HTPC

HTPC Project

What I'm building is mainly an STB(Set Top Box) for watching and recording digital broadcasts. So I could have called the project for STB. But because I will add features for playing mp3 and DivX I will use the name HTPC.

The normal operation of the HTPC should be done only by remote. It must be quiet and easy to use. I will focus on digital broadcasting to get the highest quality and also because analog broadcasting will cease next year in my area.

Last Updated on Friday, 29 December 2006 21:32

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HTPC News

2007-02-24:

Been running with the new installed system for a few weeks now and it works fine. The startup time after the reinstall is faster than before, I am now down to 20 seconds.
Currently working on the installation guide. It takes time but hopefully I will finalize it sometime soon.

2007-02-02:

Long time since last update. I am now using a Silverstone LC10M case.
Just started with a complete reinstall of the box. This will be an opportunity to finalize my documentation.

2006-07-15:

The current HTPC were too slow for watching movies with mplayer so I have now acquired "new" hardware replacing the PIII 600Mhz with an Athlon 1.1Ghz. I am taking notes of each step during the installation and will soon post it on the site.

2005-10-08:

Most of the software is now upgraded. I am currently running Linux 2.6.13.3 and VDR 1.3.32. Also upgraded LIRC to 0.7.2 and WLAN driver to linux-wlan-ng-0.2.2.

2005-09-22:

Back to business! After our move to The Netherlands this project has been stalled. So far I have only been able to tune in one channel on the DVB-T card. But now I have a motorized dish on the roof and I am also in the process of ordering subscription for both terrestrial and satellite services.

Last Updated on Saturday, 24 February 2007 21:59

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HTPC Installation Guide

I have spent several hours on this project and at one point I was almost ready to give up. But now when I have everything running I must say it was definitely worth it.

I have had some experience with Linux before I started this project and it helped me a lot. You don't need to be a guru on Linux to build your own HTPC, but it will be much easier with some basic knowledge. Internet is a great source to find information. Often with Linux it is very difficult to find a guide that exactly describes everything step by step. I guess that is mainly because different hardware requires different setup and it is very unlikely to find a guide that describes exactly the setup you are using. My advice is to get some hardware that others are using and that you know should work. Then if you run into trouble there will be people on the Net that can help you.

Last Updated on Saturday, 24 February 2007 21:41 Read more...

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