Need high quality GPU for HTPC-length is the issue

W

wag 42

New Member
Since I joined this forum, I have really been bitten by the desire to build my own PC. The more research I have done has pushed my decision from building a PC towards building a home theater PC.

I want to use top quality components. I know people base component selection on what programs they will be running, what games will be played, etc. I can’t answer this, but I can say that I do not want to limit my options.

So, here is my dilemma. The case I plan on purchasing is an Origen ae S16V (black). Here is a link: http://www.origenae.com/en/htpc_s16v.htm. This case is the one I am going with, so I am not looking for alternatives.

Based on the specs, it can handle a GPU that is up to 245mm (9.645”) long. Height doesn’t seem to be an issue. Link to the specs: http://www.origenae.com/board/bbs/board.php?bo_table=e_faq&wr_id=30. I plan on using all hard drive bays, so not using HDD3 (on spec sheet) is not an option.

I would rather go with an ATI card (from what I can tell, they are awesome). I’d love to go with an ATI 5850 (some are 9.500” long). The biggest issue is the location of the power connectors-they are on the end.

So, that being said, I think my options are to go either with a 5770, or go with the new GTX470 (9.500” long, but power connectors are on top). From what I have read, I am concerned about how hot 470 runs. HDMI is a must.

So, unless I am missing something, it’s either a 5770 or a 470. I know the 470 hands down is a better card, but is it that much better? The last thing I want to do is purchase a bunch of great components, only to be limited by a 5770.

I really value all of your opinions. To be honest, when it comes to this, I am very inexperienced. I’d love to hear some suggestions or recommendations.

Thanks to all…
 
I bought a low profile ATI video card with HDMI out and runs full 1080P @ 120hz to my TV. You don't need a powerful video card for high def video play back. I spent $45 on my card.
 
Thanks bud. Yeah, I know, I really don't need a high powered one, but I want one for online games as well (my son plays many, and I may as well). I really want a solid-well rounded set-up.
 
Then I suggest you use a stand up mid tower for your HTPC and not one of the receiver type cases, as I do not think they cool sufficient enough for higher end hardware (or heat generating hardware). You also want some fans with no LEDs and that have a very low sound rating at a very low decibel. Nothing is more annoying than trying to watch a movie with the lights off and the LEDs shining really bright.

High speed fans that operate at low decibels are expensive. Finding them with no LEDs is also hard.

If you are going to put higher end hardware in the case, you will need a good PSU and the more power it uses the more heat it will generate. This is where you will need to balance out power and sound, as a loud HTPC is not really desired.

So you got lots of reading to do if you want to balance out the best HTPC with gaming abilities and keep it quiet and cool. Unless you wanted to go with some sort of liquid cooling?
 
That was one reason I selected that case. It has excellent cooling and quiet fans. It's also on the expensive side, and the build quality is exceptional.
 
For a HTPC all you need is something like a HD 5450,or something like a 4650,Low profile....fanless,low power usage and should be able to do a
HTPC just fine!
 
Nevakonaza said:
For a HTPC all you need is something like a HD 5450,or something like a 4650,Low profile....fanless and should be able to do a
HTPC just fine!
Click to expand...

He wants to game on it too though, that is the problem. I have a low profile ATI 4x series 512mb video card with HDMI out and it works awesome, but my HTPC is strictly for music and video, and some web stuff. I don't game on it.
 
Those cases are not designed for full blown gaming rigs. Plus, if you get the most power components and somehow manage to fit them in the case, it's going to be one loud HTPC, probably loud enough so you can hear it while watching TV.
 
I'm not looking for a full blown gaming rig-I want to have the option of playing games from time to time. The case is quite large (6.9" x 15.4" x 17.1"). An Antec 900 is 8.1" x 18.4" x 19.4", so it's pretty good sized.

I think maybe the GTX470 may be a bit overkill. The 5770 will fit with ease, so that may be the way to go.
 
wag 42 said:
I'm not looking for a full blown gaming rig-I want to have the option of playing games from time to time. The case is quite large (6.9" x 15.4" x 17.1"). An Antec 900 is 8.1" x 18.4" x 19.4", so it's pretty good sized.

I think maybe the GTX470 may be a bit overkill. The 5770 will fit with ease, so that may be the way to go.
Click to expand...

Yeah that's a good choice. The 5 series uses respectively less power so it should fit the build better.
 
Hey guys, thanks alot for the input-I really appreciate it.

My home PC has a 9800GT, and my son thinks it's awesome. From the look of things, going with a 5770 or 5750 is a big step up.

Thanks again!!!
 
Got the 5770 and it is great. It sounds perfect for what you need.

Make sure you get something with a great cooler, or consider installing a 3rd party one to keep that quiet. Its not a hot card, nor power hungry, but is very good.

I would also consider looking around for any large memory versions (+1GB) as this will help with higher resolutions.
 
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