[mythtv-users] New Computer Advice

[John Goerzen]

On Thu, Jul 15, 2004 at 04:43:35PM -0700, Russ wrote:
> Hi All,
> 
> I have been Trying to learn what I can about MythTV and how to set it 
> up. I am planning on getting a new computer while putting some older 
> computers back in service as dedicated MythTV boxes. I would like some 
> advice though. I will be using this new computer for everything (TV, 
> maybe some gaming)

FWIW, I went through pretty much this exact process a few weeks ago.
I wrote down my experiences on my blog.  You can read the MythTV
articles at:

http://changelog.complete.org/articles/category/technology/software/mythtv/


> Processor:
> I know a 3ghz will more than do the job, but would I see a performance 
> increase with a 3.02/3.04/3.06? Basically, would it be worth the $$ to 
> get the 3.06 or is it just bragging rights?

I'm using an Athlon XP 2200+ (1.8GHz) and it is far more than I need.

> RAM:
> Do you think it is worth the $$ to upgrade to 1gig from 512meg?

No.  I have 256MB and it is more than adequete.

> Video:
> I am going with NVidia since it seems to be the best supported under 
> Linux. Is it worth the $$ to get the FX5700 or will the FX5500 do?

I don't know about those particular cards, but again, if it's
well-supported including Xv, it should be fine.

> For the dedicated boxes I plan on getting 2 PVR 350. Both boxes are 
> 1ghz, 512ram with on-board video and sound. Will that be a problem 
> (these will be hooked to TV's only)?

That's more than you need with a PVR250/PVR350.

-- John