Cheapest Card for HTPC

[msbmsb]

I'm a noob and I'm looking for some help.

I have a PC that I'm planning to use exclusively as a HTPC. I don't have HD... I want to output S-Video to my 36" SD television.

I'll be using Windows 7 Media Center.

What are the minimum specs for this type of application? Are the sub-$30 cards up for this task?

 

[OvrClkr]

what are the PC spec's?

 

[msbmsb]

Dual Core Pentium 2.7 GHz
400 W Power Supply
PCIe

(Don't have all the specs here)

 

[OvrClkr]

well with 30 dollars you really can't do much, an old school 7800GT or ATI equivalent should be more than enough but they are hard to find. S-Video is not common on newer cards, now its either DVI or HDMI...

 

[Wolfshadw]

This Sparkle 8400GS should more than cover your needs @ $24.99.

-Wolf sends

 

[msbmsb]

Thanks for the responses!

I'm not doing any gaming, just basic movie watching (xvid mostly) and netflix. I didn't think I needed a powerhouse... thanks for confirming this!

 

[BlueCat57]

It's Cyber Monday and you have a few hours left to find the deals. If you search Newegg scroll down the page looking for more expensive cards with big rebates. Also consider the cost of shipping. You might find a better card with free shipping.

You could try a local computer repair shop for a card with S-video. I found AGP card for $20.

You may want to consider the noise the card makes if that is an issue for you. Look for a passively cooled card and/or ones that don't need a separate power connection. Those should be quieter.

 

[BlueCat57]

Or you could just go with this one if it works for you. $14.99 after rebate and free shipping.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814131119

 

[msbmsb]

Because this is for an HTPC, I was thinking of something without a fan.

First, do you think that's smart and if so, what do you think about these cards:

ASUS EN8400GS GeForce 8400GS 512MB - $24.99

ECS N8400GS2C-256DZ-H GeForce 8400 GS 256MB - $22.99

 

[Wolfshadw]

Since you're not going to be stressing the card at all, you should be fine with a fanless card. Either of those two will be fine.

-Wolf sends