Get Free TV Programming. HTPC Home Theater PC

It is easy and affordable to have a complete Home Thater Entertainment System that will allow you to get free TV programs and Movies from the internet. All you need is an HTPC and a high-speed internet connection. A HTPC is basically a computer that will play DVDs, download streaming content off the net, make backup copies of your DVds, play music, view photos, network and share with other computers in your home. You will be able to connect your HTPC to your TV, HD TV or a theater projection system and listen on theater sound system. You can build your own system for only $300.

You will need the following components for your HTPC:

1. Case - you can get a Micro-ATX case for $60-70.

2. Motherboard - CPU combo - You can get a Core2 combo for $120. Get a Motherboard with DVI out for HD TV playback or use VGA connector for projector or monitor display.

3. Memory - $25

4. Hard Drive - $50

5. DVD Burner - $25

6. Video Card - $40 If you are a gamer, then an add-on card will give you extra video rendering power for 3D games.

You do not want a big power supply or a bunch of Hard Drives on your HTPC, that will necessitate cooling fans which will make noise. You want your HTPC quiet and energy efficient.

Once you have assembled your system, it is time to install your operating system. I recommend Ubuntu Linux. It is a fast, stable and free OS that is perfect for an HTPC.

You will want to optimize your OS for HTPC duty by making the fonts larger in the OS and the browser. You can easily do this by going into the settings and adjusting the fonts to a larger size. A larger mouse cursor will make it easier to see the mouse from several feet away.

A wireless keyboard and a wireless mouse will finish your system off. I suggest a keyboard with media controls for volume, fast forward and play for movies. A presentation mouse with programmable buttons will serve as a remote.

Please stay tuned for our next pages on optimizing and setting up your HTPC.

There are complete videos online at the link below showing how to assemble your HTPC.You can also find links for individual components for your system.