PCI Card for HTPC

[AKM880]

I'm transforming this really old Dell B110 into a HTPC. It only accepts PCI cards. I plan to buy from my local computer store. They only carry the 5200FX and the 6200LE. Can these output HD with a DVI to HDMI adapter? Also do these have HDCP, or Video Acceleration?

 

[jaguarskx]

No HDCP. If they have video acceleration then it would only be good enough for DVD.

 

[AKM880]

Haha thanks, what about the HD2400 or the 8400GS? They both come in PCI flavours as well.

 

[jaguarskx]

^^^

Yes to both, but HDCP implementation on the HD 2400 might have been optional so review the specs prior to purchasing.

 

[jaguarskx]

Also note that Blu-Ray acceleration will probably be weak since they are value cards. For Blu-Ray playback it is recommended that you have a somewhat modern dual core CPU.

A weak CPU and GPU can result in choppy playback.

 

[AKM880]

Will the Celeron 2.53GHZ CPU be enough power? I can run HD on my 2.4GHZ P4, but with a 3650. My 8400GS can barely accelerate the Blu-ray, maybe a 2% loss in CPU usage, so right you are.

 

[jaguarskx]

A 2.53GHz Celeron is less powerful than a 2.4GHz P4.

Answer = No

 

[AKM880]

I've found the 9500GT in PCI, might just give that a try.

 

[jaguarskx]

The CPU is still your greatest limitation.

 

[AKM880]

I understand, do you think that the 6200LE will output 1080p thru the DVI?

 

[jaguarskx]

The 6200LE is capable of 1920 x 1080 resolution, but without HDCP support you will not be able to watch a Blu-Ray disc.

A video card w/o HDCP cannot display copy protect video.

 

[AKM880]

Thanks, I found a HDCP capable 8400GS PCI. I will give this a try. I heard its capable of 2560x1600 too. Are there any test HD files I can play around with?