Suggestions for iMac Video System

[Jemrada]

Hello,

I am part of a American Sign Language group that uses a video system to play sign language videos for the deaf. I am currently wanting to upgrade the system from a dvd setup to system that will allow me to store all the dvd's on it for easy play back during teaching sessions.

I am really interested in a iMac setup. I have seen some done and wanted to get some input on a average setup that can be built for a decent price.

Here is what I think I need.

iMac 20" or 24"
Apple Remote - For simple navigation setup for classes and such.
iPod Touch - To use as a remote during class. Will a 1st generation work for this?
External harddrive - To store the video off of the main system drive for moving to new systems or incase there is ever a system crash.
UPS system

I already have a mobile TV stand I will be securing the iMac to.

The videos are not high detailed. There are images on the videos, but most of the time it is a person or persons doing sign language to explain certain lessons.

My Budget s around $700.00 This can go up some if really necessary. The group has put this money together to make this possible.

I appreciate any input you might have on this project.

 

[Hellhammer]

You said you use a DVD setup at the moment so do you have a TV or video projector you use for that? I'm interested because if you do have, Mac Mini would be enough for you. The problem is that for 700$ it's hard to get all those because even used 20" iMacs are about 700$

 

[Jemrada]

Ok, I understand what you mean on the price.

Currently it is an old 19" tv that we use.

I could just start with iMac + apple remote and buy the rest in stages.

Being/remaining mobile is ideal, because we are forced to move to different time depending room availability.

Plus with the iMac I believe I can hookup to a bigger tv or projecter later on as we continue to grow.

 

[Hellhammer]

Ok, I understand what you mean on the price.

Currently it is an old 19" tv that we use.

I could just start with iMac + apple remote and buy the rest in stages.

Being/remaining mobile is ideal, because we are forced to move to different time depending room availability.

Plus with the iMac I believe I can hookup to a bigger tv or projecter later on as we continue to grow.

For 20" iMac and remote, 700$ should be enough, but you have to get used.

 

[Jemrada]

That will be fine.

Just for information purposes. Do you know if a first generation iPod touch is capable of remote or does it need to be newer version?

A G5 iMac should be good enough right?

Or are all G5's the 20" anyways?

 

[Hellhammer]

That will be fine.

Just for information purposes. Do you know if a first generation iPod touch is capable of remote or does it need to be newer version?

A G5 iMac should be good enough right?

Or are all G5's the 20" anyways?

There were 17" G5s too I think. Core 2 Duos are of course better but G5 should be OK if everything you do is view presentations and videos

 

[SOLLERBOY]

In response to your touch question I believe that they are indeed capable of the remote function , not 100% sure.

 

[Jemrada]

From what I have seen. I can get a pretty good deal with a low spec iMac that has core 2 duo for a decent price used.

A friend ofine confirmed the 1st gen iPod touch will work. So I can get that at a decent price too.