Hi Boys & Girls,

I have a HTPC (Intel Atom Mobo D945GCLF2) which help me to be a file server for the last couple of months..

Recently I wanted to upgrade the function of HTPC to a Media Streaming (to a XBOX 360). It works well, but sucks when Transcoding (when I need subtitle switched on).

So, I purchased a EAH3450 Silent graphic card with HDMI output; unfortunately it didnt fit the mobo (card is PCI-E, mobo is PCI).


So my real question, I plan to purchase a Mini-ITX (mini-ATX) motherboard & processor to function as a full media PC (i.e stream movie, direct movie playback, play online games etc), and what is the CHEAPEST solution out there?

Take note I tried playing flash game with ATOM (Facebook apps) but it LAGS like hell; try Restaurant City.


PLEASE PLEASE RECOMMEND ME A MOBO & PROCESSOR SUITABLE FOR MY REQUIREMENT...

I narrowed down to Intel DG41RQ (RM234) & Pentium D E5300 (RM234) = RM 468


Is it a good choice? Basically i state my requirement again

i) Not lag when playing games (not 3D games)
ii) Have Gigabit LAN (for media streaming)
iii) Have PCI-E slot ( support EAH3450 which I just bought)
iv) Mini form factor ( support my current casing )
v) NOT expensive
vi) LOW power



And any takers for my D945GCLF2 ? Min RM234.... (cover the cost of purchase new mobo or proc ). New retail price at RM 289


Attach also herewith the pricelist from Lowyat (Viewnet)... Please help









Attached File(s)
 2009_10_14_1_Viewnet_Computer_System.pdf ( 329.95k ) Number of downloads: 6

Better got for amd setup.
Take 780 chipset mobo as it supports hybrid crossfire with ur 3450.
And getting amd x2 is around 200 onli.
Almos same as ur intel setup but further utilize ur 3450

If you want to do multiple things with your HTPC, stay away from the Atom-ION boards.

I don't like Intel chipsets, their GMA seems to be below the Nvidia/AMD offerings.

The only mini-ITX with Nividia IGP that I see around seems to be the Zotac ones, but they are very expensive. The LGA775, N9300 mini-ITX with wireless builtin is around Rm600.

i checked whole lowyat nobody sells mini-itx other than the atom...



they quoted me instead an i5 set (mobo,cpu,ram,casing,psu) for rm2k+

Check out this shop at Subang Jaya...

http://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopic=858100&hl=hobbit

isn't this an intel promo now? big big in news paper.. i5 box for 21XX.. IIRC..

Be frank, u don't need a i5 to
Power up ur htpc. It's a waste.