New info on HTPC: We appear to have a working configuration. It was a bit
challenging getting the design to work given the constraints on space. Our
first design had some heat issues. The 2nd is looking good.
Here are the specifications and configured minimally it will probably be $299
USD ($50 less than we anticipated):
Intel Pentium Dual-Core G620T Sandy Bridge 2.2GHz
2GB+ DDR3
20GB+ Hard Drive
Optional Accessories:
Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard (not yet tested)
DVD-RW Drive
USB Wifi Card
Here is what it can handle:
At least 720p HD (tested).
In theory 1080p should work ok although it may not play as gracefully. I'm
unsure about Blu-Ray at the moment although given its failure on the market
we aren't too concerned. Does anybody even know if you can play Blu-Ray on
GNU/Linux easily? The last I heard there were some movies you could play and
some you couldn't. It has since fizzled out as far as I can tell. I couldn't
even tell you where to rent a Blu-Ray disc. I am still seeing DVDs available
for purchase in stores although it appears the rental business is just about
completely dead. I think there may be some rental boxes left and online
rentals.
