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Assassin's Simple/Beginner HTPC Buying Guide - Page 332

post #9931 of 15485
1/27/12 at 11:30am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Mfusick View Post

You can't lose for $27.99

That's exactly how I was looking at it.

I just got my CPU and MB. Same ones I posted before. i5 2500K and a Gigabyte Z68 MB. I know the i5 is overkill for a htpc but I like having the option to play games if I want to. I also only spent $30 more than I would have going with the i3 so it was an easy choice. I actually ended up getting a different case.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16811133094

Same price as the other one I posted but the front looks better to me. I went ahead and snagged 8GB of RAM for $35 as well.

I ended up spending $337 out of pocket for everything I got today, not including the two $10 mail in rebates I have. I already have a 60GB SSD and a 1TB for storage. I'm also just using a cheap power supply a buddy gave me until I can get a better one next week. The only other thing I need is a Blu-Ray drive. Might swing by Fry's later today to see if they have any deals on em.

About to start building it shortly.
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post #9932 of 15485
1/27/12 at 11:48am
Quote:
Originally Posted by CloudVader View Post

I wish I had seen this post sooner, so I could give you fair warning and save you a big headache: this is pretty much the exact same system I built for myself, and that RAM does not work out of the box with that motherboard (or the HT version of that motherboard). It's the same board/memory combo I bought, and I could not get it to boot at all without popping in a different set of RAM, changing the clock speed of the RAM in the BIOS, replacing the RAM with the Ripjaw RAM, and then booting up again. I actually originally RMAed the motherboard thinking it was the problem, only to discover the RAM was the culprit. I also learned the hard way that you'll have to repeat this process every time you update the BIOS.

As I later learned, you can check the memory compatibility of all of ASRock's boards on their site: http://www.asrock.com/mb/memory.asp?Model=H67M-ITX. The Ripjaw X memory's model number isn't listed as compatible.

I described this problem in detail many, many posts back in this thread, but since it was a month or two ago, it got buried and I guess assassin didn't get to update his original post/guide with this info.

New build, based on Assassin's guide, but it won't boot. ASROCK H67M, Sandy Bridge G620, Ripjaw X Series 4GB.

Symptoms are: No video at all, not lights on keyboard, no POST beep. I tried one stick of memory at a time, no help.

I suspect that this Ripjaw X memory is incompatible with the ASROCK H67M motherboard. The Ripjaw X series is not on the Asrock compatibility list...

Are these symptoms indicative of incompatible RAM? It sure sounds like this is the case by the above-quoted message.
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post #9933 of 15485
1/27/12 at 12:01pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Pureheart View Post

New build, based on Assassin's guide, but it won't boot. ASROCK H67M, Sandy Bridge G620, Ripjaw X Series 4GB.

Symptoms are: No video at all, not lights on keyboard, no POST beep. I tried one stick of memory at a time, no help.

I suspect that this Ripjaw X memory is incompatible with the ASROCK H67M motherboard. The Ripjaw X series is not on the Asrock compatibility list...

Are these symptoms indicative of incompatible RAM? It sure sounds like this is the case by the above-quoted message.

If you notice I actually have this noted in my recommendations on the firs page...

Quote:


(Please note that G.Skill Ripjaws X-series has been proven incompatible with this board)

Edit: Actually I have that comment in the ASRock H67 ITX motherboard. I will add it to the m-ATX as well.
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post #9934 of 15485
1/27/12 at 12:08pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by assassin View Post

If you notice I actually have this noted in my recommendations on the firs page...

Edit: Actually I have that comment in the ASRock H67 ITX motherboard. I will add it to the m-ATX as well.

Yes, I missed the comment because I got the micro-ATX H67M board.
Anyway, thanks for clarifying this. I have ordered replacement memory (Ripjaws, oddly with same specs, but they are on the compatibility list) Hoping the Ripjaw F3-10666CL8D-4GBRM will solve the problem.
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post #9935 of 15485
1/27/12 at 1:13pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Chuck Smith View Post

That's exactly how I was looking at it.

I just got my CPU and MB. Same ones I posted before. i5 2500K and a Gigabyte Z68 MB. I know the i5 is overkill for a htpc but I like having the option to play games if I want to. I also only spent $30 more than I would have going with the i3 so it was an easy choice. I actually ended up getting a different case.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16811133094

Same price as the other one I posted but the front looks better to me. I went ahead and snagged 8GB of RAM for $35 as well.

I ended up spending $337 out of pocket for everything I got today, not including the two $10 mail in rebates I have. I already have a 60GB SSD and a 1TB for storage. I'm also just using a cheap power supply a buddy gave me until I can get a better one next week. The only other thing I need is a Blu-Ray drive. Might swing by Fry's later today to see if they have any deals on em.

About to start building it shortly.


Good luck. Let us know how it goes.
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post #9936 of 15485
1/27/12 at 1:18pm
Is there a recommendation for a good case that is rack mountable? SilverStone seems to have a few of them that except the rack ears, but was wondering what has worked for others.

Thanks!
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post #9937 of 15485
1/27/12 at 6:26pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by RedTopDown View Post

Is there a recommendation for a good case that is rack mountable? SilverStone seems to have a few of them that except the rack ears, but was wondering what has worked for others.

Thanks!

What size and price range?

The Silverstone cases are popular. So are the Norco cases and a few of the Rosewill cases.

Here are a few to get you started...
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post #9938 of 15485
1/27/12 at 7:18pm
New parts coming...

Core i5 2500K
Crucial SSD 64GB
Asrock Z68 Motherboard
8GB of RAM (it's the Ripjaws 1600...I hope there aren't compatibility issues with the Z68 Asrock board)
New PSU

The old stuff goes back in the old Antec case and moves up to the Bedroom. The new stuff goes in my HT and becomes my Desktop/HTPC.

VERY excited!
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post #9939 of 15485
1/27/12 at 10:42pm
So, I'm weighing some options here. Seriously thinking about repackaging my i3-2100 build into this InWin BP671 case:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16811108396
To help the HTPC fit in a bit better behind the bedroom TV.

Then, since I'll have a Rosewill RC-CIX-01 case available, I thought about putting together a Sandy Bridge G620 build inside it. The new build would be for general-purpose use (replacing my aging Pentium IV 3gHz PC). I'm leaning toward the G620 to trim costs/offset the "luxury" of an SSD for the OS drive. I'm wondering if it's worth shaving costs on the motherboard? I really like the Asrock H67M-ITX I have with my i3 now... but I could get this Foxconn board for significantly cheaper:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813186211

Anyone have experience with/thoughs on that Foxconn mobo?
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post #9940 of 15485
1/28/12 at 3:30am
I looked at the egg link for the case you gave . Reviews at first glance look bad but when you read what folks are complaining about it is mostly cable management . DUH ! really ? What do folks think is going to happen with sudh a small case . As you know, air flow can be a real issue with the really small units and yes , difficult cable management can compound the issue.

Don't have any history with that case .

Personally I would stick with the ASrock board . Not a huge fan of foxconn.
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post #9941 of 15485
1/28/12 at 5:41am
Quote:
Originally Posted by joeydrunk View Post

The exact same thing happened to me last year except I was getting between 3-6 Mbps on the 12Mbps package and then I bought the surfboard docsis 3 and jumped to around 15. I complained that I didnt get the speed I paid for, for a year so they gave me the 20mbps wich I usually get 30 on for the 12mbps introductory price. So I ended up paying $30 for 20Mbps package with free basic digital cable. Whats funny is if I had got rid of the cable they would have had to charge me more becuase of all the weird credits, premotion packages, and messups.

I might have to try that modem. I have the basics as well because according to them once you start bundling it's cheaper... I think it's $10 more if you don't get the basic 12 channels or whatever
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post #9942 of 15485
1/28/12 at 7:26am
Thread Starter 
New Guide (#68 total) Available:

Blurip for Ripping MKVs
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post #9943 of 15485
1/28/12 at 9:13am
Done!



The IR (Harmony 880) and RF (keyboard) sensors are on top and are plugged in to the USB 2 ports in the back. The extension cable on the right goes to one of the USB 3 ports in the back.

For my last (hopefully) reinstall of everything, I finally learned to focus on the purpose of the machine: copy and play back discs. Since I'm using TMT5 for playback, I got rid of all the other codecs (sorry, shark). MediaBrowser actually made it easy (though I was determined to make it difficult): the external player tab allows you to associate file types with a program besides Windows Media Player. Perfect.

Start to finish in less than a month. What a blast.

Shopping list below.

Michael
LL
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post #9944 of 15485
1/28/12 at 9:22am
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by LastButNotLeast View Post

Done!



The IR (Harmony 880) and RF (keyboard) sensors are on top and are plugged in to the USB 2 ports in the back. The extension cable on the right goes to one of the USB 3 ports in the back.

For my last (hopefully) reinstall of everything, I finally learned to focus on the purpose of the machine: copy and play back discs. Since I'm using TMT5 for playback, I got rid of all the other codecs (sorry, shark). MediaBrowser actually made it easy (though I was determined to make it difficult): the external player tab allows you to associate file types with a program besides Windows Media Player. Perfect.

Start to finish in less than a month. What a blast.

Shopping list below.

Michael

Fantastic build. Looks right at home in your AV rack!
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post #9945 of 15485
1/28/12 at 9:27am
Quote:
Originally Posted by LastButNotLeast View Post

Done!



The IR (Harmony 880) and RF (keyboard) sensors are on top and are plugged in to the USB 2 ports in the back. The extension cable on the right goes to one of the USB 3 ports in the back.

For my last (hopefully) reinstall of everything, I finally learned to focus on the purpose of the machine: copy and play back discs. Since I'm using TMT5 for playback, I got rid of all the other codecs (sorry, shark). MediaBrowser actually made it easy (though I was determined to make it difficult): the external player tab allows you to associate file types with a program besides Windows Media Player. Perfect.

Start to finish in less than a month. What a blast.

Shopping list below.

Michael

Sweet build dude. Looks Great!
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post #9946 of 15485
1/28/12 at 9:29am
Are the nVidia 430 series cards still around and if so, what one would be recommended to replace the old AMD Radeon that I have to use in what is going to be my Bedroom System?

Don't have to buy it immediately as the new parts will allow me to do HTPC duties without a dedicated card but I may want the option later.

I'm looking at this thread a lot today and doing some research but since I've been using the iPad mostly, I may have missed some options.
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post #9947 of 15485
1/28/12 at 9:32am
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Paul E. Fox, II View Post

Are the nVidia 430 series cards still around and if so, what one would be recommended to replace the old AMD Radeon that I have to use in what is going to be my Bedroom System?

Don't have to buy it immediately as the new parts will allow me to do HTPC duties without a dedicated card but I may want the option later.

I'm looking at this thread a lot today and doing some research but since I've been using the iPad mostly, I may have missed some options.

They are still around. There are quite a few good choices depending on what will fit in your case and what you want to spend.
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post #9948 of 15485
1/28/12 at 9:40am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Paul E. Fox, II View Post

Sweet build dude. Looks Great!

Thanks. Just found this pic of the parts:

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post #9949 of 15485
1/28/12 at 10:01am
Quote:
Originally Posted by assassin View Post

They are still around. There are quite a few good choices depending on what will fit in your case and what you want to spend.

I need a low profile card, or at least one that runs toward small. I bought the 450 and it was too big, thus the purchase of the new nMedia case.

Do you have recommendations handy? I didn't see any in the first post of this thread but as I said, I was using the iPad before and the pics/links are wonky in Safari.

I'm gonna head back and look now...sorry if I'm asking again for the 20 millionth time.
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post #9950 of 15485
1/28/12 at 10:09am
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Paul E. Fox, II View Post

I need a low profile card, or at least one that runs toward small. I bought the 450 and it was too big, thus the purchase of the new nMedia case.

Do you have recommendations handy? I didn't see any in the first post of this thread but as I said, I was using the iPad before and the pics/links are wonky in Safari.

I'm gonna head back and look now...sorry if I'm asking again for the 20 millionth time.

I like any of these cards. I have the ASUS and its great although there are a few people that say its noisy.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...E14-121-397-TS
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post #9951 of 15485
1/28/12 at 10:34am
Quote:
Originally Posted by assassin View Post

I like any of these cards. I have the ASUS and its great although there are a few people that say its noisy.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...E14-121-397-TS

You don't find this to be noisy? I don't mind if it's a "LITTLE" noisy as the Dell XPS that we're using in there currently is named "HOOVER". If we're talking about a whisper, that's fine. If it's more like a swoosh...well, that's different.

Thanks for the recommendations dude. I think I'm gonna drop the hammer on this so I don't have to change too many things in the current system.

I do have one question I've run across from Page One. You mentioned the Crucial Drive 5000 hour problem. Since that's the exact drive I purchased, I suppose I should plan on updating that firmware immediately once I get it all up and running?
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post #9952 of 15485
1/28/12 at 10:41am
Thinking about upgrading my case to a Silverstone, either GD04 or GD05. Looks like most buy the GD05, but would the GD04 look better due to the aluminum front? Thoughts?
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post #9953 of 15485
1/28/12 at 10:50am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tizi View Post

Thinking about upgrading my case to a Silverstone, either GD04 or GD05. Looks like most buy the GD05, but would the GD04 look better due to the aluminum front? Thoughts?

Do YOU think it looks better?
That's all that matters.
That's an 05 in the pics above, BTW.

Michael
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post #9954 of 15485
1/28/12 at 10:52am
Quote:
Originally Posted by LastButNotLeast View Post

Do YOU think it looks better?
That's all that matters.
That's an 05 in the pics above, BTW.

Michael

How do you like the GD05? What made you decide to get that versus the GD04?
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post #9955 of 15485
1/28/12 at 11:07am
Hi Assassin,

Sorry I didn't get back to you earlier, I asked for help building a new HTPC. I'm ready to take the plunge. Here is my list of "must haves" for the new build.
  • 1080p Bluray playback
  • 3D Bluray playback
  • HD Audio (DTS-HD and TrueHD)
  • HDMI output
  • High streaming for Bluray playback across the house
  • Reliable remote controllable motherboard (sleep/wake function)
  • Full size HTPC case (I have a Silverstone LC-17 which works great in my entertainment centers)

I have a copy of Windows 7... Not sure if I can use it for new HTPC, its already installed on another HTPC. This new HTPC will be replacing my older HTPC which I intend on using as a server/HTPC in my living room. I will be upgrading to 3D in my theater room soon and 3D playback is a must. On-board 3D video output is fine, but must be reliable.

Thanks in advance,

Xzener
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post #9956 of 15485
1/28/12 at 11:16am
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Paul E. Fox, II View Post

You don't find this to be noisy? I don't mind if it's a "LITTLE" noisy as the Dell XPS that we're using in there currently is named "HOOVER". If we're talking about a whisper, that's fine. If it's more like a swoosh...well, that's different.

Thanks for the recommendations dude. I think I'm gonna drop the hammer on this so I don't have to change too many things in the current system.

I do have one question I've run across from Page One. You mentioned the Crucial Drive 5000 hour problem. Since that's the exact drive I purchased, I suppose I should plan on updating that firmware immediately once I get it all up and running?

Yes, I find it quiet. Its in one of my test HTPC builds. Some of the other options I listed could be better though. I haven't used every single option out there.

Yes, you should upgrade it at your leisure. I just used one in a friend's build and upgraded it before I installed the OS. Took about 2 minutes to download and burn the upgrade disc and about another 2 minutes to upgrade the firmware.
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post #9957 of 15485
1/28/12 at 11:19am
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by xzener View Post

Hi Assassin,

Sorry I didn't get back to you earlier, I asked for help building a new HTPC. I'm ready to take the plunge. Here is my list of "must haves" for the new build.
  • 1080p Bluray playback
  • 3D Bluray playback
  • HD Audio (DTS-HD and TrueHD)
  • HDMI output
  • High streaming for Bluray playback across the house
  • Reliable remote controllable motherboard (sleep/wake function)
  • Full size HTPC case (I have a Silverstone LC-17 which works great in my entertainment centers)

I have a copy of Windows 7... Not sure if I can use it for new HTPC, its already installed on another HTPC. This new HTPC will be replacing my older HTPC which I intend on using as a server/HTPC in my living room. I will be upgrading to 3D in my theater room soon and 3D playback is a must. On-board 3D video output is fine, but must be reliable.

Thanks in advance,

Xzener

The Intel Sandy Bridge or AMD Llano will both work for you. If you want a stronger CPU then get the Intel. If you want a stronger graphics card get the AMD. I personally prefer the Intel because I like their drivers a whole lot better and think that upgrading a GPU is much easier than upgrading a CPU.

I would consider getting a discrete GPU for your 3D needs since you are using a full sized case. You can get a G620 and a 3D and HD Audio capable NVidia 430 for less than the cost of the 3D capable i3 2100 at newegg. This would make a formidable HTPC for many years.

The keyboard is a personal preference and there are a lot of options out there.
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post #9958 of 15485
1/28/12 at 11:29am
Quote:
Originally Posted by assassin View Post

Yes, I find it quiet. Its in one of my test HTPC builds. Some of the other options I listed could be better though. I haven't used every single option out there.

Thanks...it's ordered! I found it for the same price on the Amazonian site and since I'm a Prime Member, I get free shipping. Rebate should be the same I would think but I'm not sure. Either way, I'll be happy with it.

Quote:
Originally Posted by assassin View Post

Yes, you should upgrade it at your leisure. I just used one in a friend's build and upgraded it before I installed the OS. Took about 2 minutes to download and burn the upgrade disc and about another 2 minutes to upgrade the firmware.

That being said, I can have it all ready to go, disc burned and waiting before the stuff gets here. I don't figure I'll see it before Wednesday and I may not even begin the process until the following weekend. Swapping out the stuff for this PC and getting it up and running PLUS the putting everything back together in the bedroom PC may best be done on the weekend when I'm not fighting the clock.

Love the guides by the way and, I have to say this, if that guide for the Harmony is what you call BASIC...Lord help us on an ADVANCED version!

After this one, I'll only have one more HTPC to build before I can say I'm done...all minus being infected with Upgraditis Majoris of course.
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post #9959 of 15485
1/28/12 at 11:35am
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Paul E. Fox, II View Post

Love the guides by the way and, I have to say this, if that guide for the Harmony is what you call BASIC...Lord help us on an ADVANCED version!

Thanks. Glad you like them and thanks for the support. Obviously the guides are more of a passion for me to help get people into HTPC than anything else. It helps though when I get feedback to keep me going.

So I appreciate it.

Glad you are building anther HTPC!
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post #9960 of 15485
1/28/12 at 11:35am
Quick thought on my testing stuff -
I want to be able to playback music without having the TV on. Right now my test machine runs thru my receiver as that is doing the video switching. Once I turn the TV off the sound goes off as well. Is my only way around this is to find a mb with digital output on board? Which also means I have to switch device on my reciever....I was hoping for a 1 input solution.
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