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rottweiler
[H]ard|Gawd
- Joined
- May 13, 2000
- Messages
- 1,126
So, I've been wanting to build a HTPC for some time, but could never really justify the cost. But on Tuesday I'm starting a new job with a 50% raise, so I'm ready to do it. And with BF/CM around the corner, I think I can get some good deals. I've been reading a bit here and have a general idea of what to get, but I'd like some advice on what I'm thinking. I don't really have to stick to a budget, but I think I should be able to do it for under $600, especially since I already have a case, hdd and OS. I thought I had an extra PSU around too, but can't find it.
Here's what I'm thinking:
Biostar H55 HD or some mATX with Video card
Intel i3 cpu
4GB(2x2GB) ram
Blu-Ray reader
PSU
Since I'm looking to BF/CM for deals I don't know exactly what I'll get for some of these yet. The CPU might be a 530 or 550 if theres a good deal. How big of a PSU will I need. Obviously more if I go with a video card, but should a 500W be enough? When looking for Blu-ray, ram, and PSU deals are there any brands I should stay away from, or any I should look out for?
For the mobo, how's the H55 HD for gaming. It will only be light gaming as I have my main PC, but it'd be nice to be able to play a couple games even if at low graphics settings. Games like WoW and CoD: Black Ops. If it's not recommended then what do you suggest for mATX and a video card? It's gotta be mATX because of the case.
The case I have is an Ultra Microfly and I can't find it for sale anymore, but here's a link to a review.
Is there anything else I should be thinking of?
Thanks in advance.
[Update]
Also, I bought the following a while ago, will they still be useful?
Pinnacle PCTV HD card
Artec Mini Digital TV Stick
Here's what I'm thinking:
Biostar H55 HD or some mATX with Video card
Intel i3 cpu
4GB(2x2GB) ram
Blu-Ray reader
PSU
Since I'm looking to BF/CM for deals I don't know exactly what I'll get for some of these yet. The CPU might be a 530 or 550 if theres a good deal. How big of a PSU will I need. Obviously more if I go with a video card, but should a 500W be enough? When looking for Blu-ray, ram, and PSU deals are there any brands I should stay away from, or any I should look out for?
For the mobo, how's the H55 HD for gaming. It will only be light gaming as I have my main PC, but it'd be nice to be able to play a couple games even if at low graphics settings. Games like WoW and CoD: Black Ops. If it's not recommended then what do you suggest for mATX and a video card? It's gotta be mATX because of the case.
The case I have is an Ultra Microfly and I can't find it for sale anymore, but here's a link to a review.
Is there anything else I should be thinking of?
Thanks in advance.
[Update]
Also, I bought the following a while ago, will they still be useful?
Pinnacle PCTV HD card
Artec Mini Digital TV Stick
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