Internal vs External InfiniTV 4

[Neflhiem]

Trying to research my soon to be built HTPC and nearly certain on the InfiniTV 4, but was reading something here that spurred a thought.

Since this is my first hand built pc, im trying to figure out everything i need to consider and honestly hadnt thought much about heat until i started looking at cases.

Orginally i was set on an internal InfinTV 4, but knowing that im going to put this together in an HTPC case, inside a media cabinet im starting to think that the external would be better to keep the heat out. I would really like to have it internal for looks, but want to consider all options.

Are there any other differences between the internal and external versions of this - other than the potential to keep your box cooler?

Thanks All
Nef

 

[TastesLikeChicken]

Functionality-wise, there is no difference between the two.

Hard to say if one is less finicky than the other as each can have its issues, though I have only used the internal version. My only knowledge of the external device comes from user comments over at AVSForums.

With adequate cooling or airflow the internal card stays relatively cool. Mine averages 44 - 47C but I customized my case so a fan would blow directly on it. Without the fan they'll average around 55C and occassionally get close to 60. Supposedly the external version can also get a bit toasty so, if you go that route, you will have to be sure it has adequate airflow/cooling.

Both are pretty much a toss-up. Ultimately it comes down to what is more important to you - aesthetics or the heat issue.

 

[Neflhiem]

Cool.. thanks for the input.. thats kinda what i figured but wanted to verify.. AVS is hard to navigate at work, im stuck on an ancient browser and it really doesnt like it over there..lol... but have been reading both boards..

thanks again!

 

[guachi]

The only problem I've had with my Internal InfiniTV4 is after awhile it loses its signal. Then I have to reboot.

We are talking weeks between signal loss, though, not like every other day. Between all the recording and encoding I do, I leave my computer on 24/7 and find Win7 and the card surprisingly stable. Easily the best OS I've ever used.

 

[Neflhiem]

Thanks for that ....good to hear

 

[hennessy1]

With the internal card you have you use a coax adapter they provide. Not sure how much a replacement costs if it breaks but that is my only concern right now but its not a very big concern as the box is out of the way.

The external version you can plug in a regular coax cable right into it no adapter cable needed.

 

[Neflhiem]

With the internal card you have you use a coax adapter they provide. Not sure how much a replacement costs if it breaks but that is my only concern right now but its not a very big concern as the box is out of the way.

The external version you can plug in a regular coax cable right into it no adapter cable needed.

Oh, thanks.. That's going to be my last piece of the puzzle. That's good to know, thanks man