Ultra Budget HTPC: (Last updated : February 3, 2012)

Hardware Component Price
APU AMD A4-3300 $64.99 check price
Motherboard BIOSTAR A75MH $69.99 check price
Memory G.SKILL Sniper 8GB DDR3 1600
$49.99 check price
TV Tuner Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250
$127.99 check price
SSD OCZ Octane OCT1-25SAT3-256G 256GB $319.99 check price
Optical Drive ASUS BC-12B1ST Internal Blu-ray Drive $57.99 check price
Case & PSU IN WIN BK644.BN300TBL with 300W PSU $60.99 check price
Keyboard & Mouse Logitech Wireless Combo MK260 $24.99 check price

 

 

 

Component Info and Reviews :

AMD A4-3300

AMD’s Accelerated Processing Units (APU) combine a multi-core CPU and discrete-level GPU on a single power-efficient chip enabling vivid HD entertainment, blazing-fast Internet browsing and accelerated media applications.

With desktop PCs based on VISION Technology you can enjoy rich, smooth performance in a quiet-running, energy-efficient system. Experience smooth, skip-free HD playback and discover impressive speed and performance in everyday applications.

Get near HD-quality from standard DVDs, play casual games and convert video files to mobile devices easily with the innovative AMD Dual-Core A4 Series Accelerated Processor.

 

BIOSTAR A75MH

Socket FM1
Supports AMD A-series/ E2-series processor
AMD A75 Chipset
Supported SATA3 6Gb/s
AMD Dual Graphics Technology
Supported USB 3.0

 

G.SKILL Sniper Low Voltage Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-8GBSR2

This G.SKILL Sniper Low Voltage Series 8GB DDR3 1600 memory kit operates at 9-9-9-24 timings and 1.25V.

 

Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250 Media Center Kit Dual TV Tuner

This dual tuner card from Hauppauge lets you watch and record two different TV channels, and it doesn't matter if they're digital or analog. It's also an FM tuner, so you can receive your favorite FM stations. ATSC, NTSC and ClearQAM (that is, unencrypted QAM). It comes with a remote control and two IR blasters to control set top boxes.

Reviews : JusTech'n, Gaming Nexus

 

OCZ Octane OCT1-25SAT3-256G 2.5" 256GB SATA III 2Xnm Synchronous Mode Multi-Level Cell (MLC) Internal Solid State Drive (SSD)

Combining high-speed data transfer rates with record-breaking access times, OCZ Octane SSDs are designed to provide a superior user experience and improved application performance. Octane leverages the cutting-edge Indilinx Everest platform and is optimized for the complete spectrum of file types and sizes, with proprietary page mapping algorithms mirroring real world conditions across a wide range of applications.

The Octane series also includes advanced features unique to Indilinx, including latency reduction technology to enhance system responsiveness and enable instant-on boot-ups, and proprietary NDurance™ technology to increase the lifespan of the NAND flash memory and minimize performance degradation. In addition, Octane drives support AES and automatic encryption to secure critical data, bringing unique enterprise features within the reach of enthusiasts. Octane SSDs also deliver the energy efficiency, durability, and reliability that traditional hard drives cannot provide. Octane Series come backed by a 3-Year warranty.

 

ASUS BC-12B1ST Internal Blu-ray Drive

ASUS BC-12B1ST is a powerful and energy-saving Blu-ray Disc drive capable of reading from 12X BD format and writing to 16X DVD±R format. With OTS strategy, it assures the best burning quality. The BC-12B1ST supports Blu-ray 3D entertainment, creating a fantastic 3D world for users. Furthermore, the BC-12B1ST is designed with E-Green engine which auto-closes drive applications when not in use, saving power to decrease ultimate CO2 emissions.

Reviews: Hi Tech Legion

 

IN WIN BK644.BN300TBL Black 0.6mm SECC Japanese ECO Steel MicroATX Mini Tower Computer Case with 300W Power Supply

- 3rd Generation of Partition Plate Cooling Technology (PPCT)

- PPCT is the world's first advanced thermal and acoustic cooling technology, which provides S.F.F. chassis with excellent thermal solutions while creating a quieter computing experience. The 3rd generation of PPCT includes an adjustable air duct for various CPU fans and efficiently eliminates overheat while enhances airflow of entire system.

- No second fan needed.

- Adjustable Partition Plate Cooling Tech accommodates different motherboards and provides the optimal thermal performance.

- Detachable 5.25” optical drive bracket for easy installation.

- Designed to fit standard Micro ATX motherboards for easy system integration.

- Designed for Digital Home and Digital Office. Supports 4 x full height slots for GFX / TV tuner cards.

- Optional removable air filter.

- ptional screwless designs-ODD / FDD / HDD bays and top cover clips for easy installation.

- Meets RoHS, CE and FCC Class B requirements

 

Logitech Wireless Combo MK260

With Logitech Advanced 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, months of battery life and eight hot keys, this compact keyboard-and-mouse combo gives you wireless convenience with the reliability of a cord.

 

 

Logitech Wireless Combo MK260
AMD A4-3300
BIOSTAR A75MH
G.SKILL Sniper Low Voltage Series
OCZ Octane OCT1-25SAT3-256G
ASUS BC-12B1ST
Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250
IN WIN BK644.BN300TBL