thanks. :)

biker19

03-30-10, 12:44 PM

I changed from OTA to cable on my HTPC with an AverMedia Duet dual tuner card. The ch scan yields only 5 chs when there are about 40 clear QAM chs on the system (which my TV picks up). Is there some trick to Media Center (win 7) to have it find all the chs? I'd hate to enter all the rest of the chs manually and then have no guide for them.

Andrew Hornfeck

03-30-10, 03:45 PM

On the CPU regor 240 temp I know I just built an AMD 435 using a Katana3, unlocked the 4th core and idle at 24C and full load (Prime95) at 30C in my open case - I'll update once I complete the system but would ask WHY this poster has such high temps? Bad thermal paste, poor circulation through the case? Especially with an aftermarket cooler you expect really low CPU temps... which NSK model are you using?

On the video lag I'd set the video to share 512MB RAM in the BIOS and see how that goes... also look at the GPU clock and any BIOS upgrades - I updated my Gigabyte 785 from F5 to F6 and the default iGPU was reset from 500MHz to 700MHz making my Win7 over 5 on their performance thing.

jpitt42

03-30-10, 05:53 PM

Also, is there any tricks to get a better looking front on the NSK2480 with a bluray drive in it? Taking off the front of a black drive and spraying it in silver color? Anyone ever did it??

Or taking off the front of the NSK2480 and paint it black? Is it possible??

I just painted mine black, and also took an Olive Green Sharpie to the blue LED's while I had the faceplate off. It's a massive improvement. I can still see the LED's, but they aren't so ridiculously bright like they are by default. The Black Sharpie didn't seem to stick to the plastic, but the Olive Green did pretty well and spread evenly. I used the Sharpie on my LG BD-ROM light as well with similar results.

Rico66

03-30-10, 07:54 PM

Nope. I bought mine from a local tigerdirect. It actually works fine when I reboot the machine, just it disappears if I put the machine into sleep.

Do you use AHCI? In that case you may want to try this updated msahci.sysdriver (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/977178)

btordini

03-30-10, 09:13 PM

I have built and upgraded an HTPC Premium with
i7 860
intel DP55KG
HD 5850

I am currently building a second one with
i5 750
ASUS P7P55D-E PRO
HD 5770

I cannot switch the video cards or the processors independently, but could switch the mobos. Would it be better to put the i7 in the ASUS with the 5850 and the i5 in the Intel with the 5770? or will be basically the same?

Thank you very much in advance.

Bruno

renethx

03-31-10, 01:09 AM

@btordini

You can switch components in whatever way you like. :)

Indulis

03-31-10, 02:23 AM

In answer to this post: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=18368308#post18368308

Are you sure this holds i real life? How many simultanious readings and writings can you actually have on the same drive, while keeping the 80MBps throughput? Wont the number of heads be a limitation as well?

Jacob

# of heads pretty irrelevant, but if you have 2 threads/jobs/programs running, both at the same time, then each head movement between the 2 streams of data takes the drive "out of action" during that time (you know that you have to do double time to clear out the buffer later!). So, if you are not near the drive's max throughput the buffers/caching will cover you.

seek-write-seek-write-seek-write

You know that each seek costs you 8.9ms (WD 1TB SATA drive).

So, if you had 11 tasks each just writing a single 512 byte sector your drive would run at about 100% busy with 5.5 KB/sec total throughput. Each task would move the head to another spot (9ms), write its data (approx 0ms), then move the head to another spot.

9ms is probably average seek time, in many cases you'll probably be seeking across a smaller section of disk, so probably 20 tasks writing small amounts of information would be able to work on a single disk. This would be low throughput though.

Of course, the OS tries to buffer together multiple writes, and the drive tries to do the same. Writes are also not 512 Bytes, you would want to set up your filesystem to have as large a unit of transfer as possible. So a write from your program fills up a big filesystem buffer, then that buffer is sent to be written to disk.

So, large cluster sizes in your filesystem helps- this makes the amount of time spent writing larger than the amount of time spent seeking (increases throughput), but eventually if you are doing lots of random seeks (lots of jobs), the efficiency of the drive suffers badly, you don't get anywhere near the peak throughput stated for the drive.

A rule of thumb is that for many busy tasks with large transfer sizes, expect 10-20 MBytes/sec from a drive.

kevinqian

03-31-10, 03:04 AM

I seem to have an issue with non-DXVA accelerated playback on my 785g Sempron 140 set up. With DXVA video, everything works as it should. However, when playing a file without HWA, the video becomes pixelated, and completely unwatchable. So HWA works fine, but software acceleration is completely botched. Any ideas? This is using the integrated HDMI out to TV.
Found the cause of this issue. Looks like a faulty cpu. I swapped in an old Athlon64 5400+ and videos played perfectly. Looks like I'll have to RMA this cpu.

Jacob B

03-31-10, 07:40 AM

One HDTV stream ~ 19Mbps. One HDD ~ 80MBps=640Mbps.

640 / 19 ~= 36 simultaneous HD streams. Or approximately a small part of one drive.

# of heads pretty irrelevant, but if you have 2 threads/jobs/programs running, both at the same time, then each head movement between the 2 streams of data takes the drive "out of action" during that time (you know that you have to do double time to clear out the buffer later!). So, if you are not near the drive's max throughput the buffers/caching will cover you.

seek-write-seek-write-seek-write

You know that each seek costs you 8.9ms (WD 1TB SATA drive).

So, if you had 11 tasks each just writing a single 512 byte sector your drive would run at about 100% busy with 5.5 KB/sec total throughput. Each task would move the head to another spot (9ms), write its data (approx 0ms), then move the head to another spot.

9ms is probably average seek time, in many cases you'll probably be seeking across a smaller section of disk, so probably 20 tasks writing small amounts of information would be able to work on a single disk. This would be low throughput though.

Of course, the OS tries to buffer together multiple writes, and the drive tries to do the same. Writes are also not 512 Bytes, you would want to set up your filesystem to have as large a unit of transfer as possible. So a write from your program fills up a big filesystem buffer, then that buffer is sent to be written to disk.

So, large cluster sizes in your filesystem helps- this makes the amount of time spent writing larger than the amount of time spent seeking (increases throughput), but eventually if you are doing lots of random seeks (lots of jobs), the efficiency of the drive suffers badly, you don't get anywhere near the peak throughput stated for the drive.

A rule of thumb is that for many busy tasks with large transfer sizes, expect 10-20 MBytes/sec from a drive.

Thanks a lot for your answer!
So what would you recommend in my particular situation?
(Described in this post): http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=18368308#post18368308

Lintoc

03-31-10, 08:24 AM

[QUOTE=Andrew Hornfeck;18405360]On the CPU regor 240 temp I know I just built an AMD 435 using a Katana3, unlocked the 4th core and idle at 24C and full load (Prime95) at 30C in my open case - I'll update once I complete the system but would ask WHY this poster has such high temps? Bad thermal paste, poor circulation through the case? Especially with an aftermarket cooler you expect really low CPU temps... which NSK model are you using?

I'm using the SilverStone NT07-AM2 in the Apex MI-100BK case, Arcitc Silver 5 (several years old tube, but the grease looks normal, good contact as I've swapped HSFs during this build). I think the PSU has a weak fan, and the case has very little space. I'm going to try an extra exhaust fan on the side, as I've heard many ppl say helps.

btordini

03-31-10, 08:46 AM

Thank you Renethx

grittree

03-31-10, 09:10 AM

Thanks a lot for your answer!
So what would you recommend in my particular situation?
(Described in this post): http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=18368308#post18368308

Don't worry about what is a relatively trivial task to a PC.

You wanted to run 3 HD tuners. About 6 MB/s. One green (5400 rpm) drive would work.

Andrew Hornfeck

03-31-10, 11:13 AM

Temperature - After looking at the SilverStone NT07-AM2 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835220030) I see it's designed for quiet, space-saving/low profile operation not to exceed a 65W CPU. Many reviews like it, some don't for efficiency, noise, etc. Clearly you have to take these reviews with a grain of salt. Did you try the stock HSF at all and how does it compare in sound and temps? Oh, and there are issues using "stored" paste, how it's stored, refrigerated, and orientation to avoid separation of the material.

On the Sempron 140 swapped to an old Athlon64 5400+... "and videos played perfectly" -- after googling I see the 5400+ is a 2006 released X2 CPU and may be more capable than the Sempron you're saying is defective... assuming the mobo is an AM3/AM2+ then the bus on the 140 would run full speed. If it's an AM2/AM2+ then the 140 (AM3 being backward compatible to AM2+) may be limited in it's bus speed. Can anyone clarify this concern?

kevinqian

03-31-10, 01:59 PM

The AM3 Sempron runs at the full AM3 2ghz HT bus on my AM2+ board. The old 5400+ AM2 runs at AM2 1ghz HT bus on the same board. The defective video playback is not an issue of cpu speed/power. I think some circuitry is screwed up so that video display is not outputed correctly.

Lintoc

03-31-10, 05:15 PM

Temperature - After looking at the SilverStone NT07-AM2 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835220030) I see it's designed for quiet, space-saving/low profile operation not to exceed a 65W CPU. Many reviews like it, some don't for efficiency, noise, etc. Clearly you have to take these reviews with a grain of salt. Did you try the stock HSF at all and how does it compare in sound and temps? Oh, and there are issues using "stored" paste, how it's stored, refrigerated, and orientation to avoid separation of the material.

Temps return to mid-40s quickly after unloading, so it doesn't seem to be a problem with the thermal paste/HS's ability to offload heat - The case itself gets warm to touch - I think an extra exhaust fan is my next effort. NT07 reviews had lots of folks listing 40s idle, 60s under load. Maybe lots of talk over s'thg not worth worrying about.

guaps

03-31-10, 07:08 PM

warpdrive

03-31-10, 08:16 PM

The stock cooler should be good for Core i3-530.

The only reason I was asking about an alternative cooler to the one you recommended is because I am concerned that the stock cooler will be noticeably louder than the one you recommended. I indeed don't really intend to overclock, but it would still be nice to keep the system as quiet as possible.

Thanks

warpdrive

03-31-10, 10:24 PM

I am about to buy the parts I need to build the High-End Intel MicroATX system (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=18333748#MicroATX%20System:%20High-End%20System). This is my first attempt at building any computer. Couple questions:

-Do I need to buy a heat sink? I didn't see one on the list.
-I already own a Logitech Harmony One, so I don't think I need the recommended Antec Fusion case that comes with a remote. What is another good option?
-This HTPC is going to sit in a cabinet about 30 feet away from the TV. What's the best way to connect it? I'm assuming a really long HDMI cable into the back of my Onkyo TX-SR605 receiver is my best option, but I'm open to other ideas. Wireless options? Cat 5 cable? (I don't know how this would work since my receiver doesn't have a network plug)
-I've added a BD optical drive, I already have a wireless keyboard/mouse and a copy of Windows 7 Ultimate. Is there anything else I need?

Thanks for the help!

I'm not the guy you are asking but here's my take

Other cases are listed here:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=18333764#post18333764
However, with your Harmony One, you will still need the Infrared receiver part to receive the remote commands in the first place, which the Antec Case has built into the front panel.

The CPU cooler is the only heatsink you need to buy, and he recommended the cooler master one.

HDMI cable is the way to go to connect your receiver

You shouldn't need anything else unless you want to play back TV, in case you will want some kind of TV tuner card

rmmeli

03-31-10, 10:43 PM

Do you use AHCI? In that case you may want to try this updated msahci.sysdriver (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/977178)
Thanks. That fixed the issue!

renethx

04-01-10, 04:08 AM

I am about to buy the parts I need to build the High-End Intel MicroATX system (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=18333748#MicroATX%20System:%20High-End%20System). This is my first attempt at building any computer. Couple questions:

-Do I need to buy a heat sink? I didn't see one on the list.
-I already own a Logitech Harmony One, so I don't think I need the recommended Antec Fusion case that comes with a remote. What is another good option?
-This HTPC is going to sit in a cabinet about 30 feet away from the TV. What's the best way to connect it? I'm assuming a really long HDMI cable into the back of my Onkyo TX-SR605 receiver is my best option, but I'm open to other ideas. Wireless options? Cat 5 cable? (I don't know how this would work since my receiver doesn't have a network plug)
-I've added a BD optical drive, I already have a wireless keyboard/mouse and a copy of Windows 7 Ultimate. Is there anything else I need?

Thanks for the help!
warpdrive answered some of your questions.

- Harmony One: You still need an IR receiver (perhaps external, USB).
- HDMI cable up to 50 feet is usually no problem.
- Software: AnyDVD HD if you want to rip BD movies and/or play them with a free player such as MPC HomeCinema.

warpdrive

04-01-10, 07:42 AM

Hey there, just a general PC building question. I've never *replaced* an existing CPU cooler before. If I go with a stock cooler and then I decide it's still too noisy, how difficult is it to *replace* the stock cooler. I'm asking about what happens with the thermal compound, is it hard to clean off when using the stock cooler?

renethx

04-01-10, 08:18 AM

The only reason I was asking about an alternative cooler to the one you recommended is because I am concerned that the stock cooler will be noticeably louder than the one you recommended. I indeed don't really intend to overclock, but it would still be nice to keep the system as quiet as possible.

Thanks
Other good coolers are here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17806172#post17806172).

The stock Intel cooler is relatively quiet unless it runs at the full speed. You can adjust fan speed using SpeedFan or a mb utility (EasyTune for GIGABYTE).

renethx

04-01-10, 08:26 AM

yudhi717

04-01-10, 08:46 AM

Greetings everyone,
Currently I have a portable gaming system with this spec:

Q8400 with Noctua C12P SE14
Zotac 9300 ITX
2x2GB DDR2
Power Color 5850
Blue Storm II 500W
WDC Blue 640GB
TSST Slim DVD-RW
Custom Acrylic Case

Recently I bought a CFI Terabox 4 bay with eSata connection,
to my surprise (because my lack of research) it turns out my mobo doesn't support PMP, so only one drive is detected.
I don't want to use the supplied SiI eSata card, because the only pci-e slot is used by the graphic card.

I'm planning to upgrade my system to this spec:
i5 750
DFI MI
2x2GB DDR3

the question, is DFI MI's eSata support PMP?
if not I might as well buy another Terabox with USB connection.

renethx

04-01-10, 09:20 AM

is DFI MI's eSata support PMP?
No.

Check this enclosure (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972&page=437#5-Drive%20SATA%20Enclosure%20with%20Built-in%20Hardware%20RAID).

yudhi717

04-01-10, 09:58 AM

unfortunately those enclosure is not available where I live

thanx anyway

Jacob B

04-02-10, 08:30 AM

Thanks - One more concern as I run the system - under load, the temps via Speedfan climb to 68-69C and stabilize with what sounds like full speed on the CPU fan. (regor 240 65W processor and NSK heatsink). Best I can tell, this family of CPUs has a max operating temp of 70-74C. Too close? I see you updated the recs to 240e 45W processor. I'm thinking add a fan in the sideways HDD slot, replace the CPU when deteriorates, if ever. Any reason to replace sooner?

RENETHX,
This post above got my attention - did you update your recs to use the 240e rather than the 240 ?
Because I dont see that in the list...

I just ordered all the recommended parts for the media storage server II but now I hear about this newer 45W cpu... I will be running the server 24/7 with WHS, so a more energy friendly cpu would be good.
So whats the word on this?
The 240e can be found here:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d.html/ref=mp_s_a_1?qid=1270172233&a=B002PA7U88&sr=8-1

Thanks,
Jacob

renethx

04-02-10, 09:19 AM

RENETHX,
This post above got my attention - did you update your recs to use the 240e rather than the 240 ?
Because I dont see that in the list...

I just ordered all the recommended parts for the media storage server II but now I hear about this newer 45W cpu... I will be running the server 24/7 with WHS, so a more energy friendly cpu would be good.
So whats the word on this?
The 240e can be found here:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d.html/ref=mp_s_a_1?qid=1270172233&a=B002PA7U88&sr=8-1
240e 45W is better for a crammed system like this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972&page=437#Mini-ITX%20System:%20Standard%20System:%20AMD-AMD%20%28iGPU%29). For a system with a larger case, you shouldn't worry.

Jacob B

04-02-10, 09:37 AM

240e 45W is better for a crammed system like this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972&page=437#Mini-ITX%20System:%20Standard%20System:%20AMD-AMD%20%28iGPU%29). For a system with a larger case, you shouldn't worry.
My worries are not heat, but energy usage, as the server will be on 24/7.
What would i save using the 240e - as compared to the 240?
And are there any down sides to the 240e?
I know the 45w vs 65w doesnt really tell the whole watt usage story, but my knowledge runs really thin here...

Thanks,
Jacob

Wanchope

04-02-10, 10:19 AM

Hey all,

So I'm gonna finally pull the trigger on a HTPC and was just hoping to get a final idiot check. I am starting from scratch here, so I need everything (cables, keyboard, etc etc). This is largely a copy paste from the suggested stuff, but I figure before I drop $1k on something its worth having somebody knowledgeable take a second look for me since I swapped a couple of things.

My main goals are DVD/Blu-ray playback, PC gaming, streaming internet video. When the Cablecard tuners finally come out (hopefully before the World Cup!), I will be adding that as well and using this setup as a DVR. I want to record every single World Cup game (in HD)!

I plan to connect this to my Onxyo AVR and bitstream all audio. This shouldn't be a problem right?

Western Digital Caviar Blue WD10EALS 1TB 7200 RPM 32MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive -Bare Drive

SAPPHIRE 100283-2L Radeon HD 5770 1GB 128-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFireX Support Video Card - Retail

OCZ StealthXStream OCZ700SXS 700W ATX12V / EPS12V SLI Ready CrossFire Ready Active PFC Power Supply - Retail

ADESSO WKB-3200UB Black 103 Normal Keys 2.4 GHz RF Wireless Multimedia/MCE Keyboard with Optical Trackball - Retail

G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-4GBNQ - Retail

ASUS P7H55D-M EVO LGA 1156 Intel H55 HDMI USB 3.0 Micro ATX Intel Motherboard

Intel Core i5-750 Lynnfield 2.66GHz 8MB L3 Cache LGA 1156 95W Quad-Core Processor - Retail

COOLER MASTER Intel Core i5 compatible GeminII S RR-CCH-PBU1-GP 120mm Sleeve CPU Cooler - Retail

LITE-ON Black 4X BD-ROM 8X DVD-ROM 32X CD-ROM SATA Internal 4X Blu-ray Reader Model iHOS104-06 - OEM

Antec Black Aluminum / Steel Fusion Remote Black Micro ATX Media Center / HTPC Case - Retail

Am I missing anything? Are there any things I should consider changing? Thanks in advance for any thoughts or ideas.

renethx

04-02-10, 10:22 AM

kevinqian

04-02-10, 10:23 AM

My worries are not heat, but energy usage, as the server will be on 24/7.
What would i save using the 240e - as compared to the 240?
And are there any down sides to the 240e?
I know the 45w vs 65w doesnt really tell the whole watt usage story, but my knowledge runs really thin here...

Thanks,
Jacob
The truth is it won't matter that much on your WHS. 95% of time it will be at idle. Both parts will idle at very similar wattages. 45w part's real advantage shows during high cpu load. So for a 24/7 WHS, 65w is probably as long term energy efficient as the 45w part.

Jacob B

04-02-10, 10:31 AM

Thanks for your replies!
Since i already received the 240, i think i will keep it.
Is the 240e downgraded in any way to make it more energy efficient?

renethx

04-02-10, 10:58 AM

Is the 240e downgraded in any way to make it more energy efficient?
The performance is identical.

vamovie

04-02-10, 11:10 AM

hi guys
I need help
Iam udsing intel-quadcore q6600 with 4gb ram and intel nvidia geforce 8500gt 256mb

Ima using this cpu and i have 200 of home videos(from all the realitves insight)
out of those 100 of those are 6gb dvd formatted files
now iam using xvid4psp to convert it to m2ts files(yes bluray format)
don't ask me why thatswhat they want ..Iknow the quality isn't much
most of them are want on new format and new disc)another thing is this is the only software known that also converts audio to 5.1
i tried some give no 5.1,some are accepts only small files
anyways....

it took around 2-3days for eacg disc to convert it
I want to change the cpu to corei7 920 or 930 with atleast 4gb and good graphic software

does it speed up the converting?
and also iam looking for better than quadcore ...in amonth

please help

renethx

04-02-10, 11:13 AM

My main goals are DVD/Blu-ray playback, PC gaming, streaming internet video. When the Cablecard tuners finally come out (hopefully before the World Cup!), I will be adding that as well and using this setup as a DVR. I want to record every single World Cup game (in HD)!

I plan to connect this to my Onxyo AVR and bitstream all audio. This shouldn't be a problem right?

Am I missing anything? Are there any things I should consider changing? Thanks in advance for any thoughts or ideas.
Yup, bitstreaming should work (possibly with EDID override), and your component selection is good. :)

renethx

04-02-10, 11:32 AM

it took around 2-3days for eacg disc to convert it
I want to change the cpu to corei7 920 or 930 with atleast 4gb and good graphic software

does it speed up the converting?
and also iam looking for better than quadcore ...in amonth
Changing Q6600 to Core i7 860/920/930 will reduce encoding time greatly (60-70% faster).

Lintoc

04-02-10, 12:52 PM

Anybody out there tried a Pico-PSU (Mini-Box.com) in a SFF case like the APEX MI-100BK? This would allow full-height Heatsink and much better airflow.

vamovie

04-02-10, 05:17 PM

Changing Q6600 to Core i7 860/920/930 will reduce encoding time greatly (60-70% faster).

Thankyou man
I really appreciate it

vamovie

04-02-10, 05:18 PM

Now
where can i get dual cpu processors mother board?
I heard that they are already released

whiteboy714

04-02-10, 08:11 PM

Now
where can i get dual cpu processors mother board?
I heard that they are already released

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010200302%201071346469&name=Dual%20LGA%201366

These are server motherboards but those are all dual socket. Not sure if encoding apps can run two processors. Maybe someone here has a set up like that :eek:

Jacob B

04-02-10, 08:40 PM

Actual difference of power consumption is ~10W. If the server runs literally 24/7 without sleep, you may save some money with 240e in the long run.
Does anyone here have experience under volting a media server setup based on the athlon II x2 240? I want an energy efficient whs system, without loosing critical power.
It seems like some users on silentpcreview http://www.silentpcreview.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=58228 had good succes with the 240 (claiming atom 330 like performance in idle), but they were not running a server.

Thanks!

John P

04-02-10, 09:13 PM

My worries are not heat, but energy usage, as the server will be on 24/7.
What would i save using the 240e - as compared to the 240?
And are there any down sides to the 240e?
I know the 45w vs 65w doesnt really tell the whole watt usage story, but my knowledge runs really thin here...

Thanks,
Jacob

I am using the 240e in my WHS server. With a full size Gigabyte ATX (GA-MA785GT-UD3H) motherboard, 4GB memory, PCI fax modem, MagicJack, 2 hard drives and 500 watt power supply my idle power usage is about 58 watts. CPU temp is about 98F. I have Cool N Quiet enabled. Performance has been great and has been perfectly stable. I will be changing to a 360 watt PS, hope to reduce usage another 10 watts.

kevinqian

04-02-10, 09:30 PM

I have a Sempron 140 unlocked into dual core Athlon X2 with undervolting at 1.05v. Saves about 5-10w at idle. Try lowering ur volts to 1.1v first and if stable, lower it incrementally down to 1.05v or lower if you dare.

Jacob B

04-02-10, 09:55 PM

:) thanks to both of you

Makaveli6103

04-02-10, 11:43 PM

I'm not sure if anyone else has had this problem but I have had problems with stuttering and audio cutting out on my HDHomeRun recording TV from OTA. There is a thread on thegreenbutton.com with some possible fixes. But none of those worked. Luckily I got a new modem and had to read the HDHomeRun manual for some troubleshooting and noticed they recommended a 5-1000MHz splitter. I looked at mine and I was using a 5-2300MHz. I switched to a 5-1000MHZ splitter and it worked!! What a simple fix and finally happy my 2 month problem is gone.

swing8

04-03-10, 12:48 AM

I recommend to disable Microsoft DTV-DVD Audio Decoder (use Win7DSFilterTweaker (http://www.codecguide.com/windows7_preferred_filter_tweaker.htm)), use ffdshow Audio Decoder instead and select AC3 pass-through.

I have downloaded this thing but I have no idea what to do with it all these options. How do you configure this thing?

renethx

04-03-10, 01:03 PM

I have downloaded this thing but I have no idea what to do with it all these options. How do you configure this thing?
Just disable Microsoft DTV-DVD Audio Decoder using Win7DSFilterTweaker. 7MC will use the audio decoder of the highest merit value (usually ffdshow Audio Decoder).

vamovie

04-03-10, 01:35 PM

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010200302%201071346469&name=Dual%20LGA%201366

These are server motherboards but those are all dual socket. Not sure if encoding apps can run two processors. Maybe someone here has a set up like that :eek:

Nice these mobo are really good
but they are the capable of xeon series processors and quadcore's and six cores
are there any capability of core i7 processors on these motherboardsor does it have to be xeon processors only
are there any icore processors in xeon

which one is faster
xeon quads/six cores or i core i7's
please help

swing8

04-03-10, 02:11 PM

Just disable Microsoft DTV-DVD Audio Decoder using Win7DSFilterTweaker. 7MC will use the audio decoder of the highest merit value (usually ffdshow Audio Decoder).

and what I'm telling you is I don't see where to do that.

whiteboy714

04-03-10, 02:46 PM

and what I'm telling you is I don't see where to do that.

If you are using mpc-hc you can also use it to block the microsoft filter. (But only for mpc)

Its in this guide.
http://www.mediasmartserver.net/2010/02/02/guide-setting-up-bitstreaming-with-your-windows-7-htpc-part-i/

jmasterman

04-03-10, 05:25 PM

Renethx,

I have a P7P77d EVO MB with 2 PCIE 2.0 x16 slots. The #1 slot is too close to the CPU cooler for me to install a passive 4670 HIS video card I have but the motherboard manual states that I should use the #1 slot for 'Best Performance."
This is a workstation. What would happen if I used the #2 slot?
Is there a better card for desktop duties with two DVI out that could drive 2 1920X1050 monitors on W764?
Low idle power seems too much to ask for most of the ones I have looked at but it is one of my goals. I do mostly Adobe and some basic video editing/transcoding.

TIA

dbone1026

04-03-10, 06:53 PM

If you are using mpc-hc you can also use it to block the microsoft filter. (But only for mpc)

Its in this guide.
http://www.mediasmartserver.net/2010/02/02/guide-setting-up-bitstreaming-with-your-windows-7-htpc-part-i/

@ swing8,

Also check Part II of the guide t hat whiteboy714 links to as I clearly show screenshots of Win7DSFilterTweaker.

fivestarplus

04-03-10, 10:29 PM

Nice these mobo are really good
but they are the capable of xeon series processors and quadcore's and six cores
are there any capability of core i7 processors on these motherboardsor does it have to be xeon processors only
are there any icore processors in xeon

which one is faster
xeon quads/six cores or i core i7's
please help
Another thing to consider is that most "server" motherboards require ECC memory which is more expensive than non ECC memory.

swing8

04-04-10, 01:05 AM

If you are using mpc-hc you can also use it to block the microsoft filter. (But only for mpc)

Its in this guide.
http://www.mediasmartserver.net/2010/02/02/guide-setting-up-bitstreaming-with-your-windows-7-htpc-part-i/

Well, that actually showed me the options renethx was talking about; thank you.

renethx

04-04-10, 06:37 AM

vamovie

04-04-10, 09:39 AM

Another thing to consider is that most "server" motherboards require ECC memory which is more expensive than non ECC memory.

Thankyou five star
yes i found out for that price i can make 2 almost highend cpu's
I am sticking with core i7 930

sorry to bother you guys
Ima researching
here is my config. please let me know if i need to upgrade or degrade

corei7 930 under200.00 i hope
intel mobo under150.00(with atleast 24gb max memory upgradeable)
whats the difference between 1156 and1366 mobo which is better
gtx graphic card
starting with 2 500Gb hd(bought it)
liteon bd-rom (bought it)
lg br-writer(bought it)
my question is do you guys think 500watt psu is enough
where can i get the memory for good price
(do they have 4gb sticks)
ofcourse case bought it already

please help

thankyou in advance

BDestroyer8418

04-04-10, 11:34 AM

corei7 930 under200.00 i hope
whats the difference between 1156 and1366 mobo which is better

Can't use a i7 9xx Chip on a 1156 socket the i7 9xx chips uses the 1366 socket MB.

1156 socket is for the i7 8xx chips/i5/i3

Yes you can get the 930 for $200 + Tax if you got a MicoCenter or even get lucky find a 920 still in stock for less.
$150 for the 1366 MB will be tuff not sure what's out there for that I paid $240 for my EVGA 758 MB back in FEB I guess I depends on all what you need on the MB

Since you said your sticking with the i7 9xx chip don't even look at the 1156 socket boards ( since if requires one of those other chips I mentioned) there's really no difference small things like Triple Channel Ram in the 1366 and some small other stuff.

Is there a reason you need 4GB sticks (or were you just wondering because of the 24GB expandable, most people only need 4,6,8 GB of RAM)

Don't cheap out on the PSU 500 Watt maybe depending on the Brand (don't be one of those people who buy all these high end parts and than won't spend over $50 on a PSU and than complain 1 month later there other parts are failing) I'd say get yourself a good 650 watt Min PSU (if your running that i7 9xx) something like a Corsair or even Antec I've been hearing good reviews on them lately.

Also if your not going to be running Dual GPU in SLI/Crossfire you might want to consider just getting a i7 86x chip and a 1156 Socket MB could save yourself a atleast $200 if not more when you add up the CPU,MB,RAM prices.

Lastly you are going to need to OC them to really help speed things up.
i7 9xx can be pushed to 4.0 on air no problem with a good heatsink ( you will have to OC in the Bios to get past the 8xx Dummy OC speeds if that's important to you)
i7 8xx has a better Dummy OC

Good Luck

I'm in the process of building setup to but nothing like that since I just built a i7 920 rig for my main computer

@renethx or anyone else

Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio/Master Audio bitstreams
Every Radeon HD 5xxx graphics card
Every Intel Core i5/i3 (Clarkdale) processor

Does this mean for me to be able to playback Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD I will need to get a 5xxx GPU even if I have the i3 ( I was looking at getting a MB with 9300 Chip onboard but if that won't play back those HD audio with the i3 than this answers alot for me and I can start building right away) or would my Denon Receiver do all the work since the i3 can bitstream

Ralith

04-04-10, 03:34 PM

Great info, been using a lot to build my own system!

Thanks!

doc4140

04-04-10, 04:17 PM

vamovie

04-04-10, 09:31 PM

cool
@ BDdestroyer 8418

i will go for 650watt psu
yes iam planning to go for OC
as per GPU yes iwant to use dual GPU with sli crossfire
what are the real benefits though iwinder
and lastely on RAM iam just wondering coz in the long idon't want to replace and put them to sale
instead i will go for 2 4GB =8gb for starting if they are carrying 4GB sticks

Thanks for everyone for their thoughts and helping me'this site:rocks:

renethx

04-04-10, 11:04 PM

Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio/Master Audio bitstreams
Every Radeon HD 5xxx graphics card
Every Intel Core i5/i3 (Clarkdale) processor

Does this mean for me to be able to playback Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD I will need to get a 5xxx GPU even if I have the i3 ( I was looking at getting a MB with 9300 Chip onboard but if that won't play back those HD audio with the i3 than this answers alot for me and I can start building right away) or would my Denon Receiver do all the work since the i3 can bitstream
You will need either HD 5xxx (discrete graphics) (with any processror and mb), or Core i3/i5 Clarkdale processor (integrated grahics) + H55/H57 mb.

BDestroyer8418

04-05-10, 01:00 AM

You will need either HD 5xxx (discrete graphics) (with any processror and mb), or Core i3/i5 Clarkdale processor (integrated grahics) + H55/H57 mb.

Thanks for clearing that up for me. I will be going with the i3 with a iGPU I'm think is the best for me.

instead i will go for 2 4GB =8gb for starting if they are carrying 4GB sticks

You might want to look for a 12 GB kit so you can take advantage of your Triple Channel for your MB it will run the 2@4GB sticks fine in dual channel but the x58 Motherboards run in Triple Channel so I would start with atleast 3@ 2GB sticks or 3 @ 4GB sticks since your building new I wouldn't skimp on that.

IF your going dual GPU then you might even need to setup on your PSU, I'm not sure what the min would be for what your tossing in there but I ran a 750 watt Corsair on my Q6600 and sold that and upgraded to the 850 watt Corsair for my new 920 rig since when I get more money to spend I will run Dual GPU soon and wanted to have enough power ( someone else could prob help you with the min would be but Dual GPU and the 650 I should say be ok if along as if has enough PCI-E connections Dual GPU your going to need 4 x PCI-E so you might have to bump it up to 750w if you cant find one, I went with the 850 one since I might try a 3rd GPU soon after I try the Dual so mine has 6 x PCI-E connections and didn't want to have to upgrade my PSU if I ever wanted to try that)

Just google Dual GPU you will get some good info about that.

Shik

04-05-10, 02:34 AM

I am after some advice regarding upgrading my current setup. I was an early adopter of the Intel G45 motherboards and have lived without bit streaming waiting for some new products to come out and think it's finally time to bite the bullet!

My system only has one PCI-E slot which I currently use for the TV tuner and three PCI slots. I already use TMT3 for BluRay/HD-DVD playback so Xonar HDAV Slim is probably the easiest choice (and cheapest) however from the reading I have done it still sounds like there are a few bugs with this setup. I am also concerned with being tied to one product, TMT3 and potentially being stranded depending on future releases etc

It seems there are a few other options now such as the Radeon 5XXX and new intel cpus with integrated gpu. To use the Radeon's I would have to replace my tv tuner with one that sits in PCI slot. To use the new Intel cpus I would end up replacing my motherboard, cpu, ram which might be too costly.

Should I just go for the Xonar Slim or bite the bullet on one of the more complicated options?

renethx

04-05-10, 02:36 AM

I have been reviewing the last several hundred entries and I need some advice.I have never built a computer before. I am interested in a Kaleidoscape type htpc that can download HD video and rip DVD/ BD,CD music to a large maybe 10 gig -20gig or larger hard drive storage that has backup. Also stream Internet / Youtube and other download movie services would also be used. I also need possible encoding and high end audio/ video output to go HDMI to a Anthem AVM50 audio video processor that can decode to multiple formats DTS/ Dolby pro etc. THis will feed a Sony projection VPL vw100 to a 92" diagonal screen. High end audio video is desired. I have a Dell Precision 490 computer that is for general use in my study that is 50 feet from the entertainment room. It is hooked up to a gigbyte router for Cable modem. This will probably not to be used for the playback system.
I have read alot about the EX 495 HP Mediasmart server and hard drive bays to link to it such a San Digital TR5M for additional storage. If I hooked the HP MMS to a Premium ATX htpc that you have suggested, would that be easier than building everything from scratch. I could buy the parts and then have a company like PC CLub here in town build it for me. I will not be doing any gaming. I was looking for a nice user interface like MY MOVIES to link to the Windows Home Server to look like the Kaleidoscape interface.I would like a large touch screen. DVR is not a priority since I have cable HD DVR box. Cost not really a problem. I noticed that alot of programing and difficulties are encountered when building from scratch and wanted plug and play as much as possible.
Any advice is appreciated!!
A premium ATX system is overkill if you don't play games. I recommend a mid-range microATX/ATX system with a Radeon HD 5670 instead. A case with touch screen (I am not sure of its usefulness):

- OrigenAE S21T
- Thermaltake DH 102
- Zalman HD160XT Plus

Or add a touch controller OrigenAE T12 (http://www.shop.perfecthometheater.com/product.sc?productId=18&categoryId=31) (12.1"). There must be more options (I just don't know). Logitech Harmony 1100 is a universal remote with a 3.5" touch screen.

A BD movie occupies a large storage space:

- ISO complete ~40GB
- ISO movie only ~25GB
- MKV ~25GB

So a 2TB HDD can hold 50 to 80 movies. You'd better select a server case taking this point into account. I recommend 20 HDD Rack Mount System (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972&page=437#Media%20Storage%20Server:%20System:%2020%20HDD%20Ra ck%20Mount%20System%20II) (1000 to 1600 BD movies).

Windows 7 Media Center + My Movies or Media Browser is a good choice as a movie organizer. There are several players:

- PowerDVD 10 Ultra: ISO only
- TMT 3 Platinum: ISO only (basically)
- MPC HomeCinema (free; any format; no menu support)
- Media Center internal player (MKV)

Jacob B

04-05-10, 06:21 AM

RENETHX,
For the Media Storage servers, you recommend two different OS HDD. What are the pros and cons for the two?

WD Scorpio Black WD3200BEKT 320GB SATA 3.0Gbps mobile 7200 RPM
vs.
OS HDD: WD Caviar Blue WD6400AAKS 640GB SATA 3.0Gbps

I will be running WHS as well as Media Portal TV server on the server. It will likely be on 24/7.

I am getting ready to assemble this week, still missing motherboard and OS HDD :)

Thanks,
Jacob

dbone1026

04-05-10, 06:24 AM

Marc_G

04-05-10, 06:28 AM

Hi folks,

It used to be that the ads on this forum would only show "inline with posts" if I wasn't signed in. After signing in, there would be ads at the top but not interspersed with the posts.

For the last few days I'm seeing ads along with posts, changing the width of some posts etc, despite being signed in. Is it just me? Or has the forum changed?

Sorry for off-topic post, but this is driving me nuts.

renethx

04-05-10, 07:16 AM

RENETHX,
For the Media Storage servers, you recommend two different OS HDD. What are the pros and cons for the two?
Two different HDDs just because NORCO RPC-4220 has 2 x 2.5" OS drive brackets while NORCO RPC-4020 has 2 x 3.5" OS hard drive brackets.

grittree

04-05-10, 08:10 AM

For the last few days I'm seeing ads along with posts, changing the width of some posts etc, despite being signed in. Is it just me? Or has the forum changed?

You're not nuts. Read here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=18423528#post18423528

Jacob B

04-05-10, 11:22 AM

Two different HDDs just because NORCO RPC-4220 has 2 x 2.5" OS drive brackets while NORCO RPC-4020 has 2 x 3.5" OS hard drive brackets.

Thanks!
I guess the 2.5" has lower energy consumption as well? For a 24/7 server, that's a plus, I guess.

renethx

04-05-10, 11:56 AM

Thanks!
I guess the 2.5" has lower energy consumption as well? For a 24/7 server, that's a plus, I guess.
Yup.

WD3200BEKT
Read/Write: 2.50 Watts
Idle: 0.85 Watts

WD6400AAKS
Read/Write: 8.30 Watts
Idle: 7.70 Watts

BDestroyer8418

04-05-10, 12:02 PM

Anyone have some Pics on one of those 24 HDD plus setups. That's really out of my price and storage range right now but I would like be able to upgrade to something like that with having to change much.

Just really wanted to see some pics of how everything was connected not really getting how all this stuff is setup to name a few things would be

5X1 Internal SATA Port Multiplier
Internal SATA to eSATA 2-Port PCI Bracket

I think a few pics would help me understand how it works.

Thanks

doc4140

04-05-10, 12:38 PM

Stettin

04-05-10, 03:09 PM

I was ready to order an i3-530 chip through a relative of mine (Intel employee), but for some reason the i3 and i5 chips with iGPU are not on the EPP portal. There is a i5-750 chip that I can get for $130 shipped to me though. It goes for around $195 on Newegg. The main problem for me is that it doesn't have the iGPU so having to buy a discreet video card might offset those savings.

What GPU would get me to about the same video performance of the midrange Intel-Intel(iGPU) build (core i3-530)?

The advantage I'm seeing to the i5-750 would be better speed for transcoding video. I hadn't really planned on transcoding much, but have recently read some numbers on the MKV conversion of DVDs and might go that route.

On the subject of transcoding, is there an advantage to running a 64bit OS for this other than taking advantage of more memory? I'm considering just going with 2GB, so 32bit would have been the way to go on the i3-530. I'm not so sure on the 4 core i5-750.

I'm really only planning on media playback. I won't be using this as a gaming HTPC.I'll be going MicroATX and am looking at the ATI HD 5450 (fanless)

FguerraG

04-05-10, 07:13 PM

Hi there!

I have recently added a video card ATI HD5670 to the Gigabyte GA-MA785GMT-UD2H mobo as renethx recommendations (thanks man!)
almost everything works fine, it's just that for some reason I can't enable 1920x1080@60hz it only works @24hz
Thing is that when I start the computer I can't see the Bios, the LCD screen kicks in when windows has already booted

I'm almost sure that this is a resolution problem ,right?

has anybody else had same problem or knows how to fix this

BTW I have tried both original and most recent drivers with the same result also if I switch back to the mobo hdmi out I can enable 60hz just fine
TIA

Jacob B

04-05-10, 07:41 PM

A premium ATX system is overkill if you don't play games. I recommend a mid-range microATX/ATX system with a Radeon HD 5670 instead. A case with touch screen (I am not sure of its usefulness):

- OrigenAE S21T
- Thermaltake DH 102
- Zalman HD160XT Plus

Or add a touch controller OrigenAE T12 (http://www.shop.perfecthometheater.com/product.sc?productId=18&categoryId=31) (12.1"). There must be more options (I just don't know). Logitech Harmony 1100 is a universal remote with a 3.5" touch screen.

A BD movie occupies a large storage space:

- ISO complete ~40GB
- ISO movie only ~25GB
- MKV ~25GB

So a 2TB HDD can hold 50 to 80 movies. You'd better select a server case taking this point into account. I recommend 20 HDD Rack Mount System (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972&page=437#Media%20Storage%20Server:%20System:%2020%20HDD%20Ra ck%20Mount%20System%20II) (1000 to 1600 BD movies).

Windows 7 Media Center + My Movies or Media Browser is a good choice as a movie organizer. There are several players:

- PowerDVD 10 Ultra: ISO only
- TMT 3 Platinum: ISO only (basically)
- MPC HomeCinema (free; any format; no menu support)
- Media Center internal player (MKV)

Comments:
TMT 3 Platinum will play AVCHD as well - if you rip your (owned) BD to AVCHD folder and file format, it will play it. This adds compatibility for hardware players like OPPO-BDP83 and PS3.

I would list MediaPortal (MP) as an organizer & player as well - its like Media Center, except its free (open source). It can use external players as well (like TMT). It has more options than WMC, but is also more tricky to set up :D

MP's coolest feature is the ability to act as a TV server, having TV-tuners added to one single computer acting as the server (could be your media storage server), then all other computers in the house/network can use/access those tuners with the MP client software. If you don't need/want that feature, then WMC 7 is probably the way to go (unless you like to play around with skins, multiple plug-ins, etc)

cheers,
Jacob

wbassett

04-05-10, 09:09 PM

Question about the media server case RPC-4020. That's the case I have and am setting up.

I also got the recommended mother board, the GigaByte GA-MA785GT-UD3H.
Okay here is my question... where does the VCC/Data -/Data +/GND cable on th RPC-4020 connect to the UD3H motherboard? Everything else except the network activity indicator are connected (didn't see an activity LED connection on the mb) and I am ready to install the OS. It looks like the VCC/Data connection is for the front panel USB port but I can't see a corresponding mb connection for this cable.

Anyone have any input? :)

Annihilata

04-05-10, 10:31 PM

Hi I just bought this desktop

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883103244

and I put this video card in it:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814150447&cm_re=xfx_radeon_hd_5770-_-14-150-447-_-Product

and I'm looking at getting this receiver

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16882120165

anyone know if I could output the video through one of the DVI outputs on the card and output the audio through HDMI to the receiver. or if anyone knows a similar setup where I can get 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound with my PC setup. any input appreciated thanks!!

scientest

04-05-10, 10:36 PM

anyone know if I could output the video through one of the DVI outputs on the card and output the audio through HDMI to the receiver. or if anyone knows a similar setup where I can get 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound with my PC setup. any input appreciated thanks!!

The card supports HDMI, the receiver supports HDMI. Why use anything else?

Annihilata

04-05-10, 11:42 PM

I want to try and get the best optimal performance out of my system. My monitor supports 1920 x 1200 resolution so DVI is the best choice for the best resolution. The video card said it supported 7.1 surround sound when I installed the drivers. Just curious if anyone else has tried this, although I'm pretty sure it will output video via DVI and audio via HDMI no problem.

tehmouse

04-06-10, 05:05 AM

I'm building my first htpc and this is what I'm looking at so far.

i3-530
ASUS P7H55-M PRO
G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1333 (PC3 10666) Dual Channel Kit F3-10666CL9D-4GBNQ
LITE-ON Black 4X BD-ROM 8X DVD-ROM 32X CD-ROM SATA Internal 4X Blu-ray Reader Model iHOS104-06 - OEM
CORSAIR CMPSU-400CX 400W ATX12V
SILVERSTONE GD05B

I already have a 500gb wd green drive and a HDhomerun. I'll being using it for ota, watching dvd/bd's, and streaming my rips from a whs. Do guys see anything I should change or am I go to go?

HTElectrical

04-06-10, 06:53 AM

I need to build a PC for my Toyhauler so I can transfer some of the 800 movies that I currently have saved on my server and have something to watch when I go racing, duning etc.... I figure 3 to 4 terabytes should hold plenty of movies to have a good selection. I have a 23"1080P LCD monitor so I will probably go with HDMI. I plan to purchase a LG HX300 projector when they come out so I can do the outdoor movie thing. So, on to my ?????

I have a new http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131196 P5K-E motherboard sitting here brand new in the box. Would it be worthwhile for me to use this board and go with a Core2 Duo E7500 Wolfdale http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115056 and since it only has PCI-E x 16 my card choices a re limited. Probably this one
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814103104
DIAMOND 5670PE51G Radeon HD 5670, or should I just forget using the P5K and upgrade to the new tech?
Thanks in advacne!!!!

QBA

04-06-10, 09:23 AM

Hi me again :)

Now that my HTPC laptop is running thanks you guys :)

I need to get the server running as well.

This question is for dbone1026:

Damian, I want to buy the server parts in this site since I got 100 bucks in store credit.

I was looking for your mother board but is not there, bellow is a similar one but some of the model numbers are not the same.

Can you please take a look and tell me if I should buy it for the server, or can you be so kind and look around that site and tell me what other motherboard I should get.

http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/searchtools/item-Details.asp?EdpNo=5019785&sku=G452-1017&srkey=GA-MA785G

Should stick with the same CPU?
http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/searchtools/item-Details.asp?EdpNo=4924304&sku=A79-0245&srkey=ADX245OCGQBOX

I could be wrong but I think that motherboard support ddr3, should I get DDR3 memory then?

Should I go for this one?

http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=4837614&CatId=3361

Or can I get away with buying this one?

http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=3163026&CatId=3361

Thanks a lot

Alex

mburg

04-06-10, 09:25 AM

Hi Renethx
A few months ago I followed your excellent advice and built the following system:

• CPU: Phenom II X4 955 Black Edition HDZ955FBGIBOX 3.2GHz AM3.
• CPU Cooler: Cooler Master (Geminii S) RR-CCH-PBU1-GP
• Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-MA785GMT-UD2H AM3 AMD 785G chipset microATX.
• Memory: A-DATA HY63I1B16K DDR3-1333 2 x 2GB Kit.
• Sound Card: ESI Juli@
• HDD: 2-Seagate Barracuda SATA 7200RPM, 300GB
• PSU: Corsair VX550W CMPSU-550VX 550W.
• Case: Antec Fusion Remote Black microATX, with LCD/IR receiver/remote
• BD: LG BD-ROM / DVD Rewriter CH08

I am using the onboard (MOBO) DVI-D out to my Pioneer KRP-500M 50" panel. I have loaded Windows 7, and things are working very nicely except for one issue. When I either turn off the TV or switch to another input on the panel (e.g., ROKU box, cable box) and then go back to the DVI-D input from the HTPC, there is nothing on the screen other than the message "No Signal". Hitting tab, return, or space bar on the keyboard doesn't restore the image. If I reboot the computer, I immediately have things working again.

Any thoughts/ideas are appreciated!

dbone1026

04-06-10, 09:45 AM

Hi me again :)

Now that my HTPC laptop is running thanks you guys :)

I need to get the server running as well.

This question is for dbone1026:

Damian, I want to buy the server parts in this site since I got 100 bucks in store credit.

I was looking for your mother board but is not there, bellow is a similar one but some of the model numbers are not the same.

Can you please take a look and tell me if I should buy it for the server, or can you be so kind and look around that site and tell me what other motherboard I should get.

http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/searchtools/item-Details.asp?EdpNo=5019785&sku=G452-1017&srkey=GA-MA785G

Should stick with the same CPU?
http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/searchtools/item-Details.asp?EdpNo=4924304&sku=A79-0245&srkey=ADX245OCGQBOX

I could be wrong but I think that motherboard support ddr3, should I get DDR3 memory then?

Should I go for this one?

http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=4837614&CatId=3361

Or can I get away with buying[/url]

Thanks a lot

Alex

I would stick with the CPU. As for DDR3, I would just purchase 2 x 1GB, don't see much of a benefit to paying up for 4GB. Motherboard looks fine too. Crazy how much more expensive components are in Canada!!!

QBA

04-06-10, 09:53 AM

Thanks a lot Damian,

The crazy part is that right now the Canadian dollar is almost up to part with the US one and these bastards don't lower prices down. I usually buy from US sites, but free shipping from Canadian sites is what make prices compatible.

thanks again :)

Wanchope

04-06-10, 10:14 AM

So I'm gonna finally pull the trigger on a HTPC and was just hoping to get a final idiot check. I am starting from scratch here, so I need everything (cables, keyboard, etc etc).

Western Digital Caviar Blue WD10EALS 1TB 7200 RPM 32MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive -Bare Drive

SAPPHIRE 100283-2L Radeon HD 5770 1GB 128-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFireX Support Video Card - Retail

OCZ StealthXStream OCZ700SXS 700W ATX12V / EPS12V SLI Ready CrossFire Ready Active PFC Power Supply - Retail

ADESSO WKB-3200UB Black 103 Normal Keys 2.4 GHz RF Wireless Multimedia/MCE Keyboard with Optical Trackball - Retail

G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-4GBNQ - Retail

ASUS P7H55D-M EVO LGA 1156 Intel H55 HDMI USB 3.0 Micro ATX Intel Motherboard

Intel Core i5-750 Lynnfield 2.66GHz 8MB L3 Cache LGA 1156 95W Quad-Core Processor - Retail

COOLER MASTER Intel Core i5 compatible GeminII S RR-CCH-PBU1-GP 120mm Sleeve CPU Cooler - Retail

LITE-ON Black 4X BD-ROM 8X DVD-ROM 32X CD-ROM SATA Internal 4X Blu-ray Reader Model iHOS104-06 - OEM

Antec Black Aluminum / Steel Fusion Remote Black Micro ATX Media Center / HTPC Case - Retail

Am I missing anything? Are there any things I should consider changing? Thanks in advance for any thoughts or ideas.

Quick newb question here. Some of the parts started arriving and I just noticed that many of the components were shipped without any cables or connectors. The case has not arrived yet, and neither had the motherboard. Do those typically come with cables? Or do I need to pick up a few on my own? I think I really only need 2 cables (one for the Hard Disk and one for the BD-drive). I don't want to waste any $ on unneeded cables, but I also don't want to have to run to Radio Shack to pick up cables that I should have ordered from monoprice or something. The BD-drive doesn't have any of the "normal" 4 pin power inputs, so I guess it takes some kind of SATA power input?

Thanks.

kjgarrison

04-06-10, 10:24 AM

The cables should all e with your mobo

whiteboy714

04-06-10, 10:45 AM

Most mobo's will come with 2 sata cables. And yes your bd drive and hard drive should use the sata interface.

renethx

04-06-10, 12:10 PM

I am using the onboard (MOBO) DVI-D out to my Pioneer KRP-500M 50" panel. I have loaded Windows 7, and things are working very nicely except for one issue. When I either turn off the TV or switch to another input on the panel (e.g., ROKU box, cable box) and then go back to the DVI-D input from the HTPC, there is nothing on the screen other than the message "No Signal". Hitting tab, return, or space bar on the keyboard doesn't restore the image. If I reboot the computer, I immediately have things working again.

Any thoughts/ideas are appreciated!

Gefen HDMI Detective Plus (http://www.gefen.com/kvm/dproduct.jsp?prod_id=8005) (or DVI Detective Plus) should work. Thanks. :)

mburg

04-06-10, 12:20 PM

Thanks!

QBA

04-06-10, 01:20 PM

Sorry guys I keep going back and forward :(

I was thinking :confused:

Since I have to buy a new motherboard, CPU and RAM, to build a server pc. Why don't I pay a little bit more for those parts and I could build a second htpc/server. I got 4 TVs around the house and media center only support 4 tuner at the time. so by having a second HTPC I could add 2 more HDhomerun double tuner to the network. :D

So if I buy this CPU, What motherboard and RAM do you guys recommend me to put together my second HTPC/Server?

http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/searchtools/item-Details.asp?EdpNo=5581940&sku=I69-0660&srkey=Intel%20Core%20i5%20660%20Dual-Core%20Socket%20LGA1156,%203.33Ghz

Thanks a lot

Alex :)

skullnrose

04-06-10, 02:33 PM

Hello,

First off Thank You to you all that share your wealth of information here. I'm going to make a donation as soon as I post this.

I'm going to build a Mini-ITX HTPC and would like advice or comments on my choices. Feel free to rip part what I choose if you feel something makes more sense. Take into account I do no gaming at all

Zotac H55ITX Mini-ITX Motherboard

Intel Core i5 650 CPU

G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-4GBNQ

Antec ISK 300-150 Mini-ITX Case

SilenX IXP-52-11 80mm Case Fan x2

Windows 7 Professional 64bit

Hard drive 2.5 or 3.5 please recommend what will fit in the antec case
Blu Ray Drive Please recommend

doc4140

04-06-10, 03:06 PM

Comments:
TMT 3 Platinum will play AVCHD as well - if you rip your (owned) BD to AVCHD folder and file format, it will play it. This adds compatibility for hardware players like OPPO-BDP83 and PS3.

I would list MediaPortal (MP) as an organizer & player as well - its like Media Center, except its free (open source). It can use external players as well (like TMT). It has more options than WMC, but is also more tricky to set up :D

MP's coolest feature is the ability to act as a TV server, having TV-tuners added to one single computer acting as the server (could be your media storage server), then all other computers in the house/network can use/access those tuners with the MP client software. If you don't need/want that feature, then WMC 7 is probably the way to go (unless you like to play around with skins, multiple plug-ins, etc)

cheers,
Jacob

Any advantage of media portal compared to mymovies for organization? Also is the OPPO BDP83 better to burn the BD and DVD to your hard drive compared to a standard blue ray drive that would be attached to a HTPC?

Scott

FguerraG

04-06-10, 07:55 PM

drebnord

04-06-10, 08:41 PM

Building my first HTPC from the ground up and more or less following renethx's suggestions. In particular I am using

G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-4GBNQ - Retail

ASUS P7H55D-M EVO LGA 1156 Intel H55 HDMI USB 3.0 Micro ATX Intel Motherboard

I noticed after I ordered that this RAM is not on the memory qualified vendor list on the ASUS website for this motherboard, and a reviewer on newegg is claiming that they had random BSOD using this RAM until swapping it out for GSkill F3-12800CL9D-4GBRL. The 1GB sticks GSkill F3-12800CL9D-2GBNQ are listed on the memory qualified vendor list. I find it hard to believe the 2GB sticks would not work, but as a noob the last thing I want to do is deal with random BSOD caused by a subtle interaction between RAM and motherboard.

Can someone more experienced reassure me that this combination will be fine and I am just being paranoid or am I better off just swapping it out before I even get started with memory on the approved list. Any tips for verifying that these two items get along before I get too far down the road would also be appreciated. Thanks.

renethx

04-06-10, 11:27 PM

So if I buy this CPU, What motherboard and RAM do you guys recommend me to put together my second HTPC/Server?

http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/searchtools/item-Details.asp?EdpNo=5581940&sku=I69-0660&srkey=Intel%20Core%20i5%20660%20Dual-Core%20Socket%20LGA1156,%203.33Ghz
Core i5-660 is overkill for a HTPC/server. Core i3 530 is enough. Mb selection depends on the expansion cards you use (do you use a discrete graphics card? How many HDDs are you going to have?).

renethx

04-06-10, 11:32 PM

osarika

04-07-10, 12:22 AM

Gefen HDMI Detective Plus (http://www.gefen.com/kvm/dproduct.jsp?prod_id=8005) (or DVI Detective Plus) should work. Thanks. :)

or here is the easy way to do it...

-Osarika

hdmiOn is a tiny program that turns the monitor off and on, which resends the EDID data bringing back the TV to life. Suggested usage is to assign the program to a function or hotkey.

http://thydzik.com/tag/hdmion/

As requested, source code is as follows.

#include <windows.h>

int WINAPI WinMain(HINSTANCE hInstance, HINSTANCE hPrevInstance, LPSTR lpCmdLine, int nCmdShow)
{
// Turn off monitor
SendMessage(HWND_BROADCAST, WM_SYSCOMMAND, SC_MONITORPOWER, (LPARAM) 2);
// Turn on monitor
SendMessage(HWND_BROADCAST, WM_SYSCOMMAND, SC_MONITORPOWER, (LPARAM) -1);

return 0;
}

Marc_G

04-07-10, 06:19 AM

So , It's just me with this problem?

I have been searching all over for some info and haven't find anything here or ATI forums, Google etc...

Try the AMD catalyst forum:

http://forums.amd.com/game/categories.cfm?catid=279

That might be the most specific place to find someone who can help.

Good luck. Let us know what you find out.

Marc

gsr

04-07-10, 08:55 AM

or here is the easy way to do it...

-Osarika

hdmiOn is a tiny program that turns the monitor off and on, which resends the EDID data bringing back the TV to life. Suggested usage is to assign the program to a function or hotkey.

http://thydzik.com/tag/hdmion/

As requested, source code is as follows.

#include <windows.h>

int WINAPI WinMain(HINSTANCE hInstance, HINSTANCE hPrevInstance, LPSTR lpCmdLine, int nCmdShow)
{
// Turn off monitor
SendMessage(HWND_BROADCAST, WM_SYSCOMMAND, SC_MONITORPOWER, (LPARAM) 2);
// Turn on monitor
SendMessage(HWND_BROADCAST, WM_SYSCOMMAND, SC_MONITORPOWER, (LPARAM) -1);

return 0;
}
That's an interesting solution - so what it ends up doing is forcing an HDMI handshake. This may be a viable solution for my dad who is having this problem but really doesn't want to spend the money on the HDMI detective.

QBA

04-07-10, 09:01 AM

Core i5-660 is overkill for a HTPC/server. Core i3 530 is enough.

Thanks for that I found one i5-530 for 130 :)

http://www.canadacomputers.com/index.php?do=ShowProduct&cmd=pd&pid=027575&cid=CPU.840

Mb selection depends on the expansion cards you use (do you use a discrete graphics card? How many HDDs are you going to have?).

I don't even know if I need one graphics card, I hope I can get away without it, to save some cash.

Since I'm buying the i5-530 and I hope the motherboard has built in HDMI, do I still need a graphics card? I'm going to be watching HD content from ripped bluerays, recording OTA HD shows, this computer will be server as well, so my laptop htpc will be recording and demanding HD content on this machine hard drives.

This machine will have an hdmi going straight into the basement TV and one of the xbox360 will be use as a media center extender in this machine as well, for the second basement TV.

Do I still need a video card?

About the hard drives it will have as many as I fit in the case, I'm even thinking into buying the same server case that dbone1026 have to progressively ad as many TBs hdd as I need in the future.

http://usa.chenbro.com/corporatesite/products_detail.php?sku=109

What kind of power supply do I need? I got at home a 4 years old Antec 550W power supply.

I guess I have to buy one or two SATA Controller Cards as well.

thanks again :)

renethx

04-07-10, 10:29 AM

@QBA

It depends on your requirement if a discrete graphics card is necessary or not. Some people prefer Radeon for various reasons (e.g. Clarkdale does not support 23.976Hz). But if you are satisfied with Arrandale, Clarkdale may be enough. I will mention two systems:

- Core i3 530
- MSI H55-GD65 (one PCIe 2.0 x16, one PCIe 1.0 x16 slot that works at x4 if you don't use any of the PCIe x1 slots, at x2 otherwise)
- Onboard video

- Athlon II X2/X3/X4
- ASUS M4A89GTD PRO/USB3 (two PCIe x8, one PCIe x4, one PCIe x1, all Gen2.0)
- Onboard video (HDMI audio is limited to DD/DTS) or a discrete graphics, e.g. Radeon HD 5670

Here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972&page=437#Media%20Storage%20Server:%20System:%20Other%20Tower %20Cases) are a couple of tower cases good for a server. For 15 HDDs, 550W should be enough.

QBA

04-07-10, 11:36 AM

renethx

04-07-10, 11:54 AM

Thanks for the reply Supports renethx,

I think I will go for MSI H55-GD65 with i3 530 :)

I was reading on the MSI USA site that MSI H55-GD65 support "1080 Full-HD multimedia playback". Does this means it doesn't support 1080p?

Sorry but you lost me there with "Radeon vs Arrandale and Clarkdale", I guess those are video/audio card chips or something?

Can I watch HD movies with full 1080p and HD sound by just running an HDMI cable from this mother board into my Yamaha receiver?

Sorry again but I don't understand this part either lol "(one PCIe 2.0 x16, one PCIe 1.0 x16 slot that works at x4 if you don't use any of the PCIe x1 slots, at x2 otherwise)"

How many sata port for sata hard drives does this mother board have? Should I ad a one or two SATA Controller Cards?

What memory should I buy?
Arrandale is the codename of mobile Core i5-430M and the likes. Clarkdale is the desktop version of Arrandale (Core i3-530 etc.). Yup, I am talking about GPU. If you are already enjoying your ASUS laptop, Clarkdale should be a good choice. The video playback capability of Core i3-530/H55 is identical with your laptop.

You are going to add SATA controller cards (either PCI or PCIe) and depending on the number of HDDs, you may need several expansion slots. MSI H55-GD65 has two PCIe x4 (or higher) slots and two PCI slots. So they should be enough if you don't add a discrete graphics card. For example,

- Onboard SATA: 7
- Supermicro AOC-SASLP-MV8 8-port SATA Controller PCI Express x4 Card: 8
- Supermicro AOC-SASLP-MV8 8-port SATA Controller PCI Express x4 Card: 8
- Total: 23 SATA ports.

Note that you can't use two PCIe x1 slots in this case. G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-4GBNQ DDR3-1600 2 x 2GB Kit is a good choice.

QBA

04-07-10, 12:26 PM

Thanks again for the reply renethx,

About the case, I wonder if I could use the one I got at home for now, and on the future I could upgrade to a bigger one. Can I put the MSI motherboard on the case bellow?

http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/2003-winter-case-review-part-2,725-5.html

Now about the power supply, I think this is the 4 years old power supply I have at home:
http://compreviews.about.com/od/cases/ss/AntecTP2EPSTour.htm

Does this motherboard use a different type of connector because is newer? or all those power supplies to mother board connector are still compatibles?

thanks

Jacob B

04-07-10, 01:51 PM

Any advantage of media portal compared to mymovies for organization? Also is the OPPO BDP83 better to burn the BD and DVD to your hard drive compared to a standard blue ray drive that would be attached to a HTPC?

Scott

I dont know mymovies well enough to really tell you, i think its a matter if taste.
Its more a question of the whole package - tv, movies, tv series, music etc.
There are much more flexibily in MP, but it comes with a price of complex setup. MP is open source freeware.

The oppo 83 is stand alone blu ray player, which also can play ripped movies via harddisc and dlna network streaming. It cannot burn and does not connect to the playback part of a htpc, only the media server part.
Cheers,
Jacob

Lintoc

04-07-10, 02:14 PM

Hi Renethx - Do you think the new PICOPSU-150-XT power supply and 150W power brick could handle the Mini-ITX AMD-AMD HTPC build in your March guide (with Athlon II 240 not the 240e)? I think it would solve a noise/heat issue I have in my current build.

If so, what do people do for a backplate?

Thanks,
Lintoc

Jacob B

04-07-10, 03:21 PM

What cluster size should i format my whs pool hdd? They are WD 20EADS drives. And why?

What about the OS HDD - WD black scorpio 320gb?

And my tv server/DVR drives - a WD 10EADS and a another black scorpio?

Many thanks,
Jacob

renethx

04-07-10, 06:45 PM

renethx

04-07-10, 06:48 PM

QBA

04-07-10, 11:18 PM

HTElectrical

04-07-10, 11:25 PM

Lots of posts here. This is for renethx if ya get a chance.

I need to build a PC for my Toyhauler so I can transfer some of the 800 movies that I currently have saved on my server and have something to watch when I go racing, duning etc.... I figure 3 to 4 terabytes should hold plenty of movies to have a good selection. I have a 23"1080P LCD monitor so I will probably go with HDMI. I plan to purchase a LG HX300 projector when they come out so I can do the outdoor movie thing. So, on to my ?????

I have a new http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131196 P5K-E motherboard sitting here brand new in the box. Would it be worthwhile for me to use this board and go with a Core2 Duo E7500 Wolfdale http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115056 and since it only has PCI-E x 16 my card choices a re limited. Probably this one
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814103104
DIAMOND 5670PE51G Radeon HD 5670, or should I just forget using the P5K and upgrade to the new tech?
Thanks in advacne!!!!

renethx

04-07-10, 11:42 PM

renethx, just to double check before I buy it.

Is this the same sata controller as the one you suggested earlier?

http://www.ncix.com/products/?sku=37999&vpn=AOC-SASLP-MV8&manufacture=SuperMicro

thanks
Yes.

You need to buy cables (e.g. two SFF-8087 to four SATA forward breakout cables) separately.

renethx

04-07-10, 11:50 PM

Lots of posts here. This is for renethx if ya get a chance.
The mb and CPU are good. You can buy a cheaper HD 5670 card like this (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102871).

HTElectrical

04-07-10, 11:57 PM

I didn't think I could use a PCI Express 2.0 x16 card on a board that only had a PCI Express x16 slot. Can I?

renethx

04-08-10, 01:46 AM

I didn't think I could use a PCI Express 2.0 x16 card on a board that only had a PCI Express x16 slot. Can I?
Basically PCIe 2.0 cards are backward compatible with PCIe 1.x motherboards.

Jacob B

04-08-10, 05:05 AM

Lintoc

04-08-10, 07:28 AM

Thanks - I finally bought a Kill-a-watt, and it draws at most 130w. Nice!

HTElectrical

04-08-10, 10:58 AM

Basically PCIe 2.0 cards are backward compatible with PCIe 1.x motherboards.

Ok, thanks!!! Can you recommend a good cooler that won't break the bank? It gets a little warm in the ToyHauler in the summer, and I wanted to keep the CPU at a reasonable temp. Noise really isn't a problem.

renethx

04-08-10, 06:12 PM

Ok, thanks!!! Can you recommend a good cooler that won't break the bank? It gets a little warm in the ToyHauler in the summer, and I wanted to keep the CPU at a reasonable temp. Noise really isn't a problem.
Cooler Master Geminii S is a good cooler.

tomandbeth

04-08-10, 06:13 PM

on sale today (assumeing you get their announcements)

SWEET prices too.

Wanchope

04-08-10, 09:16 PM

kegobeer

04-08-10, 09:28 PM

Finally got all the parts in today and got to start the build. Everything is in and hooked up.

When I hit the power switch, all the fans start running, but I don't hear any beeps and I don't see anything on the monitor (there is no signal detected). Its been a while, but aren't there supposed to be a few beeps to let me know that things are happy? There is a green LED light on the MB that is lit up. Something isn't right here and I'm not sure where or how to start trouble shooting since I can't even get to a bios screen or anything.... help?

Make sure you hooked up the power, reset, and LED connectors to the right spots. Check to make sure your RAM is properly seated and also is in the correct slots (some motherboards require RAM to be in certain banks, depending on how many slots are filled). Remove anything that isn't required for the PC to run (hard drive, CD/DVD/BD drive, additional video cards, etc) and see if you can get the motherboard to POST.

Wanchope

04-08-10, 10:24 PM

fivestarplus

04-09-10, 01:17 AM

Will a Denon AVR-2807 work with the mid-range microATX configuration recommendation? What formats, if any will it not support? Sorry, I'm not an audio techie.

renethx

04-09-10, 01:50 AM

Will a Denon AVR-2807 work with the mid-range microATX configuration recommendation? What formats, if any will it not support? Sorry, I'm not an audio techie.
You may need EDID override (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1227161).

lbrown4121

04-09-10, 03:21 AM

renethx

04-09-10, 03:45 AM

I just built a HTPC using the guide for March, but I can't seem to get the audio settings right. I'm hoping that its just a dumb mistake on my part. My setup is a Gigabyte H55M-UD2H, with an Intel Corei3 530 and the onboard graphics enabled.

When I installed Windows 7 Ultimate x64, I went to the Intel website and installed the latest drivers. The video works great via HDMI, but the audio doesn't seem to work correctly. I get sound, but only two channel. Also, bitstreaming in TMT3 Platinum is not working, so I think the problems are related.

I go into Sounds on the Control Panel, and my default audio device is something called Intel Display Audio. Whats odd is that it won't let me select surround for my speaker setup, it only lists stereo (I have the PC hooked up to my Sony STRDG920 receiver) as an option. Also, under supported formats,it says max channels are 2 and encoded formats only lists Dolby Digital.

I guess my question is whether this is normal or not? Or if its not, what I can do to enable surround sound via the Sounds screen and to enable bitstreaming in TMT3. I have installed the latest Intel Display Driver, and I installed the Intel MEI tool.
Apparently something is wrong. Uninstall the current drivers. Download the latest drivers (http://downloadcenter.intel.com/SearchResult.aspx?lang=eng&ProductFamily=Desktop+Boards&ProductLine=Intel%C2%AE+5+Series+Chipset+Boards&ProductProduct=Intel%C2%AE+Desktop+Board+DH55HC&ProdId=3142&LineId=3016&FamilyId=36) and install them. You need the following three for GPU/chipset to work properly.

- Video: Intel® HD Graphics Driver 15.17.3.2104 (GFX_Vista_Win7_64_15.17.3.64.2104_PV_Intel.exe)
- Intel® ME: Management Engine Driver for Intel 5 Series Chipset-Based Desktop Boards 6.0.40.1215 (MEI_ALLOS_6.0.40.1215_PV.exe)
- Chipset: Intel® Chipset Device Software for Intel® Desktop Boards 9.1.1.1025 ( INF_allOS_9.1.1.1025_PV.exe)

As the sound playback device in Sound control panel, you should see "<your AVR name>: Intel Display Audio".

Try to update BIOS (use the GIGABYTE utility @BIOS).

lbrown4121

04-09-10, 04:13 AM

Thanks for the quick reply. I update by BIOS to F8, and the default device is SONY AVAMP, Intel Display Audio. I downloaded all three things you suggested and installed and restarted, and yet I still have the same problem. What's funny is that in Media Center, I can set my speaker settings to 5.1, so its obvious that the connection is working... it just won't work in the OS.

This is what I'm seeing. http://i991.photobucket.com/albums/af36/lbrown4121/HTPC/problem.jpg

Video Driver is version 8.15.10.2104

Intel Display Audio Driver is version 6.12.0.3047

Any ideas?

Marc_G

04-09-10, 06:27 AM

I'm giving it a try and will post results. The MB was an open box deal, so I am suspect. But another question. I was checking the LED, Power and Reset connections (for the 8th time) and I noticed that the case doesn't seem to have any connections for the speaker (which is on the same bank of connections as the above stuff) Does the Antec Black Aluminum / Steel Fusion Remote Black Micro ATX Media Center not connect to the MB speaker thing? I'm guessing this is normal, I just don't see how I would hear any beep errors without it?

My first build exhibited symptoms similar to what you've reported. My MoBo doesn't have a beep speaker, nor does my case, so power on beeps were not useful. I eventually bought a $2 speaker and plugged it in to the appropriate spot on the mobo in case I ever needed it for diagnostics.

Anyway, my problem was that I had the big power connector (20 or 24 pin) plugged in "up front" of the board, but the mobo also required that I plug in a 2x4 pin power connector over near the CPU. In my ignorance I didn't realize both were required. I eventually figured it out and all was well.

Good luck; let us know what happens.

Marc

renethx

04-09-10, 08:59 AM

Thanks for the quick reply. I update by BIOS to F8, and the default device is SONY AVAMP, Intel Display Audio. I downloaded all three things you suggested and installed and restarted, and yet I still have the same problem.
A possible cause is an EDID issue. What's EDID (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1227161). But then I have no idea how to fix it...

QBA

04-09-10, 09:26 AM

renethx

04-09-10, 10:39 AM

renethx, Sorry that I keep changing the parts but this is an evolutionary process :)

I think I will pull all the stops and I will go for a case that can handle a lot of hdd, so in the future I just put more and more hard drives as I need them.

So I'm going with this case:

http://www.norcotek.com/item_detail.php?categoryid=1&modelno=RPC-4220

The question is, Can I keep adding new sata cards "Supermicro AOC-SASLP-MV8" to the motherboard you suggested "MSI H55-GD65 ATX LGA1156", to be able to accommodate for the 20 hdd that can be installed on the Norco case, or should I consider a different motherboard?

Thanks again

Alex
You can add

- 2 x AOC-SASLP-MV8 (then you can't use the two PCIe x1 slots and you can't add a discrete graphics card later.)
- 1 x AOC-SAT2-MV8 + 1 x AOC-SASLP-MV8 (then either you can't use the two PCIe x1 slots or you can't add a discrete graphics card later.)
- 2 x AOC-SAT2-MV8 (as they are PCI cards, there is no restriction on PCI Express slots.)

These restrictions stem from the fact that Clarkdale/H55 does not have enough PCI Express lanes (that's one reason why I mentioned an AMD mb in the previous post, which has plenty of PCI Express 2.0 lanes so that you can use two AOC-SASLP-MV8 cards, a discrete graphics card (at x8) and a PCIe x1 device simultaneously). You don't have to add two cards at the same time; add one only when you want more storage space. To use a AOC-SAT2-MV8 card in RPC-4220, you will need two SFF-8087 to four SATA "reverse" breakout cables.

You should expect a certain amount of noise from a 20 HDD system.

QBA

04-09-10, 10:50 AM

Thanks renethx,

Since I will be running an HDMI straight from the motherboard into the TVs, I won't need to worry about adding additional video cards later.

So I guess that base on your reply I could add enough sata cards in that mother board to end up with the 20 hdd right?

What about for a CD room (to install operating system), and the windows hard drive?

Can I install those via IDE and should be ok right? Or the operating system hdd should go via sata as well for faster performance?

renethx

04-09-10, 10:58 AM

So I guess that base on your reply I could add enough sata cards in that mother board to end up with the 20 hdd right?

What about for a CD room (to install operating system), and the windows hard drive?

Can I install those via IDE and should be ok right? Or the operating system hdd should go via sata as well for faster performance?
If you don't use PCI Express devices other than AOC-SASLP-MV8, yes you can add up to 23 SATA drives and 2 PATA drives. RPC-4220 supports:

- 1 x slim 5.25" optical drive
- 2 x 2.5" HDD (for OS); use an SSD or a 2.5" 7200 rpm HDD for notebook.
- 20 x HDD (for data)

rajdude

04-09-10, 03:11 PM

jpitt42

04-09-10, 03:17 PM

Hi Folks,
I have a quick question....

What is the cheapest way to get a IR reciever for a Intel DG45FC Mobo with those CIR inputs?

A few months back using this excellent guide (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17591247#Mini-ITX System: Standard System: Intel-Intel (iGPU))[thanks a million!] I built a HTPC [it is only a small Mymovies client]. I have the Microsoft MCE remote.

I'm not sure what a CIR input is, but I have this thing and it works great:

http://cgi.ebay.com/HP-IR-Wireless-MCE-USB-Infrared-Receiver-VISTA-MCE2005_W0QQitemZ130374730854QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDo main_0?hash=item1e5af08466

It came with my wife's laptop. It works flawlessly in Win7.

rajdude

04-09-10, 03:33 PM

Yes, I have the same thing [it is from microsoft] But that one is in use with another HTPC.

Also I am looking for a smaller form factor....maybe internal. I am looking at

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16611741&highlight=cir#post16611741

I'm not sure what a CIR input is, but I have this thing and it works great:

http://cgi.ebay.com/HP-IR-Wireless-MCE-USB-Infrared-Receiver-VISTA-MCE2005_W0QQitemZ130374730854QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDo main_0?hash=item1e5af08466

It came with my wife's laptop. It works flawlessly in Win7.

kevinqian

04-09-10, 03:50 PM

I think the CIR input is not well implemented ive read somewhere. Not sure if anyone is actually using those.

rajdude

04-09-10, 03:54 PM

I use it on one of my [many] HTPCs.....works fine.

But...it never wakes up the PC using IR. However others have reported that "wakeup on IR" works fine for them.

I think the CIR input is not well implemented ive read somewhere. Not sure if anyone is actually using those.

FguerraG

04-09-10, 05:33 PM

Try the AMD catalyst forum:

http://forums.amd.com/game/categories.cfm?catid=279

That might be the most specific place to find someone who can help.

Good luck. Let us know what you find out.

Marc

So After a lot of searching and no good info I decided to do a clean install of windows , only to find out that I still have problems, actually the damn card doesn't work at all, when I install it the system won't recognize it and I have a lot of trouble getting the system to work with the mobo HDMI output

so the card is going back for refund

Question:
Could it be a power supply problem?
I got 3 2Tb Hd's hooked up to the mobo so maybe I'm being under powered by the 450watt psu
thought I asked before ordering another video card

just so you know I got the AMD/AMD Micro ATX system recomended by renethx

Saphire Radeon HD5670 512mb card (not working)
Gigabyte GA-MA785GMT-UD2H mobo
4gigs Ram
Athlon II X4 630 cpu
450watt psu
3 2TB Hd's

TIA

Wanchope

04-09-10, 06:12 PM

My first build exhibited symptoms similar to what you've reported. My MoBo doesn't have a beep speaker, nor does my case, so power on beeps were not useful. I eventually bought a $2 speaker and plugged it in to the appropriate spot on the mobo in case I ever needed it for diagnostics.

Anyway, my problem was that I had the big power connector (20 or 24 pin) plugged in "up front" of the board, but the mobo also required that I plug in a 2x4 pin power connector over near the CPU. In my ignorance I didn't realize both were required. I eventually figured it out and all was well.

Good luck; let us know what happens.

Marc

So I did in fact forget to connect those plugs. I went and plugged them all in and turned things on. It was different then before and seemed to be happy. So put everything back in, connected everything and hit the power button. Fans spun up, then slowed down a bit. Then the whole thing just turned itself off. I thought I even smelled something maybe coming from the power supply? I pulled the plug and checked everything and didn't see any issues or potential problems. But now I can't even get the power to come on. I unplugged everything and took most things out, but the power won't even turn on no matter what I do. Its like the switch no longer works....

Something is seriously wrong here and now I am just trying to figure out what all I need to RMA. The power supply? The MB? The CPU? I'm gonna try to test some of the other stuff in my other computer to see what actually works...

Ugh!

Marc_G

04-09-10, 09:51 PM

So After a lot of searching and no good info I decided to do a clean install of windows , only to find out that I still have problems, actually the damn card doesn't work at all, when I install it the system won't recognize it and I have a lot of trouble getting the system to work with the mobo HDMI output

so the card is going back for refund

Question:
Could it be a power supply problem?
I got 3 2Tb Hd's hooked up to the mobo so maybe I'm being under powered by the 450watt psu
thought I asked before ordering another video card

just so you know I got the AMD/AMD Micro ATX system recomended by renethx

Saphire Radeon HD5670 512mb card (not working)
Gigabyte GA-MA785GMT-UD2H mobo
4gigs Ram
Athlon II X4 630 cpu
450watt psu
3 2TB Hd's

TIA

Unless the PSU is underperforming, you should be fine with room to spare. Is the MoBo onboard GPU disabled in the BIOS? If not, that might be your problem.

Mastiffman

04-09-10, 09:52 PM

Hey guys! great thread here! A TON of info...

Sorry if this question has been answered before. I'm having a Ridiculous Time trying to figure out what heck is oigng on with my HTPC.

Components:

1.) Motherboard = Asus M4A785TD-V EVO (Socket AM3 only)
2.) CPU = AMD PhenomII x4 C3 revision 965 (3.4ghz)
3.) Ram = 4Gb (2x2gb) Kingston Hyper X 1600Mhz Cas8 1.65v
4.) Hard Drive = Supertalent SDD 16Gb
5.) Optical Drive = LG Super Blu-ray (BD = x10, DVD = x16)
6.) Graphics Card = Onbaord ATI 4200 w/ 1333mhz (128mb/ 32bit) Sideport memory
7.) PSU = BFG 650w Dual 20a 12v rails

Connected to:
1.) PC Monitor (Via D-Sub) ACER 23" 1080p HD Montior (H233H)
2.) HDTV = Samsung 52" LCD 120hz Processing (LN52A650)

I can play Blu-Ray Discs through Power DVD 8 and 10 as well as playing my library of Stored Blu-ray MKV Files through Power DVD 10 or WMP with the CCCP Codec pack.

The issue:
I get Stuttering on both screens every 3-5 seconds. Doesn't matter if it's only 1 display connected or both. Stuttering = Freeze then unfreeze, freeze then unfreeze, all within a fraction of a second!

I've tried 2 different CPU's (C3 955 and C3 965), Two sets of ram, Two Different SSD's, Two Different Blu-Ray Drives, multiple HDMI cables at different lengths, different PSU's and all of the ports on the HDTV. And 4, yes, 4 different AMD 785G NB chipset Motherboards. 2 Were the same model.

Models:
1.) Asus M4A785TD-V EVO
2.) Foxconn CinemaII Deluxe
3.) MSI 785GM-E65 (x2)

My Pioneer BDP-320 plays BR disks perfectly, smooth as hot butter! Is there any reason why my 320 would be better at playing back plu-ray than my HTPC?

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

NOTES:

I thought that the system palyed fine on my ACER monitor that is a standard 60Hz 1080p HD Monitor UNTIL I connected the System to my Samsung HDTV that has the 120Hz Processing. That made it pop out at me! I then reconnected the 60Hz Monitor and sure enough, it was doing it as well! It' REALLY masked by the 60Hz Motion Blur, but it's there. I have top kind of squint my eye a tad to see it but it's there. When telling you about the 60hz Monitor having this issue, but can visibly see it better when squinting is to prove that it's Not just the HDTV with 120hz Processing that's doing!

TIA

Marc_G

04-09-10, 10:01 PM

So I did in fact forget to connect those plugs. I went and plugged them all in and turned things on. It was different then before and seemed to be happy. So put everything back in, connected everything and hit the power button. Fans spun up, then slowed down a bit. Then the whole thing just turned itself off. I thought I even smelled something maybe coming from the power supply? I pulled the plug and checked everything and didn't see any issues or potential problems. But now I can't even get the power to come on. I unplugged everything and took most things out, but the power won't even turn on no matter what I do. Its like the switch no longer works....

Something is seriously wrong here and now I am just trying to figure out what all I need to RMA. The power supply? The MB? The CPU? I'm gonna try to test some of the other stuff in my other computer to see what actually works...

Ugh!

Gosh what a nightmare. The power supply can probably be tested with a multitester, or by using it to test power another computer if available. CPU and MoBo... I would return both if you can't rule either out. One question. After the first power-on with minimal hardware that seemed to go well, before you put all the hardware back, did you fully power down the system by turning off the PSU and preferably unplugging it? If not, it would have still been partially powered when you put the components back in and something could have fried, but I'm not sure what would be most likely to die.

Sadly other than swap-and-test I'm out of ideas. Maybe others here have more ideas for testing this out.

Marc

Kalur

04-09-10, 10:32 PM

First time poster here, and first time computer builder. Here's the htpc I'm looking to build. I'm trying to keep the costs low because of a tight budget and the fact that since this is my first project, I'd like to keep it simple.

Case: APEVIA Black / Silver SECC Steel / Aluminum X-MASTER-AL/500 ATX Media Center / HTPC Case

Mobo: GIGABYTE GA-MA785GT-UD3H AM3 AMD 785G HDMI ATX AMD Motherboard

CPU: AMD Athlon II X2 250 Regor 3.0GHz 2 x 1MB L2 Cache Socket AM3 65W Dual-Core Processor

RAM: G.SKILL 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-2GBNQ

HD: Western Digital AV-GP WD10EVDS 1TB 32MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive

BD: ASUS Black 4X BD-ROM 8X DVD-ROM 32X CD-ROM SATA Internal Blu-ray Drive Model BR-04B2T

Does this system look a capable htpc? Any feedback would be appreciated.

dbone1026

04-09-10, 10:40 PM

RigorousXChris

04-10-10, 01:14 AM

First time PC builder. I was wondering what base requirements I should have.

I want to be able to play games (Final Fantasy XIV, and some shooters) in the future, as well as upload all my blu-rays and DVDs and play them from my PC. I am not sure if I will have to encode and all that stuff, but I may if I want to safe space on the hard drives.

Basically should I purchase a quad core or a dual core. Another thing, will any discrete graphics card suffice? I see on the guide some can go to $300 such as the HD 5800's. Could I use a 5670 or 5770 with an i7 to save some money? And does getting an i7 mean I need to buy better coolers and cases etc.

I have a deal @ my local store for i7 930 and MSI X58 Pro-E for only $319. I also had another deal for a Phenom II x2 555 with another mobo for $115. I'm not sure if the MSI mobo is good, but I want some feedback if it's a great deal.

What should I do? Thanks!

Mastiffman

04-10-10, 01:24 AM

RigorousXChris

04-10-10, 01:31 AM

http://www.msi.com/index.php?func=proddesc&prod_no=1804&maincat_no=1

That's the MOBO. I want to make sure the package is worth it. Don't wanna buy the package deal and the mobo being trash lol.

Also should I go towards an i7 since I am going to play games and upload movies all the time to it?

kevinqian

04-10-10, 01:37 AM

Mastiffman

04-10-10, 01:50 AM

The Phenom X2 bundle is great. If you get lucky, you might be able to unlock it to a Phenom X4 with that mobo. Gaming is more gpu bottlenecked so save some money on the cpu and go for a higher end gpu would be better.

The Core i7 bundle is a good but not great price but i think overkill for most applications.

The MoBo that he linked was an Intel Motherboard. Seems most of the dual core PhenomIIs are unlocking on the capable boards... Stability is another story.
5850 Are reasonable and can handle anything that you throw at it.

I have a Sapphire 5770 and I can play Crysis on it with medium high settings without a hitch. And when they are Crossfired, you're paying less than a 5870 but with the same performance and less power usage as well as heat!

RigorousXChris

04-10-10, 02:02 AM

So the mobo is good or not good? Sounds like it isn't that good since you said "an intel motherboard." Not sure if you meant not good, but sounds like it.

MSI E-pro + i7 + 5770 for maybe $480 total or
MSI 785GM-E51 AM3 + Phenom II + 5770 for maybe $270.

(Mobos are bundled deals that's why I am suggesting those)

Or a better GPU with the Phenom?

tlmaclennan

04-10-10, 03:03 AM

I think it's just a bit of confussion between posts. He was referring to kevinqian's post saying that your may be able to unlock the AMD Phenom II on "that mobo". Kevinqian was probably referring to the mobo that you were going to bundle with the AMD Phenom II, which you hadn't listed. But since you posted the MSI mobo, that works with the Intel Core i7, Mastiffman thought kevinqian was referring to the MSI...which most definitely won't work with the AMD Phenom II. Which is why he said that's an intel motherboard.

I think that's it!

kevinqian

04-10-10, 03:14 AM

Lol for clarification, the Core i7 deal is overkill and very pricey. Money better spent on a better gpu if you are to use it for gaming. The Phenom 555 can unlock into Phenom X4 if you are lucky (50-70% chance). So i would definitely go with the AMD setup. Just my 2cents.

bonscott87

04-10-10, 09:30 AM

Wanchope

04-10-10, 10:08 AM

Gosh what a nightmare. The power supply can probably be tested with a multitester, or by using it to test power another computer if available. CPU and MoBo... I would return both if you can't rule either out. One question. After the first power-on with minimal hardware that seemed to go well, before you put all the hardware back, did you fully power down the system by turning off the PSU and preferably unplugging it? If not, it would have still been partially powered when you put the components back in and something could have fried, but I'm not sure what would be most likely to die.

Sadly other than swap-and-test I'm out of ideas. Maybe others here have more ideas for testing this out.

Marc

Yes, I did pull the plug out of the wall before I swapped anything around and have been careful about doing that at all times.

I'm gonna just RMA a bunch of the parts that I can't verify are working and give this another shot. Its annoying, but thankfully I am not taking a loss or anything as all these parts are returnable. On the good news side of things I have been able to verify that at least the HD, BD-drive and video card are all fine. I need to see if the RAM is compatible with my older computer and then I may be able to test that as well.

Mastiffman

04-10-10, 11:40 AM

Yep, the HTPC side of things doesn't need all that much power. So my suggestion is to build your system as if it were a gaming PC so get the CPU and video card needed for that. All you need to consider HTPC wise is to make sure the video card has HDMI out and is capable of HD audio (if you need it) and I believe any card in the ATI 5xxxx series will do that. Then just look for various parts that are more quiet if that is a concern. But build the PC with the gaming in mind, whatever you build will be more then good enough for Bluray playback and other HTPC things.

Thanks for clearing that up fellas. Sorry for the confusion. :D

This post relates to my situation. I'm using a 120Hz Processing HDTV samsung LCD which was how I noticed that the Blu-Ray playback Stutters. Once I connected the 60Hz monitor back up to the HTPC, I noticed that it was doing the same thing but much less noticable. Still, it's there.

Anyone see this issue with their HTPC? Once again, one may not realize that the stuttering is even there IF theey are playing back the Blu-Ray content on a 60Hz HD Monitor.... So this unfortunately leads some to claim that they have smooth playback being that 60 Motion Blur masks the Stuttering...

Anyone experience this?

whiteboy714

04-10-10, 11:54 AM

Yes, I did pull the plug out of the wall before I swapped anything around and have been careful about doing that at all times.

I'm gonna just RMA a bunch of the parts that I can't verify are working and give this another shot. Its annoying, but thankfully I am not taking a loss or anything as all these parts are returnable. On the good news side of things I have been able to verify that at least the HD, BD-drive and video card are all fine. I need to see if the RAM is compatible with my older computer and then I may be able to test that as well.

This was actually why I chose to buy locally (I'm very impatient :D)
More options on newegg but I didn't want to have to rma a bunch of stuff not even knowing what was bad.

I guess thats the give and take with buying online or locally.

Wanchope

04-11-10, 12:44 AM

Shik

04-11-10, 09:54 AM

Is there a recommendation on the best model/spec 5570 or 5670 in terms of noise for HTPC? Don't need the grunt for games - just the best solution for htpc including the post processing tasks.

I see PowerColor are releasing passive cooling cards http://www.powercolor.com/au/products_features.asp?id=237#Specification but they aren't available yet here in Aus. Am I best to wait?

whiteboy714

04-11-10, 11:04 AM

Well, it was a bad power supply. I really did smell something I guess. But life has been restored and all the other parts appear to be working fine. (I'm posting this from the new HTPC).

Thanks for the help. I'm sure I'll have more questions.

edit: And I did find a nice computer store in the area as a result of this.

Congrats, I know it feels good when you finally get it sorted.

SUBCOB

04-11-10, 11:18 AM

Marc_G

04-11-10, 01:05 PM

Well, it was a bad power supply. I really did smell something I guess. But life has been restored and all the other parts appear to be working fine. (I'm posting this from the new HTPC).

Thanks for the help. I'm sure I'll have more questions.

edit: And I did find a nice computer store in the area as a result of this.

That's great news. Congratulations. Now best of luck getting all the details sorted out. I wonder what caused that PSU to fry... might have been defective.

Marc

RigorousXChris

04-11-10, 03:36 PM

kevinqian

04-11-10, 06:26 PM

That's weird. Is it hooked up directly or through a receiver? Have you successfully connected at 1080p in the past with another computer?

RigorousXChris

04-11-10, 08:04 PM

NVM, I solved it. I had to install all the updates, and updated the drivers.

slowlybuilt

04-11-10, 09:58 PM

Does anyone have any experience with DBS tuner cards? I tried looking for more info but I can't find any on AVS.

I was thinking about something like the TBS 6980 (http://www.tbsdtv.com/english/product/6980.html)

Does anyone know how hard it is to put in your own dish and tune it with a HTPC?

Does it integrate well with Win7 Media Center?

Does it require particularly powerful hardware to run smoothly?

Any info would be appreciated!

drebnord

04-12-10, 09:58 AM

I put the hardware together for my first HTPC over the weekend. I still have to load an OS but system passed POST and it all looks fine in the BIOS. I have a couple questions about hardware fine tuning before I proceed. My case is a VidaBox v3 Slim which only takes low-profile cards and has a built in 80mm fan. My PSU is the Antec BP 550 Plus, and I have an i3 530 with the stock CPU cooler. The case fan and PSU fan are quiet, the stock cooler is a bit noisier than I would like. What are the recommended CPU coolers for the i3/i5 that would fit in a low profile case? A second question is about splurging on an ssd to hold the OS and apps. Is media center a disk bound app? Would using an ssd have a notable effect on system responsiveness or would it just fatten Intel's bottom line? Any experiences people have with ssd in HTPCs would be appreciated.

As a postscript I would like to publicly thank renethx for this thread. I would have never had the confidence to build my own HTPC without the knowledge and experience passed on by him and others that this thread has given me.

Mastiffman

04-12-10, 02:59 PM

Just built my pc. I was able to unlock 4 cores in the phenom II. Great advice guys.

Anyways, I have a 65'' 1080p HDTV, but I can't get the onboard graphics card (HD 4200) to display higher than 1400x1050. What do I need to do?

Glad that you got that fixed! Make sure that you pay close attention to the ATI 4200 Chipset. I have had four 785G Chipset boards, switched out 2 of everything and can only come up with the conclusion that the 785G (ATI 4200 OB GPU) is the cuplrit for not having competely Smooth Blu-Ray and MKV Blu-Ray FIle Playback. I'm assuming that most people don't know to much about it.

You will notice stuttering when the background of the movie scans across the scenery. It's kind of hard to see at first but it's there. Should be at least.

What Model of Motherboard did you end up getting?

Eopian

04-12-10, 03:01 PM

A solid state disk would load your apps faster but thats about it. On my viewing HTPC I have a 5400rpm laptop drive because it is silent. It works with all media just fine. Laptop drives are cool, quiet, relatively inexpensive and don't consume much energy. Also the SATA port is the same as the SATA port on desktop drives, the only issue I had to solve was how to attach the 2.5" drive (which was pretty easy).

fun4stuff

04-12-10, 05:02 PM

Is the retention brack set really needed? According to new egg the Geminii S is compatible with the LGA1156? Or am I missing something?

CPU: Core i3 530 2.93GHz LGA1156, $113.
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master 風神鍛 (Geminii S) RR-CCH-PBU1-GP, $30, with Cooler Master RR-ACC-1156-GP LGA1156 Retention Bracket Set, $4.
Motherboard: ASRock H55M Pro LGA1156 Intel H55 chipset microATX, $95. If you need an IDE connector and/or a FDD connector, choose GIGABYTE GA-H55M-UD2H LGA1156 Intel H55 chipset microATX, $105, or ASUS P7H55-M PRO LGA1156 Intel H55 chipset microATX, $110. GIGABYTE and ASUS are releasing also USB 3.0 versions.
Memory: G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-4GBNQ DDR3-1600 2 x 2GB Kit, $105.
Graphics Card (ATI): HIS H567Q512 Radeon HD 5670 GDDR5 512MB, $100. An alternative is Sapphire HD 5670 512GB GDDR5, $100.
Graphics Card (NVIDIA): ASUS ENGT240/DI/512MD5/A GeForce GT 240 GDDR5 512MB, $100.
HDD: Western Digital WD6400AAKS 640GB SATA 3.0Gbps, $63.
PSU: Corsair VX450W CMPSU-450VX 450W, $70. An alternative is Enermax ECO80+ 400W EES400AWT, $58.
Case: Antec Fusion Remote Black microATX, with LCD/IR receiver/remote, $130.
Total Cost: $712 for ATI, $712 for NVIDIA

msmith64

04-12-10, 08:34 PM

very interesting, I am having the same problem with my Panasonic TV when playiing Blurays, extreme stuttering and some of the blurays dont have color at all. BUt if I play a regular movie it seems to play okay. I was able to play sherlock holmes through one time without the stuttering but then the second time the stuttering came back and wouldnt stop. I thought it was my setup but I seem to have everything in place that I can think of.

I will continue reading

Hey guys! great thread here! A TON of info...

Sorry if this question has been answered before. I'm having a Ridiculous Time trying to figure out what heck is oigng on with my HTPC.

Components:

1.) Motherboard = Asus M4A785TD-V EVO (Socket AM3 only)
2.) CPU = AMD PhenomII x4 C3 revision 965 (3.4ghz)
3.) Ram = 4Gb (2x2gb) Kingston Hyper X 1600Mhz Cas8 1.65v
4.) Hard Drive = Supertalent SDD 16Gb
5.) Optical Drive = LG Super Blu-ray (BD = x10, DVD = x16)
6.) Graphics Card = Onbaord ATI 4200 w/ 1333mhz (128mb/ 32bit) Sideport memory
7.) PSU = BFG 650w Dual 20a 12v rails

Connected to:
1.) PC Monitor (Via D-Sub) ACER 23" 1080p HD Montior (H233H)
2.) HDTV = Samsung 52" LCD 120hz Processing (LN52A650)

I can play Blu-Ray Discs through Power DVD 8 and 10 as well as playing my library of Stored Blu-ray MKV Files through Power DVD 10 or WMP with the CCCP Codec pack.

The issue:
I get Stuttering on both screens every 3-5 seconds. Doesn't matter if it's only 1 display connected or both. Stuttering = Freeze then unfreeze, freeze then unfreeze, all within a fraction of a second!

I've tried 2 different CPU's (C3 955 and C3 965), Two sets of ram, Two Different SSD's, Two Different Blu-Ray Drives, multiple HDMI cables at different lengths, different PSU's and all of the ports on the HDTV. And 4, yes, 4 different AMD 785G NB chipset Motherboards. 2 Were the same model.

Models:
1.) Asus M4A785TD-V EVO
2.) Foxconn CinemaII Deluxe
3.) MSI 785GM-E65 (x2)

My Pioneer BDP-320 plays BR disks perfectly, smooth as hot butter! Is there any reason why my 320 would be better at playing back plu-ray than my HTPC?

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

NOTES:

I thought that the system palyed fine on my ACER monitor that is a standard 60Hz 1080p HD Monitor UNTIL I connected the System to my Samsung HDTV that has the 120Hz Processing. That made it pop out at me! I then reconnected the 60Hz Monitor and sure enough, it was doing it as well! It' REALLY masked by the 60Hz Motion Blur, but it's there. I have top kind of squint my eye a tad to see it but it's there. When telling you about the 60hz Monitor having this issue, but can visibly see it better when squinting is to prove that it's Not just the HDTV with 120hz Processing that's doing!

TIA

msmith64

04-12-10, 09:55 PM

doc4140

04-13-10, 12:21 AM

Is it possible to buy a Norco RPC 4220 with WHS already built ready to go?
I have taken the specs from the Recommended 20 HDD Rack Mount System II to a PC Club but they have not done this type of build and would maybe be going to school but charging me for the build and software installation and configuration. If I cant buy it already done what should a reasonable charge be to build it? THanks.

Mastiffman

04-13-10, 11:24 AM

So has anyone been able to get the March midrange system to playback bluray DVD's properly? I spent close to 1K on this thing and I have to admit that I am a bit dissapointed if the onboard graphis is not up to the job.

Yeah I don't why it's acting like this. I don't really think that AMD tested their OB Graphics Board with anything Higher than 60Hz Monitor/HDTV's. I will say this:

With todays technology, AMD better step up to the plate with this issue. Being that more and more TV's are using the 120+Hz Procesing. If the issue is unfixed, AMD will unfortunately, get a bad rep for it...

I'm getting ready to Return this ASUS M4A785TD-V EVO (785G Chipset) for most likely the 790FX or 890GX and just get an ATI 5450 Video Card. That should take care of the issue...

Makaveli6103

04-13-10, 01:01 PM

fun4stuff

04-13-10, 02:26 PM

No you don't need to buy the retention bracket separately, it comes with the Geminii S now. I didnt know that and have an extra one now.

thanks. i'll have an extra one too... but i bet you didnt pay as much as i did! i bought it for $6, but didnt realize shipping was $10! :(

msmith64

04-13-10, 02:52 PM

I am using the Intel chip I3 and asus board so I dont think it is a AMD issue persay. I was under the impression that the listed configurations (midrange) were tested and known to work, I guess not..

Yeah I don't why it's acting like this. I don't really think that AMD tested their OB Graphics Board with anything Higher than 60Hz Monitor/HDTV's. I will say this:

With todays technology, AMD better step up to the plate with this issue. Being that more and more TV's are using the 120+Hz Procesing. If the issue is unfixed, AMD will unfortunately, get a bad rep for it...

I'm getting ready to Return this ASUS M4A785TD-V EVO (785G Chipset) for most likely the 790FX or 890GX and just get an ATI 5450 Video Card. That should take care of the issue...

kjgarrison

04-13-10, 02:54 PM

Yeah I don't why it's acting like this. I don't really think that AMD tested their OB Graphics Board with anything Higher than 60Hz Monitor/HDTV's. I will say this:

With todays technology, AMD better step up to the plate with this issue. Being that more and more TV's are using the 120+Hz Procesing. If the issue is unfixed, AMD will unfortunately, get a bad rep for it...

I'm getting ready to Return this ASUS M4A785TD-V EVO (785G Chipset) for most likely the 790FX or 890GX and just get an ATI 5450 Video Card. That should take care of the issue...

The TV's are doing the 120+ Hz processing internally. I don't think any inputs are anything other than 60Hz (or 24Hz) in NTSC land at least. I'm not saying there is no problem with your HTPC equipment ... just that the HTPC, your AVR, your video card, etc, are all running at either 60Hz or 24Hz (23.987 to be precise)

HTPCat

04-13-10, 03:52 PM

I am using the Intel chip I3 and asus board so I dont think it is a AMD issue persay. I was under the impression that the listed configurations (midrange) were tested and known to work, I guess not..
There are many people that have built a midrange March system using the exact configurations or with some slight mods that have this working well for DVD & BDDVD playback while bitstreaming audio.

Maybe tell us your build specs, what drivers you have installed, what equipment you are hooked up too and the problem you are having exactly.

Mastiffman

04-13-10, 04:31 PM

I am using the Intel chip I3 and asus board so I dont think it is a AMD issue persay. I was under the impression that the listed configurations (midrange) were tested and known to work, I guess not..

I thought that you were using an AMD based setup. There are quite a few people that are having issues with the 785G Chipset though...

AMD "Claims" that the 785G and the rest of their OB Graphics Can play Blu-Ray Back smoothly but when I asked them"If their OB Graphiocs have been tested with any HDTV's or Monitors with anything above 60Hz refresh or 120+hz processing" they answered no. The added that if I would like to work with them they could test the setup that I had by completing the Docs that they could send through email and they would put the chipset under investigation being that more users are purchasing these types of TV's and monitors...

The TV's are doing the 120+ Hz processing internally. I don't think any inputs are anything other than 60Hz (or 24Hz) in NTSC land at least. I'm not saying there is no problem with your HTPC equipment ... just that the HTPC, your AVR, your video card, etc, are all running at either 60Hz or 24Hz (23.987 to be precise)

Oh, yes. I agree with you. I'm the one that's saying that there is something wrong with my setup. but I when I try using 4 differnt motherboards of 3 different models and still get the same results after switching out doubles of all of the rest of the hardware. That leads me to believe that it can only be the chipset...

When referncing my above stament, I implied to the AMD technition that maybe they didn't realize there was actually an issue with it because of the lack of technology to notice it. (i.e. 120Hz Processing in HDTV's)

There are many people that have built a midrange March system using the exact configurations or with some slight mods that have this working well for DVD & BDDVD playback while bitstreaming audio.

Maybe tell us your build specs, what drivers you have installed, what equipment you are hooked up too and the problem you are having exactly.

Have any of the users of these Midrange Builds used their setups with any HDTV's higher than 60Hz (TV that is not output signal)?

TIA

fun4stuff

04-13-10, 08:00 PM

quick question: regarding the Antec Fusion Remote Black case there are 3 settings on the case's fans, low med and high. What should I set these at initially?

BryanChewy

04-13-10, 09:22 PM

I wanted to see if you guys can steer me in the right direction for what i want to do. I'm trying to finish up my streaming/home server/theater system and the HTPC is the last piece. I've done so much reading but am totally lost at this point. I have a Windows Home Server rig being finished up right now by a friend. Gigabit network. Infocus 7200 projector (hoping to upgrade to a sharp 12000 Mark II or Infocus 7210 soon) I have a Anthem pre amp that's about 6 years old...no hdmi input...i use a hdmi matrix switch for video and toslink/RCA for dig audio. Here's what i got for the HTPC :

I got this HP model : 6340F

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883147096

It was a gift and I have made the following changes to it so far:

*replaced PSU with Antec Earthwatts 650 80 Plus certified

*replaced 5400RPM WD green 1TB HD with Seagate 7200RPM 1TB HD

Things I am looking at getting and want opinions on:

* replace stock cooler with Zalman 9500 LED ???? I measured and it will fit (barely) but do i need it??

* add graphics card = PNY XLR8 GeForce GTS 250 1024MB PCIe Graphics Card
(I can get a good deal on this because Staples carries it and I have rewards saved up to spend on it)

* audio card ???? Not sure if i need it

* Blueray player/burner?? Not sure what I really need, and the BD burners seem so expensive yet. Maybe just a reader for now and keep the stock dvd burner??

I have no fear of noise from the system as it is in a separate area where it doesn't matter.

I am totally new to the HTPC stuff and not even really sure what it all can do. But i would love to take my movies, both home videos and store bought stuff from DVD and Blueray and put them onto hard drives so i can stream them around the house to the other computers/tv's. Same with all my music CDs. I've got a bunch of SACD/DVD audio disks as well. Anything out there to put those on hard drives as well to be able to stream them?

I really appreciate you guys giving me your thoughts/opinions. I'm not afraid to learn, but i think i have read so much that i am just overwhelmed and need some direction. Thanks so much for your help!

Goosey

04-14-10, 09:23 AM

Hey guys. I'm running W7X64. Do you recommend installing something like the Shark codec pack? I need Divx and RMVB support. For the latter, I really don't want to install real audio crap.

DrApnea

04-14-10, 12:59 PM

good info here. I just wanted to say thanks

BoulderGeek

04-14-10, 03:43 PM

Hey guys. I'm running W7X64. Do you recommend installing something like the Shark codec pack? I need Divx and RMVB support. For the latter, I really don't want to install real audio crap.

I don't know if others will recommend this, but I did it on my Win7-64 HTPC.

It seems to unify my stored rips and media, now playable in media center. So far, so good.

pufft

04-14-10, 05:39 PM

renethx,
Thank you for taking the time and effort to create such an informative guide.

I have a question regarding the Mini-ITX Intel-Intel iGPU Standard System.

Is there room in the system to add a Sapphire 5670 if I want to upgrade the graphics? Or would there not be enough space?

fivestarplus

04-14-10, 11:30 PM

quick question: regarding the Antec Fusion Remote Black case there are 3 settings on the case's fans, low med and high. What should I set these at initially?

I have this case also. I first started out with the fans on low. I eventually changed them to medium. It seem like the low setting was not pushing enough air, and the medium setting was not that much louder than the low setting. That is where I have it today. It is a matter of prefference. Some people have removed the fans and turned them around so they will blow air into the case instead of out of the case. I plan on doing this the next time I have a chance. I'm going to see if I can put the fan switch on the outside of the case so that I can change the fan speed without having to open the case. I have a motherboard with a known heat problem in corner of the case.

fun4stuff

04-14-10, 11:55 PM

I have this case also. I first started out with the fans on low. I eventually changed them to medium. It seem like the low setting was not pushing enough air, and the medium setting was not that much louder than the low setting. That is where I have it today. It is a matter of prefference. Some people have removed the fans and turned them around so they will blow air into the case instead of out of the case. I plan on doing this the next time I have a chance. I'm going to see if I can put the fan switch on the outside of the case so that I can change the fan speed without having to open the case. I have a motherboard with a known heat problem in corner of the case.

thanks, which MB is that?

fivestarplus

04-15-10, 02:39 AM

thanks, which MB is that?

The MSI Media Live Diva 5.1. The VRM MOSFETs are suspected of over heating, causing motherboard failures in the early production units. This motherboard is NOT a reccommendation in this forum.

RigorousXChris

04-15-10, 04:57 AM

I tried searching all over the net for this and it's a pain.

I use PowerDVD to play my Blu-Rays but I have no idea how I can configure my Harmony Remote to use it.

I pretty much use Windows Media Browser to play my collection and I have PowerDVD as my external player. I just want to be able to control it from a remote instead of a mouse.

I bought the Antec Veris Basic IR. I tried to teach it commands but the program sucks ass. There is a default load for PowerDVD as well and that doesn't even work. It keeps on freezing and I can't teach it a command.

Help please?

audionewer

04-15-10, 09:39 AM

hi. i am wondering does Athlon II X2 245 and GT 240 or GTS 250 enough for playing 3d movies and watch tv shows?

Hombre11

04-15-10, 09:50 AM

I'm interested in the mid-range intel-intel using the i3 for graphics. I'd like an energy-efficient build, so I'm considering a Western Digital "Green Power" hard drive. Does anyone know if this will actually help, or is this marketing bunk? Any other suggestions for an energy-efficient build?

Thanks for the great guide.

ilovejedd

04-15-10, 10:11 AM

I'd like an energy-efficient build, so I'm considering a Western Digital "Green Power" hard drive. Does anyone know if this will actually help, or is this marketing bunk?

It does work, but hard drives only consume 7~10W during normal operation. By going with green drives, you're only saving 3~5W compared to a regular 3.5" 7200RPM HDD. Imho, using a 2.5" notebook HDD saves more power (max load 2W - similar to SSDs), albeit, they're not really an option if you want tons of space.

Hombre11

04-15-10, 10:21 AM

Actually, I'm hoping to offload most recorded TV to my Windows Home Server, so this would be a good option for me. Not entirely sure if this will work, haven't looked into it yet.

PeterPL

04-15-10, 11:14 AM

I 'm thinking which motherbaord to buy for i3 530?

GIGABYTE GA-H57M-USB3
or
ASUS P7H55D-M EVO

I wish to use it with G.Skill 1600MHz, CL7, ECO memory, is this memory work with Asus m/b ?

Is it some HDMI output problems on Gigabyte motherboard connected to amplifier (Onyko 905)?

tfranklin

04-15-10, 11:35 AM

By going with green drives, you're only saving 3~5W compared to a regular 3.5" 7200RPM HDD. Imho, using a 2.5" notebook HDD saves more power (max load 2W - similar to SSDs), albeit, they're not really an option if you want tons of space.

I'm curious about this. Western Digital markets some drives specifically for 24/7 AV duty, such as set-top boxes, VCRs, etc: for example, Western Digital AV-GP WD15EVDS 1.5TB 32MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive -Bare Drive. Definitely fetches a premium price (~120). I haven't seen any comments on this line of products, but the pitch is:

Long-Term Reliability - These drives are designed to last in high temperature always-on streaming digital audio/video environments such as PVR/DVR, DVR recorders and surveillance video recorders.
Quiet - Noise levels have been minimized to less than one sone - virtually below the threshold of human hearing.
Reduced Power Consumption - WD has reduced power consumption by up to 40 percent compared to competitors' drives with the combination of WD's IntelliSeek, IntelliPark, and IntelliPower technologies.
Compatible - Tested for compatibility in a broad range of AV products including set top boxes, DVD recorders, and mainstream surveillance systems.
SilkStream - Optimized for smooth, continuous digital video playback of up to twelve simultaneous HD streams. SilkStream is compatible with the ATA streaming command set so CE customers can use standard streaming management and error recovery options.
IntelliSeek - Calculates optimum seek speeds to lower power consumption, noise and vibration.
IntelliPark - Delivers lower power consumption by automatically unloading the heads during idle to reduce aerodynamic drag.
Preemptive Wear Leveling (PWL) - The drive arm frequently sweeps across the disk to reduce uneven wear on the drive surface common to audio video streaming applications.

Anyone have any experience with these? Opinions?

mburg

04-15-10, 12:00 PM

Having "handshake" issues w/my HTPC DVI out to my Pioneer KRP-500M and have tried DVI Detective (as suggested here) but we (me & their tech support) couldn't get it to go. Have also read here about HDMIOn.exe, but website is no longer active. Anyone know where to get this?
Thanks

fivestarplus

04-15-10, 09:47 PM

It does work, but hard drives only consume 7~10W during normal operation. By going with green drives, you're only saving 3~5W compared to a regular 3.5" 7200RPM HDD.

It may not be many watts, but that is a 50% reduction in power. You can operate 2 "green" drives for the same power as 1 mainstream drive at the same relative performance. Of course, the more drives that you add, the more you save. Some people are building 20 or more hard drive systems.

scientest

04-15-10, 09:53 PM

You can operate 2 "green" drives for the same power as 1 mainstream drive at the same relative performance.

Not really; 5400 RPM vs. 7200 RPM, the greens are basically slower all around...

ilovejedd

04-15-10, 10:30 PM

It may not be many watts, but that is a 50% reduction in power. You can operate 2 "green" drives for the same power as 1 mainstream drive at the same relative performance. Of course, the more drives that you add, the more you save. Some people are building 20 or more hard drive systems.
Granted, server systems would naturally benefit from green drives looking at the total power consumption (albeit, they do suffer from a performance perspective, the 5900RPM Barracuda, not so much for obvious reasons). For an HTPC with just one drive to replace, the number of watts saved is smaller and again, if a lot of space isn't required, a notebook drive or SSD would save even more power.

By the way, the Seagate Barracuda LP 2TB (5900RPM) seems to consume the least amount of power at idle among 2TB drives according to a review by Xbit Labs. I think it was also the lowest or among the lowest during read/write. Unfortunately, it also requires the highest peak current (~2.3A 12V or 27.6W, not counting power consumed from the 5V rail) during boot among the green drives tested. Actually, the only drive that had higher spin-up current was the Seagate Barracuda XT. Granted, that's dismissable in a normal system, but it makes sizing power supplies for 20-drive servers difficult, assuming you want it to run at fairly high efficiency during idle, too.

fivestarplus

04-15-10, 10:32 PM

Not really; 5400 RPM vs. 7200 RPM, the greens are basically slower all around...

You have to take other items into consideration when determining the performance of a hard drive. The RPM speed helps with rotational delay and random seek times. If reading a file sequentionally, the RPM speed does not matter, especially with drives having large cache. For example, the 5400 RPM "green" drives are faster than some of the 7200 RPM "black" drives. The following "Host to/from drive (substained)" information was taken from the Drive Specification Sheet on the WD website.

Green = 110 to 111 MB/s
Black = 106 to 138 MB/s
Blue = 126 MB/s

What the "green" drives give you is lower power (less heat), slower RPM (less heat) for just a slight hit on performance.

It just comes down to what you want. For some (low power HTPCs, etc.), the "green" drives are ideal. For others, not so much ideal. Just don't dismiss the "green" drives just because they are 5400 RPM.

Hombre11

04-16-10, 10:40 AM

Thanks for the information on the drives, everyone. I decided to go for the 1TB GreenPower drive for the efficiency and capacity. All the parts are on the way!

jayhawk31

04-16-10, 10:47 AM

whiteboy714

04-16-10, 11:09 AM

I plan on building a HTPC with 5 or 6 hard drives. If I'm just watching TV, I want only 1 hard drive running. Then when I want to watch a movie I will turn the other hard drives on. It would cut down on heat, reduce my electric bill and make the hard drives last longer. But I don't know how to do that. Any suggestions? Thanks.
They go to sleep when you are not using them. I have 4 drives in my system. When I access one it takes about 10 seconds because it has to spin up.

I don't think they are 100% off but they are definitely not spinning.

ilovejedd

04-16-10, 11:39 AM

For example, the 5400 RPM "green" drives are faster than some of the 7200 RPM "black" drives. The following "Host to/from drive (substained)" information was taken from the Drive Specification Sheet on the WD website.

Green = 110 to 111 MB/s
Black = 106 to 138 MB/s
Blue = 126 MB/s

What the "green" drives give you is lower power (less heat), slower RPM (less heat) for just a slight hit on performance.

Looking at those values, looks like you shouldn't trust the specification sheets, either. :rolleyes:

The 110MB/s is probably the maximum sustained sequential throughput the drive can manage. I'm betting it dips as low as 50MB/s and average around 70~80MB/s. It's true that some green drives can be faster than 7200 RPM drives depending on configuration (platter size, platter count, etc). However, all other things being equal, a 7200RPM drive will be faster than a 5400RPM one. That said, my HTPC actually uses a Seagate Momentus 5400.6 500GB 2.5" notebook drive and it works more than fast enough for me. I have a partition dedicated to recordings and with 64KB sectors, it can easily handle recording 3 HD shows while playing back a time-shifted one. :)

I plan on building a HTPC with 5 or 6 hard drives. If I'm just watching TV, I want only 1 hard drive running. Then when I want to watch a movie I will turn the other hard drives on. It would cut down on heat, reduce my electric bill and make the hard drives last longer.

While the heat and electric bill parts are true, constant spin-up and spin-down are actually detrimental to a drive's health. While a drive should easily be able to handle normal operation, going ape-crazy about spinning down a drive may result in earlier drive failures.

http://www.pcguide.com/ref/hdd/perf/qual/specCycles-c.html

jayhawk31

04-16-10, 01:19 PM

They go to sleep when you are not using them. I have 4 drives in my system. When I access one it takes about 10 seconds because it has to spin up.

I don't think they are 100% off but they are definitely not spinning.

Frequent spinning up an down to will not be a problem since I only watch 1 or 2 movies a week. Do all hard drives go to sleep when not used or do you have get one with that feature?

kevinqian

04-16-10, 01:38 PM

I have a partition dedicated to recordings and with 64KB sectors, it can easily handle recording 3 HD shows while playing back a time-shifted one. :)

Those are pretty small sector sizes. The standard is 512kb right? What's the benefit of such small sectors?

gsr

04-16-10, 01:42 PM

Looking at those values, looks like you shouldn't trust the specification sheets, either. :rolleyes:

The 110MB/s is probably the maximum sustained sequential throughput the drive can manage. I'm betting it dips as low as 50MB/s and average around 70~80MB/s.
Don't your comments about specification sheets and maximum sustained sequential throughput apply to the other drives as well? Granted they may not drop the same percentage as the "green" drives, but it only seems fair to compare apples to apples on the stats. It should also be noted that even 50MB/s is probably sufficient for most home users' needs. It's not like most of us are trying to run the google search engine at home :D :eek:.

fivestarplus

04-16-10, 02:32 PM

Your other choices are;

10K RPM drives. The old Raptor drives are noisey. I hear the new ones are quieter, but I don't know how much.

15K RPM drives. Hum? Are these twice as fast as the 7200 RPM drives? I don't think so.

SSD drives. Has anyone used a SSD drive as their "data" drive? I use them for my "OS" drive.

hudayuda

04-16-10, 04:34 PM

I am remodeling my basement (myself) and installing 5.1 surround sound and a HDTV. The rear ceiling speakers are 300 watt RMS 8” 8ohm; the front in-wall speakers are 300 watt RMS 8” with liquid cooled silk domed tweeters 8 ohms ; the subwoofer is 350 watt RMS, 12” 8ohms, and the front center angled ceiling speaker and 8” 200watt RMS with a pivoting liquid cooled dome tweeter.

Since the start of this project, I have learned that audio and TV have changed…a lot….. since I was a teenager and an audiophile back then, 40 years ago. Someone has inspired me to look at HTPCs and now I am totally confused. While I love the idea of having access to HDTV, Blue Ray, Music, Surfing the net and many other things, will I need a separate amplifier, or will a motherboard or soundcard put out enough power ( remember it’s 8ohms also) .

ilovejedd

04-16-10, 04:50 PM

Those are pretty small sector sizes. The standard is 512kb right? What's the benefit of such small sectors?
Sorry, I meant allocation units. NTFS default is 4KB. I think 64KB is the highest you can go unless you format the drive with GPT instead of MBR.

Don't your comments about specification sheets and maximum sustained sequential throughput apply to the other drives as well? Granted they may not drop the same percentage as the "green" drives, but it only seems fair to compare apples to apples on the stats.
Yeah, they do drop, but minimum speeds and average speeds will still be higher than green drives (estimate +10~20MB/s). Granted not all green drives perform the same. The Seagate Barracuda LP 2TB performs very close to the Seagate Barracuda 7200.11 1.5TB making it my choice for an upcoming unRAID server upgrade.

From some posts in the unRAID forums, parity check of green drives (the WDxxEACS and WDxxEADS in particular) finish at 65MB/s average or around 6 1/2 hours with 1.5TB drives. Those with 7200RPM drives get 85MB/s or less than 5 hours with 1.5TB drives (assuming no other bottleneck is in place). While I don't really mind the 6 1/2 hours (I'm sleeping during that time), now that we have 2TB drives, that same 65MB/s will equate to 8 1/2 hours. Someone will already be awake before the server finishes parity check and I'd rather not have anyone reading from/writing to the array during that time.

It should also be noted that even 50MB/s is probably sufficient for most home users' needs. It's not like most of us are trying to run the google search engine at home :D :eek:.
Definitely more than sufficient. Again, I'm using a 2.5" 5400RPM notebook drive for my HTPC and that's even slower than 3.5" green drives.

SSD drives. Has anyone used a SSD drive as their "data" drive? I use them for my "OS" drive.
Should be heck fast. Tom's Hardware did a RAID-0 of 16 Intel 64GB Enterprise SSD's (1TB total) and got 3.4GB/s throughput. Now, just gotta rob a bank to afford a similar set-up... :rolleyes:

fun4stuff

04-16-10, 07:15 PM

b_rubenstein

04-16-10, 08:25 PM

Marc_G

04-16-10, 09:31 PM

You'll need a Home Theater, integrated amp. The simplest way to connect a PC to the amp is via HDMI. One cable carries the video and audio. You should need any add in sound card in the PC.

For clarity, there's a typo in the above. You shouldn't need any add-in sound card.

If you go the HTPC route, I recommend you follow Rene's recommendations and put together one of the HD bitstreaming-capable systems such as using the ATI HD5670 graphics (and audio) card. Pair it with a receiver that can handle it (connected to the GPU via HDMI, and the TV connects to the Receiver by HDMI). And put in a 7.1 speaker system.

I'm not much of an audiophile so I'm living with just DTS/DD 5.1 though I do have a receiver that can turn DTS into a mockup of 7.1 which sounds fine to me.

I'm more of a videophile so I would invest in a better TV first, but that's just me...

Good luck!

Marc

kronic24601

04-16-10, 10:04 PM

Ok ... I'm torn

ASUS P7H55D-M EVO vs ASUS P7H55-M PRO

About $30 diff ...

I don't have any immediate need for USB 3.0 ... but I guess it would come in handy ... maybe. Also, not currently using esata or much else other than standard USB. Building an HTPC just for streaming from my HP Media Server.

What do you buys think? (Also, for those that own either, are they working well for you?)

kevinqian

04-16-10, 10:31 PM

What other differences are there besides USB3? Solid caps?

hawkfan

04-16-10, 10:35 PM

i am setting up bios on Asrock H55m pro with a cooler master geminii S. what is recommendation on CPU Fan setting? Automatic mode with target temperature of 50 degrees and target fan speed of 1? what about chassis fan? thanks
I have a similar setup and would also like to know what others bios temp/fans speed settings are.

rax64d

04-17-10, 02:34 AM

Did you ever resolve this issue? I'm building on the same mobo, and I don;t even get a beep or single cursor - no beep, no display wake up. Did you RMA that board to Amazon with success? I think mine had damaged inner packing - probably DOA board.
If you replaced it, what did you get instead?

I RMAed it, after RMAing I got a responce from OCTOGONPC the are the ones who sell it on amazon marketplace

"Thank you for the very detailed response. I will address your concerns w/ the manufacturer. I agree that the boards have been very good overall. The reports of not posting have been more common than they should have been, and I've found that there are 2 jumpers for the BIOS...one for resetting, and another for boot-up. It's the second jumper that has not be set properly. I will encourage the manufacturer to maybe emphasize or remove this jumper in future implementations. Thank you very much for your patronage, and I hope that we will be able to serve you again in the future.

Vincent Black
OCTOGONPC "

I don't know what other jumper he is talking about, or where it is even at.

I bought a second one from amazon which the clam shell holding the PC was even more beat up but this one worked Ive been using it for about 3-4 days with no problems.
Hope this helps.

amkesler26

04-17-10, 10:21 AM

Looking at two weekend deals at Frys, wondering if either is a good combo to start building a HTPC. Can you guys weigh in and give me your thoughts on if its worth buying one of them.

Intel® Core™ i3 530
& Gigabyte GA-H55M-S2H Motherboard for $103.88

Or

AMD Phenom™ II 955 BLACK
& MSI 890GXM-G65 Motherboard for $169.99

kevinqian

04-17-10, 11:18 AM

are either still available in stock? I know most of the former went flying off the shelves yesterday at most places. The latter is definitely overkill for htpc, would make for a great gaming system tho.

OT: AVS is getting really annoying with these new ad "features." if there's one type of ad more annoying than popups, it's these mouse over popups.

amkesler26

04-17-10, 12:11 PM

whats the difference between the Gigabyte GA-H55M-S2H and the AS Rock MOBO renythx recomends?

renethx

04-17-10, 12:38 PM

whats the difference between the Gigabyte GA-H55M-S2H and the AS Rock MOBO renythx recomends?
The main difference is here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=18341445#post18341445). I prefer ASRock if I use a discrete graphics card.

amkesler26

04-17-10, 12:49 PM

amkesler26

04-17-10, 12:54 PM

Renethx one other question, if i already have a computer case without a built in IR what do you recomend by way of building this functionality in with a remote?

dbone1026

04-17-10, 12:57 PM

renethx

04-17-10, 01:11 PM

@amkesler26

GA-H55M-S2H is a good choice if you don't care about all solid capacitors, IEEE 1394, or ALC889 (full resolution Blu-ray analog audio).

Use the USB IR receiver that comes with GP-IR01BK.

kevinqian

04-17-10, 01:41 PM

I will use a discrete graphics card as well so will this mobo work ok for a HTPC build? Gigabyte GA-H55M-S2H Will I be missing any features or functionality from your other recomended MOBO's?

Is this combo a powerhog compared to the intel I3 combo?

AMD Phenom™ II 955 BLACK
& MSI 890GXM-G65 Motherboard for $169.99

Or would you stick to the I3 530 combo?
Gigabyte board only has 2 DIMM slots. big disadvantage if you plan on using 4 DIMMs later on. I also hear from user reports that if you use a long gpu dual slotted, it will block half of the SATA ports.

Renethx, i never really cared for the analog out but is there a tangible difference between the two Realtek chips? Is the 888B limited to 16bit/48khz or something? Just combed through Realtek's site and from what i can tell, the 888B does not have Bluray HD audio protection. Does that mean all blu-ray audio will be downsampled before output? I always thought this was an issue with HDMI digital audio connections but seems like analog audio also need PAVP to function.

amkesler26

04-17-10, 01:55 PM

Thanks guys for the input sounds liek even though you get a good deal on the combo the moboard is not ideal, but saving $90-$100 sure is tempting.

kevinqian

04-17-10, 02:04 PM

Think about it this way, the combo costs less than the CPU itself. Getting a free mobo, even if it's low end, is very tempting. Just hope it's still in stock at any of the Fry's locations. If not, that combo seems to pop up every two weeks or so, so keep an eye out on Friday mornings when they post their new weekly specials and get in on it EARLY.

renethx

04-17-10, 02:05 PM

Gigabyte board only has 2 DIMM slots. big disadvantage if you plan on using 4 DIMMs later on. I also hear from user reports that if you use a long gpu dual slotted, it will block half of the SATA ports.

Renethx, i never really cared for the analog out but is there a tangible difference between the two Realtek chips? Is the 888B limited to 16bit/48khz or something? Just combed through Realtek's site and from what i can tell, the 888B does not have Bluray HD audio protection. Does that mean all blu-ray audio will be downsampled before output? I always thought this was an issue with HDMI digital audio connections but seems like analog audio also need PAVP to function.
888 lacks PAP. That means PowerDVD downsamples HD audio to 16/48. There may be other hardware differences (please check data sheets).

kevinqian

04-17-10, 02:06 PM

You can shut off the ads, just go into options in your User profile (towards the bottom you will see)

Thanks

Marc_G

04-17-10, 05:46 PM

OT: AVS is getting really annoying with these new ad "features." if there's one type of ad more annoying than popups, it's these mouse over popups.

You can shut off the ads, just go into options in your User profile (towards the bottom you will see)

I've noticed that even though you can shut off the ads, the system now doesn't keep me logged in as long as before. So, frequently when I click on a link to this or other AVS pages, when it gets there I'm "logged out" and am subjected to the ads until I log back it. That used to happen once a week or so... but now it logs me out a couple times per day...

Marc

Davinleeds

04-17-10, 05:55 PM

Yes the MSI 890GXM-G65 http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813130269looks perfect for my next build. Is the 4290 2 channel like the 4200? But 2 pci16 slots, 889 analog, usb3 and sata3. Thanks

kevinqian

04-17-10, 07:55 PM

HD4290 has exact same limitations as the 785g. It's dual PCIe x16 slots but operate at x8/x8 in CFX.

jim97219

04-17-10, 09:53 PM

renethx

04-17-10, 11:10 PM

I've figured out a bunch of what I'm looking for and now I'm researching memory. Would someone be so kind as to explain to me what the difference is between these two?
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820104141&Tpk=KHX1600C8D3K2%2f4GX

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820104129&Tpk=KHX1600C9D3K2%2f4G
To me as a newbie, they're the same thing. Both are SDRAM DDR3, both are non-ECC, both are 240-pin and Newegg has them priced the same.
Thanks!
Jim
One is "XMP Ready", the other not, I think. There are cheaper modules with more or less the same specifications, e.g. G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-4GBNQ, $110 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231193) (1.5V operating voltage is even better for many people).

kjgarrison

04-18-10, 12:52 AM

As helpful as this amazing thread is, my head is spinning. Renethx's builds all seem to be well thought out and researched, particularly with regards to fitting together and capabilities. Yet for me, there are other things that matter a lot and that I don't know enough about to make any decisions.

1. Is there a thread someplace that is to the software involved with HTPC as this thread is to the hardware?

2. Where in the progression from low to middle and high end is the point where there is no further improvement in playback performance but increased heat and noise production? Noise is highly important to me. Am I correct in thinking that the "lower end" of the performance scale (such as Core i3 as opposed to i5 or i7) are both more than enough for flawless BR playback and will run cooler (quieter)? Any differences with regards to heat (noise actually) between Intel and AMD?

I'm not interested in gaming, and I hope to avoid software solutions that are overly CPU intensive, so I can stay as low on the heat/noise spectrum as possible yet have as much quality as can be had. I also hope to have my HTPC be a good quality audio streamer, if possible. Basically I'm just looking for an AV player that is as close to videophile and audiophile quality as a HTPC can be.

Ideas from those of you who are already doing all of this would be invaluable and much appreciated.

Stettin

04-18-10, 01:20 AM

Hi all. I've decided to upgrade my main PC and put my old parts into the HTPC after realizing how much I was spending. This changes a few things for me. I'll be using an ATX board

EVGA 750i FTW, Core2Duo E8400, 4GB DDR2-800 ram, LiteOn DVD-RW (re-used parts)
1.5TB Samsung 5400RPM
LiteOn Blu-Ray ROM

I thought I might be able to use my old power supply, but looking at my MB I need one with an 8Pin EATX12v connector. Also, I'm thinking about getting a case since I'm having to buy a power supply anyway.

Can anyone recommend a NO FRILLS ATX HTPC case that a stock Intel Heatsink/fan will fit in? I don't need an IR receiver or remote. I already have those.

Is modular PS the way to go for an HTPC case? The Corsair below is cheaper, but I'm concerned that the description says "extra long cables for full tower"
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139003

The Enermax is modular, but with less watts/amps on 12v
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817194042

Also, there is a 400w Corsair as well, 80plus. Would that work as well? My PSU calc says I'm not even breaking 300w for my parts
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139008

jim97219

04-18-10, 01:32 AM

Renethx, you're right. I took a look at Kingston's website (next time, I'll do that first!) says the "X" suffix designates XMP-ready for Intel Core i5 7xx and Core i7 8xxx series processors and systems." So if I'm using an i3 chip, the X is meaningless.
Thanks again.

renethx

04-18-10, 01:49 AM