2013-05-20, 20:04
Thanks to some really helpful guys on this forum (special thanks to Dougie), I have managed to have a basic design on my first HTPC.
Primary use would be to run linux with XBMC, Internet browsing, watch DVD/BLu-ray, act as NAS and run some other low CPU-intensive server functions (like backup utilities). No gaming.
I have tried to keep the cost as low as possible but still with good quality components which can allow small upgrade in the future.
Here is then my first build (price are from Germany)
Total price is currently: 300€ (I hope that I haven't forgot anything ?)
I am hoping to be below 25W while idle.
I would welcome any advices on the setup, especially if there is a way to decrease the price with the same set of features/quality (and linux compatibility).
I am especially worried about the power and the heating, should I buy any special CPU cooler or more efficient PSU ?
The end of the quest is near, thanks !
Primary use would be to run linux with XBMC, Internet browsing, watch DVD/BLu-ray, act as NAS and run some other low CPU-intensive server functions (like backup utilities). No gaming.
I have tried to keep the cost as low as possible but still with good quality components which can allow small upgrade in the future.
Here is then my first build (price are from Germany)
- InterTech Mini ITX E-i7 (ou Realan E-I7) (79€): No IR window (except if you ordered it from ecosmartpc.com), it is not the most compact case (that would be the MC-80BL/HT-80) but the extra space allow a low profile expansion card and 2 hard-drives.
- ASRock H61M-ITX (58€): Cheapest but good quality H61 board I found. H61MV-ITX is a little bit cheaper but doesn't have USB3. It has a CIR header which can be used for remote control. No wifi but that could be added later with a PCIe expansion card (and I figure that the wifi reception will be better that way)
- Intel Celeron G1610 (36€): should be enough for 1080p decoding (no 3d though). Can be upgraded later to i3-3225 when the price will drop
- Kingston HyperX Blu 2GB DDR3 PC3-10600 CL9 (17€): 2GB shoud be enough for linux. Maybe a Low Profile RAM will be better for cabling/cooling ?
- Lite-On DS-6E2SH Blu-ray and DVD/CD burner (45€): DVD/CD writer is not necessary but I haven't found a better deal
- Western Digital Scorpio Blue SATA II 1TB (64€): quiet, low consumption and performance is decent (tricky for setting up though because of the Intellipark 'feature')
Total price is currently: 300€ (I hope that I haven't forgot anything ?)
I am hoping to be below 25W while idle.
I would welcome any advices on the setup, especially if there is a way to decrease the price with the same set of features/quality (and linux compatibility).
I am especially worried about the power and the heating, should I buy any special CPU cooler or more efficient PSU ?
The end of the quest is near, thanks !