Building the HTPC

• 1). Install the processor and memory on the motherboard. Install the heat sink on the processor and make sure that it is secure.
  
  
• 2). Open the case and install the power supply. Choosing a HTPC case can also make the computer blend with your other TV equipment better. Install the motherboard back plate and secure the motherboard inside the case. If you want to use a TV tuner and a sound card, install them now.
  
  
• 3). Install a video card. The video card must be able to play HDCP (high definition content protection) from a blue ray drive.
  
  
• 4). Install the hard drive and a blue ray drive. Secure them with the screws included in your case or with the latches if your case is screwless. Plug the HTPC to the TV using HDMI and boot the computer. The hard drive needs to be large because recording TV takes up a significant amount of space and you need a tuner to watch and record TV.
  
  
• 5). Check to be sure the fans are spinning and that all the RAM is detected by the system. Close the case and insert the Windows Vista DVD in the drive.
  
  

Media Center

• 1). Boot the computer and press any key when you see the "press any key to boot from the CD" message. Vista will start copying files before asking where you want to install the operating system. Choose the hard drive you want to install Vista on and press "enter." Vista will guide you during the installation process.
  
  
• 2). Launch the Windows Vista Media Center and follow the step by step guide. Media Center will guide you and you will be able to configure the TV channels and TV guide based on your location as well as video, audio and picture folders.
  
  
• 3). Go online to thegreenbutton.com/forums/t/4259.aspx to check for any plug-ins that would make your life easier. You can have a plug-in such as "my movies" for movie management and "my weather" for weather information.