Media Server Build


  1. Posts : 4
    Windows
       #1

    Media Server Build


    Having lurked on this forum and others for quite a while, and not having exactly found the answers I need, I thought I'd throw my head into the fire and ask for some advice.

    Here is what I want to achieve :
    Central media server in cupboard to serve all rooms running WHS or W7
    At moment will be buying 3 dlna tvs, bit in future may use htpcs to control content
    Server will hold ripped DVDs, mp3s, and record and store tv(fta and cable)
    Also will serve as a printer server and connect to a router with voip capabilities (plan on naked dsl)
    My brother works in IT and suggests rack mount as much as possible, but I'm guessing this will be more expensive and perhaps overkill. Am open to suggestions though.
    So I'm going to need to buy a fair bit of stuff for the beast, including but not limited to :
    Case
    Gigabit switch
    Patch panel
    Voip router
    Hdds
    Mobo
    2-4 tv cards

    Etc

    Any recommendation on suitable parts for the above greatly appreciated. Also any rack mounted suggestions welcome. Cheers
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 27
    Windows 7 Ultimate x64
       #2

    I'm not sure how much help this will be but I have built a similar, if more modest system which comprises:

    Media Server / Desktop - HP XW6400 Workstation (see my system spec)
    Shuttle PC
    Netbook
    Netgear ReadyNAS Duo (only 1Tb but easily expandable)
    Netgear Digital Entertainer HD EVA8000
    Sony 52" Plasma HD
    Netgear DGN2000 Router/modem
    Wireless Canon Multifunction printer (networked)

    Presently I keep all media files on the ReadyNAS and use WMP12 or WMC to view on the PCs. The EVA streams all the HD movies to the TV and also uses its own os to view photos etc. I initially tried the EVA on a wireless connection but soon realised I needed a CAT5 cable to avoid too much buffering.

    One of the advantages of the ReadyNAS is that you don't need to have the server running as it sits on the network independently - I have all of my work files on there too (I'm a graphic designer so they're usually quite large)
    Last edited by RazMan; 19 Jan 2010 at 15:05.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 972
    Windows 7 Ultimate x64
       #3

    My Setup


    My Server:
    Hp Pavilion p6140f

    My Printers: both networked
    HP Officejet 6500
    - Faxes, color printing, scanning
    Brother HL-2170w
    - Laserjet for black print only (everyday printing)

    My Router:
    DGL-4300

    Switches:
    10/100/1000 Linksys Switches x2

    External Hard Drives:
    1 T (Media)
    320 (Computer Backup)

    I have everything Shared when it comes to my music and videos.
    I use iTunes for my media sharing.
    Then I have direct media directory sharing for my videos.

    I also have IIS enabled on there too so I can access my media directory from anywhere in the world.

    I also have vonage connected too.

    The photo with the TV:
    That is what I have in my room. I have everything to control the server.
    Everything is Hardwired as well Except my mini laptop.
    Attached Thumbnails Attached Thumbnails Media Server Build-bottomrack.jpg   Media Server Build-myroom.jpg   Media Server Build-networklaser.jpg   Media Server Build-switches.jpg   Media Server Build-toprack.jpg  

      My Computer


  4. Posts : 4
    Windows
    Thread Starter
       #4

    Thanks so much guys. Looks like you've both done great jobs, shows there is more than one way to skin a cat
      My Computer


 

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