>> My motherboard is getting flaky and it's time for a new one. I have >> an AMD 6000+ CPU, 4GB DDR2/800 RAM, 2TB SATA2 HD, Blu-Ray burner, PCI >> wireless card, 400W power supply, and ATX case. I could replace any >> of these components if it's worthwhile for some new feature, but I may >> as well keep them if it's not. > > How do you know it's the motherboard and not the PSU for instance?
You're right, but I want HDMI and USB 3.0 so I figure I may as well switch the motherboard and then the PSU if the problem doesn't disappear. >> The most important thing is reliability and Linux compatibility but I >> also need HDMI and I figure USB 3.0 is a good idea. The system is for > > HDMI is available on most (all?) modern graphics cards, not sure if > built-ins have them though... USB 3 cards are also available. Yeah, a video card and USB card would cost roughly the same as a new motherboard and the video card would be a new source of heat and/or noise. >> playing music and movies, no gaming whatsoever. If you're familiar > > Sounds like you want a "htpc" setup. I guess. Gentoo has been playing my music, movies, and TV for many years now. I use a wireless keyboard from the couch. Just a normal xfce4 desktop. It's great. >> with the current hardware scene, where would you go from here as far >> as a motherboard and other components? Any features a Gentoo'er >> should look for? > > Decide roughly (Intel/AMD chipsets, features, expansion capabilities > etc.) on what motherboard you want and compare reviews of it... I'm reading that ASUS and Gigabyte are the way to go for reliability. > I know others swear by Nvidia graphics but personally I will not touch > them (not for chipsets either due to lackluster/no open driver linux > support)... it's AMD (formerly ATI) for me (just don't buy the latest, > greatest unless you want to wait for open driver support, even though Yeah I'm a little worried about that with the motherboard. If necessary I can keep limping along with my current motherboard while I wait for drivers for the new one. - Grant > they've seem to have picked up the pace). AMD does have some great > fanless graphics cards, perfect for htpc... > > HTH > > Best regards > > Peter K
