Media Center PCs arrive
A year after their US launch microsoft Media Center PCs have finally reached the UK. This version of the Windows XP operating system features an interface that enables user to control all the entertainment features on their PC via a remote control.
Each manufacturer has its own take on the PC but as a starting point each model should feature the following;
Analogue or digital TV tuner
PVR (personal video recorder) software
Digital music jukebox
DVD player
Personal photo album
So far fifteen companies have produced Media Center PCs for the UK with prices ranging from £1000 to £2500.
Quickest off the mark was Evesham Technologies which announced the launch of three desktops Media Center PCs under its Emedia banner. Most competitively priced of the trio is the Emedia Cube C2.6 at £1000. The top-end model, the Emedia Tower 2.8 features an Intel Pentium4 2.8GHz processor with HT Technology, 160GB hard disk, 512MB DDR RAM (PC2700), Sony DW-U14A Multi Format DVD writer and a ViewSonic 17″ widescreen TFT. It is available with either an analogue or digital TV card. It retails for £1800. For our take on Media Center PCs check here
For Evesham info click here
For The Guardian’s take on the Media Center click here
