Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[XtremeNotebooks launches all-in-one XN1 PC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/06/xtremenotebooks-launches-all-in-one-xn1-pc/http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/06/xtremenotebooks-launches-all-in-one-xn1-pc/http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/06/xtremenotebooks-launches-all-in-one-xn1-pc/#comments
Keepin' with the funky fresh crowd, XtremeNotebooks is unleashing an all-in-one PC of its own, and while it may have some form of identity crisis coming from a laptop manufacturer, there's really no portable nature to this one. Nevertheless, the XN1 consists of a 22-inch WSXGA+ (1,680 x 1,050) LCD HDTV display which is jam packed with an Intel Core 2 Extreme processor, 1GB of DDR2 RAM, up to 2TB of built-in HDD space, an optional 256MB NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600 graphics card and HD DVD drive, gigabit Ethernet and WiFi. As for ports, you'll find eSATA, four USB 2.0 sockets, ExpressCard, 4-pin FireWire, a coaxial jack for the TV tuner, and the usual assortment of AV inputs / outputs. The XN1 is available now starting at $1,599, or you can scale back with a 19-inch version that gets going at $1,489.

[Via I4U News]

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XtremeNotebooks launches all-in-one XN1 PC originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 06 Oct 2007 00:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-in-oneall-in-one pcAll-in-onePccore 2 extremeCore2Extremegeforcehd dvdHdDvdhdtvlcdmedia pcmedia pcsmediapcmediapcsviivXN1Xtreme NotebooksXtreme XN1XtremeNotebooksXtremeXn1Sat, 06 Oct 2007 00:03:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV's CEDIA booth tour]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/07/directvs-cedia-booth-tour/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/07/directvs-cedia-booth-tour/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/07/directvs-cedia-booth-tour/#comments
There's just no way to followup a visit to Dish Network's booth than to hit up DirecTV directly afterwards, eh? Sadly, DirecTV's space was packed to the brim with individuals and an excessive amount of TVs, but we squeaked our way through the madness to get some shots of the company's HR21 Pro, which touts a sexy black chassis, a slew of ports in the rear, and interestingly enough, Viiv-certification. Oh, and the only murmurs we heard about the next big rollout of channels involved the phrase "between next week and next year."

Gallery: DirecTV's CEDIA booth tour

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DirecTV's CEDIA booth tour originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 06:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>booth tourBoothTourcediacedia 2007Cedia2007crestrondirectvhdhd dvrHdDvrhr21hr21 proHr21ProotherssatelliteviivFri, 07 Sep 2007 06:33:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV's CEDIA booth tour]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/07/directvs-cedia-booth-tour/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/07/directvs-cedia-booth-tour/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/07/directvs-cedia-booth-tour/#comments
DirecTV's booth seemed entirely too small for the amount of people and LCD TVs that were stuffed within, but we survived long enough to catch a few shots of the newfangled HR21 Pro DVR and to hear some not-so-encouraging words about the next rollout of HD offerings. You know the deal, hop on over here for the rest of the dirt.

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DirecTV's CEDIA booth tour originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 06:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>booth tourBoothTourcediacedia 2007Cedia2007crestrondirectvhd dvrHdDvrhdtvviivFri, 07 Sep 2007 06:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel announces simplified product-naming scheme]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/09/intel-announces-simplified-product-naming-scheme/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/09/intel-announces-simplified-product-naming-scheme/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/09/intel-announces-simplified-product-naming-scheme/#commentsIt looks like Intel has come to the realization that its product naming scheme has gotten a little out of hand and, as Ars Technica reports, it's now taking some measures to simplify things a bit. Apparently, Core 2 Quad, Core 2 Duo, and Core 2 Solo will all simply be known as "Core 2" starting on January 1st, 2008 (presumably with some other means to differentiate then), and Intel Viiv Processor Technology and Intel vPro Processor Technology will henceforth be known as Intel Core 2 Duo Processor with Viiv (or vPro). Further on down the line, Pentium D and Pentium Dual-Core will both be shortened to just "Pentium," while the server-centric Itanium 2 gets demoted to plain old "Itanium." According to Ars, Core 2 Extreme, Celeron, and Xeon will all stay as they are. Simple, right?

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Intel announces simplified product-naming scheme originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>core 2core 2 duocore 2 quadcore 2 soloCore2Core2DuoCore2QuadCore2SolointelpentiumprocessorviivThu, 09 Aug 2007 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Voting opens on $1M Intel challenge]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/22/voting-opens-on-1m-intel-challenge/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/22/voting-opens-on-1m-intel-challenge/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/22/voting-opens-on-1m-intel-challenge/#comments
We're all a pretty critical lot when it comes to design, right? Well now's your chance to let your refined sense of taste show by voting on a selection of Mini PC designs. Intel's Core Processor Challenge has narrowed down a field of Viiv certified Core 2 Duo mini PCs to a shortlist of ten. Of these, only seven (for some oddball reason) are pictured on the challenge web site for voting. Of course, you won't find the Mac mini in the running since it's not Viiv certified, but that doesn't explain the missing Kapsel. Nevertheless, an art deco design from Slipperyskip Computers (top-left) is currently in the lead. Will they take home the the $1,000,000 prize? Have your say -- click the read link below and get out to vote. The winner will be unveiled on April, 20th.

[Via Reg Hardware]

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Voting opens on $1M Intel challenge originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Mar 2007 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>core processor challengeCoreProcessorChallengeintelintel challengeIntelChallengemedia pcmedia pcsmediapcmediapcsviivThu, 22 Mar 2007 09:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Acer Aspire L320 mini PC touts Viiv certification]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/17/acer-aspire-l320-mini-pc-touts-viiv-certification/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/17/acer-aspire-l320-mini-pc-touts-viiv-certification/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/17/acer-aspire-l320-mini-pc-touts-viiv-certification/#comments
Every time you think the Viiv hype is dying down, Acer brings it back up, as just a few months after kicking out the "world's first" Viiv-certified LCD TV, the firm is now unveiling its Aspire L320 mini PC with -- you guessed it -- a shiny Viiv sticker adorning its case. Hot on the heels of its xSeries displays, this machine sports a slim, silver / black case designed for living room placement, a variety of Intel Pentium processors, up to 2GB of DDR2 RAM, up to 400GB of internal hard drive capacity, an Acer-branded digital / analog hybrid TV tuner, DVD writer, flash card reader, and a bevy of included ho hum software that you'll likely replace immediately upon bootup. Additionally, it sports 7.1-channel audio, Intel's GMA 3000 graphics set, VGA / DVI outputs, an option to add Windows Vista, FireWire, audio in / out, and a pair of USB 2.0 ports to round things out. No word just yet on price or availability, but this ought to be a fairly inexpensive alternative for those eying a very basic (and fairly attractive) pre-fab HTPC.

[Via RegHardware]

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Acer Aspire L320 mini PC touts Viiv certification originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aceraspirebusiness pcBusinessPccore2duohtpcintell320living roomliving room pcLivingRoomLivingRoomPcmini pcMiniPcVeritonviivSat, 17 Mar 2007 23:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Albatron showcasing Nano Abox V2.0 Mini-PC at CeBIT]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/19/albatron-showcasing-nano-abox-v2-0-mini-pc-at-cebit/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/19/albatron-showcasing-nano-abox-v2-0-mini-pc-at-cebit/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/19/albatron-showcasing-nano-abox-v2-0-mini-pc-at-cebit/#commentsIt looks like Asus' LED-backlit laptop and NVIDIA's three-way SLI will have to share the limelight with someone else at CeBIT, as Albatron is planning to showcase its wee Nano Abox V2.0 Mini-PC for literal computing on the go. While not quite a laptop per se, this miniature PC has a 6.1- x 3.4-inch LCD screen flanking the top, and while a brief glance may bring back delightful memories of the Wii laptop design, this multimedia-centric device isn't just fun and games. Aside from boasting Viiv certification, it packs an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, up to 2GB of DDR2 RAM, integrated graphics, DVI output, eight-channel audio, USB 2.0, FireFire, and gigabit Ethernet. Of course, no pricing or availability details have yet been divulged, but if you're looking for an average HTPC that can hit the road without taking up too much space, Albatron's got you covered.

[Via 64-Bit-Computers]

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Albatron showcasing Nano Abox V2.0 Mini-PC at CeBIT originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Feb 2007 00:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>albatronam2amdcebitcore 2 duocore 2 extremecore 2 quadCore2DuoCore2ExtremeCore2Quadgermanymedia pcmedia pcsmediapcmediapcsmini-itxmini-pcmotherboardmultimediaNano AboxNanoAboxviivMon, 19 Feb 2007 00:48:00 EST<![CDATA[One year with Viiv and still no traction?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/10/one-year-with-viiv-and-still-no-traction/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/10/one-year-with-viiv-and-still-no-traction/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/10/one-year-with-viiv-and-still-no-traction/#comments
During last years CES, there was one question that was constantly asked, "What is Viiv?". After one year after it's announcement it doesn't seem like it has gained much traction in the marketplace. While DirecTV also showed a Viiv compatible box at last years CES and there were even reports of the Viiv features on the HR20 last month. Now DirecTV is announcing that Viiv features on the HR20 are currently available as a public beta trial to all DirecTV Plus HD DVR customers. What really makes this interesting is the fact that they claim to be the "largest supplier of Viiv-verified digital media adapters", which can't be good news considering it is still in beta. We can only assume this means it is the only Viiv-verified digital media adapter. With all the media adapters announced who will end up in front? If you can't wait to try it out it's available in the latest firmware which is a manual update.

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One year with Viiv and still no traction? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Jan 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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During last years CES, there was one question that was constantly asked, "What is Viiv?". After one year after it's announcement it doesn't seem like it has gained much traction in the marketplace. While DirecTV also showed a Viiv compatible box at last years CES and there were even reports of the Viiv features on the HR20 last month. Now DirecTV is announcing that Viiv features on the HR20 are currently available as a public beta trial to all DirecTV Plus HD DVR customers. What really makes this interesting is the fact that they claim to be the "largest supplier of Viiv-verified digital media adapters", which can't be good news considering it is still in beta. We can only assume this means it is the only Viiv-verified digital media adapter. With all the media adapters announced who will end up in front? If you can't wait to try it out it's available in the latest firmware which is a manual update.

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One year with Viiv and still no traction? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Jan 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DirectvhdsatelliteViivWed, 10 Jan 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Russound and Lifeware join forces to create Media Console]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/08/russound-and-lifeware-join-forces-to-create-media-console/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/08/russound-and-lifeware-join-forces-to-create-media-console/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/08/russound-and-lifeware-join-forces-to-create-media-console/#commentsEvery few months it seems like some company comes out with some new hotsy-totsy media server setup. CES is no exception, with Russound and Lifeware announcing that they're putting their heads together to create the Viiv-compliant Media Console, complete with a keypad that can display metadata. We don't know much about what exactly these consoles can do (as in specs), nor what they'll cost, but CEPro reports that the higher-end systems will be around $6,000 or $7,000, with two other more inexpensive models sometime in May or June of this year. That said, ZDNET spied a demo model with a Russound multi-zone audio distribution system along with a trio of Lifeware components in a concept house -- however, while the reporter was checking it out, the system had to be rebooted in order while MCE froze. So on second thought, a waiting for a few months might not be such a bad idea after all.

[Via ZDNET]

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Russound and Lifeware join forces to create Media Console originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Jan 2007 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceslifewaremedia consolemedia pcmedia pcsMediaConsolemediapcmediapcsrussoundviivwindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterMon, 08 Jan 2007 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[I-O Data launches wired, Viiv-certified AVeL LinkPlayer2]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/07/i-o-data-launches-wired-viiv-certified-avel-linkplayer2/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/07/i-o-data-launches-wired-viiv-certified-avel-linkplayer2/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/07/i-o-data-launches-wired-viiv-certified-avel-linkplayer2/#commentsWe're not exactly sure who'd spring for a completely wired version of a media streamer these days, especially with all the wireless renditions already out there, but I-O Data is officially launching its AVeL LinkPlayer2 for Intel Viiv anyway. Designed to stream audio and video over a wired Ethernet connection from your PC to your TV, this device supports HD streaming (1080i / 720p), WMV9HD, MPEG2-TS, and DivX HD, but recommends a Viiv-certified HTPC to be the sender of the data. Aside from the lack of WiFi, it also strangely lacks an HDMI port (and subsequently, HDCP support) and includes a component output instead, but you can connect external hard drives via USB 2.0 and stream files stored locally across your TV set as well as view standard DVDs via the built-in DVD player. Nevertheless, this admittedly less-than-attractive device can be snapped up later on this month for $279, but do take note of the "Viiv sticker" requirement that's supposed to be found on your connected PC (and try not to chuckle).

[Via DailyTech]

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I-O Data launches wired, Viiv-certified AVeL LinkPlayer2 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Jan 2007 00:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avelAVLP2/DVDLAVdvddvd playerDvdPlayerhdi-o dataI-oDataintellinkplayer2othersSyabasviivSun, 07 Jan 2007 00:35:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV now friendly with Viiv boxes, other PCs to come?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/15/directv-now-friendly-with-viiv-boxes-other-pcs-to-come/http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/15/directv-now-friendly-with-viiv-boxes-other-pcs-to-come/http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/15/directv-now-friendly-with-viiv-boxes-other-pcs-to-come/#commentsAfter DirecTV's long-awaited HR20 HD DVR finally got its rightful announcements and actually hit users' hands, it wasn't too long before folks were plugging and praying in hopes of getting their new toy to play nice with that HTPC beside it. While we knew the two firms had gone hand-in-hand awhile back, we finally got the thumbs-up that a new, Viiv-alicious DirecTV Plus HD DVR would be unveiled soon to interact out-of-the-box with Viiv-enabled systems, but more importantly, that a software update was coming to the plain ole HR20s to accomplish the same thing. The time has come, and users are reporting over at DBSTalk that the "0x108 software" has opened up the Ethernet port for use, and allows browsing / connections via a Viiv-certified machine, but definitely made things difficult for those not exactly keen on shelling out for a few new components. Nevertheless, there's already been somewhat of a workaround worked out, which allows PCs with just Windows MCE installed to "see" the HR20, but not "serve up files in a way that HR20 can work with," which we're all but certain will change as the wheels spin in owners' heads. Reportedly, DirecTV is establishing a dedicated website to getting folks up and running with the new connectivity options, and be sure to keep an eye on the linked thread for any "future developments" regarding non-Viiv-savvy PCs.

[Via PVRWire]

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DirecTV now friendly with Viiv boxes, other PCs to come? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Dec 2006 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directvhdhd dvrHdDvrhr20intelmedia centerMediaCenterviivwindows mceWindowsMceFri, 15 Dec 2006 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV now friendly with Viiv boxes, other PCs to come?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/15/directv-now-friendly-with-viiv-boxes-other-pcs-to-come/http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/15/directv-now-friendly-with-viiv-boxes-other-pcs-to-come/http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/15/directv-now-friendly-with-viiv-boxes-other-pcs-to-come/#commentsAfter DirecTV's long-awaited HR20 HD DVR finally got its rightful announcements and actually hit users' hands, it wasn't too long before folks were plugging and praying in hopes of getting their new toy to play nice with that HTPC beside it. While we knew the two firms had gone hand-in-hand awhile back, we finally got the thumbs-up that a new, Viiv-alicious DirecTV Plus HD DVR would be unveiled soon to interact out-of-the-box with Viiv-enabled systems, but more importantly, that a software update was coming to the plain ole HR20s to accomplish the same thing. The time has come, and users are reporting over at DBSTalk that the "0x108 software" has opened up the Ethernet port for use, and allows browsing / connections via a Viiv-certified machine, but definitely made things difficult for those not exactly keen on shelling out for a few new components. Nevertheless, there's already been somewhat of a workaround worked out, which allows PCs with just Windows MCE installed to "see" the HR20, but not "serve up files in a way that HR20 can work with," which we're all but certain will change as the wheels spin in owners' heads. Reportedly, DirecTV is establishing a dedicated website to getting folks up and running with the new connectivity options, and be sure to keep an eye on the linked thread for any "future developments" regarding non-Viiv-savvy PCs.

[Via PVRWire]

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DirecTV now friendly with Viiv boxes, other PCs to come? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Dec 2006 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessdbsdirectvdrmdvrethernethackhd dvrHdDvrhr20intelloopholemcemedia centermedia pcmedia pcsMediaCentermediapcmediapcsmodmusicphotospvrsatellitesoftwareupdateviivwindowsworkaroundFri, 15 Dec 2006 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Acer's AT3705 becomes first LCD TV to receive Viiv certification]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/03/acers-at3705-becomes-first-lcd-tv-to-receive-viiv-certification/http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/03/acers-at3705-becomes-first-lcd-tv-to-receive-viiv-certification/http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/03/acers-at3705-becomes-first-lcd-tv-to-receive-viiv-certification/#commentsWhile we're still firm believers that nobody is exactly certain what all this Viiv fuss is about, Acer has been labeled the first producer of a Viiv-certified LCD TV, which "tests for compatibility of networked media devices with Intel Viiv technology-based PCs while sharing content over a home network." The 37-inch, HD-ready AT3705 is marketed as "the first LCD TV that integrates digital TV with media gateway functionality," and reportedly plays back content such as recorded digital TV broadcasts and "protected media" purchased at content service providers thanks to its support for DTCP-IP (Digital Transmission Content Protection over IP). Essentially, the set allows seamless playback of protected content stored on Viiv-enabled HTPCs, presumably providing one more headache when trying to watch last week's OTA HD broadcast of The Office. Regardless, we're sure the content guardians are lovin' it, and Acer will gladly take any sort of praise it can get, but we're not so sure this (yet-to-be-priced) set is as spectacular (or useful) as the firm would lead you to believe.

[Via CEPro]

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Acer's AT3705 becomes first LCD TV to receive Viiv certification originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 03 Dec 2006 09:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acerAT3705AT3705-MGWDLNADTCP-IPintellcdlcd tvLcdTvmonitortvUPnPviivSun, 03 Dec 2006 09:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Pcalchemy intros Alchemy Series media PCs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/11/23/pcalchemy-intros-alchemy-series-media-pcs/http://www.engadget.com/2006/11/23/pcalchemy-intros-alchemy-series-media-pcs/http://www.engadget.com/2006/11/23/pcalchemy-intros-alchemy-series-media-pcs/#comments Pcalchemey's (yeah, that's how they spell it) busted out a new line of configurable Media Center PCs, with four different models in its Alchemy Series available to tweak to your liking (and budget). Regardless of the model you choose, you'll get a Core 2 Duo processor (from a T5600 on the low end all the way up to an E6700), along with Intel Viiv technology, Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005, and a Gyration Media Center Remote, which, as you may know, uses motion sensing gyroscopic technology to control cursor/mouse movement in addition to the usual up/down, left/right action (no sensor bar necessary). Prices start at $1,499 for the low-end Alchemy RE, which also happens to be the smallest unit (pictured after the break), all the way up to $2899 for the default config on the Alchemy XE (seen above), although you can bump that price up even further if you opt for some of the pricier upgrades, like a Blu-ray burner, or an extra half terrabyte of storage if the standard 1TB isn't enough for ya.

Continue reading Pcalchemy intros Alchemy Series media PCs

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Pcalchemy intros Alchemy Series media PCs originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Nov 2006 08:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>core 2 duoCore2Duomedia center pcmedia pcmedia pcsMediaCenterPcMediaPcmediapcspcalchemeyviivwindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterThu, 23 Nov 2006 08:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Asus rolls out its first media center PC: the Viiv-certified Asteio D22]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/11/02/asus-rolls-out-its-first-media-center-pc-the-viiv-certified-ast/http://www.engadget.com/2006/11/02/asus-rolls-out-its-first-media-center-pc-the-viiv-certified-ast/http://www.engadget.com/2006/11/02/asus-rolls-out-its-first-media-center-pc-the-viiv-certified-ast/#comments
Redirecting those engineering efforts away from svelte notebooks and UMPCs, Asus has unveiled a slightly different beast in the form of its first media center PC. Apparently wanting to grab a piece of the ever-developing market while it still can, the Viiv-certified Asteio D22 is hitting the HTPC realm with a solid reputation and a fairly impressive list of specs. Although the case does indeed resemble a second-generation VCR, it probably won't clash too badly with your other fine AV components, and we all know it's the innards that count. Powered by an Intel E6300 Core 2 Duo processor, the machine also touts 1GB of DDR2 RAM, a 250GB SATA drive, 16x dual-layer DVD burner, "13-in-1" flash card reader, 802.11b/g, gigabit Ethernet, dual TV tuners, and even a discrete nVidia GeForce 7600GS graphics card. It's also packing some serious heat in the port department, as it sports 4-pin FireWire, microphone in, stereo out, a plethora of USB 2.0 connectors, VGA, DVI, composite, component, S-Video, HDMI (1080p-ready), and 7.1 surround sound via the optical / coaxial digital audio outputs. Additionally, Asus throws in a wireless keyboard with touchpad and a Windows XP MCE remote to control your PVR addiction. All these niceties will certainly demand a premium, however, as the Asteio D22 will set you back $2,999 when it hits shelves later this month.

[Via RegHardware]

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Asus rolls out its first media center PC: the Viiv-certified Asteio D22 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Nov 2006 13:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pAsteioasusd22hdmihdtvhtpcmedia centermedia pcmedia pcsMediaCentermediapcmediapcsviivThu, 02 Nov 2006 13:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel, Omnicom bringing "10 foot" ads to on-demand Viiv content]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/29/intel-omnicom-bringing-10-foot-ads-to-on-demand-viiv-content/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/29/intel-omnicom-bringing-10-foot-ads-to-on-demand-viiv-content/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/29/intel-omnicom-bringing-10-foot-ads-to-on-demand-viiv-content/#commentsIntel and Omnicom Media Group look to be bringing a little more advertising into your life, announcing that they're collaborating on so-called "10 foot" advertising templates for on-demand content delivered to Viiv-based computers. Details are a bit sketchy, with an actual roll-out still months (or more) away, but the deal could apparently include both video and interactive advertisements, in addition to more traditional banner-type adverts -- all of which Intel says will be both "highly targeted" and "relevant". The hope here is, of course, to make Viiv a more attractive platform for content providers -- carving out a middle ground between the free-for-all model and tougher-to-crack subscription or pay-per-use options on opposite sides of the spectrum.

[Thanks, Ash]

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Intel, Omnicom bringing "10 foot" ads to on-demand Viiv content originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 29 Sep 2006 14:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingintelmedia pcmedia pcsmediapcmediapcsomnicomviivFri, 29 Sep 2006 14:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Gateway gets their game on for cheap with new DX420 desktops]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/28/gateway-gets-their-game-on-for-cheap-with-new-dx420-desktops/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/28/gateway-gets-their-game-on-for-cheap-with-new-dx420-desktops/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/28/gateway-gets-their-game-on-for-cheap-with-new-dx420-desktops/#comments These new DX420 boxes from Gateway aren't going to be breathing down Alienware's neck anytime soon, but the prices sure aren't bad for what you get, and the units shouldn't do too bad of a job as a media hub or for a bit of casual fragging. Starting at $599, the desktops all feature Core 2 Duo processors, WMCE '05, Viiv 1.6 chipsets, 9-in-1 media readers, DVD burners and plenty of expansion slots. For the base unit you get a 1.86GHz E6300 chip, 512MB of RAM, a 160GB 7200 RPM HDD and a 256MB NVIDIA GeForce 7300LE graphics card. Luckily, Gateway lets you outfit one of these with most of the relevant trimmings, including 4GB of RAM, a 256MB GeForce 7600GS graphics card, dual 750GB drives and a TV tuner, with a bit of room left for expansions of your own. Gateway should be shipping these now, though you'll have to wait until October 19th to get one of those 750 giggers.

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Gateway gets their game on for cheap with new DX420 desktops originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Sep 2006 10:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dx420gatewaymedia pcmedia pcsmediapcmediapcsviivThu, 28 Sep 2006 10:21:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV, Intel to connect DVRs with Viiv PCs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/26/directv-intel-to-connect-dvrs-with-viiv-pcs/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/26/directv-intel-to-connect-dvrs-with-viiv-pcs/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/26/directv-intel-to-connect-dvrs-with-viiv-pcs/#commentsIn case 80 cores doesn't get you going, perhaps this will: in other news to come out of the Intel Developers Forum, DirecTV and Intel are joining forces to produce the DirecTV Plus HD DVR -- which we first heard about all the way back at CES -- allowing viewers to check out content via the interweb when connected to a Viiv PC. In addition, there will be a new software update for DirecTV subscribers by the end of the year that turns subscribers' set-top-boxes into digital media adapters, the companies said in a press release earlier today. The new DVR, to be released later this fall, will capture 200 hours of standard definition programming or 50 hours of HD, or whatever combination of the two your little heart desires.

[Via CNET]

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DirecTV, Intel to connect DVRs with Viiv PCs originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Sep 2006 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directvdirectv plus hd dvrDirectvPlusHdDvrdvrhdintelsatelliteviivTue, 26 Sep 2006 21:01:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV, Intel to connect DVRs with Viiv PCs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/26/directv-intel-to-connect-dvrs-with-viiv-pcs/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/26/directv-intel-to-connect-dvrs-with-viiv-pcs/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/26/directv-intel-to-connect-dvrs-with-viiv-pcs/#commentsIn case 80 cores doesn't get you going, perhaps this will: in other news to come out of the Intel Developers Forum, DirecTV and Intel are joining forces to produce the DirecTV Plus HD DVR -- which we first heard about all the way back at CES -- allowing viewers to check out content via the interweb when connected to a Viiv PC. In addition, there will be a new software update for DirecTV subscribers by the end of the year that turns subscribers' set-top-boxes into digital media adapters, the companies said in a press release earlier today. The new DVR, to be released later this fall, will capture 200 hours of standard definition programming or 50 hours of HD, or whatever combination of the two your little heart desires.

[Via CNET]

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DirecTV, Intel to connect DVRs with Viiv PCs originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Sep 2006 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directvdirectv plus hd dvrDirectvPlusHdDvrdvridfintelintel developer forumIntelDeveloperForummedia pcmedia pcsmediapcmediapcsviivTue, 26 Sep 2006 21:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel targeting home media users with Bearlake G+ chipset]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/08/19/intel-targeting-home-media-users-with-bearlake-g-chipset/http://www.engadget.com/2006/08/19/intel-targeting-home-media-users-with-bearlake-g-chipset/http://www.engadget.com/2006/08/19/intel-targeting-home-media-users-with-bearlake-g-chipset/#commentsIt's a little short on exact details, but Intel has released some details of the roadmap of their chipsets and motherboard designs. The line of interest to us at HD Beat is the Bearlake G+, which contains some built-in capabilities for HDTV decoding and display. It contains designs for an integrated video chipset on the motherboard, and should support hardware encryption and decoding of VC-1 and MPEG-4 AVC, as well as Intel's High Definition Audio. So if you get a computer with this chipset on the motherboard, rather than having to buy an nVidia, ATI, or other third-party card to get hardware video playback decoding for your HDTV, you can pick up one of the Media Series from Intel, plug in your DVI or HDMI cable -- with HDCP, of course -- and play back your HD DVD or Blu-ray media. The G+ series should be out in 2007.

Intel targeting home media users with Bearlake G+ chipset originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 19 Aug 2006 23:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdhdcphdmiigpintegrated graphicsIntegratedGraphicsintelviivSat, 19 Aug 2006 23:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel's F1-inspired Viiv remote]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/30/intel-s-f1-inspired-viiv-remote/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/30/intel-s-f1-inspired-viiv-remote/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/30/intel-s-f1-inspired-viiv-remote/#comments

 

We wonder what the meeting was like over at Intel HQ when they decided to produce this programmable remote that's designed for controlling your Viiv devices and is shaped like the steering wheel from a BMW F1 car. We wrote a short play describing how we think it went.

Executive 1: It seems like people are seeing Viiv as kind of a novelty. What should we do?
Executive 2: Hmm, maybe we should develop a remote that'll give users access to all of their media without having to switch remotes, thus making Viiv actually useful for accessing content. It can have an array of custom programmable buttons, two of which look like bright blue marker caps, and everything.
Executive 1: Yeah, and it can be shaped like the steering wheel from a race car!
Executive 2: That is a totally sweet idea. When does it come out and how much?
Executive 1: Well we're developing it now, so no word on release date. But judging by how much other companies charge for race car stuff, it's safe to say that it won't be cheap.
Executive 2: Awesome. AMD Live! has no idea what's coming.

Fin.

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Intel's F1-inspired Viiv remote originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 30 Jun 2006 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>input devicesInputDevicesintelmedia pcmedia pcsmediapcmediapcsperipheralsremote controlRemoteControlsteering wheelSteeringWheelviivFri, 30 Jun 2006 10:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Gigabyte's A963 and H971 VIIV-powered HTPCs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/09/gigabytyes-a963-and-h971-viiv-powered-htpcs/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/09/gigabytyes-a963-and-h971-viiv-powered-htpcs/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/09/gigabytyes-a963-and-h971-viiv-powered-htpcs/#comments
Besides that pair of smartphones we spotted earlier today, Gigabyte has also been showing off a set of home theater PCs at Computex, and whether you like your media centers in tower or pizza box configuration, Gigabyte's got you covered. While both the silver H971 and white A963 support VIIV-powered Core Duo processors, the rest of the specs are nothing that will get you too excited, and the lack of built-in HDMI  or WiFi will probably keep most of our readers from even giving these machines a second glance. Still, if the Intel spin machine has done its job right, the VIIV stickers alone should help Gigabyte move a few units whenever they hit stores.

Read- A963 [Via AVing]
Read- H971 [Via AVing]

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Gigabyte's A963 and H971 VIIV-powered HTPCs originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jun 2006 23:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a963computexcomputingcore duoCoreDuogigabyteh971home theater pcHomeTheaterPchtpcmedia pcmedia pcsMediaPcmediapcspcviivFri, 09 Jun 2006 23:21:00 EST<![CDATA[First International's slim, VIIV-powered GE2 multimedia PC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/07/first-internationals-slim-viiv-powered-ge2-multimedia-pc/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/07/first-internationals-slim-viiv-powered-ge2-multimedia-pc/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/07/first-internationals-slim-viiv-powered-ge2-multimedia-pc/#commentsEver since the Mac mini made its much-heralded debut, new small form-factor multimedia PCs have been popping up seemingly every day, so a new company called First International (FIC) has its work cut out for it if it hopes to top the likes of AOpen, Blueado, and Hi-Grade with the super-slim, VIIV-powered GE2 revealed at Computex. Not surprisingly, the specs on this machine closely match other models on the market, so features like a Core Duo processor, integrated graphics, slot-loading DVD burner, WiFi and Bluetooth 2.0, optional TV tuner, and DVI and S/PDIF outputs will probably sound quite familiar by now. Since neither pricing nor release date are known at this point, all we can hold onto is FIC's promise that the GE2 will be shipping "very soon."

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First International's slim, VIIV-powered GE2 multimedia PC originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Jun 2006 13:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aopenappleblueadocentrino duoCentrinoDuocore duoCoreDuodual-coredvifirst internationalFirstInternationalge2hi-gradeintelmac miniMacMinimedia pcmedia pcsMediaPcmediapcsmultimedia pcMultimediaPcs/pdifsmall form-factorSmallForm-factortv tunerTvTunerviivWed, 07 Jun 2006 13:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Buffalo LinkTheater Wireless Media Player for Viiv PCs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/06/buffalo-linktheater-wireless-media-player-for-viiv-pcs/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/06/buffalo-linktheater-wireless-media-player-for-viiv-pcs/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/06/buffalo-linktheater-wireless-media-player-for-viiv-pcs/#comments If you like the idea of BenQ's Viiv-flavored DMP300 Digital Media Player we saw yesterday, but would so much prefer a version with snazzy antennas, Buffalo has you covered. It's the very same remote Internet applications and premium content that Viiv support enables, just this time in a Buffalo box, and featuring a USB 2.0 port for plugging in digital cameras and portable audio players. Codec support is hefty, with audio (MP3, WMA, AAC, LPCM), image (JPEG, BMP, PNG), and video (MPEG 1/2/4, WMV 7/8/9, XviD) formats well represented, along with DRM like DTCP-IP and Windows Media DRM 10 for Network Devices. There's an Ethernet port along with the 802.11a/b/g wireless connection, but though the device has S-Video and composite outputs, component video only works off of a D4 port via an included adapter, and no mention is made of HDMI. The LinkTheater should be available later this month for around $250.

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Buffalo LinkTheater Wireless Media Player for Viiv PCs originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Jun 2006 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>benqbuffalodmp300hdtvlinktheatermediamedia pcmedia pcsmedia playermediapcmediapcsMediaPlayerviivTue, 06 Jun 2006 12:33:00 EST<![CDATA[BenQ's VIIV-friendly DMP300 Digital Media Player]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/05/benqs-viiv-friendly-dmp300-digital-media-player/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/05/benqs-viiv-friendly-dmp300-digital-media-player/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/05/benqs-viiv-friendly-dmp300-digital-media-player/#comments
Now that you've picked up a brand new VIIV-powered PC (because computing just isn't computing without VIIV), you probably want a media streaming device to watch all your digital swag on regular TVs, and BenQ's got your back with the new DMP300 Digital Media Player. Like many of the other similar solutions on the market, the DMP300 streams your music (MP3, WMA, PCM), vids (MPEG-1/2/4, WMV9, XviD), and pics (JPEG, JPEG2000, BMP) over a wired or wireless (802.11b/g) network, but also leverages the power of VIIV for accessing certain remote applications and premium content. This model sports a full range of connectivity options -- HDMI, component, S-video, and digital audio outputs are some of the highlights -- and will be available for an undisclosed price under generic branding sometime next quarter.

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BenQ's VIIV-friendly DMP300 Digital Media Player originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jun 2006 16:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>802.11benqdmp300 digital media playerDmp300DigitalMediaPlayerhdmiintelmedia centermedia pcmedia pcsMediaCentermediapcmediapcsmp3mpeg-1/2/4pmcstreamingstreaming mediaStreamingMediaviivwmawmv9xvidMon, 05 Jun 2006 16:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Acer Aspire Idea 500 Windows Media Center]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/01/acer-aspire-idea-500-windows-media-center/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/01/acer-aspire-idea-500-windows-media-center/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/01/acer-aspire-idea-500-windows-media-center/#comments

Yeah ok, we missed the press release on the Acer Aspire Idea 500 last month but she's still worth a quick double-back on this fully-spec'd, Viiv Windows Media Center PC. At just 2 3/4 inches thin, this low profile living room media center generates a mere 28 dBA under heavy load (23 dBA idling) yet packs in a Core Duo T2300 CPU, 250GB disk, 1GB DDR2 memory, a dual-layer DVD burner, 7-in-1 memory card reader, 4 x USB, Firewire, 802.11b/g WiFi, an RF keyboard and mouse, and not one, but two mini-PCI tuner cards for viewing and recording digital and analog television broadcasts. It also features a complete range of connectivity including HDMI, DVI-I, 2 x SCART (RGB?), 7.1 audio with S/PDIF digital out with support for High Definition audio, Dolby Digital Live, and DTC Connect. The Idea 500 should hit the cobbled streets of Europe any day now with an expected VAT-inclusive price of €1299/$1671. See, now aren't you glad we told you?

[Thanks, Liam B]

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Acer Aspire Idea 500 Windows Media Center originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Jun 2006 08:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AcerAcer Asprire IdeaAcerAsprireIdeaMCEmedia pcmedia pcsmediapcmediapcsviivwindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterThu, 01 Jun 2006 08:51:00 EST<![CDATA[AMD Live! goes live]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/05/31/amd-live-goes-live/http://www.engadget.com/2006/05/31/amd-live-goes-live/http://www.engadget.com/2006/05/31/amd-live-goes-live/#commentsWhen Intel announced Viiv, no one had any idea what the hell they were talking about (in fact, we still don't). Then AMD re-announced their Live! strategy at CES, about which we also didn't really have any freaking clue. Well, now we have a clue, thanks AMD; Live! is a (gasp) entertainment platform that will use a number of applications to create a more immersive, improved multimedia experience designed around their existing Athlon64 X2. Those applications, you ask? Well, they're mostly software rebadges: AMD LIVE! On Demand powered by Orb Networks, AMD LIVE! Network Magic, AMD LIVE! Compress, AMD LIVE! LogMeIn, and AMD LIVE! Media Vault. So it's basically Viiv -- nebulous multimedia software suite + CPU / platform -- but AMD style, which we more or less knew. Expect Live! PCs from "leading OEMs including Acer, Alienware, Fujitsu Siemens Computers, Gateway, HP, Sahara, and Tsinghua Tongfang." Oh, you know we will!

[Via PC Mag]

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AMD Live! goes live originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 31 May 2006 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amdintellivelive!viivWed, 31 May 2006 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Viiv doesn't suck after all?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/25/viiv-doesnt-suck-after-all/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/25/viiv-doesnt-suck-after-all/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/25/viiv-doesnt-suck-after-all/#commentsViivThat's what CE Pro is suggesting. After questioning Intel's underwhelming initiative, they have now softened their stance offered an alternate perspective and given us some food for thought on why Viiv might actually be worthwhile. Chief among those reasons is transcoding. For example, your second-gen Viiv equipped PC should come with the capability to stream any type of media to an Xbox 360, without any workarounds or extensions.


We'll wait until we see a Viiv PC with more useful capabilities, although this jibes with rumors we heard earlier about streaming functionality not coming alive until Viiv 2.0.

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Viiv doesn't suck after all? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 25 Apr 2006 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ce proCeProhdhdtvhigh definitionHighDefinitionintelstreamingtranscodingviivxbox 360Xbox360Tue, 25 Apr 2006 17:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Is Viiv living up to the hype?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/24/is-viiv-living-up-to-the-hype/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/24/is-viiv-living-up-to-the-hype/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/24/is-viiv-living-up-to-the-hype/#commentsViiv. Do you even know what it is. For starters it is somewhat like Centrino was to laptops a few years ago. Viiv is a combination of hardware that allows consumers to easily view and stream digital media. Intel introduced this last year at CES with a cool box that would look great in any equipment rack. But go into any major electronic store and seek out their Viiv systems. (if you can find one) HP has a desktop that is just a desktop filled with a few web clips and digital media files. Nothing special to us.

So where are all the cool Viiv products? Well, for one, remember that Onkyo media center. That's one. We are sure more is to come but this is a home entertainment product that someone like Onkyo or TIVO would be great at making. There is more to come and hopefully penetrate into homes.

[via digg]

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Is Viiv living up to the hype? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Apr 2006 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>centrinocesdtvhdhdtvintelonkyotivotvviivMon, 24 Apr 2006 14:33:00 EST<![CDATA[HP Pavilion m7360y, Viiv reviewed, called jive]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/24/hp-pavilion-m7360y-viiv-reviewed-called-jive/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/24/hp-pavilion-m7360y-viiv-reviewed-called-jive/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/24/hp-pavilion-m7360y-viiv-reviewed-called-jive/#commentsHere we are, four months since Intel promised a new home entertainment computing revolution the likes of which we'd never seen in the form of Viiv. Sure, no one -- including Intel -- could really figure out what the hell Viiv was, but they successfully convinced a lot of people that it's a brand they needed to see represented in their next PC. Well, according to the Washington Post, who recently spent some serious time with as mature a Viiv product as exists in the form of an HP Pavilion m7360y, the platform "amounts to a smattering of free Web video clips and discounts on online music, movie and game rentals -- plus a nifty rainbow-hued Viiv sticker on the front of the computer." They too couldn't define Viiv, and even called the Intel's much lauded Quick Resume feature as being akin to switching off your display and speakers -- nothing more. Not that we're really surprised, but it's pretty harsh when people start accusing your seemingly directionless platform initiatives as "embarrassing [your]self."

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HP Pavilion m7360y, Viiv reviewed, called jive originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Apr 2006 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>desktophome entertainmentHomeEntertainmenthpintelm7360ymediamedia pcmedia pcsMediaPcmediapcspavilionviivMon, 24 Apr 2006 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Maingear's Prysma does Viiv Egyptian-style]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/14/maingears-prysma-does-viiv-egyptian-style/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/14/maingears-prysma-does-viiv-egyptian-style/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/14/maingears-prysma-does-viiv-egyptian-style/#comments We knew that shady Viiv spec had a few tricks up its sleeve, and apparently they involve completely pointless (well, rather pointed in this case) yet strangely mesmerizing form factors. The new pyramid-shaped Prysma Media Center PC from game PC manufacturer Maingear has support for the Viiv spec, and though the $1752 base configuration has a mere 512MB of RAM, 80GB HDD, and integrated graphics, there's plenty of room to grow. Of course, in keeping with the Viiv spec, there is gigabit Ethernet, 7.1 Intel HD Audio, and a Pentium D 920 Dual Core 2.8Ghz processor, so the PC should at least be able to push around a bit of HD content if you can manage to find some. Maingear rounds out the Prysma with dual NTSC tuners and some pricey ($299) custom color options.

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Maingear's Prysma does Viiv Egyptian-style originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Apr 2006 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>maingearmedia centermedia pcmedia pcsMediaCentermediapcmediapcsprysmapyramidviivwindows media center editionWindowsMediaCenterEditionFri, 14 Apr 2006 15:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Onkyo unveils HDC-7 Viiv media PC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/14/onkyo-unveils-hdc-7-viiv-media-pc/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/14/onkyo-unveils-hdc-7-viiv-media-pc/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/14/onkyo-unveils-hdc-7-viiv-media-pc/#comments
Remember that Onkyo media PC we got word of last fall? Well, the little box, now known as the HDC-7, is now ready for its close up, and comes packed with lots of goodies, including a Pentium D820 at 2.8GHz, 1GB RAM, 400GB drive, DVD burner and all the inputs and outputs you'd expect, including DVI, component, VGA, dual Firewire and dual USB. It's due out in Japan in late May, with pricing expected to run about ¥300,000 (about $2,500).

[Via HD Beat]

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Onkyo unveils HDC-7 Viiv media PC originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Apr 2006 13:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdc7hdtvmedia pcmedia pcsmediapcmediapcsonkyoviivFri, 14 Apr 2006 13:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Okoro's Core Duo-powered OMS-LX100 HTPC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/10/okoros-core-duo-powered-oms-lx100-htpc/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/10/okoros-core-duo-powered-oms-lx100-htpc/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/10/okoros-core-duo-powered-oms-lx100-htpc/#commentsOkoro Media Systems has just released a low-profile, reasonably priced home theater PC based on Intel's Core Duo processor that has also received the coveted VIIV seal of approval, which we're still not exactly sure about, but whose very existence makes us scared of buying any products without this enigmatic certification. Besides the 1.73GHz Yonah T2300, the OMS-LX100 features one gig of 677MHz DDR2 RAM, a Nvidia GeForce 7300 GS PCI Express video card with 256MB of memory, an ATI Theater Pro 550 PCI TV/FM tuner with MPEG-2 encoding (OTA HDTV tuner optional), 250GB hard drive, 16x dual-layer DVD burner, IR or RF remote, Dolby Digital Live support, your choice of operating system and bundled multimedia software, and a host of ports: component, S-Video, composite, DVI, VGA, optical and coax digital audio, plus the usual complement of USB, FireWire, and PS/2 hookups. Available immediately, Okoro's dual core HTPC will set you back just $1,400.

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Okoro's Core Duo-powered OMS-LX100 HTPC originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Apr 2006 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.67GHzcore duoCoreDuohdtvhome theater pcHomeTheaterPchtpcintelmedia pcmedia pcsMediaPcmediapcsmultimediaokorookoro media systemsOkoroMediaSystemsOMS-LX100t2300viivyonahMon, 10 Apr 2006 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MCE and DIRECTV Viiv in the works]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/03/16/mce-and-directv-box-in-the-works/http://www.engadget.com/2006/03/16/mce-and-directv-box-in-the-works/http://www.engadget.com/2006/03/16/mce-and-directv-box-in-the-works/#commentsDIRECTV ViivI know it isn't news, but it is good to hear someone mention it since CES. Each year at CES there are at least a few items that end up being vapor ware. Here at HDBeat we love to stream HD Content around our house and using XP Media Center Edition with an Xbox360 is always a good option. Of course the biggest problem is that we can only stream OTA content and other HD content from our PC, but not content from Cable or satellite.

We are so excited about being able to use either CableCARD or a Viiv powered DIRECTV STB that you can bet we will keep you updated as soon as we find out more. For now all we have is a mention by DIRECTV CEO Chase Carey at the Intel development conference's keynote. He said that the Viiv-certified DIRECTV box was in the works.

The real question is if it will be available before the standalone HD TiVo. I probably won't buy both, but I will buy the first to market.

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MCE and DIRECTV Viiv in the works originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Mar 2006 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cableDIRECTVhdHDBeatHDTVsatelliteviivThu, 16 Mar 2006 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple rumors are fun when they're about HDTV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/23/apple-rumors-are-fun-when-theyre-about-hdtv/http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/23/apple-rumors-are-fun-when-theyre-about-hdtv/http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/23/apple-rumors-are-fun-when-theyre-about-hdtv/#commentsApple: February 28thNothing we love more than rumor mongering analyst predictions at HDBeat, the latest of which has revived the high definition or HDTV-based video iPod rumor. No news on possible Intel Viiv-based plasmas or MovieBeam integration, but we wouldn't rule out a surprise appearance by Bigfoot at this point.

The announcement, whatever it is, will be made at a just-announced press event February 28th, so check back here on Tuesday to see what is what. What do you think: is there anything video or high-def related coming out of Apple's closet next week?

Apple rumors are fun when they're about HDTV originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Feb 2006 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsapplehdHD BeatHdBeathdtvhigh definitionHighDefinitionintelipodmoviebeamviivThu, 23 Feb 2006 15:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel Viiv support: who needs it?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/23/intel-viiv-support-who-needs-it/http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/23/intel-viiv-support-who-needs-it/http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/23/intel-viiv-support-who-needs-it/#commentsIntel Viiv supportOh, there's quite a buzz going on about Viiv and the buzz continues to get louder as more info surfaces. There's apparently a "Supports Intel Viiv" logo that we're just starting to see and that begs the question: what will wear this badge o' honor and more importantly, will this be a sticker that you as an HD-project tinkerer actually get? We doubt it; it seems pretty certain that like CableCARD 2.0 certified Vista systems, a Viiv cert will be OEM-based as well.

Is that really a bad thing though? Not that we have a solid understanding of the Viiv platform (does anyone?), but it appears to simply be a way to put consumers at ease when mixing components and hoping that they work. If all of the components are Viiv-able, then your overall system should have no DRM challenges. If you cobble your own boxes together, you're on your own; which you realized when you started your little homebrewed high-def science experiment, right? If our interpretation of Viiv is right, then mainstream consumers should be happy. For the more technically astute, is Viiv really adding anything?

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Intel Viiv support: who needs it? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Feb 2006 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DTVhdHD BeatHdBeatHDTVIntelTVViivVistaWMCEThu, 23 Feb 2006 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[So this is what Viiv is?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/14/so-this-is-what-viiv-is/http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/14/so-this-is-what-viiv-is/http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/14/so-this-is-what-viiv-is/#commentsViiv PCI think part of the reason it's so hard to figure out what Viiv is, is because it's so many things. One of those things, is a small form factor PC with dual cores that turns on and off almost instantly and runs Windows Media Center edition. This box, the µDMS P60 from Hi-Grade is only a concept, but it's one that I like: small, sleek and somewhat powerful. The question is: how is it at HD? It's said to have an optional ATSC tuner for OTA HD, but how about access to  DIRECTV HD programming?

[via Engadget]

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So this is what Viiv is? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2006 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdHDBeatHDTVIntelViivWindows Media CenterWindowsMediaCenterWMCETue, 14 Feb 2006 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney to release HD MovieBeam STB]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/14/disney-to-release-hd-moviebeam-stb/http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/14/disney-to-release-hd-moviebeam-stb/http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/14/disney-to-release-hd-moviebeam-stb/#commentsMovieBeamIt's a good thing we all have our OTA antennas ready because we're going to need them to enjoy the latest in HD entertainment: MovieBeam. Disney started testing this back in 2003 and now it looks like it's ready to go and in HD to boot. No firm release date yet It is availabe in some ares now and Cisco's Linksys division is going to make the STB and both Cisco and Intel are helping to foot the bill. If we're lucky there may even be Viiv support.

MovieBeam will be available in 23 cities and come preloaded with 100 films from most of the major studios. Considering the price of $200 plus a monthly and per movie fee, I wonder how many people are going to take advantage of this, not to mention how this will effect our OTA HD that we love so much. They are distributing the content with datacasting and I can only imagine where they are getting the wireless bandwidth from. Now we just need one to test in the HDBeat labs. This should be interesting to watch develop.

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Disney to release HD MovieBeam STB originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2006 07:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingCicsoDisneyhdHDBeatHDTVIntelLinksysMovieBeamViivTue, 14 Feb 2006 07:50:00 EST<![CDATA[CE Pro attempts to answer the question: "What is Viiv?"]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/10/ce-pro-attempts-to-answer-the-question-what-is-viiv/http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/10/ce-pro-attempts-to-answer-the-question-what-is-viiv/http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/10/ce-pro-attempts-to-answer-the-question-what-is-viiv/#commentsViivIntel's new platform that so far has provided more questions than answers is the subject of an interview by the CE Pro Weblog. Installers and resellers are just as interested as everyone else in what Viiv can do, so will this quell the "Viiv is DRM" rumblings?

Not exactly, although they do talk about transcoding, why Viiv is necessary despite DLNA, and Intel Virtualization Technology, so check it out.

*Shrug*, sorry Intel, but no matter how many partners you have, I just don't think I'll be impressed until you show me some muscle to justify wearing the "verified Viiv digital device" yoke. We prefer our high definition content DRM-free, but who knows how possible that will be in the coming year.

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CE Pro attempts to answer the question: "What is Viiv?" originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Feb 2006 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ce proCeProdrmhdhdtvhigh definitionHighDefinitionintelinterviewtranscodingviivFri, 10 Feb 2006 16:35:00 EST