The Green Button

CableCARD to Get Relaxed DRM

Chris - Moderator — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 13:47:00 GMT

It has always been hard to stomach the DRM variations that CableLabs has set up between OCURs and UDCP devices like TiVo’s. TiVo gets the ability to have non-DRM recordings if the content provider hasn’t flagged the broadcast at all whereas Media Center with CableCARD has to protect everything no matter what. This discrepancy might is ready to change.

CableLabs recently unwrapped an update to the OCUR specs in which they appeared to have removed the “Requirement to Protect Output of Content with No Protection Flags.”

Hard to say whether you will need the Windows Media Center TV Pack to take full advantage, but based on what S1Digital is planning to ship it would appear that at least at first the TV Pack will be required. There will also have to be a Digital Cable Tuner update that would most likely allow shows not marked as copy protected to skip the WMDRM process within the tuner.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

More on Fiji/Media Center TV Pack

Chris - Moderator — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 23:31:00 GMT

Lots of stuff going around on Fiji, and while I can’t say as much as I’d like too I can say that no single person has put all the pieces together yet. Word is that Fiji final name is indeed Windows Media Center TV Pack, and useless a separate product pops up out of nowhere I’d consider that pretty concrete. Microsoft let that bit slip themselves by releasing a few knowledge base articles specifically about the TV Pack.

Engadget HD runs down what they expect to be in the update, and Brent Evans covers more of the news from a few different sources as does Mary Jo.

Now, I still can’t say much about it because of various different NDAs, but I can say there are still pieces missing from people accounts of how this is going to work and/or what is included in the update. Good or bad however, I can’t say so you will have to wait. Microsoft has hinted that the official announcement for Fiji will come at CEDIA in September.

On to what I can say, this beta has been a disaster if you look at it with an outside perspective. I am very disappointed on how many people are leaking stuff, and if you thought a two year wait for a public beta was long for Fiji I’d suggest you not get your hopes up about testing anything else related to Media Center in the future. Based on the disregard of the testers I wouldn’t be surprised if Microsoft cut out a public beta until everything is finalized for the next release. You can thank your fellow beta testers for screwing you out of a possible opportunity.

I’m also very disappointed at the collective attitude of The Green Button. Not because Fiji might be OEM only, not because it might be missing DIRECTV support, not because of any included or missing feature but instead because of the childish name calling and activity that has gone on. The Green Button used to be a community that pretty much moderated itself, but of course the second I get busy at work all hell breaks loss and people turn into name calling teenagers. You can all do better, and I expect to see it.

Just because Microsoft bought The Green Button does not mean they will reply to all threads about unreleased and/or unannounced software. Everyone needs to realize this. Microsoft employees have been being more active in the forums, and considering this ownership transition is just starting it will take time for things to change. Those who insist on flaming and name calling any member, Microsoft employed or not, will not be welcome at The Green Button.

I will have more on Fiji when I can talk about it, but sadly at this point all I can say is above.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

VidaBox Releases the vController - Hardware Solution Integratable with Software Automation

Chris - Moderator — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 23:28:00 GMT

VidaBox Releases the vController - a Solid, Feature-Rich Hardware Solution Integratable with Software-Based Automation packages‏

Westbury, NY – July 17th – VidaBox is excited to offer the vController, a powerful rack-mountable automation solution. Designed for heavy-duty automation, it comes standard with four USB ports, dual Ethernet Ports, VGA video out, and two standard RS-232 ports. Optionally, it can be configured with up to nine RS-232 ports for the most demanding of integration projects.

“With the growing popularity of PC-based automation platforms, integrators have been looking for a solid, pre-built hardware solution where they can reliably run their software,” explains Steven Cheung, President of VidaBox LLC. “The vController is specifically designed to meet that need. It comes in a rack-mountable form factor at only 1U tall, yet sports a wide array of connectivity options. When used in conjunction with software packages such as Charmed Quark System’s CQC platform, it can replace proprietary solutions and provide similar functionality at a fraction of the cost.”

Based on the XP operating system, the vController is compatible with a wide range of automation solutions, allowing an integrator to combine it with their favorite software package to control a myriad of devices via TCP/IP, RS-232, IR, and other communication protocols.

“While the vController is available as a standalone product,” continues Cheung, “it’s ideally used with CQC as a part of a predesigned vAutomation package, serving as its automation & control backbone. By choosing a vAutomation package, integrators can save hours of design work and product testing that traditionally needs to go into every new project, reaping tremendous time savings.”

The vController is available now, and ships with 2 RS-232 ports with options for 6 or 9 ports total. For more details and specifications on the VidaBox vController and their comprehensive line of media servers and extenders, please visit the company website at http://www.vidabox.com, or visit them in Sound Room 17 at CEDIA Expo 2008!

About VidaBox LLC
VidaBox LLC is a premium manufacturer & designer of AV and integration hardware. Specializing in multiroom audio-video distribution and automation equipment, VidaBox is focused on providing professional installers and integrators with complete solutions that include media servers & extenders, touchpanel hardware and interface software, as well as predesigned, customizable AV packages that are scalable to meet the needs of a wide range of projects & installations.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

VidaBox Announces the PicoPC for Ultimate in Reliability & Ease for PC on TV‏

Chris - Moderator — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 23:10:00 GMT

VidaBox Announces the PicoPC with Malware-Proof Write Protection & Solid State Design for Ultimate in Reliability & Ease for PC on TV‏

WESTBURY, NY – July 16th– VidaBox LLC is excited to announce the new PicoPC. Unlike traditional computers, this 13-ounce device is designed to be ultra-compact at only 1-1/4” tall, has no moving parts, and comes with built-in write protection that restores the software to its original condition upon every restart.

“The PicoPC is the ideal solution for anyone who wants simple, fool-proof access to PC capabilities on their HDTV,” says Steven Cheung, President of VidaBox. “Because it’s so small and light, you can easily hide it behind any HDTV with some Velcro®. Because it has no fans or hard drives, mechanical failure is a thing of the past. Combined with its virus and malware-proof write-protection, the PicoPC’s features a very attractive solution.”

The PicoPC features a VGA video out, with inputs & outputs for audio, an RS-232 port, dual USB ports, and also includes the VidaBox premium wireless keyboard – all standard. There is also an option for a built-in wireless 802.11b/g adapter for installations where a hardwire LAN connection isn’t available.

“The versatility of the PicoPC makes it a great candidate for a wide variety of applications,” Cheung continues. “Beyond simple web browsing on an HDTV, one can also use it as an inexpensive digital signage solution. AV integrators using VidaBox’s vAutomation can take advantage of the PicoPC’s RS-232 port and use it to control a connected TV or projector. For consumers, they can connect webcams and microphones to the PicoPC, and turn it into an ultra-portable, compact communication station.”

“Best of all,” Cheung elaborates, “once the PicoPC is set up the way you want, simply enable write-protection, and the entire setup is saved! Afterwards, it doesn’t matter if someone downloads a virus, or decides to delete the operating system - a simple restart will bring the system back to its original condition, as if nothing happened! When this level of software protection is combined with a reliable, solid state design, the PicoPC is clearly the ideal choice for an endless number of applications.”

The PicoPC is available now, and ships with a standard 2 GB CF card, with options for 4, 8, and 16GB. For more details and specifications on the VidaBox PicoPC and their comprehensive line of media servers and extenders, please visit the company website at http://www.vidabox.com, or visit them in Sound Room 17 at CEDIA Expo 2008!

About VidaBox LLC
VidaBox LLC is a premium manufacturer & designer of AV and integration hardware. Specializing in multiroom audio-video distribution and automation equipment, VidaBox is focused on providing professional installers and integrators with complete solutions that include media servers & extenders, touchpanel hardware and interface software, as well as predesigned, customizable AV packages that are scalable to meet the needs of a wide range of projects & installations.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

Updates Tonight

Chris - Moderator — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 19:33:00 GMT

No, I'm not dead and yes I will have some posts coming later today so stay tuned!

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

This weeks posts

Iand — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 15:20:18 GMT

Back again with this week in Media Center world, there is the Media Center university part 5 (how may parts are there!), Ed Bott on running Windows Home Server in a virtual environment, Charlie Owen starts a firestorm and I am planning for future shows

Media Center University: Whole House Integration of Media Center Systems - Part 5

The Consumer Electronic's blog has with part 2 of Todd Rutherford's presentation (part 5 of the Media Center University series) looking at integrating Windows Media Center into a whole home solution Download: iPod | MP3 | WMA | WMV | WMV (high) | Zune...

Microsoft brings Netflix streaming to the Xbox 360

Looks like the rumours where true, Microsoft are enabling Netflix streaming straight in to the Xbox 360. It would be nice to see an smiler official solution for Media Center users. Details from Engadget : After months of speculation and rumors , Microsoft...

HP Touchsmart available in US stores

I really liked the HP Touchsmart PC I saw in Berlin (see this video ) and for US consumers it's available in stores now. If you get chance to have a play with the Touchsmart I would recommend taking a look at as the UI is very nice. I asked about UK availability...

Ed Bott on running Windows Home Server in a virtual machine

A few people have mentioned to me about the possibility of running Windows Home Server on a virtual machine and I did try it with Virtual PC back when Home Server was in beta but while it worked I found the performance was not very good and it didn't...

Microsoft show off Media Center and Extenders at Magnolia AV stores

It looks like Microsoft are getting the idea that for Media Center and Extenders to be a success they need to show them off in stores. They have just completed fitting out all 13 Magnolia AV stores with a merchandising rack showing off the Windows Media...

Damian Meher: Screencast on creating a simple Media Center application

Damian Meher the developer behind BeebMC has created two screencast on how to create Media Center applications. Part 1 looks at the tools used for Media Center development and starting a new project and part 2 looks at using a template to create a BeebMC...

VidaBox PicoPC Brings PC Features to HDTVs

CE Pro have details of a interesting new product from Vidabox. The PicoPC is a tiny little box with no moving parts and Windows XP, so you can browse the web, listen to music and watch pictures all from the 13 ounces device. It has USB and R232 designed...

Tweak Vista Media Center with Tweak MC

Remember TweakMCE for XP Media Center? Wondered where the Vista equivalent is? Wonder no more as Microsoft have released TweakMC for Vista Media Center (what took you so long guys!) The new application is available on MSDN is also available in source...

Charlie Owen on Historical Perspectives on DVD Streaming Feature

Charlie Owen is back blogging and seems to have gone straight for a controversial post! He has posted this thoughts on why DVD streaming is not a feature of Media Center (and properly never will be). So far it's been left to the community to come up with...

Planning for the future

I am planning guests for future shows and I thought I would take the opportunity to find out the community opinions. So what kind of shows would you like to see? More developer shows? More interviews with OEMs and Microsoft? Or features looking at related...

The Media Center Show #165 - mPanel

Iand — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 11:04:19 GMT

Listen Here

This week I am talking to old friend of the show Ted Singh from Embedded Automation. Ted will be talking about mPanel a new wall-mountable touch screen that you can play music from and control the home, Ted will also be updating us on mControl 2.1. I also have your email and a round up of the weeks news

Please keep the email coming show [at] theDigitallifestyle.com

Direct Download Link - Subscribe via iTunes - Subscribe via RSS - Vote for the show on Podcast Alley - Join The Media Center Show Group on Facebook - Catch me on Twitter

Show times and all the links talked about in the show are on the podcast blog

Microsoft Releases TweakMC for Vista Media Center

Chris - Moderator — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:38:00 GMT

One of the most popular Media Center plug-ins has always been TweakMCE, but with the release of Vista the community has been lacking such a tool produced by Microsoft. That has now changed with the release of TweakMC for Vista Media Center. The new tool exposes an interface for the various registry settings that control Media Center behavior.

TweakMC allows easy access to several dozen Media Center settings including some of the ones listed below. The UI is hardly pretty to look at, but the good news is that once you change the settings this tool shouldn’t be needed again.

Wonder if Matt approves of the new version? (he headed up TweakMCE for Media Center 2005)

Display Wireless Passwords
Overscan Adjustment Settings
Enable AddIn Debugging
Override the Current Screen Resolution
Enable DVD Library
Skip Forward/Back Interval
More Info Panel Timeout
Enable Universal Remote Control
Set Remote Control ID
Much more

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

$150 Linksys DMA2100 Extenders via Dell.com

Chris - Moderator — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 02:01:00 GMT

Dell is pushing out Linksys Extenders at $100 off retail via their website. This means you can pick up a DMA2100 for only $150. The DMA2200 can be purchased for $250, however it is currently listed as out of stock.

At $150 Dell/Linksys hits the perfect Extender price point which I’ve talked about in the past. Even given the issues I had when I reviewed the DMA2200, I’ve grab one or two at $150 and not think twice.

(Via The Green Button)

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

My Twelfth Post on Xbox 360 Not Getting Blu-ray

Chris - Moderator — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:21:00 GMT

I never thought I would get a dozen posts out of this topic, but what do you know! Some said I was dead wrong when I predicted that Microsoft wasn’t planning on adding Blu-ray to the Xbox 360. After covering the issue from every different angle possible (Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here) I still couldn’t come up with a good reason why it was in Microsoft’s best interest to add Blu-ray to the Xbox. It isn’t hard to come up with reasons why potential or existing Xbox 360 buyers want Blu-ray, but taking a Microsoft perspective is a bit different.

Cut to today, Forbes has a story that quotes Shane Kim, vice president of strategy and business development for Microsoft Entertainment division saying “I can categorically say that we're not working on a Blu-Ray player for Xbox 360.”

What is Microsoft’s focus? Digital distribution. As I’ve talked about either today Netflix adds just another option for downloads/streams on the Xbox 360 (but not Media Center Extenders) and while I don’t think Microsoft should just focus on digital distribution you know that is their goal and it isn’t going to change.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

Internet Video Contest Asks What You'd Automate in Your Home

Chris - Moderator — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 18:22:00 GMT

QWebL Contest Winners Receive $1,000 Grand Prize

Houston, TX - Have you ever wished your home was automated or that your remote controls were a little easier to use? Ever wanted to adjust the thermostat without getting out of bed, or turn on the lawn sprinklers from your office or re-arrange the buttons on your TV remote? If you're the type of person who dreams of an easier house to live in then put your dreams on video and enter QWebL's first-ever Internet Video Contest.

This Internet video contest is aimed to parody the difficulties with remotes or dreaming up the next big thing in home automation. The premise of the contest is easy: make a one to five minute long video demonstrating either a frustration you have with remote control(s) or your dream feature in a home automation system. Entries are required to be uploaded to the YouTube QWebL Group (http://youtube.com/group/qwebl) before August 15, 2008 to be eligible for judging. Finalists will be eligible to win one of two $1,000 American Express gift cards, one for each video theme.

"At QWebL, we spend every day thinking about how to make home automation and entertainment easier to use. This video contest is a reflection of our commitment to ease-of-use and innovation," said Jeff Clark, Chief Technical Officer, QWebL, "Videos can be funny or serious, realistic or fantastic; whatever people feel will best communicate one of the two contest themes.

Official rules are also available on the QWebL website at www.qwebl.com. No purchase is necessary to participate and the contest is void where prohibited. Participants must be of the age of majority in their state of residence. From July 15 through August 15, all videos submitted during the promotion period will be reviewed by members of QWebL's development and communications staff. One winner in each category will be selected on the basis of creativity, message and storytelling. Winning videos will be announced at the launch of the new QWebL website in late August.

About QWebL
QWebL (Quality Web Logistics, Inc.) is a corporation based in Houston, TX. QWebL offers software for a new cutting-edge home automation system that boasts both ease of use and installation. QWebL will be available to select integrators beginning in August.

To inquire about becoming an integrator of the QWebL system contact info@qwebl.com or 713.439.1118.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

Short Bits: Netflix

Chris - Moderator — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 11:34:00 GMT

Yesterday Microsoft announced that they are partnering with Netflix to bring Netflix’s streaming content to the Xbox 360 Dashboard. What was not announced however is the same in Media Center. The good news is that Microsoft now has the backend to make it work. The bad news that knowing them Netflix streaming may never be ported to Media Center. Looks like the Xbox 360 Dashboard is still Media Center biggest enemy.

On the same Netflix partnership, I think people might be getting too worked up about the usefulness. While Netflix has a great amount of content that you have heard of and might want to watch, it is not going to replace you renting or buying new movies. Netflix content is really a complement to your Netflix subscription (movies in the mail), and not a pure streaming service. I feel like a lot of people are expecting this to change the world, and that's clearly not the goal of the partnership or Netflix streaming in general. This does give a better mix of content directly accessible via the Xbox 360 Dashboard, so if you already get movies this way it will be a very nice digital distribution mix.

Oh, and of course you need to be an Xbox Live Gold member ($60/year) to get access. If you are a Media Center user something like vmcNetflix might be your best bet. Bottom line, great news but I don't think this is going to change the world or make as big of a splash as some seem to be expecting.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

New Xbox Experiences Reinvent Home Entertainment, and Everyone Is Invited

Chris - Moderator — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 21:10:00 GMT

Xbox 360 promises best and broadest entertainment lineup ever; more fun, social and simple-to-use experience.

LOS ANGELES — July 14, 2008 — As Xbox 360 readies for the next wave of audience expansion, Microsoft Corp. today announced a new Xbox experience that will reinvent home entertainment from the inside out, changing the way we play games, watch movies and TV shows, and even become contestants in game shows. It all begins this fall with a bold new look and feel that is fun, social and simple to use.

The announcement was made during the E3 Media and Business Summit in Los Angeles. It came amid the unveiling of an exclusive partnership with Netflix Inc. that will give Xbox 360 users instant access to more than 10,000 feature films and television shows with a click of a button.

Also on the docket: The best and broadest entertainment lineup the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system has ever seen. In its strongest broadening play yet, Xbox announced Xbox LIVE Primetime, the next evolution in game shows slated for Xbox LIVE this fall; TV shows and movies from world leaders in entertainment including NBC Universal, Universal Studios Home Entertainment, SCI FI Channel and USA Network domestically and Constantin and MGM internationally; and blockbuster games “Lips,” “Rock Band 2,” “Scene It? Box Office Smash,” “You’re in the Movies” and the much anticipated “Final Fantasy XIII.”

“We’re entering a new age in entertainment, and Xbox 360 is uniquely positioned to become the heart of the living room,” said Don Mattrick, senior vice president for the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft. “The new Xbox experience offers more content than you can find from any device that connects to the television. That convergence of entertainment and gaming will bring new people and more families to the category, driving a record year for the games industry.”

“This year more than any other, Xbox 360 has something for everyone — whether you love playing games with friends or are simply looking for the best in entertainment,” Mattrick said.

Netflix Jumps In With Entertainment for Everyone

The exclusive partnership offers Netflix subscribers the ability to instantly stream movies and TV episodes from Netflix to the television via the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system. Xbox 360 will be the only game console to offer this movie-watching experience, available to Xbox LIVE Gold members who are also Netflix subscribers at no additional cost.

From the Netflix Web site, subscribers simply add movies and TV episodes to their instant Queue, which will appear automatically on the TV screen via Xbox 360. Once selected, movies will begin playing in as little as 30 seconds. In addition to instantly streaming Netflix movies to the TV, Xbox LIVE Gold members can browse and rate movies, fast-forward, pause and rewind, all using either their Xbox 360 Controller or remote.

Netflix on Xbox 360 will launch this fall with the release of the new Xbox experience, a new generation of games and entertainment experiences that will be available for Xbox 360 this fall.

The New Xbox Experience

The new Xbox experience represents the first time in history that a mass market consumer electronics device has been reinvented through free software, giving people more fun and intuitive ways to interact, play and enjoy entertainment.

“Xbox LIVE is the world’s fastest-growing online social network on TV,” said John Schappert, corporate vice president of Interactive Entertainment LIVE, Software and Services Business at Microsoft. “We doubled our membership the past two years, growing from 3 million to 6 million, and then from 6 million to 12 million. And today, we are adding a new member every five seconds. With the best and broadest social entertainment experiences launching this fall, the future is limitless.”

Some of the features that make the new Xbox experience groundbreaking are the following:

Read Full Press Release

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

Microsoft and Netflix Unveil Partnership to Instantly Stream Movies and TV Episodes to the TV via Xbox LIVE

Chris - Moderator — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 21:08:00 GMT

Exclusive agreement creates game-changing home entertainment experience; more than 10,000 movies and TV episodes will be available to watch instantly at no additional cost to paying subscribers.

LOS ANGELES — July 14, 2008 — An exciting new home theater experience is coming to living rooms this holiday season. At the E3 Media and Business Summit, Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq “MSFT”) and Netflix, Inc. (Nasdaq: NFLX), the world’s largest online movie rental service, today unveiled an exclusive partnership to offer consumers the ability to instantly stream movies and TV episodes from Netflix to the television via the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system. Xbox 360 will be the only game system that lets users instantly watch movies and TV episodes streamed from Netflix. This movie watching innovation will be available to Xbox LIVE Gold members who are also Netflix subscribers and will let those users enjoy streaming movies from Netflix on Xbox LIVE at no additional cost.

A growing library of more than 10,000 movies and TV episodes will be available from Netflix when it launches on Xbox LIVE in late fall, with more choices added over time. Through this agreement, along with the existing Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store, Xbox 360 will be home to more movies and TV shows on demand than any other device connected to the TV. Xbox LIVE quickly and easily connects consumers and their friends to the entertainment they want — with no PC required for viewing.

Netflix on Xbox 360 is an important component of the new Xbox experience, a new generation of games and entertainment experiences that will be available on Xbox 360 consoles this fall. The new Xbox experience, also announced today at the E3 Media and Business Summit, represents the first time in history that a mass-market consumer electronics device has been re-invented through free software, giving people more fun and intuitive ways to interact, play and enjoy entertainment content.

“Watching movies at home will never be the same. Netflix on Xbox 360 is an entertainment first, and we are bringing friends together with the best in entertainment content like no other device in the living room,” said John Schappert, corporate vice president of Interactive Entertainment LIVE, Software and Services Business at Microsoft. “We are creating a completely new social entertainment experience, and Xbox 360 will be the only video game system where you can access your library of instantly streamable movies from Netflix and turn any room into a virtual movie theater.”

From the Netflix Web site, members simply add movies and TV episodes to their individual instant Queues. Those choices will be automatically displayed on the TV screen via Xbox 360 and available to watch instantly. Once selected, movies will begin playing in as little as 30 seconds. In addition to instantly streaming movies to the TV, Xbox LIVE Gold members can fast-forward, pause and rewind, all using either their Xbox 360 Controller or Media Remote. In all, the user interface creates a highly personalized experience that puts viewers in control.

“Netflix and Xbox 360 are a perfect combination, the leading online movie rental service and the leading games and entertainment system joining forces to create an all-in-one entertainment experience with content for everyone,” said Reed Hastings, chairman and CEO of Netflix. “For Netflix, it represents an important step forward in making instantly streaming movies on the TV more broadly available to our members.”

The library of movies and TV episodes that will be available for instant streaming from Netflix via Xbox 360 includes scores of Academy Award winners and nominees, episodes from a number of popular, currently running and classic TV shows, and 24 of the movies rated by the American Film Institute as the greatest ever.

Today, Xbox LIVE members can also download movies and purchase TV shows from the industry-leading Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store, currently packed with content from more than 45 networks and studios. The Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store offers more than twice the high-definition content than the nearest cable provider and more than 6,000 hours of TV shows and movies.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

Bowing Out

ghostlobster — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 02:43:00 GMT

Well folks, I'm bowing out of blogging on TGB. Granted, I have not exactly been what you would consider an active blogger (last entry, 7 months ago!) but that is not the only reason. I have spent the last week and a half setting up SageTV in the lobster abode, and to be perfectly frank, I'm not sure I'll be moving back to VMC. Streaming DVDs, support of nearly every format under the sun, a true PC based client, HD-PVR support, and several other features are really pulling me in that direction. Yes, the interface is certainly its weak point, but after installing some decent add-ons and a bit of training for the rest of the household, I'm kinda liking it. Now, I have not completely committed to Sage yet (have not plunked down the $$$) and I'm not 100% converted yet, but man, it's tough not to keep moving in that direction.

If I decide to complete the transition, there will be a DMA2100 up for sale soon. Regardless of which direction I go, though, this is certainly my final blog entry. Thanks everyone!

Xbox 360 Console Now Offers Triple the Storage for Same Price

Chris - Moderator — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 13:09:00 GMT

60GB storage now included with Xbox 360; 20GB console will drop to $299.99 in U.S. and Canada.

REDMOND, Wash. — July 13, 2008 — Microsoft Corp. is giving consumers more gigabytes for their buck. The company today announced an Xbox 360 console with triple the storage space of the original console, but for the same price of $349 (U.S.) estimated retail price (ERP).

Available in retail stores in the U.S. and Canada starting in early August, the upgraded Xbox 360 will include a 60GB hard drive for storing the growing wealth of digital entertainment available for the console, including music, movies, television shows and game content. In addition, Microsoft today dropped the price of its 20GB Xbox 360 console in the U.S. and Canada to just $299 (U.S.) (ERP) while supplies last, a savings of $50.

“We know consumers need more and more space to store the amazing digital content Xbox 360 offers, and we’re giving it to them at no extra charge,” said Albert Penello, Xbox director of product management at Microsoft. “No one device offers the depth and breadth of entertainment that Xbox 360 can deliver, and now you’ll have three times the storage to manage all that great content.”

Xbox 360 is just one of three Xbox 360 gaming and entertainment systems Microsoft offers. Microsoft’s Xbox 360 Arcade, which comes with a 256MB memory unit and five Xbox LIVE Arcade games, is a value for the whole family for $279 (U.S.) (ERP), and the premium Xbox 360 Elite console is available with a 120GB hard drive for $449 (U.S.) (ERP).

Out of the box, the Xbox 360 console is ready to provide an incredible gaming and entertainment experience:

Xbox 360 console. The console is equipped with a cool white finish and three powerful core processors capable of producing the best in high definition (HD) entertainment (up to 1080p for gaming), 16:9 cinematic aspect ratio, anti-aliasing for smooth textures, full surround sound, and high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) output.
60 GB Hard Drive. The 60GB detachable hard drive allows gamers to save their games and store television shows, movies, music, pictures, trailers, levels, demos and other content available from Xbox LIVE Marketplace, the premier one-stop digital download center for entertainment.
Upscaling DVD Player. With an HDMI cable (sold separately), watch your favorite DVDs in near high-definition using the upscaling capabilities of Xbox 360.
Xbox 360 Wireless Controller. This award-winning, high-performance wireless controller features the Xbox Guide Button for quick, in-game access to friends and music. It has a range of up to 30 feet and a battery life of up to 30 hours on two AA batteries.
Xbox 360 Headset. The headset lets friends and family around the world chat while playing games, watching movies, or sending voice messages on Xbox LIVE.
Xbox LIVE Silver Membership. For no additional cost, Xbox 360 owners can chat with friends online, collect Achievements to improve their Gamerscores, send and receive voice and text messages, and access Xbox LIVE Marketplace content such as game demos, and purchase or rent HD movies and TV shows, as well as the best in downloadable games from Xbox LIVE Arcade. (Broadband Internet access required.)
One-month subscription to Xbox LIVE Gold. An Xbox LIVE Gold Membership provides a complete online entertainment experience. Those who subscribe to this premium service can engage in competitive online multiplayer matches, tailor their matchmaking via feedback and accomplishments, and chat with an entire group of friends at a time.

About Xbox 360

Xbox 360 is a superior video game and entertainment system delivering the best games, unique entertainment features and a unified online gaming network that revolve around gamers. Xbox 360 has a portfolio of nearly 400 games in 37 countries. More information can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/xbox360.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

Inteset Unveils 15 Terabyte A/V NAS Storage Device

Chris - Moderator — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:44:00 GMT

Hanover MA, July 2, 2008, Inteset, LLC has unveiled its new 15 terabyte, TeraRAID™ XV-NAS storage server.

The latest in its line of TeraRAID™ devices, the XV-NAS is a near silent, 15 bay, hot swappable, RAID 6, A/V focused, network attached storage server (NAS). The 5U system is only 18 inches in depth making it the only high-capacity NAS unit on the market uniquely designed for an A/V rack. The server is pre-fitted with high-speed, low-power, quiet, 24x7, Seagate hard drives geared specifically for multi-streaming video applications.

"With the selection of Seagate high-capacity drives for Inteset's A/V NAS system, Inteset is showing its commitment to providing the most reliable, AV-optimized storage for its customers," said Bill Schilling, Director of Global Marketing for Seagate. "Tier 2 nearline applications, especially with video, are quite data-intensive because of the large sequential volumes of data in use. Seagate is pleased to be working with Inteset to help them meet their data storage needs for the A/V NAS."

In addition, the system is preconfigured to work with Inteset's Media Library for movie, music, home video, picture, and recorded TV content. The TeraRAID™ XV-NAS uses enterprise level, CPU, RAID, and gigabyte Ethernet to support multiple high-bandwidth video streams. Via the Inteset Heartbeat Monitoring Service™, installers can opt to receive email alerts if there is any trouble such as a failing hard drive or bad fan. Inteset will automatically ship a new drive overnight if a bad one is detected. The headless unit can easily be managed from any browser client using the included management software. The system will be available direct to Inteset dealers as well as through other distribution channels to be announced.

"With HD content on the rise, particularly from home videos, recorded HDTV, and Blu-ray movies, massive storage is needed more than ever," states David Hirsh, Inteset Director of Business Development. "The XV-NAS offers installers a new class in energy efficient, quiet, enterprise level, A/V style storage. Customers can automatically replicate their Inteset Media Library across homes and access it from the Web. They can also increase capacity by simply adding drives. We're very excited to be the first to offer such a device to this market," continues Hirsh.

The TeraRAID™ XV-NAS units are available in 2 different flavors based on disk space needs and cost. Options include 15 and 7 terabyte configurations for an MSRP of $14,495 and $10,995 respectively. Single drives can be purchased for hot swap spares as well.

To learn more about the TeraRAID™ XV-NAS and other Inteset products and services, visit www.inteset.com. Visit Inteset at CEDIA 2008, Denver, CO, booth 452.

About Inteset

Inteset, LLC has been creating high-end home entertainment products since 2003. Inteset offers four categories of products: media servers, media extenders, high-capacity storage devices, and exclusive software for its systems. The near silent media servers come with up to 8TB of internal, 15TB external, protected storage. The advanced media extenders are independent systems as well as A/V distribution clients. All systems are shipped with an enriched Microsoft Windows Media Center interface that includes a movie management module and a multi-zone music module among other exclusive software offerings. These systems appeal to A/V dealers and integrators domestically and internationally for their high-integrity construction, reliability, ease-of-use, unique entertainment modules and services, price point, and interoperability with advanced control systems.

Contact

David Hirsh

Inteset, LLC

781-826-1560 ext. 203

davidh@inteset.com

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

Two Media Center Updates? Don’t Count on It

Chris - Moderator — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:37:00 GMT

Ben at Engadget HD is being told that there might be a second Media Center release coming this year. This is based on his source which has been leaking stuff directly from the beta (except this rumor, which has no meaning info to back it up). Based on various things I would be rather shocked if Microsoft pulled out a second Media Center release this year.

The concept behind the said release would be to add DIRECTV and H.264 support, the two main features said to be absent from Fiji’s final release. I can’t comment too much on what is included and what’s not, but Ben’s source doesn’t have anything that would tell him/her that Microsoft has even thought about a second release this year.

There are several reasons I wouldn’t expect such a release, from the beta timeline to other major implications that I’ll cover later. While I would love to see another release no matter what it adds, I wouldn’t get your hopes up about this rumor.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

Post Roundup

Iand — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:41:46 GMT

Back with another post round up with some rumours on future updates, Media Center university videos and BBC Radio on Media Center

No DirecTV HD for Vista Media Center until 2010?

First I want to say I have no inside information on this one way or another but Engadget HD are saying that "H.264 and DirecTV support have been pushed to Windows 7" here is one other possibility though, at least one well respected member of DBSTalk reported...

Media Center University Part 4

Todd Rutherford presents part 4 of the Media Center University this time looking at Whole House Integration. You can download the video in a variety of formats including including iPod , WMV , WMV (high) and Zune Media Center University: Whole House Integration...

Mike Garcen reviews HP's MediaSmart Connect Extender

I am still using my HP MediaSmart extender full time at the moment and am very happy with it and Mike Garcen at Missing Remote has written a great review of the unit After including their extender technology strictly with their HP branded flat panel televisions,...

Microsoft to Train Installers and unveil "new technologies" for Media Center at CEDIA Expo 2008

Microsoft continues [edit thanks Jim for the correction] to target Media Center at Custom Installers: At CEDIA Expo 2008 they will be training installers on setting up Windows Media Center and other related topics like Windows Home Server, Extenders and...

Update on Engadget HD's Media Center Update story

It looks like Engadget HD have some details on potential future updates on Media Center: The update expected this month is mainly focused around International support, which has evidently really been lacking up until now. The Japanese can expect ISDB-T...

BeebMC - BBC Radio addin for Windows Media Center

Damian Mehers has developed a BBC Radio addin for Windows Media Center that enables listening of BBC Radio streams directly from the Media Center user interface. It's a simple app that Damian originally developed for his own use and has made it available...

The Media Center Show #164 - CaptionSeeker

Iand — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 11:28:18 GMT

Listen Here

This week I am talking to Tony Leung from TeVeStream about CaptionSeeker and application that enables you to locate a scene in a recorded TV show by searching for a keyword or phrase in captions and jump to the scene in Media Center. We also talk about the other application that TeVeStream have developed. I also have your email and news items. Please keep the email coming show [at] theDigitallifestyle.com

This show is sponsored by mControl - Home Automation for Vista Media Center

Direct Download Link - Subscribe via iTunes - Subscribe via RSS - Vote for the show on Podcast Alley - Join The Media Center Show Group on Facebook - Catch me on Twitter

Show Times and all the links talked about in the show are in the podcast show notes

mControl Gets UPB Driver; mPanel Beta Units Out

Chris - Moderator — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:01:00 GMT

Last month mControl gained support for CentraLite JetStream, and this month UPB has been added to the growing list of supported lighting and home control systems in Embedded Automations mControl.

The beta driver, developed by mControl user Tom Boyce allows control of UPB devices by all of the mControl form factors. UPB works much like X10 and INSTEON in that it uses power line communication to control devices with ~99% reliability. The beta driver does have an expiration date (Aug. 31, 2008), however the final version should be out later this summer. Download the driver here.

Embedded Automation has also announced that the first beta mPanel units have shipped. If you are one of the lucky few partners to get a beta unit be sure to send it to me when you are done.

[YouTube:GZWzP3xdtZo]

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

HP Media Center Connect Extender Review

shadymg — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:59:00 GMT

HP has always been involved in Media Center, since the early days of their z-line of PC's which really wanted to be placed into the living room. Times have changed, and things are different at HP, but with the introduction of the Media Smart line of products they have shifted gears in how they attack the market. HP initially released their Media Smart Connect services only as a part of their LCD HDTVs, ranging from 37"-47". The feedback was fairly positive, and HP decided to pull the brains of that MediaSmart TV into an Extender device that could be sold for less than the $1500 of the TV, which is how we got to the MediaSmart Connect which I'll be covering.

Read the Rest at MissingRemote.com.

Short Bits: DVD Steaming, Media Center U, CEDIA

Chris - Moderator — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 01:20:00 GMT

Charlie Owen wants to know why you think that Microsoft hasn’t hit on DVD streaming yet. My reasoning? Because Microsoft has no idea what market to develop for. Are they focused on their average consumer market? Because they don’t use Media Center at all. Are they focused on the market found at The Green Button? Sure doesn’t seem like it. Are they focused on the custom installer market? Partly, but they hardly have the features needed to make a dent on the overall market.

Speaking of the custom market, Microsoft announced that will be holding various training sessions focused on custom installs and integrators at CEDIA this year.

In part 4 of the Media Center University videos from EHX Microsoft’s Todd Rutherford covers integrating Media Center into automation systems and whole home setups.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

Windows Media Center TV Pack and the DIRECTV Dilemma

Chris - Moderator — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 01:12:00 GMT

So it would seem that the Windows Media Center TV Pack is indeed Fiji, at least according to a report from Engadget HD.

Engadget HD is also reporting that the long awaited DIRECTV support in Fiji might not ship. Sadly, I can’t really comment on anything because of various NDAs, but it wouldn’t be an understatement to say such a non-release would be devastating to the market.

Fiji needs to be a huge release for Media Center as the next foreseeable release will be Windows 7. Without a good release that includes features like DIRECTV support, Microsoft would be opening to door for others (eg. Apple) to catch up and corner parts of the market. Microsoft had the clear advantage the past few years in that the market was still developing and they got in early (2002). However with new products shipping daily Microsoft no longer has any time to wait.

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

Microsoft Takes Over The Green Button

Chris - Moderator — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 21:52:00 GMT

Today is a big day for the Media Center community, and as speculated upon way too much The Green Button has become an official Microsoft web property!

So what does this mean? A few things, starting with increased Microsoft interaction that nearly everyone told us was so important. When Jessica Zahn left to join the Zune team, she collectively broke the hearts of all TGB members who lost the opportunity to get direct Microsoft feedback, but fear not increased Microsoft presence will come with the acquisition of The Green Button.

Next up on the list, ads are gone! Google AdWords and all pop-up text ads are gone (Plug: advertisers looking to target the Media Center community should consider advertising here), so everyone can enjoy the perks of a community built on members and not non-Media Center related pop-ups.

Other changes will be coming, but as the official announcement states Microsoft is not looking to shut down or limit your freedom of speech on The Green Button. I will still be a moderator as will Mike and the rest of the gang, so nothing will change in your ability to criticize Microsoft for poor decisions and have your voice heard (and as always, attacks directed at members or Microsoft employees will not be allowed).

Please let me know what you think of the change, but I think the increased funding and potential for direct communication will benefit all!

Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/

The Green Button

CableCARD to Get Relaxed DRM

More on Fiji/Media Center TV Pack

VidaBox Releases the vController - Hardware Solution Integratable with Software Automation

VidaBox Announces the PicoPC for Ultimate in Reliability &amp; Ease for PC on TV‏

Updates Tonight

This weeks posts

The Media Center Show #165 - mPanel

Microsoft Releases TweakMC for Vista Media Center

$150 Linksys DMA2100 Extenders via Dell.com

My Twelfth Post on Xbox 360 Not Getting Blu-ray

Internet Video Contest Asks What You'd Automate in Your Home

Short Bits: Netflix

New Xbox Experiences Reinvent Home Entertainment, and Everyone Is Invited

Microsoft and Netflix Unveil Partnership to Instantly Stream Movies and TV Episodes to the TV via Xbox LIVE

Bowing Out

Xbox 360 Console Now Offers Triple the Storage for Same Price

Inteset Unveils 15 Terabyte A/V NAS Storage Device

Two Media Center Updates? Don’t Count on It

Post Roundup

The Media Center Show #164 - CaptionSeeker

mControl Gets UPB Driver; mPanel Beta Units Out

HP Media Center Connect Extender Review

Short Bits: DVD Steaming, Media Center U, CEDIA

Windows Media Center TV Pack and the DIRECTV Dilemma

Microsoft Takes Over The Green Button

VidaBox Announces the PicoPC for Ultimate in Reliability & Ease for PC on TV‏