[mythtv-users] Which CPU/mobo for < $100?

[Chad Vogelsong]

I would go with the Athlon XP 1700 to just save money.  That spec (with
enough RAM >= 256 MB) will have no problem doing capture / playback of
whatever you want at full resolution.

Also, I would stick to the Athlon XP's as the original Athlon's had some
heat problems.  Basically, they run really hot with no thermal
management.  If your cooling system is underpowered or it fails,
good-bye CPU.  Although underclocking it may help.

If you can afford it, go with the XP 2400.  I just got the XP 2200 and
use the spare CPU cycles to run RC5-72 code cracking from
www.distributed.net .  Can't let those cycles go to waste, right?

Chad



> -----Original Message-----
> From: Ben Curtis [mailto:fmstratk at coronium.com] 
> Sent: Wednesday, October 08, 2003 1:12 PM
> To: mythtv-users at mythtv.org
> Subject: [mythtv-users] Which CPU/mobo for < $100?
> 
> 
> 
> This will be a MythTV box, as well as replace my old linux 
> box (P2 266) that runs my lowly website and some other nick 
> nacks.  I've got a PVR-250, so capture CPU is no big deal, 
> and a FX5200, so MPEG2 playback should be good.  I want the 
> machine to be able to capture and view (or watch DIVX,
> etc) at full res (720x480) with no hickups and still be able 
> to run my other background stuff.  Unfortunatly, I just 
> toasted my P3 650 chip, so I'm in the market.
> 
> So far I'm looking at (prices are per pricewatch):
> Athlon XP 2400 $98
> Celeron 2.0 ghz (not VIA chipset) $98
> Athlon XP 1700 $67 (hey, if its all I need, price is right)
> 
> Also, is it better to go with an Athlon XP in linux or a 
> Duron or plain Athlon of equal price?
> 
> 
> Thanks a ton,
> Ben
> 
> 
>