HTPC DVD changer

[rabidchicken]

Ok I am looking to buy a 200 or 300 dvd changer for my home theater (maybe 2). Are there any brands that are compatible with PCs so I can organize all the DVDs and access them from a HTPC? Also is there any advice from some experienced HTPC people before I start buying parts for the new computer?
Thanks

[R0CK3TM4NN]

After a quick search, I couldn't find anything on people w/ previous experience w/ building HTPC's. I would also like to know more info on the preferred parts to get before diving into this adventure...

[rabidchicken]

Well from what i understand you dont need a whole lot of power but still a decent rig mostly in the storage dept. From what i have researched, you (we) are going to probably need to look at a 2 ghz cpu 512 ram (minimum) a decent video card AIW 9600 or 9800, and as much HD space as we can cram into the thing. Also, if it is goin to be in the same room as the "theater" we will need to make it as quiet as possible. This will probably best be done through water cooling or passive cooling eg. heatpipes etc.

[cetoole]

Well, I don't know about changers like that, there might be one that you can do an SDI mod to and use a SDI capture card in the comp, using the comp to process it. I havn't kept up with HTPC's lately, so I am not sure what is the current tech. Personally though, I think it would be best (and coolest) to get a huge RAID 5 array to store all your videos on. For control, there are some devices that can be controlled through a serial port, and if not, you can use an IR blaster from the comp to control it like a regular remote. Really, the best place that I know of for HTPC is AVSForum (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=26).

[batboy]

I hesitate to respond to this post, because I really don't know much about HTPC. I did build a simple one a while back, but only know enough to make me dangerous (it's the 3.0C/AI7 rig in my signature). However, you aren't getting much response, so I thought I'd post.

Sony makes a home DVD changer that holds 400 disks for about $400. That might be better than two changers and I've had really good luck with Sony components in the past. I personally don't know of any computer DVD changers, but that don't mean they don't make 'em. On the other hand, you should have no problem running the DVD signal to your computer with the right cables/adapters. Alternatively, if you have big enough storage drives, you can put the DVDs onto harddrives for faster access.

Here is what little I know about building a HTPC. You need a vid card with a TV out like an All-In-Wonder Radeon or better yet, a TV/FM tuner card with remote. I have a Leadtek Winfast TV2000 because a friend had one and because it's cheap. I'm sure there are lots better ones available nowadays.

I recommend at least 1 gig of RAM, preferably dual channel. Intel seems to be very well suited for HTPC rigs. They handle video encoding much better than AMD. Most of the time lately, I run my system at default speed so I can turn down the fan speed with my fan controller to make it quieter.

I use a fast Raptor HDD for the boot drive or you can use a couple regular drives in RAID. Speed is important. Then, you need a ton of storage harddrives. Maybe a couple of 250 gig drives or bigger. If you decide to put the DVDs onto HDD, then you'll need lots bigger drives.

You want a good sound card. There are some awesome high dollar sound cards available, but I went with a simple and inexpensive Chaintech 7.1 AV-710. It sounds great. Of course, you need the surround speakers to go with the system too. I haven't kept up with what's hot in that regard.

Hope this helps a little.