An HTPC is a home theater system integrated with a personal computer, which can be purchased or built. Considerations include screen size and type, sound, security, and placement. The HTPC can play DVDs, access music, and surf the web, offering a wide range of entertainment options.
A home theater PC (HTPC) is a home theater system integrated with your personal computer. These can be purchased from dealers or you can build your own. Building an HTPC gives you a greater degree of choice in the components involved. You can mix and match the outfit to your personal taste, but it can be a time consuming activity.
There are many variables to consider when installing an HTPC in your home. These include the size and type of screen. The choice available these days is huge.
Depending on your budget, you can now choose between plasma, pure flat or LCD screens. They all have varying degrees of resolution and definition. The choices in screen sizes are also huge and can be floor standing or hung on a wall like a painting.
Keep in mind that the screen will not only be used for watching television and movies. Since an HTPC is a fully functional computer, you can also surf the web and play computer games. The HTPC can play DVD movies and you can access music from CDs and downloaded MP3 music. Basically, anything you can see on a computer screen can also be seen on an HTPC television screen.
Sound is also another factor to consider. The more speakers you have strategically placed in the room, the more it will seem like you are in a movie theater. Your computer’s sound card can be used not only for high-quality digital output, but also for recording your own digital inputs. Sounds can be streamed through the sound card from sources such as an MP3 or DVD player. Depending on your budget, you can experience crystal clear digital sound that surrounds you just like in a movie theater.
Another less obvious factor to consider is security. If you’re integrating a personal computer into your home theater, you may want to set up a separate user account. The reason for this is that you may have more than one PC networked together in your home. Your HTPC has the ability to access all your PC data and you may have private information like bank details stored inside. A separate account means you can choose what data can be retrieved via your HTPC.
You should also consider the placement of the HTPC to receive the best acoustics and imaging. Also, you may not want miles of cables around the HTPC area. You can avoid this with new infrared technology or wall-mounted cable access points. Once the HTPC is in place and configured, there are no restrictions on your viewing pleasure. With the amount of choice available through DVD, television and cable access, you may never want to leave your home.
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