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91 posts

Master Geek

#110373 13-Feb-2008 13:46

I have all but finished mine, just waiting on the case as they only have silver versions of the LC16 in the country, no black. In the mean time I am using a std ATX case but I am under strict instructions its not allowed in the lounge until I have the propper case. Something along the lines of "Im not having that ugly thing in here" or some rubbish. Still gives me more time to set it up before I transfer cases.

Anyway I got a Cooler Master (RS-550-PCAR) eXtreme Power 550W Super Silent, Black

Its far from super silent but it is definately quieter than other PSU i have tried. I will look at replacing my CPU fan too as I have only the std one at the moment. I will leave it until I have it properly set up in the lounge so I can evaluate the noise.

I am currently plodding away getting the analogue tuner set up and trying different software. I'll tell you its a far from easy job, but very rewarding. I am kinda leaning toward Mediaportal at the moment, the tv portion is a bit buggy but seems to have the most features and highly customisable. It doesnt run DVB-T yet but I dont think its too far away fingers crossed.

I will try and write a full rundown of my setup with the countless issues along the way once I have it up and running and not spending every waking hour configuring it.

Creatine

5 posts

Wannabe Geek

#110477 13-Feb-2008 19:57

If your looking for a quieter PSU, or any computer part for that matter, you should check out silent pc review

"Silent PC Review is dedicated to reviews, news and information about quiet, low noise, and/or silent computers and components as well as their energy efficiency and thermal performance. "

http://www.silentpcreview.com/

for parts in nz theres an online store that specialize in quiet parts

http://www.quietpc.com/nz/index.html

euanandrews

1528 posts

Uber Geek

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#110482 13-Feb-2008 20:20

Virgil: Hey Bartender, hows your HTPC coming along?

Just wondering what power supply you chose to go with the setup, I'm trying to build something very similar.

Cheers.

A slow process....

I am being very fussy choosing my HTPC components, trying to make sure everything is compatible and as silent and cool as possible...while meeting my current needs and desires and allowing for future upgrades...

A lot of reading.

As I have just paid of my car, I now have plenty of money to throw at this project, so will start putting more time into the research required as I plan to start my purchases.

To answer your question....I have yet to decide...will get back to you in the coming week.

euanandrews

1528 posts

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#111302 18-Feb-2008 01:03

Ok, an update of my chosen components so far:

- Case: Silverstone SST-LC16S-MR
- Motherboard: abit IP35 Pro
- CPU: Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 2.4 GHz
- TV Tuner: Hauppauge WinTV-NOVA-T-500 (dual DVB-T tuner)
- Video Card: WinFast PX8500 GT TDH HDMI (Low Profile)
- Hard drive: 2 x Western Digital Caviar GP WD7500AACS, 750GB, 5400rpm, 16384kb cache, sata-2
- PSU: Corsair VX Series, 450W ATX PSU
- Keyboard: Microsoft Media Centre Edition Keyboard (wireless, black, 3 pack)
- OS: Microsoft Windows XP Media Centre with SP2

Of course I am changing all the time as I find better components or configurations, but feel I am getting pretty close now to my final choice.

I am still looking at/researching:

- RAM
- DVD drive
- Fans/air flow (different types, how many required and their placement)
- CPU Heatsink

jbmoocs

91 posts

Master Geek

#111314 18-Feb-2008 08:31

TheBartender: Ok, an update of my chosen components so far:

- Case: Silverstone SST-LC16S-MR
- Motherboard: abit IP35 Pro
- CPU: Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 2.4 GHz
- TV Tuner: Hauppauge WinTV-NOVA-T-500 (dual DVB-T tuner)
- Video Card: WinFast PX8500 GT TDH HDMI (Low Profile)
- Hard drive: 2 x Western Digital Caviar GP WD7500AACS, 750GB, 5400rpm, 16384kb cache, sata-2
- PSU: Corsair VX Series, 450W ATX PSU
- Keyboard: Microsoft Media Centre Edition Keyboard (wireless, black, 3 pack)
- OS: Microsoft Windows XP Media Centre with SP2

Of course I am changing all the time as I find better components or configurations, but feel I am getting pretty close now to my final choice.

I am still looking at/researching:

- RAM
- Fans/air flow (different types, how many required and their placement)
- CPU Heatsink

Thats a good line up of gear. I am interested in the blue tooth keyboard/mice as I find RF doesn't work very well. I have found the Logitech BT range impressive - http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/keyboards/keyboard/devices/192&cl=nz,en what do you think? Although I do like MS media KB that you're keen on is it bluetooth?

jbmoocs

91 posts

Master Geek

#111320 18-Feb-2008 09:10

On the weekend I worked out how to to get my DVD library on to Vista MCE it was relatively painless and I am impressed because it looks great and keeps the 5.1 audio intact. I have been wanting to do this for a while now. If anyone is interested in the howto I would post a new thread with details. Only stink thing is I will probably need to buy a dedicated HDD for just movies x2 1TB would be the go.
Here is a my htpc setup that I have been working on for about at year now. I am keen to mount the TV on the wall and completely hide the AV/PC in a cabinet - maybe. my setup

euanandrews

1528 posts

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#111342 18-Feb-2008 11:15

jbmoocs: Thats a good line up of gear. I am interested in the blue tooth keyboard/mice as I find RF doesn't work very well. I have found the Logitech BT range impressive - http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/keyboards/keyboard/devices/192&cl=nz,en what do you think? Although I do like MS media KB that you're keen on is it bluetooth?

No its not bluetooth, just wireless.

Microsoft do have bluetooth keyboards, but I have yet to warm to their appearance...
Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000
Wireless Entertainment Desktop 8000

Quic Broadband

Move to New Zealand's best fibre broadband service (affiliate link). Free setup code: R587125ERQ6VE. Note that to use Quic Broadband you must be comfortable with configuring your own router.

browned

636 posts

Ultimate Geek

#111371 18-Feb-2008 12:39

jbmoocs:
TheBartender: Ok, an update of my chosen components so far:

- Case: Silverstone SST-LC16S-MR
- Motherboard: abit IP35 Pro
- CPU: Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 2.4 GHz
- TV Tuner: Hauppauge WinTV-NOVA-T-500 (dual DVB-T tuner)
- Video Card: WinFast PX8500 GT TDH HDMI (Low Profile)
- Hard drive: 2 x Western Digital Caviar GP WD7500AACS, 750GB, 5400rpm, 16384kb cache, sata-2
- PSU: Corsair VX Series, 450W ATX PSU
- Keyboard: Microsoft Media Centre Edition Keyboard (wireless, black, 3 pack)
- OS: Microsoft Windows XP Media Centre with SP2

Of course I am changing all the time as I find better components or configurations, but feel I am getting pretty close now to my final choice.

I am still looking at/researching:

- RAM
- Fans/air flow (different types, how many required and their placement)
- CPU Heatsink

Thats a good line up of gear. I am interested in the blue tooth keyboard/mice as I find RF doesn't work very well. I have found the Logitech BT range impressive - http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/keyboards/keyboard/devices/192&cl=nz,en what do you think? Although I do like MS media KB that you're keen on is it bluetooth?

I have the following setup and the wife even likes it, bar the new DVBViewer to watch DVB-T test channels for freeview (just confuses her, whats wrong with MCE she asks :-)

- Case: Silverstone GD01B-MXR
- Motherboard: Asus A8N-VM CSM (nvidia nforce4 6150/430 onboard)
- CPU: AMD Athlon X2 3800+
- TV Tuner: Now, Hauppauge PVR500
- TV Tuner: Now, Hauppauge Nova-T USB2 for freeview testing
- TV Tuner: later, Hauppauge WinTV-NOVA-T-500, when freeview goes live or as soon as itis running all channels
- Auzentech X-Meridian 7.1 Sound card.
- Video Card: MSI 7600GT Diamond Plus HDMI - with Zalman ZNF100 fanless cooler
- Hard drive: 1 x 74GB WD Raptor, 1 x WD 250GB, all SATA2
- PSU: Zalman ZM600-HP
- Keyboard: Microsoft Media Centre Edition Keyboard and mouse. (infrared not bluetooth)
- OS: Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate x64 with SP1
- RAM Corsair 2 x 1GB
- Cooling
2 x 80mm silverstone fans - 1800rpm
3 x 92mm Zalman fans - 1600rpm - one for CPU heatsink.
1 x 80/15mm fan

MCE used for playing Music, DVD's, Analogue TV, and Video.
DVBViewer used for Freeview testing.
Windows Home Server: 3TB storage used for storing DVD's in raw format minus extras depending on how good the movie is. Music storage, video storage, and PC backups.

Anydvd and CloneDVD used for ripping DVD's. AutoGK/Xvid used to compress old DVD's to 2GB once they are not used any longer or just not wanted.

All running through Netgear HDX101 powerline network adapters from Garage to lounge. Output to Philips 37" 1080P TV via HDMI

No problems at all playing anything at all so far. Including 720p videos and freeview test channels.

cheers
DB

euanandrews

1528 posts

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#111395 18-Feb-2008 15:03

browned:
- Cooling
2 x 80mm silverstone fans - 1800rpm
3 x 92mm Zalman fans - 1600rpm - one for CPU heatsink.
1 x 80/15mm fan

Interesting, just where I am up to with my system design...cooling and airflow via the fans...

Where abouts in your case have you placed your fans?
What is the noise from the fans like, would you say your system is silent or not?
What temperatures does your system get up to?
Have you tried removing some fans to lessen the noise, and measure the increased heat if any?...if so, what were the results?

euanandrews

1528 posts

Uber Geek

Trusted

#111405 18-Feb-2008 15:35

TheBartender:
I am still looking at/researching:

- RAM
- DVD drive
- Fans/air flow (different types, how many required and their placement)
- CPU Heatsink

I am looking at the Scythe Ninja Mini for a CPU heatsink...anyone here have any expereince with these heatsinks, or have any other/better suggestions?

browned

636 posts

Ultimate Geek

#111408 18-Feb-2008 16:23

TheBartender:
browned:
- Cooling
2 x 80mm silverstone fans - 1800rpm
3 x 92mm Zalman fans - 1600rpm - one for CPU heatsink.
1 x 80/15mm fan

Interesting, just where I am up to with my system design...cooling and airflow via the fans...

Where abouts in your case have you placed your fans?
What is the noise from the fans like, would you say your system is silent or not?
What temperatures does your system get up to?
Have you tried removing some fans to lessen the noise, and measure the increased heat if any?...if so, what were the results?

2 x 80mm came with the case and are mounted at the rear. Take a look at the Silverstone site, GD01 pictures to see them.
2 x 92mm are mounted at the front of the case in the HDD bay, they are added but Silverstone provide the mounts with the case.
1 x 80/15mm is mounted on the right side of the case down by the CPU, it is used for in or out depending on your CPU heatsink orientation. My heatsink, a Thermaltake Ultima 90 (just fits with some heatpipe bending and hammering ;-) is pointing directly at this fan so the heatsink blows towards this fan which then pushes the hot air out of the case.

The heatsink is running a 92mm Zalman fan at 2000rpm. http://www.ascent.co.nz/productspecification.aspx?ItemID=109938
The rating is between 20dB at 1600rpm and 36dB at 2800rpm. This is the loudest fan running and at startup it runs at 2800rpm until the bios screen kicks in, then it is cool and quiet controlled at 2000rpm.

I would guess the whole case is running at about 22-28dB. Not silent but not loud or noticeable unless you sit about 1 foot from the case. I would love to remove some fans but the previous temps minus the front fans, using the stock vga cooler, and Silverstone NT03 cpu heatsink were VGA maxing at 85, and CPU topping 60 on a regular basis. The VGA card has got the VNF100 fanless cooler, this reduced the noise in the case the most out of all the cooler changes I have made. but also dictates that I have good airflow throught the case.

The Raptor drive is the loudest part but when playing music/movies it can not really be heard unless you really try to hear it.

Max temps I have had with this setup, Overclocked CPU to 2200mhz.
CPU: 46 at full load (boinc, prime 95)
VGA: 63 at nTune torture test
Chipset: 62 torture test.

I am very happy with my current setup and will not have to make any changes for another couple of years. Considering I have had it all running in the UK and NZ for coming up to two years I think I have choosen my parts well.

Cheers
DB

jbmoocs

91 posts

Master Geek

#111412 18-Feb-2008 16:36

TheBartender:
jbmoocs: Thats a good line up of gear. I am interested in the blue tooth keyboard/mice as I find RF doesn't work very well. I have found the Logitech BT range impressive - http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/keyboards/keyboard/devices/192&cl=nz,en what do you think? Although I do like MS media KB that you're keen on is it bluetooth?

No its not bluetooth, just wireless.

Microsoft do have bluetooth keyboards, but I have yet to warm to their appearance...
Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000
Wireless Entertainment Desktop 8000

I like the 7000 it is priced reasonably. I think that most of these type keyboards use a bluetooth hub. if I am correct when using other BT devices they can be synched, which is pretty handy, now & future.

I played around with the dinovo 'edge' that keyboard is ultra sex! the keyboard is a beauty to type on and the glide pad was exceptional. Too expensive for my budget at present so may settle for MX550 as it has HTPC goodies + nice gaming capabilities.

http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/keyboards/keyboard_mice_combos/devices/3481&cl=nz,en

euanandrews

1528 posts

Uber Geek

Trusted

#111475 18-Feb-2008 21:28

browned:
TheBartender:
browned:
- Cooling
2 x 80mm silverstone fans - 1800rpm
3 x 92mm Zalman fans - 1600rpm - one for CPU heatsink.
1 x 80/15mm fan

Interesting, just where I am up to with my system design...cooling and airflow via the fans...

Where abouts in your case have you placed your fans?
What is the noise from the fans like, would you say your system is silent or not?
What temperatures does your system get up to?
Have you tried removing some fans to lessen the noise, and measure the increased heat if any?...if so, what were the results?

2 x 80mm came with the case and are mounted at the rear. Take a look at the Silverstone site, GD01 pictures to see them.
2 x 92mm are mounted at the front of the case in the HDD bay, they are added but Silverstone provide the mounts with the case.
1 x 80/15mm is mounted on the right side of the case down by the CPU, it is used for in or out depending on your CPU heatsink orientation. My heatsink, a Thermaltake Ultima 90 (just fits with some heatpipe bending and hammering ;-) is pointing directly at this fan so the heatsink blows towards this fan which then pushes the hot air out of the case.

The heatsink is running a 92mm Zalman fan at 2000rpm. http://www.ascent.co.nz/productspecification.aspx?ItemID=109938
The rating is between 20dB at 1600rpm and 36dB at 2800rpm. This is the loudest fan running and at startup it runs at 2800rpm until the bios screen kicks in, then it is cool and quiet controlled at 2000rpm.

I would guess the whole case is running at about 22-28dB. Not silent but not loud or noticeable unless you sit about 1 foot from the case. I would love to remove some fans but the previous temps minus the front fans, using the stock vga cooler, and Silverstone NT03 cpu heatsink were VGA maxing at 85, and CPU topping 60 on a regular basis. The VGA card has got the VNF100 fanless cooler, this reduced the noise in the case the most out of all the cooler changes I have made. but also dictates that I have good airflow throught the case.

The Raptor drive is the loudest part but when playing music/movies it can not really be heard unless you really try to hear it.

Max temps I have had with this setup, Overclocked CPU to 2200mhz.
CPU: 46 at full load (boinc, prime 95)
VGA: 63 at nTune torture test
Chipset: 62 torture test.

I am very happy with my current setup and will not have to make any changes for another couple of years. Considering I have had it all running in the UK and NZ for coming up to two years I think I have choosen my parts well.

Cheers
DB

Cheers, excellent reply

I think I may have settled on the Scythe Ninja Mini for a CPU heatsink, and the Silverstone LC16M comes with two 80mm fans mounted at the rear as your case does...

I have read many reviews, and may be able to get away with having to install/include fans in the hard drive bays, but obviously I will only be able to confirm this by running heat tests once all is installed...

I have yet to decide on any other fans, how many, what size and where to place them so I am doing some research on that now.

Once I have decided on every component, I will post a large explanation post back here to explain why I choose each component.
Almost every component I have chosen has silent features of some kind, and in some cases, chosen also to fit the LC16M case.

guttedgeek

19 posts

Geek

#111553 19-Feb-2008 12:01

Heyall, great discussion for me as I'm going through a similar process myself (although with lower spec'd hardware).

One question I have is what are the benefits of the HTPC cases with extra buttons/function wheels/LED screens? I was looking at a fairly basic Silverstone case but this discussion has got me thinking - "what am I missing"?

I'm using Media Portal/TVServer - do they work at all with these additional features?

phatbloke

91 posts

Master Geek

#111554 19-Feb-2008 12:23

Unfortunately I am waiting for my case and wont see it till early March so I cant help you on if it works.

My theory is the volume is going to be done through your stereo so even though most cases have this it would be probably pointless. As for the buttons again they would only be usefull for shortcuts if you had a small LCD but then again I never push the buttons on the front of my amp, I usually hunt out the remote and use it from there so would do the same with the HTPC. If I want to skip a song I would just look for the remote and hit skip before I pressed the button on the case. I think the LCD might be usefull but looking at the cost of them it far out weighs the use I would get out of it. But still thats just me, and it would save turning on the TV if you just want to throw on some tunes from a playlist or something.

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