[SurroundSound] Re: Advice on HTPC

I would think that a fast processor, 4GB of RAM, and a fairly speedy
hard disc (5400 RPM or better) with a decent on-board cache would fit
the bill for all of your hi-def streaming needs. The key is to having
a fast enough supply (fast hard disc) backed by a decent on-board RAM
cache (8 MB or better) and a fast CPU (Athlon 64 should be MORE than
adequate) with 4GB of RAM. I would think this setup should provide
stutter-free playback of all of the hi-def audio/video formats via
HDMI.

Just be sure to limt, as much as possible, all of the little bullshit
background processes that the software developers seem to want us to
run all the time. Limit your background software to the essentials:
anti-virus/anti-malware and any disc protetcion stuff. Go into
Windows Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and the click on the Processes
tab. Be sure the "Show processes from all users" checkbox is ticked.
Then, sort the list by Memory usage (descending) by clicking on the
header for that column. Loook for non-essential processes that are
stealing RAM - SQL Reporting Services comes to mind, SQL Server also.
Unless you are running an app that absolutely NEEDS these process, you
can safely end them, thereby freeing up signifcant chunks of memory.
Select the row of the offending Process and right-clcik on it. Then
choose "End Process". That's it.

You might consider doing this at startup one day and go about using
your PC as you normally do. If none of your software complains or
fails, you can probably safely remove these Processes/Programs from
your Startup routine, thereby freeing up that RAM all the time. Your
PC will startup and shutdown faster, and it will run faster throughout
the day. If you find that something you NEED to run will not unless
one of these Processes is engaged, then simply make sure it is in your
Startup routine and you're good to go. It is a trial and error-based
method, but it can lead to significant performance improvement if
you'll take the time to do it...

Contact me privately if you want to discuss this in more detail...

Best Wishes,

-RW-

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