Rambus (RMBS)

[elixe]

"It's premature to know which (if any) device will become the centrepiece of the digital family room of the future," the firm said. "Still, we doubt that PCs - even Media Center PCs - will win because they are too complex and unstable. It strikes us as more likely that either (1) the game console will move up market to become the leading device or (2) a new system we dub the entertainment server will be created."

The whole concept of a “Media Center” is based on a broad set of assumptions. In a way it reminds me of the initiatives to provide video phone on your TV. Neat concept, but nobody wants it.

Being an early adaptor and tech geek, my PC is set up as a media center. I have a wireless network connecting two PCs and a laptop.
I have the PC set up as a PVR with TV recorded directly to my HD for later playback.
I have the wireless D-Link Media Center console connected to my entertainment system in the basement. It uses my PC as a media server. It has a remote control that allows me to remotely select folders and files from my PC. I have slide shows, video and music available from the PC. It supports all formats for video, audio and photos. (I’ve created a lot of home movie videos that I can click on in the family room). All audio plays through a hi-fi system with MagnaPlanar speakers.

The D-Link Console also connects to broadband internet through my wireless router and I have the option of subscribing to Internet content.

BTW, the system is very reliable and I’ve yet to experience a crash.

Note that all this was accomplished without buying a “Media Center” PC. (The D-Link console will set you back $199.00).

So what have I learned and what has it accomplished?
Our audio CD library is large and we still use the CD player for most music.
We’ve recorded one TV program in the past month.
The slide shows are fun for the kids. But all are on DVD and they prefer to watch them on their personal DVD players. Same for the movies. And once you’ve watched a slide show or home movie you have no interest in watching it again for at least six months.

JMOs