Product Reviews

TV programmes rarely require your full attention and sports like cricket or golf are ideal for leaving in the background while you're doing a little internet surfing or typing some emails. Compro has realised this and so while its new VideoMate U500 has all the TV functions you'd expect, it also has a handy Desktop TV function for just such occasions.

In Desktop mode, your chosen TV programme replaces your usual Windows wallpaper. You can then carry on working as usual while listening to the commentators and if something exciting happens, like a wicket being taken, you can simply minimise your windows and watch the replay. Controlling the Videomate in this mode is easy, since its basic TV controls can be accessed easily by right-clicking the Desktop. You should tidy up your Desktop icons, so they don't obscure too much of the picture, though.

Disappointingly, if you're not using Desktop mode, the software

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is less streamlined, with numerous different windows popping up. The TV window has no built-in controls, instead there's a floating Toolbar with numerous fiddly buttons and the Electronic Program Guide (EPG) pops up in yet another window when required. We found it all a bit messy and disorganised, and would have preferred a Windows Media Center full-screen interface.

The EPG also lacks Media Center's neat timeline layout and you can only look at scheduling details for one multiplex of channels at a time - a multiplex is a small group of channels that are broadcast together on the same frequency. However, in its favour it does collate and cache the programme information quickly, and you can schedule recordings from the listings.

The tuner itself has a full-sized RF input, so there are no tiny adaptors to lose. The device is sensitive and had no problem finding all the channels from our roof top antenna. Picture quality is good too!

The stainless steel extendable aerial looks like it has come from the back of a transistor radio. However, it's very convenient and far easier to carry and use than most designs we've seen. The downside is that getting good reception from any mini aerial is erratic at best and varies hugely depending on reception in your area.

Compro has put together a good product and replacing its bitty software with a copy of CyberLink's excellent PowerCinema 3 will only cost you £12 from www.scan.co.uk.