PC build virgin. HTPC or VITX?

OK, as the title states, I've never built my own pc, nor can i repair them. i didn't particularly grow-up using computers-though I'm only 27 now. Anyway, I can do more than the older members of my family, except maybe my dad
What I want to do is take all my dvds and put them on (example)2 TB HD and be able to search through a library, *click*, and watch a movie. I do not have an HDTV yet, but will eventually, so upgrade possibility would be nice(incl more storage). Really just looking to hook it to my tv or homemade projector at this time.

What would you recommend?:
1) build pc(powerful enough and energy efficient)
2) buy something like the TiVX
3) link 2 external HDD's to my laptop(dell inspiron E1505)
4) ..other option...?

Just not finding a good how-to guide in the HTPC section. Just seems to be a bunch of scattered info or talk between people who know pc's.

thanks for any help