Graphics card for new HTPC running NPVR

[gatorgrabber]

New guy here. It's amazing the number of new forums I've joined since I set out to build my new HTPC! I've run into the "DirectX runtime not available on this machine" issue, which is how I found this forum in the first place. I've been through several lengthy threads on the issue, downloading all of the various patches and updates to no avail. I'm running an older GeForce 8500 GT card, mostly for the HDMI output (my ASUS P5N VM WS board only has DVI output). Even with a fresh install of Win7 Ultimate w updates, I still get the DirectX message when I go to 'settings'. Since GeForce cards can sometimes be 'touchy', what alternative card I can just replace this with? I've read the system requirements (which my current card fits) so I was hoping for a little advice on what actually works. I have 3 flavors of PCIe slots and require a full height card with HDMI output. This should be simple, I just don't want to waste another day fiddling with another problem child. :mad:

Thanks all!

[Graham]

Forgive me if I have misunderstood ... but the "DirectX runtime not available on this machine" is not related to the graphics card that you are using.

Have you run the download from here ... http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/...aspx?id=35 as listed at http://www.nextpvr.com/nwiki/pmwiki.php?...requisites

Ignore the version number ... it will not downgrade DirectX but it does add some magic that is missing in all versions of DirectX and that is required by NextPVR.

[mikeh49]

For some folks, including me, the runtime referenced in the link above does not result in a working install. Instead, we have had to install the redistibutable. I have used this one:

http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/...px?id=8109

It's from 2010 but works fine on my systems. There might be a newer one that you could search for on MS. I'd recommend trying this to get the DirectX issue for NPVR fixed.

My Geforce 9500GT works fine, but I did have to adjust the EDID setting in the driver to get the audio to show up on the Sony TV. I'm using DVI to HDMI with 2.0 analog audio to the TV.

[gatorgrabber]

Thanks for the quick responses and links! Question...where, exactly, is the latest, greatest version of NextPVR to be found? Is it the link off of the home page? Is there a correct sequence for installing the various software components, such as before the NPVR install? I'm just trying to decide if this is a software or hardware gremlin since I'm using a specialized workstation motherboard. Cheers!

[gatorgrabber]

Hmmm, everything off of the list installed and still no luck; I'm starting to suspect a hardware issue. Since this is going to be a central part of my home entertainment system, I'm (now) inclined to find a current Micro ATX MB and swap that into the system. While it sounds a bit extreme, they're so inexpensive these days it's no longer a big issue. Back to the forums for a new round of searching!

[stustunz]

Before you rush out and buy a micro atx box /board
A few things to consider
Heat
How many tuners you want to run (how many pci-e or pci)
Can you add a better video card later
How efficient is the CPU
Size of of power supply

[johnsonx42]

Have you installed the R1a patch update? that includes a missing VC++ runtime file that causes the DirectX error to appear on some systems. In 99% of cases the DirectX issue is strictly a software issue, it rarely has anything to do with hardware.

That said, have you tried your onboard video using a DVI->HDMI adapter? It looks like the onboard video on that board, targetted for workstation graphics though it is, would be superior to that 8500GT you're using.

[gatorgrabber]

No rush, I'm far too OC for that!

Here's my current system:

Silverstone GD05B case (nice and roomy with great ventilation)
Rosewill 'Green' 80+ PS, 600W (yes, too big, but it was just sitting there in my closet, all alone). I'll eventually replace it with a smaller unit once I arrive at my final config.
Asus BD drive
Intel SSD, 64G
Samsung HD, 1 TB
Win7 Ultimate, 64-bit
HDHomerun Dual (recent release, stand alone) for my OTA antenna
I'll be adding either another HDHR Dual or a HDHR Prime (if I stick with cable for a while). I considered going internal on the tuners but chose, instead, to place them next to my Server in my office. It's a much cleaner install that way.

The case can take a good sized MB but I'll probably be sticking with a Micro ATX. I'd like one with decent graphics (but upgradeable to full card), HDMI outputs (2 would be nice), USB 3 and SATA. I tend to keep my equipment forever, so I'll be patient getting this just right. Any suggestions would be great!

[johnsonx42]

looks like we posted simultaneously, don't miss my post above yours

[gatorgrabber]

Yes, I've tried the R1a patch but now feel I've got bigger issues. I keep getting the BSOD when the system runs long enough to get warmed up. I vaguely recall my lab (across town) having some lightning damage last year, so I'm thinking this MB may have taken a jolt after all. Oh well, life in FL.