Hardware

The key components of the Media Center PC are the following:

TV Tuner

The key component of the Media Center is a tuner, which allows it to receive analog and digital TV broadcasting. There is a set of products available on the market which can tune into the HDTV broadcasting as well. Often these devices include also the FM/AM tuner component as well.

Video Card

Another key part is a high-end video card (graphics card), which is capable to output the video signal in digital DVI format. Most flat screen TVs have DVI input which allows transfer of the video signal without any picture quality loss.

Audio Card

Audio card with 5.1 or 7.1 channel capability and digital SPDIF output capability is another must. These cards allow the Media Center to output sound signal in a digital format to the audio amplifier, again without any signal quality loss.

Remote

Remote control is an integral component of the Media Center, letting users to navigate through the media software menu from the couch.

DVD Drive

A typical Media Center will have a DVD/CD read and write capability.

Card Reader

Many Media Center PCs are equipped with a media card reader to import digital files from a digital camera or camcorder.

Network Card

Media Center PC has to be able to connect to the Network primarily to gain access to the Internet. In some cases Network Storage is also a good option when the storage space requirements come close to 1 TB.

While building a Media Center you will typically be looking for a nice design, silent operation, adequate CPU processing capability, sound quality, required interfaces, etc. You will have to carefully review almost every component to evaluate its suitability on design, noise, heat emission, ease of use, compatibility and other aspects.