Mac Mini as Media Server?

[Deckyon]

I plan on getting the following in a couple months after I receive my tax returns. I will be using it as an iTunes media server and main iTunes management device.

I have my iTunes data/media on an external network drive hooked up via Ethernet to my Airport Extreme. I am managing the iTunes data/media quite nicely with my MBP with no issues at this time. I have both my iPhone and iPad syncing wirelessly to the MBP.

I have a Samsung 32" HD720 Flat Screen TV with HDMI and DVI inputs. Right now, I have the Apple TV2 hooked up to the TV via HDMI and that is it.

I am also planning on connecting to this machine and controlling it remotely from either my MBP or iPad.

• 2.7GHz Dual-Core Intel Core i7
• 8GB 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM - 2x4GB
• 750GB Serial ATA Drive @ 7200 rpm
• Apple MacBook Air SuperDrive
• Mini DisplayPort to DVI Adapter

The only really lengthy process here will be getting all 400+ movies ripped from DVD to the library.


Since there will be no data on the Mini itself, I have a nice 1TB drive sitting back for Time Machine for it alone.


Is there anyone else doing this, or something like it, that could give me a few things to consider with using the computer like this. My only experience with media servers was an old Windows Media Server which never really worked quite well. Also, how hot do they run? Will it be fine sitting in the cabinet?

[Sponsors]

[sparkyscott21]

Yes, alias I am thinking the identical thing.

My ONLY beef is this:: Source Scroll down to the Mac Mini...

You will see what I mean when I say only beef....

[Deckyon]

Pulled the trigger last night. I should have the machine next Friday (Feb 17).
2.7GHz Dual-Core Intel Core i7
8GB 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM - 2x4GB
500GB Serial ATA Drive
Apple MacBook Air SuperDrive

I opted for the smaller drive because I have a much larger one already in use with all my media on it already. Also, since it comes to HDMI to DVI, I do not have to get an adapter since the TV supports DVI.Now, to figure out the best way of connecting remotely. Since I have LogMeIn Ignition already on my iPad, that is covered. Gonna have to figure out RDP for the Mac. I am assuming it is under "Sharing" in System Preferences.It is going to be so nice having iTunes always up and sharing. Wont ever have to plug my iPhone or iPad in again.

[JezzerP]

Good stuff!! Let us know how it all pans out.

[iVan]

I've got the router up in that wall furniture with a WD My Book World 1 TB hooked to it. There is also an AppleTV2 but it's mainly for content since the mini has an HDMI out that connects straight to the Samsung Led 40". There is also an HD video recorder, a Bluray reader up there and the recent addition of a sound bar between the tv and Mini. The ATV2 is there mostly to listen to music through the optical port of the soundbar...There is also a High quality VCR and a satellite dish receiver hooked to the lot. Needless to say that the Logiteck Harmony Link is useful to control all that stuff through the iPad.
The older Mini has a cd/DVD drive which I preferred over the more recent one and the performance speed is not that noticeable in everyday tasks. There used to be a SlingBox in all the getup but it failed recently.