Media extender

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For the extenders that connect to Windows Media Centers, see Windows Media Center Extender

Media Extender is a general term describing "extension devices" that can bring media center capabilities to another television not connected to a central media center or other HTPC system. A media extender is a type of digital media receiver that may be connected via a hardline or CAT-5 cable, or with a wireless internet connection. Most media extenders will have the following functions, similar to a central media center. The most common examples are Microsoft's Xbox and Xbox 360; the HP MediaSmart Connect and the Apple TV.

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[edit] Capabilities

Usually controlled by a wireless remote, a single system can allow the user to:

  • Watch, pause, & record live television
  • Play and store music CDs and view album art
  • Play, catalog, and store DVD videos
  • Listen & Pause Digital Radio
  • View, store, and edit digital pictures
  • Create automated picture slideshows

[edit] Connections

There are two ways to connect an extender to its central media center or HTPC server - wired, or wireless.

[edit] Wired

Ideal for performance, wired CAT-5 or other ethernet connections allow transmission of video and sound up to whatever limit the routing device used can handle. Using a wired connection, minimal or no congestion will be experienced as a result of bandwidth limitations. However, this method may require substantial work to connect if no cables are already available within the home, usually involving drilling new holes and fishing wire. Alternatively, one may wish to use a wireless connection, as described below.

[edit] Wireless

Ideal for convenience, a wireless connection can be established between the media extender and its central media center. On the downside, interference may cause a "less than optimal" connection and cause network congestion, resulting in stuttering sound, missing frames from video, and other anomalies. It is recommended that an 802.11a or better be used, and over as short of a distance as possible.