How to convert your old PC into a home-audio server
You may be sick and tired of listening to the same old CDs and commercial-filled radio, but there's a better solution than spending thousands of dollars on new music. Today we'll show you how to convert your old PC into a home-audio server that lets you play any of millions of tracks through your stereo system.
Step 1: Prepare the PC.
Start by setting up your old PC and powering it on to confirm that it's still in working order. If your old PC already has Windows XP installed, you're good to go. If its operating system predates Windows XP, you'll probably need to upgrade, depending on the requirements of the audio software you plan to install. Also, if your old PC doesn't already have wireless networking capabilities, install an 802.11g/b Wi-Fi card into it. Of course, you'll also need a router or an access point that supports Wi-Fi.
Step 2: Connect to the Internet.
In the Windows XP Start menu, click Connect To and select Wireless Network Connection from the list. Click the View Wireless Networks button and double-click your wireless network to select it from the list. If your wireless network uses encryption, enter the required keys as prompted. Then, launch your Web browser to verify that the computer is connected to the Internet.
Step 3: Prepare the software.
Download and install Yahoo Music Unlimited or another music-service client on your PC. We recommend choosing a subscription plan that allows downloading and streaming an unlimited number of tracks for a flat monthly fee. Once installed, launch the music service application and build your audio server's music library by downloading tracks and creating playlists. If you're short on drive space, you can stream Internet radio stations and tracks from the service in real time instead of downloading the content.
Step 4: Finish setup.
Using a stereo-miniplug-to-stereo-RCA-plug adapter cable, connect your old PC's audio output to an audio input on your home stereo system. On your's stereo amplifier or receiver, select the input to which your audio server is connected. Set the volume of your music-client software and your home stereo system to a moderate level and double-click the album, track, playlist, or stream of your choice. Then, sit back and enjoy the music.
You may be sick and tired of listening to the same old CDs and commercial-filled radio, but there's a better solution than spending thousands of dollars on new music. Today we'll show you how to convert your old PC into a home-audio server that lets you play any of millions of tracks through your stereo system.
Step 1: Prepare the PC.
Start by setting up your old PC and powering it on to confirm that it's still in working order. If your old PC already has Windows XP installed, you're good to go. If its operating system predates Windows XP, you'll probably need to upgrade, depending on the requirements of the audio software you plan to install. Also, if your old PC doesn't already have wireless networking capabilities, install an 802.11g/b Wi-Fi card into it. Of course, you'll also need a router or an access point that supports Wi-Fi.
Step 2: Connect to the Internet.
In the Windows XP Start menu, click Connect To and select Wireless Network Connection from the list. Click the View Wireless Networks button and double-click your wireless network to select it from the list. If your wireless network uses encryption, enter the required keys as prompted. Then, launch your Web browser to verify that the computer is connected to the Internet.
Step 3: Prepare the software.
Download and install Yahoo Music Unlimited or another music-service client on your PC. We recommend choosing a subscription plan that allows downloading and streaming an unlimited number of tracks for a flat monthly fee. Once installed, launch the music service application and build your audio server's music library by downloading tracks and creating playlists. If you're short on drive space, you can stream Internet radio stations and tracks from the service in real time instead of downloading the content.
Step 4: Finish setup.
Using a stereo-miniplug-to-stereo-RCA-plug adapter cable, connect your old PC's audio output to an audio input on your home stereo system. On your's stereo amplifier or receiver, select the input to which your audio server is connected. Set the volume of your music-client software and your home stereo system to a moderate level and double-click the album, track, playlist, or stream of your choice. Then, sit back and enjoy the music.