[Kanuk]

Been reading a lot and I must be getting old and confused when it comes to hardware and software recommendations.

Here's what I want to be able to do:

- My HTPC needs to be complete with no other server.
- I have add on usd drives that I can use
- I want it to be quite silent and small like mini itx form factor
- quick boot
- want to be able to view Hulu without having to stream from a media server on another computer. Does a Hulu plugin exist ? Also need to use Pandora radio.
- My internet link from the HTPC via the router will be with Trendet 500 Mbs powerline ethernet adapters.
- What type of XMBC is recommended ? (Linux, Windows, etc ?) Any ofther plugins or associated software.
- Any links on tutorials to install the OS and stuff on the HTPC ?
- I like Nvidia graphics also.

So please fire away with all the late stuff and no need for overkill.

Thanks

[darkscout]

If you insist on Hulu, Windows is about your only good bet.

[poofyhairguy]

Yeah, Windows it is.

If it has to be a HTPC AND a NAS forget Mini ITX - I hate the idea of Micro ATX with many HDs, Mini ITX is SSDland due to heat considerations.

[Kanuk]

If you insist on Hulu, Windows is about your only good bet.

I gather you mean XBMC for windows and is there a module or plugin for Hulu ?

[poofyhairguy]

Actually I have it working on Linux. Here is the repo for the pluggin:

http://forum.xbmc.org/showthread.php?tid=79148

Just takes more CPU than Windows. (Unless you use the beta Flash then ION can do it).

[Kanuk]

Actually I have it working on Linux. Here is the repo for the pluggin:

http://forum.xbmc.org/showthread.php?tid=79148

Just takes more CPU than Windows. (Unless you use the beta Flash then ION can do it).

Always wanted to try Linux.

Can you suggest some hardware and version of Linux for my build ?

Thanks

[poofyhairguy]

I always use XBMC Live for my Linux HTPCs.

As far as Hardware, I think a box with this as the base would have enough umph over ION to be guaranteed to work:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...-_-Product

This case:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...-_-Product

And this SSD:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...-_-Product

And two of these sticks of low profile RAM:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...-_-Product

Add a decent external esata 2TB drive and you have a nice setup.

[Kanuk]

I always use XBMC Live for my Linux HTPCs.

As far as Hardware, I think a box with this as the base would have enough umph over ION to be guaranteed to work:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...-_-Product

This case:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...-_-Product

And this SSD:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...-_-Product

And two of these sticks of low profile RAM:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...-_-Product

Add a decent external esata 2TB drive and you have a nice setup.

Thanks poofyhairguy, that's what I was looking for ! Much obliged.