Maingear Shows Off Prototype HTPC System at CES 2011

Custom computer builder Maingear has just unveiled a new HTPC computer prototype, at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show, that pairs a fast Intel Sandy Bridge processor together with a motorized touchscreen display to deliver the ultimate in home media entertainment.

The system was presented by Maingear's CTO, Chris Morley, to the Legit Review website in a short video that went over a few of its features.

Among those, the most eye catchy piece of hardware is the motorized touchscreen display that tilts at the press of a button in order to allow consumers to access the included Blu-ray player and the multi-format card reader.

In addition, if the display proves to be too much of a distraction when watching movies, it can be powered off thanks to a dedicated button that is placed in front of the case.

Although no specific details were available, the display most likely uses a resistive panel, as it seems that some pressure needs to be applied in order to record user input, while the operating system of choice is Windows 7 Media Center edition.

The hardware used inside this HTPC is also a mystery at this time, all that we know being that a Sandy Bridge CPU is found somewhere in there.

Established in 2002, Maingear is a privately held boutique computer manufacturer that specializes in designing custom gaming desktops and laptops as well as media center PCs and workstations.

Over its short history, the company managed to become one of the best regarded boutique builders in the industry, Nvidia even using their Shift system for showcasing the GF100 at CES 2010.

According to Legit Reviews, this new HTPC design will make its way into the existing Media Theatre Axess HD line and is scheduled to be released sometime in the first quarter of 2011.