what is the Cheapest way to make a client

[IKK]

What is the cheapest way to make a good quiet client for the home. This is my list of have to haves.

Small
quiet
remote(already have a usbuirt)
able to connect cat5 or wireless
Connect directly to TV
serial for connecting Directv
Internet compatible

I was also wondering if there is any look into the future of Sage building say, there own backend OS to run Sage client. Or is there a stream line OS out there that works well. It seems to me buying coppies of Windows could get expensive.

[dkardatzke]

You could purchase the MediaMVP from Hauppauge when it gets released. This would give you a thin client for $100. But you would be using their interface to access files recorded by SageTV.

Otherwise you are looking at an EPIA or something along those lines.

[IKK]

I was thinking of that. But I really like the Sage interface in comparison with the MedidaMVP. I would buy one now knowing in the future, Sage would work as the interface.

[David Lawrance]

I have a Prismiq media player that works respectfully. Like other things, anxiously awaiting the next software update for that, too.

[IVB]

The cheapest is to get used or low-end parts off eBay and build it - I'm using spare parts I have from accidentally buying wrong things, and just put in a bid on an Asus mb on eBay. I'll probably have the whole thing for $200, and it'll be a real pc to boot so it's expandable:
- Asus mb: $50
- 1.3GHz AMD: $40
- 128MB RAM: $45
- 15GB hard disk just for windows: $10
- ugly case, ps, fan: $50

network, video, usb built onto MB.

no real need for monitor, kb, or mouse as I'll just borrow that from my other PC until this works, then pull it. If I get totally desperate, my office has dozens of old mice that people hate cuz they're totally dirty and don't move worth a crap, but for the 1/month use, that's fine by me.

[olyar15]

As for the OS, have you tried Win98Lite?

[sticky]

several of the hardware reviews sites have forsale/trade forums. for example www.hardforum.com is a forum site of hardocp.com. I picked up a duron 1.3 plus mobo for 50 dollars. 512 of ram for 30, 20 gig hd for 30 and you could pick up any card with svideo for another 40 probably (a gf2mx with svid would fit the bill perfectly). and a case and your in business.