Building XBMC HTPC, hardware ordered, need advice on final details

[shinnlly]

I need some advice on a building my XBMC HTPC.

I have ordered the following:

ASUS V2-P5G43 Intel Socket T(LGA775) Intel G43 Black Barebone - Retail (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16856110097)
Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 ST380815AS 80GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive - OEM
Mushkin 2GB 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Desktop Memory Model 991580 - Retail
Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 Wolfdale 3.0GHz LGA 775 65W Dual-Core Processor Model BX80570E8400 - Retail (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115037)

I have lots of room behind my living room HDTV, so I do not plan to have the PC case visible. Instead, I plan to buy an external IR sensor for use with my Harmony remote.

So, here are my questions:

1. Since I already have a Harmony remote and plan to use it, does anyone have a suggestion on an IR sensor? I saw one at my local Best Buy, but I could not find it on the website (or I would have provided a link).
2. While I have spent the last 15 years extending the life of my PCs by upgrading components, I have never built a PC from scratch. Based on the info above, will I need anything else? I am particularly worried about installing the cpu on the motherboard. Do I need anything special to do that? I read something about gel. Also, are after market cooling methods required?

[wierd0n3]

As far as the Cpu fan is concerned, it should come with the fan and a small tube of thermal compound. (although stock fans can be kinda loud for a media center)

installation of the cpu shouldnt be a issue, just dont bend the pins, and make sure the corner mark lines up correctly. (a little triangle on the cpu will line up with the corner without a pin)

if all else fails, read the manuals that ship with the cpu

Edit: forgot to mention, when applying the thermal compound, use sparingly. you should still be able to see a little of the cpu contact plate when you apply it. sorta like applying a car wax.

[Dam0]

i just wanna make things a little simpler for you there mate:-)

im my experience, most cpu kits come with the thermal grease already applied to the top of the cpu casing. so all you have to do is slot in the cpu and fasten, then mount the fan/heatsink.

hope this helps,
Dam0

[shinnlly]

Thanks for the info guys.

I went ahead and ordered the following IR sensor:
Microsoft Media Center IR Remote and Receiver (http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1644435&CatId=358&SRCCODE=LINKSHARE&cm_mmc_o=-ddCjC1bELltzywCjC-d2CjCdwwp&AffiliateID=X3Th4gZi_iQ-2gR5_386nePZSoxS50aS1w)

Any comments on this choice? Mainly does anyone know of any hardships I will face with this one?