Multiple ITunes Lib's and Apple TV...Help!

[Zach168]

I am trying to figure out the best way to set up my Apple TV. The problem I am running into is switching ITunes libraries. I have a 1tb external HD plugged into the macbook and am running an ITunes library off that with all my ripped movies etc. The problem is I have to re-enter the code to pair the ATV with Itunes everytime I switch libraries or unplug the external HD.

So my question is will this work and/or cause me problems down the road?? Can I use the external HD to store all media files that I want to use with the ATV and just reference them in a library stored on the Macbooks HD (essentially dragging the files into ITunes while holding down option so they show up but are not stored on the Macbook). Will this work? Cause slowdown in streaming (works fine off the external right now)? Break Apple TV if the HD is not plugged in and some files don’t show up? Also can I use a USB hub and plug in more external HD’s and have files in ITunes from different drives?

I know this was long but thanks for any help or insights you can provide.

 

[Mr Kram]

if you're streaming, the atv needs access to the file, not just the link, so the file must reside on the macbook or the external hd must be on.

secondly, you can have multiple files from different drives in your itunes library. i personally have a couple that are daisy-chained via fire wire.

 

[Zach168]

Thanks. That is what I figured but I wanted to be sure. I liked having multiple libraries but was getting frustrated with authorizing the ATV everytime I switched lib's or turned on/off the external.

The external will be on and connected when I am streaming.