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New SFF Build Multi-purpose

C

Cromwell

n00b
Joined
Nov 13, 2009
Messages
4
Hi all,

Looking to build a small home server / media PC for storing and viewing my multimedia. It needs to be compact and accessible by 3 desktops and a couple of laptops (at most 2/3 at a time). I'd also like the option to connect directly to a 37" HDTV (DVI or HDMI). Box has to be quiet and preferably low power. Will probably run Linux or similar OS initially, but would like the option to switch to Windows at some point.

I live in Ireland so bear with me on the links to UK sites and pricing. I'm aiming for a price point somwhere around £400-£500 without hard drives. But happy to let this slide a little either way.

In order to keep the size down, I've opted for a mini-itx form factor. I've done a (small!) bit of research and my parts list looks as follows:

Case: X-Case atomic home server

Motherboard: Zotac 9300 ITX WIFI

CPU: Intel E6300 Dual-Core (45nm wolfdale chip)

RAM: Going for 4GB (2x2) 800MHz Ram. These seem like good value, but open to any suggestions.

HDDs: WD Green 1.5TB x 2

DVDRW: Haven't picked one out yet, but just looking for something quiet and reliable. Any ideas would be welcome.

To use both HDDS and the DVD Drive I'll either use the external e-SATA port or maybe a PCI expansion card for further ports.

I'd appreciate any suggestions or comments. feel free to link US sites - I can try to source the parts locally once I know what I'm looking for.
 
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1) What will you be doing with this PC? Gaming? Photoshop? Web browsing? etc
Streaming media, torrent downloads, storage/playback of library of video and mp3, 24/7 activity. Also potential to be main desktop when current system dies (standard web browsing, light gaming, office work).
2) What's your budget? Are tax and shipping included?
$700-900 all-in but will be buying from UK/Ireland
3) Where do you live?
Ireland
4) What exact parts do you need for that budget? CPU, RAM, case, etc. Please Case, CPU, Mobo, RAM, HDD, DVDRW Drive
[/COLOR]5) If reusing any parts, what parts will you be reusing? Please be especially specific about the power supply. List make and model.
Not re-using any hardware
6) Will you be overclocking?
No
7) What size monitor do you have and/or plan to have?
19" Sony and 37" Samsung HDTV
8) When do you plan on building/buying the PC?
Over next 2 months
9) What features do you need in a motherboard? RAID? Firewire? Crossfire or SLI support? etc.
RAID would be useful, integrated gfx capable of HD video
10) Do you already have a legit and reusable/transferable OS key/license?
Windows XP license on hand, can obtain Windows 7 license
 
Do most UK suppliers also ship to Ireland and the North Ireland?

Thanks, as that would help a lot!
 
Yes most will ship to Ireland alright. Sometimes it can be expensive, but if it's a good deal or a bundle of components then it makes sense. I've posted links to amazon uk there because they do free delivery to Ireland and generally have good prices.
 
I have the case now and the motherboard is due any day.

Any recommendations for the ram or dvd drive?
 
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