Cheapest HTPC video card with component out.

[razor2025]

I'm looking into getting a HTPC running, but I'm not sure which video card to get. I want to get it as cheap as possible, as I don't plan on running any 3D games on it. I just need a video card with component output ready to go.

 

[kylebisme]

You can pick up a cheap videocard and use one of these with it: http://ati.com/products/hdtvadapter/index.html

I have heard elsewere that it will work on any DVI out, but getting the timings right could be a trick so it is probably best to use it with supported hardware.

 

[Matthias99]

I'd go with a RADEON 9600 (look for a 9600SE if you really don't care at all about gaming performance). It works 100% with their DVI->component adapter and is fanless (which is nice for an HTPC). These cost a bit under $100 (somewhat less for the SE models, since 3D performance is awful on them).

YMMV with a lower ATI card if you want component out.

You could also look for a GeForce 6200/6600 with component output support.

 

[kurt454]

Radeon 9550 works with the component dongle. I am using a 6600GT to feed my HDTV.

 

[razor2025]

anyone tried with the Volari or Deltachrome? I've heard that those cards supports component straight out of the box and for about $50 only.

 

[WooDaddy]

Bump. I want to hear if anyone's used a Volari-based vid card too.

 

[razor2025]

bump

 

[Goi]

No, but if you want good VMR9 support, you're gonna have to get a card with decent 3D capabilities anyway, such as a 9600Pro. The regular 9600s might even be too slow due to lower memory bandwidth.

 

[erikatcuse]

Just bought a V3XT and it works great for component out...I have a 42 panasonic widescreen. I wanted it for TV/DVD's no gamming and its amazing.

Just be aware that this card won't work with MCE...I've been trying all day and since I want to use MCE I might be putting it up for sale soon.

 

[razor2025]

Does the V3XT have cable that attaches separates the component out? Also where'd u get your V3XT?

 

[farscapesg1]

I tried a V3XT (on a standard TV) and I have been unimpressed with the results. You can check out my thread in this forum (which has a link to the original thread on htpcnews).

The XGI Volari V3Xt comes with a component cable that converts the s-video jack to component. Supposedly, the port natively supports component out, so it isn't just converting the s-video signal.

I got mine from triocomputers, but search around and you can probably find it for a better price and lower shipping. They bent me over on the shipping charges and thier sales department wasn't exactly run by the nicest people.