[ericwass]

So, as many of you homeowners know, most of your time is spent in the kitchen or around the kitchen table... It's where I put my keys, check my voicemail, go thru my mail, and, um, cook... I mean, order in Chinese.

So, it's time for a TV. But I thought it'd be smart to integrate a Mac in there too. Something that could use PhoneValet or Phlink to take over voicemail duty and (eventually) run some X10 units through Indigo or something. Also a place where I'd charge and sync my iPod and keep my main iTunes library for playing on the Airport Express units scattered throughout the house.

So, a MacMini tucked away in a cabinet connected to a small (15") or so LCD on a swivel arm seems like a natural solution. El Gato's EyeTV seems like a good way to use it as a basic DVR and also pipe live TV through it. Also, a way to put recorded programs on my iPod. I'm not imagining this as a HTPC, just something functional for the kitchen.

My question is: does this seem workable? Am I on to something here or is this a hopelessly idealistic solution? Can the MacMini function reliably as a basic TV / DVR? I've heard and read differing opinions.

I know this has been touched on in various ways in these forums and I did search before posting. It's just that the emphasis seems to be on using at as an HTPC which is not what I'm after. Anyway, thoughts, opinions, musings would be much appreciated.

Thanks.

[EFFENDI]

I just ordered a 1.66 GHz Mini which will be replacing my Windows XP machine. I will use it as a media center, transporting it between my living room and bedroom. I will probably ditch my HDTV cable box, once cablecard interfaces are more widely available for the Mac.

I think the Mini's formfactor is perfect for quick and dirty hookups. I intent to pick up the Logitech S530 cordless mouse and keyboard to accompany the mini, giving me again, more portability. Some might think that I would be better off getting a laptop, but with the mini I am not forced to lug around a 25+ pound PC, nor am I limited to the screensize of my laptop display. Additionally, the Mini is cheap, and it performs well enough to do everything I need it to do.

(And as a bonus we all just found out about today, now I can run XP, and even PC games on it!!)

I see the Mini as a very portable desktop system, that can be dragged from display to display. I don't know if other people have considered this functionality or not. For what I want to do, it is a very practical and affordable solution.