Dish Network Review - How Does Dish Network Stack Up?

I started out to write a straight review of Dish Network for you, but I did want to Mention there's a little secret buried in here about how to save a ton of money when you order the Dish service. So pay attention, okay?

This review is going to start with a little story about my buddy Tim.

Tim is the most stubborn person I've ever known. Even when we were kids, I told him about a shortcut he could take through the woods to get from his house to mine a lot Faster. Did he listen? No, he continued to go the long way around.

I told him not to use the rope swing over the river, the water was down and it would be too shallow. Did he listen? No, and he spent most of that summer in a cast from the knee down.

Even though I know about his stubborn nature, I still try to help him out when I can. The most recent example was when he finally got Tired of the cable company raising his rates and decided to switch to satellite TV.

Every time I called him, he was scouring the Internet, searching for the best deal and who to place his order with. I told him about the place I'd found and how easy it was to use. "Do not buy Dish Network without checking out this site first," I said. But did he listen? Of course not. I've put the link at the bottom of this story, so scroll down there and check it out. Hopefully you're smarter than Tim and will take my advice and go there.

Anyway, back to the review of Dish Network. I told Tim how I'd already done all the research. I'd already learned that Dish Network offers the most channels for the least amount of money. It could have saved him so much time and aggravation, if he wasn't such a stubborn SOB.
If he'd listened to me, he could already be enjoying all the movies and sporting events on their pay-per-view channels. He could choose from 200 hours a day of HD programming. He could get an Hdtv receiver, a DVR and 4 rooms installed for NOTHING! It's all free! If you know WHERE to get it from, that is. And for that, you're going to have to click on those links down at the bottom.

Now, Tim has to do things his own way, even when his own way is costlier, more time consuming and sometimes just downright stupid.

In fact, he's just about ruined me for trying to help people. But I believe when you find something good, especially if it saves time and money, you should share it with others. That's why I included those three links down at the bottom. I clicked on dozens of websites about Dish Network (and there are millions online) before I landed on those three, and believe me, they are the ONLY ones worth your time.

Now, let's get to that dirty little secret I uncovered quite by accident. Some of the websites you'll go to will bury their best deals on the inner pages of their websites. A lot of people don't look beyond the first page or two of details and never even see them. While they may think it makes for good business, it doesn't make potential customers very happy.

You can stop spinning your wheels and wasting your valuable time by following my advice and clicking on the links below. Why, because these guys are the ones who spend all day long finding those "secret" pages and keeping on top of the best deals. That's the only way I was able to find the most current promotions and the simplest way to order your Dish Network system.

Or you can be like Tim, determined to do things your own way and spend days, even weeks, trying to sort through a maze of hype.

Tim called last night. After 3 weeks, I guess he'd finally had enough, though he'd never admit that to me. But he did ask, "Hey man, what was that website you said you found?" He tried to be all casual about it, like it didn't matter much, but I knew better.

Don't be like Tim. Listen to someone who's been there and done it. Just click the links at the end of this story. You'll be glad you did.

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Reduce Your Cable Bill With Internet TV Without Cutting The Cord

Free Internet television, may be a way for you to cut the cost of cable, or satellite, but it's not likely to ever be a way for you to cut the cord completely. There are literally thousands of on demand video sources online for free with full TV episodes, and movies. To fill in the gap there are also premium TV sources like Hulu Plus, and premium online movie sources like Netflix. A basic subscription to both is less than most premium movie channel packages like HBO, and Showtime.

With all the free video sources available online people tend to start thinking about cutting the cord, or discontinuing cable, or satellite TV subscription services. The problem with this is the loss of live TV broadcast. How will you know if there is a tornado warning in your area, or something similar without live TV? You could get live over the Air TV, but unless you have a good number of local networks close by, you'll miss out on a lot of benefits you get from a subscription television service.

Why not have the best of both worlds? One could cut their cable, or satellite programming to the bare essentials, and take advanTAGe of popular set top boxes like Roku, Boxee Box, or Logitech Revue, or even programs like Playon which offers media streaming on internet connected devices like gaming consoles, or set top boxes to Watch a plethora of Internet TV content for free. This would cut your subscription fees, while still providing a ton of entertainMent options.

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Flash Drive Not Detected? Solution is Here

There can be several reasons for Flash Drives not being detected by your Computer.
First your Computer is not able to provide drivers for your Flash Drive. Now, for your information, you do not need to install any drivers from outside if you are using Windows 2000 SP4,Windows XP or Windows Vista as they come with native support for these devices.
If you are thinking that you are already using one of these versions of windows still your computer is not able to mount your Flash Drive. Don't worry,that's why I am writing this article. Just read on...
If your are not on one of these Windows version then your problem can be easily resolved by just installing the drivers which you get on a disc that comes with your Flash Drive. If you did not receive any disc,try checking out the manufacturer's website and it should be there for sure. If still no luck,then try contacting me....

Remember, everything is explained here assuming that you are on Windows XP but need not worry as other Windows like Vista should work the same way.

Let's come back to the topic..

There are several possible reasons for Flash Drives not mounting on your computer. Mentioned below are few of them:

Drive Letter Conflict

Flash Drive not formatted properly

Windows require some patch or update
Problem with the USB port
Physical connection problem

So, let's start with the first one, that is, drive letter conflict.

Now, this can be the problem when you are trying to use your Flash Drive in a network environMent. The best possible solution to this problem is to change the drive letter assigned to Flash Drive. This can be done by going to Disk Management and right clicking on Removable Drive and then clicking on Change Drive Letter. You can select any drive letter which is not assigned by windows to any drive or partition in any computer inside a network. Also, before changing the drive letter it's recommended to check if your Flash Drive is showing in Device Manager under Disk Drives. If it's not there that problem can be something else.

If changing Drive Letters does not help and drive is showing in Device Manager then probably you should try disconnecting that computer from the network by taking out the network cable or if you are inside a corporate environment then try contacting you IT deptt to know the drive letter not being used anywhere.

Let's talk about the second scenario. If the drive is not formatted properly that means that it's mounting up and being detected by the computer as well. It's just would be giving a message to Format the Drive when trying to access it. This can happen if the File System has corrupted on Flash Drive or its not formatted in the supported format. For example, if you are trying to use a Flash Drive formatted in Ext2 file system in Windows Computer. The only solution to this problem is to format the drive in the supported format. For windows you should always format the drive in Fat or Fat32 and in Macintosh you should use MSDOS as this will also be supported by Windows computer. Please note formatting the Drive will ERASE all data. So, if you have any important data kindly try using a different computer to see if drive works or contact a Data Recovery company. If you want some reference kindly leave a comment.

Also, if you are not able to format the Flash Drive, please try using the HP USB Disk Storage Format Tool. It's made by HP but works on generally all Flash Drives.

Now let's talk about problems that can happen because of any updates or patches. No matter if you have the latest service pack for your Vista or XP computer. Still, there are few updates or rather say patches which need to be installed if you face any such problem.

Vista Patch
Please find the link to Vista Patch at the end of this article.

As per Microsoft the patch will fix the following issues:

" When the computer resumes from a suspend state or from a hibernation state, the computer stops responding. Additionally, you receive a "0x9F" stop message on a blue screen.

" The computer takes a long time to resume from a suspend state or from a hibernation state.

" The computer takes a long time to resume from a suspend state or from a hibernation state when you use a VIA controller.

" The computer stops responding when you use an Authentic USB fingerprint reader. Additionally, you receive a "0xFE" Stop error on a blue screen or a "0x9F" Stop error on a blue screen.

" The computer stops responding when you use a USB Bluetooth audio device.

" The computer takes a long time to resume from a suspend state or from a hibernation state when you use an Enhanced Host Controller Interface (EHCI) controller.

" The computer stops responding when you remove a USB device. Additionally, you receive a "0xFE" Stop error on a blue screen.

" When a computer resumes from a suspend state or from a hibernation state multiple times, you receive a "0xFE" Stop error on a blue screen.

So go and install this even if you are facing a different problem related to but not similar to this.

Another patch for XP Service Pack 1 is also include at the bottom.

There are chances of problems with USB ports as well which happens rarely but the possibility is still there. The best way to identify is to attach any other USB device on the same port and check if that device works or not. For Example, USB Printer. Also of you are using a Desktop and inserting the drive in some front USB port then try using some port at the back.

Here , I would like to add one more point. If you have a high capacity drive like 8 GB and you are trying to use it on an old computer then due to inadequate power support the drive may not mount properly.

Sometimes, even if the icon for Removable disc appears under My Computer,the drive may not work properly as the complete capacity will not be mounted in case of inadequate power. You can check this by right clicking on Removable Disc and then clicking on Properties. If one this window, both free and used space is showing 0 KB then this can be the possible problem. In order to fix any issues related to inadequate power Supply you can purchase USB Power Hub from any computer store and attach it to the USB port. What it does is that it will convert the low power supplied by USB port to little high power.

But, remember this problem generally happens in case of old computers. Before purchasing USB power hub, you can also try the back port of your computer if you are on Desktop.

And Last but not the Least, improper physical connection is the general cause for Drives not getting detected. This may happen if USB port or connector on Flash Drive has bent or physically damaged due to which drive is not able to make a contact with pins on USB port. In this case, you should also look the inside area of port or connector and if any damage found please take it to some local technician of Drive manufacturer to get it fix.

So, this was my first article. Any feedback will be appreciated.
Thanks

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Blu-Ray Players Deliver The Best Value In Home Entertainment

After the Blu-ray format won the HD war with HD-DVD, most of us assumed that it would be followed by a quick rise to top the Home EntertainMent market. This did not happen, however. There were still many who debated whether DVD or Blu-ray was the best possible choice for their living rooms. This debated seems to be coming to an end. Most experts and research marketers predict Blu-ray players and movies will soon outnumber and begin to outsell DVDs in the next couple of years.

One of the main reasons is the cost of players. For example, the Panasonic DMP-BD75 is priced the same as a standard up-scaling DVD player. And the DMP-BD75 can play DVDs with the same quality, as well as play Blu-ray discs and it provides online streaming services like Netflix and Vudu. So clearly they can offer us much more features and functions than a DVD player, and we get it without it costing that much extra. The only logical reason to choose a DVD player would be if you do not own a Hdtv or don't plan on getting a Hdtv in the near future. In fact, there are not many reasons why you wouldn't choice this High-Definition technology.

Blu-ray players clearly offer the best value when we are dealing with Home EntertainMent. No matter what type of budget you are on, you will get great Full HD 1080p picture quality. Because even the entry-level players will perform the same as higher-end models, when playing back Blu-ray discs. Also, this HD format is the only one that can deliver the latest high-resolution formats - Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio. For the die-hard video/audiophile out there, you will only begin to see a clear and distinct difference in picture and sound quality from the top-end models, like Oppo BDP-93 and BDP-95. Of course you will have to pay more for these types of players.

Almost all players manufactured today will be able to connect to the internet. Providing access to BD-Live content and in most cases online streaming services. Social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter can also be easily accessed, as well as video chatting with Skype. Nothing seems to be excluded, including DLNA support (stream video and music files from your Computer), built-in Wi-Fi, USB playback, internal hard drives, built-it web browsers and 3D technology. Players are quickly becoming the all-in-one home entertainMent device. Eliminating the need for separate digital media devices that only provide one function (such as Roku 2 XS or Logitech Revue), in some casing consumers are cutting their cable cord. They can get all their movies and TV programs through their player.

For these reasons, it is easy to see why people are abounding their DVD players and choosing the HD format. With prices dropping all the time, Blu-ray players are simply the best value out there for your home entertainMent. You not only get excellent playback of DVDs, Blu-rays and CDs, but it provides countless hours of other alternate entertainment.

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Hottest Technology Trends for 2012

2010 and 2011 were known as the years of the tablets and Smartphones - where the hottest technology trends were those which were dominated by the touch screens. With Apple shinning brighter than any of its counterparts with the iPhone and the iPad, the precedence was set for the rest of the tech companies to follow.

If technology trends are to be kept in sight, then 2011 was also surely the year that the cloud-based services and their potential were recognized.

So with the year almost over, the question that's popping up in everyone's mind is, which technology trends will define 2012?

Here are a few top choices for definitive technology trends for 2012:

1. 'Cloud' is here to stay!

Yes, you read that right. With Apple pushing iCloud out in the mid-October, there is much more yet to come from cloud computing. As more and more IT departMents move away from the traditional sharing of resources, over to cloud services we're seeing ever shrinking private data centers which are sure to make their mark on not just technology but businesses at every front.

Moving everything over to the internet for IT companies is also an easier choice as it gives them much more freedom to move around their data between multiple centers. Industry analysts predict that in the next couple of years, businesses are likely to 'rent' their servers rather than maintaining their own. Thereby making sure that this is one trend that's here to stay.

2. Internet Television

Google did dabble into the internet TV market in early 2010, but just like Google Wave (and very recently Google+, which got rave reviews but eventually failed to make its' mark) it flopped. Though in all honesty, the reviews for Google TV weren't all that great but coupled with poor service and lack of interest from the public made Google table the deal for a bit.

However, 2012 might just prove to be the year of Internet TV. With Sony's Internet HD TV, Logitech's Revue and Apple's foray into Apple TV, Internet TV is certainly poised to make a comeback as one of the biggest technology trends for 2012.

3. Better, Faster and cheaper Smartphones

As more and more inexpensive, Faster and 'good lookin'' devices are coming into the market, the competition is getting tougher for Smartphones. One thing is for certain though; Smartphones define the future of technology.

The iPhones and the Androids have the market pretty much cornered but it's an open field for their competitors who are out there making cheap Smartphones that cater to every need. Mark our words, this is the future and is probably going to remain one of the hottest trends for year 2012!

4. A Hybrid between a Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet and a PC

With more and more users opting for smart phones and tablets like the iPad and the iPhone the market is ripe for hybrids, thus making it one of the most eagerly awaited technologies for the coming year.

The PC market has taken a hit with its' sales down in the year so far, but all is not wrong as the tech companies acknowledged that the consumer is looking for a cross over device that comprises all of the technologies that are part of their daily lives.

With Apple's iPad providing some sort of cross over gadget between the above, Google has its' Chromebook in the works whereas HP has its Omni PCs to thank and improve in the coming months. We're waiting to see what magic the tech companies have in store for the next year!

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Logitech Google TV Brings Full Internet Access To Your Bedroom

Many people who have not heard about it before may think that Google TV is a Television made by Google. As a matter of fact, it is a system developed by Google, in collaboration with Sony and Logitech to bring Internet contents to your TV. That means you can, at all times, access your Internet in the TV. The idea of bringing Internet contents to TV is not necessarily a new one. However, Google TV revolutionizes that idea to a new level by allowing you to do more things in your TV, such as searching the web (you can find information about program schedules in any channel through the search bar).

I have Mentioned that Logitech Revue is one of the most popular devices to enjoy Google TV. One of the reasons for that fact is the simplicity involved. Logitech Revue comes in two main parts, the companion/set-top box to be connected to your TV and the awesome Logitech Keyboard Controller. Logitech Google TV allows you to search access the web while Watching your favorite TV program all at the same time. The intuitive controller works well both as the keyboard and remote control of your TV. It even has the touch pad which works exactly like the one you find in a laptop and a webcam to let you have a video call conveniently while sitting in the couch rather than when you have to do it by sitting facing a Computer.

In addition to that, Logitech Google TV comes with preloaded applications like Pandora, CNBC, Amazon on Demand, Netflix, and many others. If you're not satisfied with those all, allow me to say "A lot more will come". Google had announced that starting in early 2011, Google TV will have access to tens of thousands applications available in the Android Marketplace. You don't need to worry about not having enough applications to do what you need to do.

If you ever think about Watching your favorite sport matches while getting the latest news ticker or simply being able to watch your downloaded movie from Amazon directly in your Hdtv, then you have found the perfect device to do that, the Logitech Google TV. Now you can bring full internet access out from your Computer into the television in your bedroom.

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The HTPC Is Dead! NOT!

Looking around the industry as we put the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) behind us, there seems to be an almost palatable stillness in the Air, something akin to the calm before the storm. It seems like everyone is waiting with bated breath for some kind of technology that will act as a "magic pill" that, when used with the general population, will suddenly bring the nirvana of the Connected Home to everyone. I am not quite sure there is such a thing...

In a recent article, a contributing author for a well know website claimed that the "Home Theater PC is dead!" in his subject line for a recent article. As with other times I've shied away from the "shock" titles, I find myself needing to politely disagree with the author. I'm sorry Buddy, the HTPC is not dead!

Although the "death of the HTPC" claim was overwhelmingly met with disagreeMent by readers, I suppose in retrospect the use of a "shock" stateMent as the subject line did work to bring in the readership (I also figure that gives me the right to use it, though my meaning should be obvious). In addition, I think that the author vastly underestimates how capable the "typical user" is by saying they have "a hard enough time using a PC to surf the web". Perhaps this applies to some of the older generation, but considering that most of us have had Computers around us for a large portion of our lives, I think that most people might be a bit more proficient on the PC than was alluded to. You might as well lump Macs in there too because there really isn't a whole lot of difference in operation, sorry!

To proceed further, it seems necessary to define exactly what an HTPC is in the first place...

HTPC Defined...?

At its most basic level, I would define the HTPC as: A personal Computer (Windows, Linux, Mac) that when configured properly and connected to an Hdtv, allows the user to output audio and video either through the Home Theater system or directly to the Hdtv.

The thing to realize here, and what validates my objection to claiming that the HTPC is dead, is that an HTPC can truly be built with just about any combination of hardware, operating system, and media center software you can think of!

There is nothing out there that says a HTPC has to be a full-blown Windows 7 Home Premium machine using only Windows Media Center 7. Is that what I am using currently? Yes, because it is a great set up, especially when combined with Windows Home Server. But as I just Mentioned, a HTPC can be comprised of a whole range of options ranging from the hardware used to the operating system and media center software; so can its definition really be expanded beyond my over-generalized attempt?

Perhaps it would help us to define the HTPC better by first starting off with its potential uses...

HTPC! Uh! What are they so good for? Absolutely Everything!

Ok, perhaps not everything, but as Mentioned above the HTPC's most basic purpose is to play audio and/or video content through your Home Theater's sound system and/or TV.

Beyond that though, the thing to remember is that anything you can do on your home PC, you can do on your HTPC as well; and every once in awhile it is nice to be able to kick back on the couch and surf the web on a big-screen TV while you are streaming Windows media from the web or your local collection or [Insert your own personal "vision" here].

Depending on the hardware and software choices you make when building or buying your HTPC, you can also use it to:
- Rip & burn (legally), compose, and stream audio content.
- Watch Blu-ray and DVD movies; even stream them to other computers (and TVs) throughout your home.
- Pause Live TV and catch all your favorite shows with a fully functional DVR (Digital Video Recorder) that can record up to 4 channels (with the right tuner card) of HD quality content.
- Surf the web. Trust me, having the ability to quickly look something up without having to pull out a laptop, netbook, or tablet is just as, if not more convenient! Imagine having to walk to the other room to use the Internet! Kidding, but you get my point...
- Play games. Perhaps you already have a console system, but there are always some games that are PC only. Enjoy playing any PC game in full HD glory with accompanying surround sound and you'll see what I mean.

Thinking about buying a new Blu-ray player? How about a TiVo or other DVR? Why not use a HTPC to consolidate your DVD / Blu-ray, DVR, iPod dock, and other Home Theater components into one solid (and good looking) piece of technology that will keep growing and adapting to your Home Entertainment needs?

The Hardware

One of the best attributes of a HTPC is its flexibility. Whether you build your own HTPC or buy a high-end system that was built by a well established company, you have the choice over how much power you'll need.

Getting into the details of what you have under your HTPC's "hood" is outside the scope of this article but the specific features and desired functionality that you came away with from the list above will play a big part in the direction you go. The more functionality you would like with your HTPC, obviously the more powerful it should be within reason. What this means is unless you are doing a lot of video encoding or other CPU intensive tasks, you don't need that much power. My personal HTPC is built from the guts of my old gaming rig from before Iraq, we're talking about a Core 2 Duo and 4Gb Ram and it runs great! Literally 90% of my TV interaction is via my HTPC and includes Watching TV, movies, streaming music, etc. I even write from there sometimes. It is easy, and it is comfortable...what's not to like again?

More power typically means you'll need a bigger case as well because you will need to fit a decent video card as well as a TV tuner or Cablecard. With the more horsepower, the bigger case becomes essential for cooling purposes and, to be honest, aesthetics. While any Atom based mini-computers out there can make for a pretty decent HTPC experience for a lot of people, you'll need some more "oomph" if you're looking to have decent DVR functionality or something along those lines out of this machine. Luckily for us, there are still a number of manufacturers out there that make amazing HTPC cases that fit perfectly in your AV stack or entertainment center.

Some cases, such as the Zalman HD160XT (my current HTPC case), have a small Lcd screen on the front. The screen is obviously too small for manipulating the desktop for any amount of time, but if you split your screens between the 7" and your HDTV, you can use the smaller screen for miscellaneous things like displaying time, weather, or other monitoring software. I like to throw Winamp over on that screen and have it playing full screen with the visualization going while I do whatever on the big screen. Basically, it's your world to create; having this kind of flexibility gives you the ability to create your home entertainment environment to your tastes and specifications. Having options is a good thing!

Since we are skipping the details of the guts of these rigs for now, the only other thing left to discuss are your input options. I find it almost comical when I see some people's posts about the notion of having a keyboard in ones living room and about how this concept somehow must be going against some unwritten rules of living room technology etiquette. It almost reminds me of a snooty person gasping "Why...I Never!".

Really? Is it really so strange and taboo to have a keyboard in the living room? I suppose it depends on personal preference in the end but none of my friends have laughed at me for having a keyboard in my living room!;) While there are a bunch of choices for wireless keyboards and mice, my recommendation for interacting with your HTPC goes hands down to the Gyration Air Music Remote combined with the Gyration Compact Keyboard. The keyboard is nice and small so won't look to out of place in the living room and both have a 30' range due to being Radio Frequency (RF).

You simply put the keyboard in a convenient but out of sight place (like under the coffee table) and pull it out when you need to enter data. Trust me everyone, it's not quite as awkward as some people try to portray; it wouldn't surprise me that in the not so distant future, keyboards will be the norm in the TV room and perhaps could even come standard with TVs. It just seems like a logical progression forward as we start to interact more and more with our TVs via computer, gaming consoles, and media streaming devices like the Logitech Revue that we have at least a compact keyboard to make entering information a whole lot easier!

Heck, why not take it a step further and use your voice to interact with your TV? Yes folks, the technology is already here and in place for those of you with a powerful aversion to having a keyboard in the living room to skip the keyboard altogether and use voice commands to control your environment! This can be accomplished via a number of avenues, for instance: using an Android or iPhone remote app like Logitech's Harmony system to manipulate your system or going with a universal remote like Amulet Devices' Amulet Remote which gives you voice control over Windows Media Center, there already are a number of quality solutions for using voice to control your connected home environment.

The Platform / Operating System

This is where we have the most diversity in options, as well as pretty convincing arguments against any statement about "the HTPC being dead". Now that we've defined what we intend to use our HTPC for, and used that list to determine what our hardware requirements are, it's time to make the decision on which Operating System (OS) suits our needs best.

I think much of the recent "the HTPC is dead" talk comes from reading into what Microsoft is doing with its Windows Embedded technology. Briefly, Windows Embedded is a platform that allows manufacturers to build devices that have only the parts of the OS that are needed to perform the intended function, like a device that boots directly into Windows Media Center 7. Think Logitech Revue or Roku HD type devices that are running a customized version of Windows Media Center.

Windows Embedded is certainly very exciting technology, and we're going to see more of the great devices we got glimpses of at CES coming out soon with varying degrees of the Windows 7 Operating System embedded on them. These devices are remarkable and will certainly become widespread in the Connected Home-- I am not arguing that point at all. I am also not arguing the point that these types of embedded devices, from TVs to set-top boxes will most likely have the largest portion of the market share; some people (probably more accurately most people) DO want simplicity and want things to just work. Agreed.

But is Microsoft's Windows Media Center 7 the only option? No...not even close! Actually, there are a few contenders for the Media Center belt: SageTV and XBMC come to mind right off the bat as viable and in some ways better than Windows Media Center 7.

And, if we take Microsoft completely out of the picture, you can still build a solid HTPC using Linux to run your SageTV or XBMC Media Centers, again, in some ways better than Windows 7. But hopefully Microsoft is smart enough not to turn their back on the concept of the HTPC. I do not read into all of the excitement around Windows Embedded as a sign that they are giving up on the HTPC, but rather that they understand the need to provide a solution that adDresses the need for simplicity by some people as well as creating a whole market for OEMs thereby fueling the innovation fire. Again, this is a good thing! Microsoft would indeed be foolish to jump out of this game now by putting all of its effort into Windows Embedded and abandoning Windows Media Center on the PC. If they do, there will be plenty of companies ready to swoop in and fill that void.

As cool as Windows Embedded is, there is one fact that you cannot get around:

You can do more with an HTPC than you can do with an embedded device whether it be from Microsoft, Google, or whomever else. Embedded devices are locked down and limited in one way or another. I don't know about the rest of you, but I do not want to be limited when it comes to my Home Entertainment! I want to be able to add programs that enhance that experience, or even extend the functionality of my HTPC to controlling other facets of my smart home. Would you want to give up your freedom to create the Home Theater experience you desire? Didn't think so!

The Magic Pill

As you can see there's probably as many ways to build and configure a HTPC as there are people building them! With all the options available to you from hardware to operating systems to media centers, can anyone really say the HTPC is dead? I think not.

If you ask me, the HTPC is perfectly positioned for the wave of public awareness coming towards the Connected Home. Instead of removing an option for people, why not leave the HTPC in its current position as the high-end solution for integrating your Home Theater not only with the world's content, but also with the rest of the house as well! As much as I believe that these embedded devices of various operating systems will appeal to the majority of home users because of their simplicity, I also believe that the amount of people who want the extra power and functionality that an HTPC brings to the table will continue grow as well. I think people today are much more tech-savvy than in days past and I certainly do not believe "the typical user has a hard time using a PC to surf the web". That just doesn't sound like an accurate statement to me.

I think we've shown here that the HTPC is far from dead. Perhaps if some people have a very limited and tunnel vision concept of the HTPC and its uses, then they could come to the conclusion that the HTPC is dead, but I think it is easy to see that the exact opposite is true. The HTPC is not only alive and kicking, but it is in a better spot now than ever for being a very viable solution to people looking for more. We should provide as many options to home owners interested in the "Connected Home" as possible because having more options brings more power to the consumer which brings more growth to the industry.

As for me, I plan on seeing "how far the rabbit hole goes" because this year could very well be the Year of the Connected Home, and the HTPC can play a significant role in making that happen by integrating Home Entertainment with Home Technology!

So? Which pill will you take? Red...or blue? (if you are lost, watch the Matrix)

I went Red...

Tom

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Google TV

Google TV

Two big things in TV happened this year. One debuted in the Spring time and was being hailed and the future of TV. That was a technology called 3DTV. You can refer to my earlier review on that for more information into my thoughts on it. The second big tech this year is, in my eyes, the only one that truly will "change the face of TV". That is what is called "GoogleTV". There is a lot to learn about it but its not as hard as some people make it out to be. What does it consist of? How can I use it? What will it change? All of those questions I can answer for you.

Roughly two years ago, Apple debuted a product called AppleTV. As an owner, I can tell you that I am wild about it. The capabilities of the unit astound me how it gives me a small, slick and clean looking device that can stream all my personal music (which is a ton), movie files, give me the ability to rent/buy movies off iTunes, stream YouTube and give me internet radio. There was just one thing missing from it and that was the use of their Safari browser. It would've been a treMendous smash if you could also surf the net on the device. I blame the infancy of the technology for the reason why Apple didn't include it in their unit.

Google has been hitting it big with their Android software for phones so it was only a matter of time before they ventured off elsewhere. This journey lead to software dubbed now as GoogleTV. Essentially, it does what AppleTV does, can streamline Apps much like a smart phone, had integration with cable stations and the Google Chrome web browser. The software is "open source" which means software developers will have virtually zero limitations with the apps they can make ensuring the capability of the hardware never becomes obsolete. The cable integrations make it simple to hear a news report on NBC and with a couple clicks of a button be viewing the report on NBC's site with the same channel's broadcast minimized to the corner of the screen. The Chrome browser is a full functioning internet browser with flash capacity. Easy to say... it is a smart PC for your TV.

So what devices do it? Right now, there are a few devices that are used or can use the system. Sony makes a selection of Lcd's with GoogleTV built in available in 24", 32", 40" and 46". They are all 1080p and 60hz set. They are not focused too much on TV performance as they are focused on being a TV with GoogleTV in it. Sony also makes a Blu Ray player with it built in. Both the Sony TV and Blu Ray come with a remote that is very Blackberry like in its look and keyboard. Logitech makes a stand alone device called the Logitech Revue (resembling the AppleTV) that can be integrated into any TV with an HDMI port on it. Their unit comes with a real wireless keyboard with touch-mouse pad. Logitech also makes a webcam specially designed for the Sony TVs and Revue (not the blu ray player) so you can make video calls a la Skype chat. They also make a smaller compact keyboard comparable to the Sony smaller one.

The future of what this device lies in concept of it being able to eventually replace your need for a cable provider as the network-based applications can enable you to just streamline all your favorite shows. This hints towards one of my wishes for TV since I first learned about cable bills and that is the idea of only paying for what I want to Watch. Imagine if you could only pay for ONLY what you wanna Watch? I know my bill would drop about 75% roughly. The future also portrays units being able to record shows if you already to have a cable provider much like a DVR would. While these are all hints and claims about the future, the road is already laid out for the possibilities.

GoogleTV IS the future. There is no doubt about it. Integration is the future and GoogleTV. It was being haled as the competition for AppleTV but its really shown to be off in its own direction. It has the capabilities of a full PC (minus the word processing and Microsoft Office ability) and brings everything in front of you via remote keyboard. The capabilities of the software show a limitless future for this technology. While it seems like 3D will survive because of the brands forcing it on you, GoogleTV and its eventual competition will survive because of the fact that it truly is the future.

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Blu-Ray Players - Holiday Gift Ideas - Make This Holiday Season A Blu-Ray One

Blu-Ray Players - Holiday Gift Ideas - Make This Holiday Season A Blu-Ray One

Blu-ray Players may not have had the success rate that DVDs had in the late 1990's. But sales of players have increased every year and with more than 65 percent of households owning a High Definition Television, this trend will likely continue. Simply because if you want to get the clearest, sharpest, best image possible out of your Hdtv, a Blu-ray Player is needed. And with streaming video becoming all the more prevalent in our living rooms through wireless connections and apps such as Netflix, Vudu, YouTube, Amazon and others; this Holiday Season maybe the right time to go Blu-ray.

A Blu-ray will unleash the full potential of your High Definition TV. And once the decision has been made to purchase one, the question is which player to get? There are a few to choose from, many with different features and price TAGs. But any player should provide you with great HD video and sound. The good news to consumers is that players and movies are constantly dropping in price. This year alone saw 3D Blu-ray Players drop over 25 percent from their original price.

Lower prices does not mean inferior products either. Most good players will not only provide you with 1080p/24 video output and the latest High Resolution Audio formats. They will give you access to Online Streaming Media Services, DLNA support for your Home Network devices, Wi-Fi capability, playback of media formats such as DIVX PLus and AVCHD and so much more. Blu-ray Players transforms your Living Room into a hi-tech multi-media center.

Samsung BD-C7900 Price Range - 4.15 - 8.00

Key Features:
* 3D Full HD 1080p playback
* 2010 Internet/TV Content Service
* BD-Live™ (Profile 2.0), BONUSVIEW
* Wireless LAN built-in
* AllShare™: DLNA-certified
* 1GB built-in memory
* Advanced HD audio (Dolby® Digital TrueHD, DTS-HDTM Master Audio)
* Full screen, ultra Fast play
* 2 HDMI® outputs

With a Price List of 9.00, the Samsung BD-C7900 is one of the more expensive 3D Blu-ray Players. But you should be able to find it online for around 0.00. A reasonable price considering all the features it offers, including dual HDMI Ports. This will allow you to transfer the 3D Video signal to a Hdtv and use the other HDMI Port to transfer the audio signal to your A/V receiver. Saving you money on upgrading to a 3D capable A/V receiver. Even if you do not own a 3D Hdtv, you can still enjoy standard 2D Blu-ray Movies, as well as Online Streaming, BD-Live content and, DLNA capability. Buying a 3D Blu-ray Player now is a great investMent, as you will not have to upgrade your player if you ever decide to purchase a 3D HDTV in the future.

Other 3D Blu-ray Player Options - Samsung BD-C6900, Samsung BD-6800, Samsung BD-C5900, Sony BDP-S470, Sony BDP-S570, Sony BDP-S770, LG BX580, Panasonic DMP-BDT100 Panasonic DMP-BDT350/300, Sharp BD-HP80U, Sharp BD-HP90U

LG BD590 Price Range - 8.00 - 9.99

Key Features:
* 250GB Media Library built-in hard drive
* Built-in Wi-Fi Connectivity
* NetCast EntertainMent Access (Wi-Fi Ready)
* Home Link (DLNA-Certified)
* Superior Audio Performance - DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital LPCM, DTS and Dolby TrueHD
* Express Reaction Startup
* USB 2.0 Media Host
* SimpLink

LG has always been very innovated when it comes to Blu-ray features. It was one of the first to incorporate great online streaming media service to their players. This year LG has added a built-in hard drive for CD ripping into its BD590 Player. Equipped with a 250GB hard drive, the BD590 will allow the user to easily store and playback music, photos, videos and Video On Demand content through online media services such as CinemaNow, Netflix, YouTube, Yahoo Widgets and much more on NetCast.

Panasonic DMP-BD65K Price Range - 1.99 - 5.10

Key Features:
* Full HD 1080/24p true cinema playback
* DVD up conversion to 1080p
* Deep Color and x.v.Color
* BD-ROM playback
* PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus video processor
* Lower power consumption--14 watts in usage, 0.1 watts in standby
* 14 second boot up time
* Wi-Fi 'Ready' - USB Wi-Fi adapter is needed (not included)
* This Panasonic Blu-Ray Player supports DVD, DVD-R/-RW, DVD+R/+RW, CD, CD-R/-RW playback
* AVC-HD, MPEG2, and JPEG playback via SD card
* MP3, JPEG, and DivX playback via USB
* Dolby Digital Plus/TrueHD audio and DTS-HD decoding
* VIERA Cast - Online Streaming Media Services

Panasonic DMP-BD65 is one of the cheapest players on the market, it also happens to be one of the best. Full of great features including Viera Cast (Netflix, Amazon Video on Demand,YouTube, Pandora, Picasa), Wi-Fi capability, audio decoding for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.and excellent video features like PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus and Adaptive High Precision 4:4:4 processing. Providing you with clear, sharp, detailed images.

Other Wi-Fi Blu-ray Players Options - Panasonic DMP-BD85K, LG BD570, Samsung BD-C6500, Samsung BD-C5500, Vizio VBR231, Toshiba BDX2700, Toshiba BDX2500

Sony NSZ-GT1 Internet TV Blu-ray Disc Player Price 9.99

Key Features:
* Google TV built-in
* Seamlessly search across your television & Internet for content
* Browse the web while Watching TV using Dual View
* Upgradeable Google TV platform
* Blu-ray Disc playback capability
* Download apps from Android Market (coming in early 2011)
* Superior processing power with Intel Inside
* Easy-to-use RF QWERTY keypad remote with integrated optical mouse
* Link to select mobile phones (coming this fall)
* Built-in Wi-Fi (802.11.a/b/g/n )
* One HDMI input, one HDMI output and four USB inputs

Recently introduced by Sony the NSZ-GT1 is the first player to be power by Google TV. Not only is it an excellent Blu-ray Player but you get to access all the features of Google TV. Equipped with an Intel Atom processor and built on the Android Platform, this Blu-ray Player allows you to browse the internet with Goggle's Chrome Browser. This is as close as you can get to combining your PC and HDTV, without actually connecting the two device.

Other Google TV Option - Logitech Revue: 0 (No Blu-ray Player)

Google TV On DirecTV

Google TV On DirecTV

DirecTV subscribers have access to the fantastic service of Google TV. Google subscribers TV brings TV programming, web content on-demand movies and much more. This is a joint venture between Google, Intel, Sony and Logitech. And 'in fact a clever TV platform for set-top boxes and Hdtvs on the Android operating system. The addition of Google TV Satellite DirecTV subscribers with web content directly on your TV screen with the access of other television programs. But to access the service,Subscribers must make a few requests for the plant, equipMent, and to meet so on. This article provides a brief overview of the possibilities, this TV DirecTV access.

Satellite TV DirecTV is working with Google and Google TV. These are units of Sony and Logitech Revue. In addition to the requireMents of some devices for subscribers to organize other Google TV screen TV access. The requirements are listed below.

A broadband Internet service An HD DVR or HD Receiver An HDMI cable to connect the HD-DVR or HD receiver or TV with Google TV Smart. A router with a port or a wireless router.

These requirements can be met with ease. But for Google TV or TV Smart, subscribers per unit of Sony or Logitech Revue go. Here is a brief explanation of these devices and connections as necessary.

Devices from Logitech Review: There are a number of>Logitech Revue devices that can be used to access Google TV in various ways. However two devices are mainly needed. They are:

Logitech Revue companion Box Logitech Revue Keyboard Controller

The Companion Box integrates the satellite set top box, TV and Internet service. The home Internet service, the HD-DVR or HD receiver and the TV have to connected to the Logitech Revue Companion box. As mentioned above, HDMI cable have to be used to connect the HD-DVR or HD receiver to the Logitech Revue Companion box. On the other hand, subscribers can connect the home Internet service to the Companion box by using either a router or wireless router. But Logitech Revue devices are compatible with certain models of DirecTV HD-DVR or HD receivers. Some of them are namely HR20, HR21, HR22, HR23, HR24, H20, H21, H23, H24, R16.

After the connections, if subscribers are unable to control the DirecTV satellite receiver then they should check the receiver's set up. Sometime receivers are set up to receive only radio frequency signal. In that case the receiver needs to be set to receive infrared (IR) signals. To change the receiver subscribers have to follow the steps given below.

On the original DIRECTV remote press the Menu button. From the Menu press Select on Settings. Select Remote from the left menu. Press Select on the IR/RF Setup button. Use the Up or Down arrows to change from RF to IR. Press Select to save

It is important to note that the Revue should be able to control the DirecTV receiver to access this tv feature. There are a number of other devices from Logitech Revue that enhances subscribers' TV viewing experience.

Devices from Sony: Subscribers of DirecTV can access this via two products from Sony. They are:

Sony Internet TV powered by Google TV Sony Internet TV Blu-ray Disc Player powered by Google TV

The Blu-ray Disc player is an improvised form of the Internet TV and is mostly used by people. The set up is very simple. Subscribers have to connect their HD-DVR or HD receiver with the Internet TV Blu-ray Disc player using HDMI cables. They have to further connect the TV and Internet service to the set up. Apart from these, subscribers should have a Google account as it is a unified sign-in system that gives access to free Google services, including iGoogle, Gmail email services, Google Groups, Picasa Web album and many more. Subscribers can access all these benefits on their TV screens.

From above explanation it is clear that DirecTV subscribers can access this amazing feature on their TVs by following a few simple steps. They can have the Google TV devices from either Logitech Revue or Sony. But as a matter of fact the devices from Logitech Revue are mostly used by people. The Sony lacks the built-in IR emitters of the Revue and also the keyboard controller of Logitech Revue is better than the remotes provided by Sony. All kinds of subscribers of DirecTV can opt Google TV. The Google TV devices are available at affordable prices. The Google TV service thus renders great entertainment as well as web access on big TV screens. This is a great experience on part of subscribers.

Google TV for sale as a lot of Christmas - HD TV with DVR and Internet browser

This fall we will have the opportunity to see the Google TV for sale, as Logitech has recently announced that the review is already available for pre-order. In many people already thinking about Christmas gift ideas, it is probably the case that many people think about Google TV as the ultimate Christmas gift for dad or husband in her life. This piece of art is sure to be very exciting, while the Men the opportunity to keep up with live statistics while you have a game. Forfantasy gurus out there that is almost a must have piece of technology.

It is no longer the case that the man in your life for a laptop with him has at all times, and he's only football on Sunday. Now you can Watch to see the game live, and to update the statistics before their eyes. This is just one of many features that Google TV, which is very attractive. It may be the case that Google TV is a must-have Christmas gift for 2010 will be. Thoughis not as cheap as other objects, may well be worth it for the functions that this Hdtv has to offer.

New Logitech Revue

This not only HD-TVs have an Internet browser, but it also has a DVR. It 's much easier to use this TV as a DVR in the Google search box, users who for almost everything that is stored on the TV or are trying to build the future. This saves time when it comes to the future and to ensure that planning, you can cometake your favorite programs or make them understand how you travel.

Google TV for sale as a lot of Christmas - HD TV with DVR and Internet browser

In the coming weeks we will begin to learn much more about Google TV, and precisely what is offered. Next week, Sony has an announceMent to help you see how much it cost to make the TV itself. At present, customers can pre-order a Logitech Revue, a box that can hold up to any TV to be connected. It also includes a keyboard, which serve asthe remote control and mouse as well. Another accessory that is popular, probably a little more away from the keyboard.

Google TV for sale as a lot of Christmas - HD TV with DVR and Internet browser

What is the difference between the Internet and TV Google TV?

Interactive TV has used a phrase that has been described by many new technologies TIVO Sling Box. Two of the most modern technologies, you get the most out of your TV as a channel hopping is a simple Google TV and Internet Ready enable. Both are means to connect a TV to broadband Internet and more material from the Internet onto your TV screen, but what are the differences and is worth the investMent?

Google TV offers full Internet access on your TV. There are only twoWays to do this at this time. One is to install the Logitech "Revue" between a cable box or satellite box and your TV. If you do not have cable or satellite will not work. The other is a Blu-ray player from Sony is to buy the hardware built for Google TV Both systems provide controllers with Qwerty keyboard. La Revue Logitech offers a full-size keyboard, the Sony uses a mini-keyboard.

New Logitech Revue

If these options are displayed on the Internet for weird TVis because cable and satellite companies have strongly resisted in the past, Google and that is a compromise. You can get the service now, but you can not easily leave your cable or satellite.

What is the difference between the Internet and TV Google TV?

Critics are not too excited about Google TV. Most say it is not yet ready for prime time with an awkward, and too many delays and setbacks. People like Steve Jobs of Apple and Google has nothing to offer TV and has no future. So it should be deleted? It 'too early toMany new technologies emerge dass struggle for the beginner, and how problems will be solved gradually. It also has a continuous record of service and many people like the extra choice on the big screen Hdtv could lead already invested

Internet TV certainly does not provide full access to the Web on TV, despite its name. What it offers a range of services, which is based on the Internet and the viewer can be inserted. The most important of which is streamingVideo and music services like Amazon and Netflix.

You can also access thousands of Web sites with news, travel, shopping, and time. Yahoo Widgets TV is probably the best service and is available on most Internet-ready TVs. Provides access to Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites, among others.

How to get Internet-ready?

And it could not be easier. Most high-end TVs sold this year is greaterare Internet-ready models. Connect the TV to your broadband Internet via WiFi or Ethernet cable and the service is over.

There is a disadvanTAGe for Internet TV, Google TV?

Some civil rights groups point out that all the information about the habits of users available to be collected by agencies and organizations of all kinds. This is more of the business, advertising and products, rather than the objective of the shadow governMent. For privacy relatedPeople could still be a problem.

What is the difference between the Internet and TV Google TV?