Recycle, Reuse, Remote

We recently replaced an older desktop computer with a new laptop for our business. This left us with an older machine that turned out to have enough performance to be used as secondary media system including a TV.
By combining an older PC (800 MHz), an unused 20 inch LCD monitor and an external TV tuner, I was able to eliminate a radio and a smaller TV with one computer, while adding wireless internet capabilities. I also added a new set of great sounding, but inexpensive 2.1 speakers that provide a warm, clear sound for streaming audio, video and CD playing.

I don't watch a lot of TV, but the PC used as a TV works surprisingly well. It views at 1280x1024 on any monitor supporting it and the tuner comes with an IR remote control that also lets you control other applications that use similar windows commands. On a faster computer, it would work even better as the old box just barely passes the minimum requirements. The tuner also includes software that gives your system DVR (or PVR) capabilities to record your favorite programs.

We put the system in our bedroom and are able to listen to CD's, the radio (over air or streaming), watch cable TV and get web access via a wireless connection. If you're ready to throw out your old system, you may be able to use it as "media" system and get a few more cycles out of it.