Media Centre HTPC

This document was written circa 2006–2009 and may seem basic by today's standards. There was no Netflix at this time.

 

A personal computer configured as a media centre can significantly enhance your TV viewing experience. Here are some key benefits:

• Multitasking Entertainment:
  Watch and record TV—including multiple channels with the appropriate hardware.

• Versatile Streaming:
  Enjoy YouTube and your favorite online video content directly on your TV.

• Gaming on the Big Screen:
  Experience PC gaming in high-definition on your television.

• Full PC Functionality:
  Since it's a PC, you can perform all your usual tasks. Desktop applications and web browsing remain clear and readable even at 1080p resolution.

• High-Definition Content:
  Many broadcasters (including the BBC) offer free downloads and streaming of HD programs.

• Physical Media Playback:
  Use a compatible DVD or Blu-ray drive to watch physical media.

I have used a PC as a media centre for several years and experimented with various software options. While I've tried alternatives, Windows Media Center remains intuitive and highly effective.

My first HTPC was modestly equipped—1GHz processor, 1GB RAM, and a 150GB hard drive—which barely managed Vista's Media Center and couldn’t support HD playback on a standard-definition TV. However, this setup was sufficient at the time.

In 2008, I upgraded by purchasing a new ATX case, a motherboard, and a 2.6GHz Pentium dual-core processor (not a Core 2 Duo), reusing existing components. This upgrade dramatically improved performance, enabling the playback of 720p and 1080p content and smoother gaming performance, although the overall Vista score was still hampered by the hard drive.

Next, I researched HDTVs—a significant investment that needed to deliver a sharp display when used as a PC monitor. After reading numerous forums and testing various models, I discovered that viewing quality on a TV can differ significantly from a computer monitor. I even visited several TV shops to test laptop connections; each response was uniformly negative until I tried a 40″ HD LCD TV owned by my sister. Despite excellent picture quality via a 15-pin VGA connection, HDMI compatibility issues arose because my graphics card was not supported.

Eventually, I purchased a Sony 40″ 1080p TV that exceeded my expectations. I am confident that many HD LCD TVs would perform similarly, if not better.

Over time, I have refined my setup further by incorporating a 6-meter HDMI cable and extending the leads for my surround sound speakers, leaving only the TV and speakers visible. (See accompanying image.)