Graphics Card Choice for Linux HTPC

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SpoonTech

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Hi,

I realise their is a thread for the HP Microserver, however after wading through 23 pages and a few searches I didn't manage to find exactly what I was looking for.

I have an HP N40L Microserver and was planning on using the built in graphics, until I noticed the lack of a sound card.
I am now looking for a graphics card for the device.

OS: Ubuntu 12.04 (would also like to switch to Linux Mint / Open Elec at any time.)

I am going to go with an Nvidia Card, but there are so many types and brands I'm not sure what to go with.
I am going to choose between these models:
NVidia GT210
NVidia GT520
NVidia GT610

I have looked at Asus, Gigabyte and Point of View cards. It is obviously imperative that the card fits in the machine, and includes the low profile bracket. I'd like to spend less than R400 if possible but can stretch to R500 if the functionality will be better.

I want to be able to play Full HD MKV, x264, XviD etc. without any problems, overheating or otherwise.
A silent card would be nice if the heatsink can fit in the chassis. I also do not want to upgrade the power supply.

Please only comment on this thread if you own an N40L, use an Nvidia Card (one of the models above or similar), and have tested large MKV's in Ubuntu (pref 12.04) / Linux Mint
 
I think the GT520 will be fine, many people seem to use them in these boxes.
 
GT610 is apprently the new GT520. I heard most of the Asus cards don't fit.
 
I've got a Gigabyte GT620 LP in my N40L; fits very nicely, runs super quiet and plays everything with no problem on full HD - very pleased with it. This is with Openelec 2.0.
 
Sparky_za said:
Would this card fit? I find conflicting statements on the net

http://www.esquire-shop.co.za/ProductDescription.aspx?id=1674043
Click to expand...

From the links above it does seen that it comes with a low profile bracket. "includes extra Low-profile kit" you most likely will lose the VGA port though.


There is a review here that stats the following:
This tiny little card comes with a low-profile bracket with which you can install it in tiny HTPC cases.
Click to expand...

http://tech2.in.com/features/graphics-cards/10-graphics-cards-for-under-rs-10000/422702
 
Looks like it has a fan ? If your HTPC is going to be in the same room as the display then avoid fans like a plague.
 
Contacted Esquire to order, and the sales person told me neither the 610 or 620 will fit??
 
biena said:
Looks like it has a fan ? If your HTPC is going to be in the same room as the display then avoid fans like a plague.
Click to expand...

Not worried about the fan, the server will be in the spare room. Thanks for the heads up through if I ever do move it.
 
I have the GT210 installed currently and it works perfectly - even play Full 3D BluRay rips without a problem.
 
Also been reading up on the GT210 now, and it seems it only supports stereo sound via the HDMI port?

Going to pick up an HP Microserver in an hour, and would like to get a graphics card at the same time, so are there no cards that support 5.1 or 7.1 out via HDMI? I have been reading the HP Microserver thread; but lets face it, it's huge! lol... some good info though on setups.
 
Sparky_za said:
Also been reading up on the GT210 now, and it seems it only supports stereo sound via the HDMI port?

Going to pick up an HP Microserver in an hour, and would like to get a graphics card at the same time, so are there no cards that support 5.1 or 7.1 out via HDMI? I have been reading the HP Microserver thread; but lets face it, it's huge! lol... some good info though on setups.
Click to expand...

HDMI should support 7.1 digital surround sound. Which ever card you get just make sure it comes with a low profile bracket.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HDMI#Version_1.0_to_1.2
 
Last edited:
Sparky_za said:
Oh right, that might be what I saw when reading... Esquire don't have stock of the GT610 card, only the GT620, but this is the one that I cannot confirm if it will fit. Maybe I should just buy it and check.

http://www.esquire-shop.co.za/ProductDescription.aspx?id=1674043
Click to expand...

Phone them and confirm. It does however say: "Extra Low-Profile kit" and "low profile brackets bundled for fast setup!" and "- Low Profile Bracket Bundled: Yes ( 1 slots x 2 )"

So if you install the low profile bracket you will lose the VGA port. It's much better to go for the GT620 than the GT210 since the GT620 has a much newer HDMI port on it that has much more capabilities.
 
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