HTPC/file server build: aim low energy/ low noise.

Speaker4TheDead · 24th July 2010, 11:34 AM

Ok, New HTPC build, I want to build a unit for file storage but also serve as a remote HTPC that is operated wake on lan style. Want the unit off/sleep as much as possible and only active when serving files or playing media. One TV is connected using only Lan playing media via DLNA. Another TV will be connected via networked reciever. Running on Gigabit network. Unit will be tucked away under the stairs with the switchgear. Will want a hdmi out as it may move to another room later with a tv.

Quick rundown on what I'm thinking.

Intel I3 processor (for low power consumption and decent performance)
ATI 5450 GPU, (no fan/ HDMI, i know i3 have hdmi but have issues)
Blueray r/w drive (LG/pioneer not sure which brand... does it matter?)
4GB ram,
SSD OS drive (60GB)
2x TB WD in Raid 1. will add 2 more in the future
PSU: Corsair HX650
TinyTwin USB tuner

Motherboard... not sure which one is best, prefer 2 nic built (but can add pci nic) in using micro ATX form factor. Gigabyte GA-H55M-S2H/ASRock H55M/USB3?

Case is the same.. not sure which is best, micro atx (Antec fusion is nice size but not enough drive bays), some have multimedia functions but not that important unless they can be controlled using RF from a Logitech Harmony 900.

Will run a Logitech Dinovo from the lounge room, 4 metres away should be ok with BT connection.

OS running windows 7 ultimate/media centre with PowerDVD .

What do you think? please let me know what you would do differently and why. Any essential hardware or software i missed?

Regards

24th July 2010, 11:34 AM	#1
Speaker4TheDead Member Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Sydney Posts: 1,134	HTPC/file server build: aim low energy/ low noise. Ok, New HTPC build, I want to build a unit for file storage but also serve as a remote HTPC that is operated wake on lan style. Want the unit off/sleep as much as possible and only active when serving files or playing media. One TV is connected using only Lan playing media via DLNA. Another TV will be connected via networked reciever. Running on Gigabit network. Unit will be tucked away under the stairs with the switchgear. Will want a hdmi out as it may move to another room later with a tv. Quick rundown on what I'm thinking. Intel I3 processor (for low power consumption and decent performance) ATI 5450 GPU, (no fan/ HDMI, i know i3 have hdmi but have issues) Blueray r/w drive (LG/pioneer not sure which brand... does it matter?) 4GB ram, SSD OS drive (60GB) 2x TB WD in Raid 1. will add 2 more in the future PSU: Corsair HX650 TinyTwin USB tuner Motherboard... not sure which one is best, prefer 2 nic built (but can add pci nic) in using micro ATX form factor. Gigabyte GA-H55M-S2H/ASRock H55M/USB3? Case is the same.. not sure which is best, micro atx (Antec fusion is nice size but not enough drive bays), some have multimedia functions but not that important unless they can be controlled using RF from a Logitech Harmony 900. Will run a Logitech Dinovo from the lounge room, 4 metres away should be ok with BT connection. OS running windows 7 ultimate/media centre with PowerDVD . What do you think? please let me know what you would do differently and why. Any essential hardware or software i missed? Regards __________________ Photo Nerd/bike nut/climbing tragic/computer geek