Recommend mini-ITX setup for HD streaming only

DarthGW

DarthGW

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looking to build a low budget,low power consumption and as small as possible mini-itx system
purpose is to be a DLNA server to stream 1080p mkv files from my NAS (in another room) to my Plasma TV in the living room. Size is a factor since i putting in my hi-fi rack, therefore vertical casings are not feasible.
Requirements:
1. CPU/GFX must be sufficient enough to process 1080p files
2. HDMI output must be required
3. Sound card is not needed, The mini-ITX is to transmit the audio bits from the HDMI output to a connected Yamaha soundbar for processing
4. HDD is not required, probably a 60GB ssd will do since i want to reduce moving parts
5. USB port in the front panel so that i can plug a 5GHz usb wireless adapter in case the mobo does not have built in wifi
6. Most important of all - must have Blu-ray drive! region free will be good since i buy blu-ray from amazon US

I am also open to getting a Zotac Zbox but i cant find a local website
 
MoneyFace =p

MoneyFace =p

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Recommended
This is an ultra quiet build with moving mechanical parts being processor cooling fan and Blu-ray ODD only.
Blu-ray ODD is separate from chassis though.

CPU+MB: Intel Celeron G550 + ASRock B75M-ITX @ $141 (Best Buy Computers)
RAM: Kingston ValueRAM DDR3-1333 CL9 2GB X2 @ $34
SSD: Crucial m4 64GB @ $93
ODD: LG CP40 6X Blu-ray Combo [External] @ $169 (Cybermind)
CASE+PSU: Antec ISK110 VESA + Delta 90W External Adapter [Efficiency V] @ $128 (t258jgn)
3.6 litres only.
WIFI: EnGenius EUB9801 Wireless-N 300 Mbps Dual Band [USB] @ $44 (Fuwell)

Total: $609

Optional:
CPU+MB: Intel Celeron G550 + Gigabyte GA-H61N-USB3-B3 @ $158
Motherboard uses top end onboard audio Realtek ALC889 for best possible sound quality on the cheap.

Buy others at Tradepac, #05-19.
__________________________________________________
Alternative
This alternative build integrates Blu-ray ODD into the chassis at the expense of inflated chassis volume and power supply fan noise.

CPU+MB: Intel Celeron G550 + ASRock B75M-ITX @ $141 (Best Buy Computers)
RAM: Kingston ValueRAM DDR3-1333 CL9 2GB X2 @ $34
SSD: Crucial m4 64GB @ $93
ODD: LG CH12 12x Blu-ray Combo [Retail] @ $123 (Cybermind)
CASE+PSU: In Win BM650 [Black] + Powerman IP-AD180-2 180W Flex ATX [80 Plus Bronze] @ $105
6.8 litres only.
WIFI: EnGenius EUB9801 Wireless-N 300 Mbps Dual Band [USB] @ $44 (Fuwell)

Total: $540

Optional:
CPU+MB: Intel Celeron G550 + Gigabyte GA-H61N-USB3-B3 @ $158
Motherboard uses top end onboard audio Realtek ALC889 for best possible sound quality on the cheap.

Buy others at Tradepac, #05-19.
 
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MoneyFace =p

MoneyFace =p

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DarthGW said:
how about zotac ones?
Click to expand...
They are not only much slower, yet way more expensive since they don't include any disk drive nor memory along. The bundled WiFi only supports 2.4 GHz band too. :o

The only advantage their present are unreachable chassis volume by DIY route and bundled remote control.
 
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MoneyFace =p

MoneyFace =p

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DarthGW said:
oh i need a remote control too!
Click to expand...
For that you can either get a $5 minature USB Bluetooth adapter and use your smartphone as remote control. There are plenty of apps available on Apple App Store / Google Play Store. Or, you can indent remote control from many of the distributors, e.g. ASUS, ASRock, Zotac, etc.. And also, getting 3rd-party remote control like Logitech Harmony series from as low as $39. :)
 
t258jgn

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Most people either use Logitech K400r wireless kb
or
pads & phones with apps controlling through wifi
 
cpuer

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Tradepac's SiliconPower 120GB at $118. seems to be the most competitive priced now.
 
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nanoprobe

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ginseng1

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VP doesnt carry TB model do I ordered from Amazon.

Do a search on Amazon for the wifi card.
 
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chengsun

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MoneyFace =p

MoneyFace =p

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cpuer said:
Tradepac's SiliconPower 120GB at $118. seems to be the most competitive priced now.
Click to expand...
$7 more gets you Plextor M5S 128GB offering much better and consistent performance as well as minimum speed degradation over time.
 
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ginseng1

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chengsun said:
Including everything, shipping, what is the cost?
Click to expand...


Never take note as I buy lot from online shops. Comgateway auto calculate for me everything from customs to shipping.

If you are a regular, you can work out your sums. If you are buying for the first time, don't bother unless you need it and want it. :D Not worth the hassle and cost.

Don't ever under declare else the penalty no joke. I'm working in customs, FYI.
 
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