Lifergeek.com

We all have thought it, what would it be like to have something connected to the TV which could lat us control every aspect of what we see on it.  Today, your cable box could also be a DVR, recording shows for you to watch in a heartbeat anytime.  Cable providers provide ever expanding libraries of movies to rival the once big names like Blockbuster or Hollywood Video.  Weather, traffic, streaming video from various sources, even HD video.  Why would you need a HTPC?  Well, not everyone does.

A HTPC makes the most sense if you own alot of our own video or wish to have online content to play.  Most to all Cable providers shy away from letting you add your personal library to what your cable box can show, unless you want to put it on a line in with a different device.  Not always ideal, but that depends on your point of view.  To me, a HTPC should be video or content at your fingertips.  If you have to get up and change a DVD or flick a switch, you did something wrong or just aren’t there yet.  Should you be able to browse?  Chat?  Play youtube video?  Sure, if that’s what you want it to do.

Your HTPC should be more than just a PC connected to a massive monitor.  A good interface can make everything work so much better.  That leave you with a few choices, both limiting each other:

• What hardware will you use?
• What interface?
• Where will your content be?

Lets take a look at my progression to my current solution…

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