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Advice on building a user-independant HTPC?
I'm not sure if this is the right place to ask, so mods feel free to move.
I'm planning to build a cheap HTPC with the sole purpose of acting as a universal movie and game playback streaming device. I will want it to play DVDs and bluray disks locally along with visitor's pictures and movies on disks, sd cards, or usb sticks. I will want it to connect to Netflix, Youtube, CraveTV (maybe), PlayStation NOW, and connect to my main desktop for Steam In-House and maybe ripped movies (but I don't have any ATM so that's not a worry).
And most importantly, I want it to do all this seamlessly and simply so that I can let a (let's assume technically competent) family member or visitor use it without much direct instruction.
Full Bluray support and PSNOW/Steam In-house rules out Linux and consoles respectively, and seems to only leave me with a Windows PC as compatible with everything (Maybe macOS, but I'm concerned that the OS is no longer viable).
However, Windows 10 doesn't do most of these things natively, and I'm concerned about having a jarring interface that makes navigation difficult. I'd prefer everything to be easily controlled by a remote control, hopping to a mini keyboard (maybe a slideout from the remote?) and a Steam controller only when necessary.
How would I do this?
1. Can I use Windows 10's Tablet mode with a tweaked start menu as the interface? Would most apps respect it fine?
2. Will everything work with a standard remote? What remote can I use? If needed, is there one that emulates the laser-pointer accuracy of a Wii Remote, but with proper media controls?
3. What would be the best Bluray software? Preferably one that at least tries to match Windows 10's aesthetic?
4. Can I use Windows Store apps for streaming and media when possible? I'd like to avoid relying on the browser or all-in-one media apps that jarringly kick you out for the few tasks they can't handle.
5. for playing back media on personal usb drives/sd cards/disks, should I just use File Explorer or is there and alternative file explorer that can be tweaked for a more seamless experience?
6. Is it possible to lock it down somewhat so it can be used but people don't have alteration access to it? I suppose I'd have to check each individual app (like Steam or PSNow) to ensure they don't have dangerous access like purchasing, but at the bare minimum can I secure the interface so someone with a lead thumb doesn't delete or break anything?
Thanks.
Thanks.
Last edited by FuturDreamz; 27 Sep 2016 at 10:58.