Computers and home theater systems are beginning to converge as home electronics become more capable. Many households are now using computers exclusively for multimedia entertainment centers that are connected to a high-definition television screen. This type of computer is called a media center. You can build a fast media center computer designed to connect to an HDTV by selecting the appropriate components and assembling them. This includes storage space for music and videos, and an HDMI connection to the TV screen.
Instructions
1. Choose a desired processor for the media center computer. Nearly all new CPUs, as of 2011, have two more more cores. More cores generally means a faster-performing CPU. You do not need as fast of a CPU if you are going to be displaying content only instead of encoding media. Media encoding requires a faster, more expensive processor for adequate performance.
2. Choose a motherboard that supports your selected processor and has the features you need. For example, if you choose an Intel Sandy Bridge-based CPU, you need a socket 1156 motherboard. When purchasing a motherboard, decide if you want integrated or discrete graphics. Discrete graphics cost more money but offer much better performance. If you are choosing integrated graphics, choose a motherboard with an HDMI port.
3. Choose the desired amount of memory that works with your chosen motherboard. Most new motherboards use DDR3 memory, though some use DDR2. In general, the more memory a system has, the better it performs.
4. Choose a video card, if you are using discrete graphics. The video card should have an HDMI port. The video card does not need to be a top of the line card designed for gaming. Lower to midrange cards are adequate for a media center computer.
5. Choose a hard drive configuration. For the ultimate in performance, choose a smaller SSD for the operating system and a large SATA drive for media storage.
6. Choose an optical drive. This includes DVD burners and Blu-Ray drives. Blu-Ray drives also offer burning capabilities, depending on the model.
7. Choose a computer case. The chosen motherboard must fit within the desired case. For example, a full ATX motherboard will not fit in an ATX Mid-tower size case. If the case does not come with a power supply, purchase a power supply with 500w or greater power handling capacity.
8. Assemble the component parts into the computer case and install the operating system. For example, install Microsoft Windows Home Premium, which includes media center functionality.
9. Connect the completed computer to the HDTV with an HDMI cable.
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