- Joined
- Nov 3, 2008
Having a computer in every room for media playback is great but there are times when the PC itself can be an eyesore or in the way.
If you need to hide the PC and access the functionality here is what you can do.
Find a location for the PC such as a closet or even an adjoining room.
This is a home media server mounted above my incomplete pantry:
The mission is to use it as a playback device as well as a server. To do this requires less than 100 dollars in parts, screwdriver, box cutter, pencil, something to put a round hole in the wall (I just used a screw and wobbled out the hole because I did not want to wake up the kids with a drill) and two drywall anchors of appropriate size for your faceplate mounting screws.
First you must get the components for this:
The pass through
Two HDMI cables (one from PC to pass through and one from pass-through to TV), Wireless keyboard and mouse and a USB extension cable.
Begin by marking
Next cut your hole with your box-cutter; mind the depth as not to cut any wiring (I have customized this home and run the wiring myself so I am aware of wire placement). Disclaimer for my protection and that of Overclockers Fourms: If you are worried about this read no further as I nor Overclockers Forums are liable for your mistakes.
Next install appropriate mounting anchors
Attach plate
Run lead from PC to pass through and hook up wireless keyboard/mouse (I had to run my 2.4 Ghz TX/RX unit for the KB/Mouse in the wall with a 4 foot USB extension to avoid the reflective insulation)
Install TV
A remote power on switch may be needed if your PC is in an inaccessible location such as this unit. If you have any questions feel free to ask.
I suggest using Gold plated connectors for all AV work. It makes absolutely no difference in the quality of digital media but they also will not corrode in a harsh environment. Just saying.
For a wall pass-through from one room to another you will need an additional 3 foot HDMI cable.
Any questions? Feel free to ask and I will help in any way I can.
If you need to hide the PC and access the functionality here is what you can do.
Find a location for the PC such as a closet or even an adjoining room.
This is a home media server mounted above my incomplete pantry:
The mission is to use it as a playback device as well as a server. To do this requires less than 100 dollars in parts, screwdriver, box cutter, pencil, something to put a round hole in the wall (I just used a screw and wobbled out the hole because I did not want to wake up the kids with a drill) and two drywall anchors of appropriate size for your faceplate mounting screws.
First you must get the components for this:
The pass through
Two HDMI cables (one from PC to pass through and one from pass-through to TV), Wireless keyboard and mouse and a USB extension cable.
Begin by marking
Next cut your hole with your box-cutter; mind the depth as not to cut any wiring (I have customized this home and run the wiring myself so I am aware of wire placement). Disclaimer for my protection and that of Overclockers Fourms: If you are worried about this read no further as I nor Overclockers Forums are liable for your mistakes.
Next install appropriate mounting anchors
Attach plate
Run lead from PC to pass through and hook up wireless keyboard/mouse (I had to run my 2.4 Ghz TX/RX unit for the KB/Mouse in the wall with a 4 foot USB extension to avoid the reflective insulation)
Install TV
A remote power on switch may be needed if your PC is in an inaccessible location such as this unit. If you have any questions feel free to ask.
I suggest using Gold plated connectors for all AV work. It makes absolutely no difference in the quality of digital media but they also will not corrode in a harsh environment. Just saying.
For a wall pass-through from one room to another you will need an additional 3 foot HDMI cable.
Any questions? Feel free to ask and I will help in any way I can.