An HTPC can be the greatest gadget in your living room.
A home theater PC (HTPC) is a computer designed for operation in the living room rather than on a desk. An HTPC can replace many of the entertainment components in the living room. It can be your DVD player, your game console and your TV recorder in a single package. Although you can buy preconfigured HTPCs from computer builders, you can obtain the same features for far less money by building one yourself.
Multimedia hardware
An HTPC requires certain multimedia hardware components in order for you to fully enjoy it in your living room. The computer should have a TV tuner card so it can pick up TV signals. Preferably, the tuner should have the ability to decode high-definition (HDTV) channels. To easily connect the HTPC to a television, select a video card with an HDMI output. A Blu-ray drive can allow the HTPC to play movies on Blu-ray disc. If a Blu-ray drive is out of your price range, make sure that the HTPC at least has a DVD drive. Sound cards with the ability to produce 7.1 channel surround sound are quite inexpensive; make sure that the computer has one for the best possible experience when watching movies.
Processing power
Select a processor that has the best possible combination of high power and low heat production. The processor in an HTPC must be powerful enough to play and record high-definition video simultaneously for best results. Many video cards have hardware-assisted HD video decoding to help with this. However, low heat production is also important, as you do not want your living room to sound like a wind tunnel when the HTPC is on.
Storage capacity
The more storage capacity you can fit in your HTPC, the better. You may even decide to install multiple hard drives. More storage can allow you to record more television programming. Additionally, a large hard drive can allow you to back up your DVDs and store them on the computer, eliminating the need to hunt for discs when you want to watch a movie.
HTPC operating system
Select an operating system designed for HTPC integration. Windows 7 Home Premium and Windows Vista Home Premium are two prominent examples, as they both include the Windows Media Center software. The "Ultimate" versions of these operating systems also include Windows Media Center.
Quiet components
Silent operation is a crucial attribute of any HTPC. A computer's fans are often its loudest components, so select an efficient power supply and a CPU cooler with a large, slow-moving fan. If possible, select a video card without a fan.
Stylish chassis
Select a computer chassis (case) with a horizontal orientation to match the other audio/video appliances in your living room. Many companies manufacture HTPC chassis with attractive black or brushed aluminum finishes to fit in with typical living room decor.
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