First HTPC Build

2010CBR

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May 8, 2014
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Looking to build a HTPC to play movies and TV shows from an external HDD.

Looking at :
Asrock Z87E-ITX
Intel I3-4130T
8gb DDR3 1600 ram
120gb Samsung SSD
Antec ISK 300-150 case
Running windows 8 and using PLEX to keep it partner/kid friendly.

Trying to keep it cheap but being in OZ what should be a $500 build is turning into an $800 build. (including OS)

Is this setup going to do what I need for the next 2yrs?
 
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The A6-6400K should be awesome for your needs, and it would indeed stretch to playing some low-end games well, or supporting very big resolutions compared to intel internal graphics.

Rugnir_Viking

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Mar 27, 2013
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Perhaps consider a free Linux distro designed for htpcs?
also, you don't really need such a powerful processor. I suggest a
http://au.pcpartpicker.com/part/intel-cpu-bx80646g3220
Intel pentium G3220 dual core, 3ghz clock :) that should do it for a LOT cheaper
 

2010CBR

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I am trying to stick to a windows based system so my partner doesn't freak out (she struggles with PLEX streaming through the PS3). The G3220 is almost $100 cheaper here, how do you rate it against an AMD chip in the same price range? If I go AMD I can also save on the MOBO. I know their graphics are better but I have doubts about the CPU performance?
 

Rugnir_Viking

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AMD can be good cpu. Also the chip I sent you was $69.99 in OZ anyhow.

The thing about amd is their apus are great for this sort of build, but I can't see anything shipping them to oz. if you can find an amd APU (make sure it is!) for cheap then it should be great! The cpu power is eough for your uses anyhow.

Personally I have an amd fx 6300 BUT that chip has no integrated graphics at all, so it would need a integrated graphics card. you need to be sure. However even for your uses, id go far to venture that almost any new cpu available would be suitable.
 

2010CBR

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Yes I found the G3220 in OZ for $69 the I3-4130T is $159 so $90 difference, a great saving!!! thankyou. I can also get the A6-5400K for $69 or the A6-6400K for $75 and I could get an Asrock mobo with wifi to suit for $40 less than the Asrock Z87E. Would I be pushing the G3220 or AMD chip to do what I need or can it handle more if I want in the future?
 

Rugnir_Viking

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Mar 27, 2013
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The A6-6400K should be awesome for your needs, and it would indeed stretch to playing some low-end games well, or supporting very big resolutions compared to intel internal graphics.
 
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