Will this make an okay HTPC?

[drew726]

So my old computer's mobo fried and I'm going to scrap it for parts to build an HTPC. I was wondering if the Foxconn 6150BK8MC-KRSHN2 paired with a Sempron 3500+ will make a decent HTPC. I'm picking a Sempron 3500+ because www.geeks.com has them on clearance for 22 dollars. Or should I spend a little bit more to get a nice processor? I don't want to spend too much since it will not be my primary computer. I'll just use it to watch movies. Now if I can find a cheap mATX desktop case...

 

[mcveigh]

depends on what you want to do. if it's all SDTV with hardware capture cards you're fine I think. If you're going HDTV stuff I'd look for something better. I think you're on the bottom edge of HDTV. (note all my HTPC stuff is SDTV)
what video is in that???

what capture cards are you going to use?

 

[Blain]

Sempron 3500+ (2GHz / 256k L2 / OEM) @ $22 + $7 shipping = $29
X2 3600+ (2GHz / 2 X 256k L2 / OEM) @ $49 free shipping

Only $20 more for two cores = :thumbsup::laugh::thumbsup:

 

[pcsavvy]

If you want a HTPC that can play HD/Blue Ray DVDs then you might want to consider this m/b http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16813128056 (76.99) at Newegg. Get this http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16819103774 (61.99)and your system will run cooler and quieter and 2 gigs of Ram http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16820211066 (44.99)
Once your budget allows, you can get a higher end graphics card that is HTPC ready.

This system should have no problem running Windows XP or Vista and movies.

 

[drew726]

I actually have an HD dvd player, I just want to browse the web and watch stuff I download through my network. But 20 dollars more for two cores sound like a good idea Blain, thanks

 

[JackMDS]

The point of differentiation has to do with How you use the system and Not whether it is OK to do Blain a favor and spend (or not) $20.

If the system mainly controls, and or stream, then the $22 Sempron would be perfect.

If the system actually has to play some of the Video then might be that even the x2 3000 would be sluggish.

No matter what get at least 2GB RAM.

 

[Blain]

Originally posted by: JackMDS
The point of differentiation has to do with How you use the system and Not whether it is OK to do Blain a favor and spend (or not) $20.

Don't hate the player...