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I would like to setup XBMC on spare Optiplex 755 tower using windows. I am looking for a video card that can handle hd content smoothly with XBMC and has component out for an older TV. Here are the specs below.
Processor: 2.33GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
Memory: 4GB DDR2
Hard drive: 250GB
Optical drive: CD-RW/DVD
Graphics: Integrated Intel Media Accelerator 3100
Audio: ADI 1984 High Definition Audio
Networking: Intel 82566DM Gigabit LAN
Ports: 8 x USB 2.0, 1 x VGA, 1 x parallel, 1 x serial, 3.5mm audio line-in, 3.5mm audio line-out
Number of bays: 1 x 3.5-inch internal, 2 x 3.5-inch External, 2 x 5.25-inch
Slots: 1 x PCIeX1 (Full Height), 2 x PCI (Full Height), 1 x PCIe X16 (Full Height)
Power supply: 305W
Model: OptiPlex 755 Minitower
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negge
yo guysv7may bd latr tomorroe
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Nvidia GT610, don't bother with anything else.
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I have a 755 SFF (small form factor) with 4GB ram and I bought a HIS 5450 card for $19 onsale. It works powering my 65" Panny and my 3000 projector. Hasn't hiccupped on anything and the price was perfect.
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Hi i have a lot of experience with this model - I put together a number of these Optiplex 755 as HTPC - only the desktop shape. (Which looks like a fat VCR under the TV!)
I've used AMD/ATI 5450 in all cases (also ATI 6750) and they've been fine. (Only Low profile brackets fit desktop model)
The reason for the 5450 is for better hardware acceleration and to get sound and video out over one HDMI cable. (and to control volume via TV remote)
In your case, you may want to buy a VGA to component cable. This means you'll have to control the speakers manually or search for a IR model (which can be expensive)
Couple of things of note:
- Update the BIOS to be able to put 2.66GHZ (and above) Core 2 Duo in. I like the Intel E7400 they can be had for less than $20 on ebay and really load up quicker than the 1.8GHz all of mine came with.
- 4 Gig DDR 2 is a sweet spot for Windows 7, however I had issues with Sapphire models of 5450 as they "share RAM". The workaround was to reduce system RAM to 2 GB, install card and drivers, and then re-install 2GB (for total of 4GB)
- Consider a Logitech Harmony remote so you can control the the TV and and computer (you'll need an RC-6 capable USB IR receiver). In my loungeroom I have a set of Logitech Z-5500 as the 5.1 speakers which can be controlled by IR, therefore by the Harmony as well. 1 remote for "3 devices".
- As you have a full tower , consider a decent video card to use for gaming. If you stick to the INtel video card, you still should be able to run NES, SNES, Mega Drive emulators etc. The reason for 5450 is they are passive cooled (less noise-no fan)