Parts Database

scott_mckenzie · **24th August 2008, 10:16 AM**

Hi,

One thing I've found that makes things difficult when looking to build a HTPC is the huge range of choice! Because there are so many parts with so many different features, even on looking on company websites is difficult.

Maybe I'm thinking pie-in-the-sky, but it would be great if there was a part finder application. Eg. for a case you ahve the following options to select:
MB TYPE - ATX/Micro ATX
Volume knob: tickbox
LCD Screen: tickbox
External 5.25 drives: 0/1/2+
Internal 5.25 drives: 0/1/2+
External 3.5 drives: 0/1/2+
Internal 3.5 drives: 0/1/2+
Shape: CUBE/Desktop/Tower

Then you click search and it comes back with all that fit the criteria. Same would go for all part types. I have seen so many forum posts with people trying to find what's out there (including me). It would be great to simply search and see results.

Anyways, my 2 cents. I know it would be difficult to maintain but I think it would save people time... Also then posts would be more about - what is this like?

Cheers - Scott

Mike · **24th August 2008, 10:32 AM**

Thanks Scott but I'm afraid that VBulletin doesn't have such a function available, and it would be way too much work to try and code a special application.

I notice that you haven't any details about your system in your profile - did you read my (lengthy) reply in this thread about a similar idea, which whilst simpler, was not really workable for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the infinite number of permutations available and as pointed out, even the same hardware is no guarantee of the same result.

Add to this the fact that as members' systems become stable through trial and error, the parts they use become obsolete and so the cycle begins again with new gear.

In the end, information in forums is only available if you take the time to research it, there are no "quick fixes" and just like me, when I visit forums about forums for example, I simply have to put the time in to find what I need.

Mike

scott_mckenzie · **24th August 2008, 04:13 PM**

Hey Mike,

Thanks for having a read of my idea...
I have updated my pc details but it still doesn't show up. Can you have a look at it for me?

Agreed in terms of complexity to build....
I think my idea is also not HTPC specific either.

If I think about it, it would be good to have a dedicated website where you could search for all PC parts... Manufacturers could contribute to it because their benefit is that if their item is in the database, more people see it and hence more sales.

To keep it simple, rather than it have anything to do with compatibility, etc, it's just a site where you search on features, etc.

Agreed it would be a pain to setup, but I think the benefit would be huge once it's regularly updated. Also agreed that your fantastic forum in the majority of cases does have the answers.

Anyway, I might think to see if realistically a site cold be built for something like this.

Cheers - Scott

kieran45 · **24th August 2008, 11:56 PM**

Hi Scott,

the best I have found is the site newegg.com in the states. It has the best search function I have found in any site. Just do an advanced search for whatever you are looking for. Not sure it has quite as much info as you are after, but as close as you will get I think.