using a 2007 mac mini as an HTPC

[jrm27]

Hi all,

I've got an old Mac Mini (2007) that I'd like to setup to run Plex as an HTPC. What kind of cables would I need? It's only got the DVI connector on the back and my TV has HDMI inputs. Also, how woudl I run sound to the TV? Any input would be most appreciated!

-jon

 

[maturola]

You can use something like this to connect the Video

http://www.amazon.com/DVI-HDMI-Cable-6ft-Male-Male/dp/B0002CZHN6

and something like this for the audio (stereo Only, since i don't think that mac mini had any digital audio out)

http://www.amazon.com/Belkin-Audio-Cable-Splitter-1-Mini/dp/B00004Z5CP

You could, try to add a USB sound card for some audio, but that will get complicated. (something like this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16829118007)

 

[AdrianK]

+1 for DVI to HDMI and 3.5mm to RCA. No need for anything else.

 

[DustinT]

+1 for DVI to HDMI and 3.5mm to RCA. No need for anything else.

Yup.. Simple, easy and inexpensive. Plus, it'll work and sound great.

 

[blevins321]

+1 to above posters. However, if your TV is like mine, you can't have the audio coming from another source if you're using HDMI video. I have the 2009 mini with mini-displayport, but HERE is an adapter that would work for you that combines the DVI video and R/L stereo audio into a single HDMI connection. Bit more expensive, but Monoprice rules.

 

[theusualsuspect]

I use a 2007 mini for plex, and it's great. BTW, you do have optical out if you want surround sound, you just need a mini-toslink to optical adapter.

 

[chunker]

Not sure if it's been mentioned, but I also recommend getting a bluetooth keyboard and magic trackpad.

 

[jrm27]

thanks all! That HDMI/Audio combiner looks pretty slick!

Here's my second question. We don't have internet at our house. Could I set up PLEX using my buddy's internet connection at his house, have it scan my library, then unhook my mini from the internet and have all the info show up at my house when I'm offline?

-jon

 

[maturola]

Sure, you can download and install all you need at your friends house, one everything is setup, bring it to your house, connect it to the TV and you should be able to watch all the content on local in your machine.

 

[Carlanga]

Don't know about Plex, but in my old laptop that had Win XP I'm running Jolicloud for my HTPC and loving it, don't know if it supports mac minis though.