SlingMedia had recently announced SlingCatcher to make a complete TV streaming suite without PC. Basically you need a SlingBox to control the digital receiver or DVR and upon receiving the video signal, it is then stream to you via Internet.
I'm still prefer to have a HTPC since a Slingbox does come with a SlingPlayer for PC. This mean after I get one for my parent in KL, and when they pay me a visit here, they still can catch their favour show from here.
This HDMI extender will allow you to extend your HDMI connection using CAT 5e/CAT 6 cable as a transmission medium. The advantages of using this type of cable rather than HDMI are that you can alter the length of your cable and it is very cheap in comparision wih full HDMI cabling, CAT 5e cable is easy to hide in a house, behind walls etc. With this device you can extend the signal by up to 40 metres (30m via CAT 5e, 40m via CAT 6). Features:
Sony has announced 17 new HDTV, while a few from Samsung. It seems the theme for 2008 are large, fast and slim. First, Samsung 65-inch LN52A750 (also available in 40-, 46- and 52-inches), which sports a 1080p resolution with 120Hz Auto Motion Plus technology. Additionally, you'll find an Ethernet connection for accessing customizable RSS feeds, 1GB of internal flash memory that "includes interactive content such as cooking recipes, children's entertainment, HD artwork and more," a four-millisecond response time, four HDMI 1.3 sockets with CEC and a USB 2.0 port for connecting PMPs and the like. Also on the way is a slightly downgraded 6 series sans flash memory and side mounted USB port, due in March in the same sizes.
Sony's CES event is just finished, but they can't wait to give details on all 17 of the new Bravia LCD models. Falling into six different model lines (three pictured here), Sony has sprinkled its Digital Media Extender tech liberally throughout the releases, future technology and Bravia Link is an option down the road for all. The top end models consist of the KDL-40Z4100 and KDL-46Z4100, with new Bravia Engine 2, 120Hz image processing, x.v. Color, WCG-CCFL and 10-bit panels. The Z-series also throws in USB ports, DLNA connectivity and Bravia Sync HDMI control.
Sony's W- Series Bravia's bring the 120Hz Motionflow goods, Bravia Sync control, and USB media player connections to 52-, 46- and 40-inch models. Next up is the V series, available in the same sizes as the W, but without 120Hz and USB features. The XBR6 line of Bravia's brings 1080p to the little guy in 37- and 32-inch models with the same 3D interface as the W- and V-, bu no USB connection. The N- and M- series LCDs are only packing 720p res in their 37-, 32-, and 26-inch models, but the N adds integrated 5.1 (37- and 32-inch) or 3.1 speakers (26-inch.)
I'm quite excited to find out D-Link will announce the release of D-Link MediaLounge PC-on-TV DPG1200 that mirror the PC display. It is not new though, but to have a top networking brand ventures into this space is definately welcoming. This means you can watch YouTube, Joost, TVUPlayer, PPStream, PPLive and many more on your TV. Food for thought, I do think this device is good for existing PC owner, but for someone considering a new PC, configure a HTPC can save you a LCD monitor and the need for buying this MediaLounge.
Most of the new TV selling in the UK retail shops are able to receive freeview (DVB-T) digital signal on top of the normal analog (DVB) signal. Freeview has more than 20 free channels. Although not all channels are available as it is location based, but starting mid 2008 the digital switch off will take place, meaning analog signal transmitter tower will be replaced by phases and Swindon will be completely digital by 2010.
Well, Freeview is receive via aerial antenna, there is also satellite free channels. Most retailers are offering Sky Pay Once Watch Forever for £75. By installing a satellite dish with a satellite receiver box, you can enjoy 20+ more channels for free.
Now, what about High Definition (HD) signal? Most LCD/Plasma TV comes with HD Ready but how often one benefit from such expensive investment? While I was in Singapore, HD signal was only in testing phase for none cable resident, and Starhub CableTV is the only content provider with HD service. You need to get a HD set top box in order to decode the HD signal. Here in UK, only Virgin Media V+ and Sky HD are offering HD. My requirement is to view all available channels, if needed be, pay 1 time charge for the set top box without subscription. Without a HD subscription, viewer can watch BBC HD, ITV HD and possible Channel4HD for free. Look likes the best option is "Sky Pay Once Watch Forever" (that's why in Dixon 10% discount I picked it) until I discover freesat.
From the website, it said freesat will be available by spring 2008 and HD signal is available. This set top box will be available at major retailer by then. I'm holding my horse and ready to get this one. Perhaps by mid 2008, most TV will be able to accept HD signal without a set top box, just like it is able to support Freeview now.
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