[mcgsxr]

Finally bit the bullet, and have bought my first Mac.  Sort of, I have owned an iTouch for about a year, but I don't think that counts!

I spotted a used G4 in the classifieds here and decided to jump on it.

Now, I am not 100% sure how I will use it yet, there are 2 possibilities.

1, would be simple - drop it into place where my family PC is, and let them hack it out!
2, is a little more complex - my 42 Plasma is just dying for a PC source, so this could be the ticket.

Since I am familiar option 1, I am looking for ideas around how to "best" implement 2.

I know I will need a DVI-HDMI connector for the video portion.  Since the audio signal does not pass that way, I think I have to use a 1/8th output for audio, into my Pioneer receiver.

The unit has wifi and bluetooth, so I could use bluetooth for a wireless desktop.

I could use wifi to connect to my 1TB drive in the basement (it is attached to a PC down there).

I see that the old mini has only 2 USB ports, and one is for an outboard drive for sure - that leaves 1. 

I doubt I want to use a wireless keyboard right away, so I might look to use my iTouch as a remote for the Mini - there are numerous apps for that, can anyone recommend one they use?

I would like to surf the net, and play music on the Mini - since I can easily download and install Slimserver, that will attach to my instance downstairs, so it really comes down to - can I use my iTouch as a keyboard to surf on the Mini attached to my Plasma?

Thanks new Mac friends!

[neekomax]

What version of Mac OS is your new computer running?

If it has 10.4 or above, you can use this: http://edovia.com/touchpad.

I'm sure there are lots of others...

Also, I might recommend using a simple external USB DAC rather than the 1/8" headphone jack for audio out. Maybe something simple like this:
http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-UCA202-Audio-Interface/dp/B000KW2YEI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1315771511&sr=8-1

[mcgsxr]

From what I can gather, the Mini is running Leopard 10.5, so it might work with that App.  Thanks!  It looks like I would be able to surf the web using the iTouch as a keyboard and mouse for the Mini attached to the Plasma, that is great.

As for using a USB DAC, well, that was what I was eventually thinking, though the Pioneer has a USB input, so I have to wonder if that will ever work, that would sure be simple!  The AV receiver is iPod certified, but not sure it was designed to be connected directly to any PC.

For initial use, and ease of setup, I will go with what I own, and look to upgrade in the future.

I have seen mini's running software that apparently sounds good, and a USB DAC could be destined for that 2nd usb port down the road.

I should be receiving the Mini in 2 weeks or so, depends on shipping time of course.

[WC]

I would use a FireWire drive instead of a USB drive if you are using USB for audio. Having a DAC and drive connected to the same USB bus is not recommended.

[planet10]

HDMI is simply DVI with audio bundled in. You can readily get a dvi to HDMI cable (or a DVI to HDMI adaptor).

If you get a USB DAC, get a Firewire drive, or if you get a Firewire DAC (i am very pleased with my Edirol FA66) use a USB drive. Given how much cheaper USB disks are, that leaves money for a better DAC.

dave

[mcgsxr]

Good suggestions so far, thanks guys.

I am leaning towards using the Mini with my Plasma, and let the old family PC die when it does.

Initially (budget driven for this 2nd system) I will just use a breakout cable from the 1/8th for audio signal.

I am going to remote locate the mini and the HD downstairs, and pass an audio cable up through the floor to the Pioneer receiver.

I have a spare HDMI cable run through the walls and into the basement, so I can easily setup my Logitech remote with another activity, that changes all the relevant inputs so I can use the mini, but leave all that gear downstairs out of sight.

That will also help me keep the Bolder SB3 and the Mini ethernet connected - the SB3 drives my main system which is in the basement.

This will allow me to use my music in 2 locations finally!