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build your own PVR
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
  Computer Shopper: Media Center DIY Edition
Computer Shopper: Media Center DIY Edition


"You don't have to settle for a preconfigured PC to enjoy the benefits of the latest Media Center Edition OS. Here's how to custom-build your own rig.
By Nancy A. Feldman & Aaron Newton
July, 2005

When Microsoft released its Windows XP Media Center Edition (MCE) operating system, it made it clear the only way to get the OS was with a new PC. Through a loophole in its agreement, however, sellers who are considered PC builders, such as Newegg.com, can offer the latest version of the OS to end users as long as they buy it with a piece of hardware—even if it's just a $10 cable.

This is great news for do-it-yourselfers who desire MCE's pleasing interface and control over all their digital media in a PC built to their exact specifications. If you're one of them, this project's for you. Component by component, we tell you exactly what you need to build an MCE PC. You may not pay much less than if you had configured a system online or bought one from a local retailer, but often the one with the components you want is too ugly for the living room. Or, perhaps, the one with the sweet A/V-style case just doesn't have enough storage capacity, or it requires add-ons such as dual TV-tuner cards or even a remote.

By building your own, you can leave out things you don't want or need, such as a high-end CPU, and redirect those costs to the stuff you crave, like an elegant case. That's what we did, and we couldn't be happier. We built an impressive system with a beautiful case and an enormous hard drive for well under $1,500. (For those on a tighter budget, we suggest an alternate configuration for less than $800; see the table "Sample Media Center Configurations.") "
 
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