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Internet TV: Media centres

Posted on 9 Mar 2007 at 12:32

These solutions have other downsides. LocationFree basically grabs one output of whatever set-top box you use, meaning you may have to disconnect another piece of equipment to use it. What's more, you'll also need a wired connection from the LocationFree or Slingbox unit to your router - something the geography of your house may make difficult (the HomePlug power-line bridges may give you a workaround). Finally, there can be configuration issues with certain routers or networks. Using a UPnP-compliant router will help you avoid manually setting port-forwarding options on your router, but there are occasional conflicts with specific routers or ISPs. You should also be aware that Sony's software only allows you to register one client PC per LocationFree box, and switching is a real hassle.

Of course, the holy grail of mobile TV isn't to your laptop or your PSP, but to your mobile phone. Reports suggest that while setting up the Slingbox and N73 combo on 3 is no picnic, the picture is clear enough to read captions on a news broadcast. However, 3G isn't the only possible option. 02, Nokia and Arqiva (previously NTL Broadcast) have trialled a broadcast system based on DVB-H (Digital Video Broacasting-Handheld) in the Oxford area, while Virgin Mobile has been streaming four TV channels over DAB frequencies to users of its Lobster 700 handset. None of these initiatives has been hugely successful, with usage peaking during lunchtime and traditional commuting times, and nobody really expects viewers to watch full-length films or quality drama on a mobile phone. Still, the lure of a quick TV snack of news or soap means this is an area where you'll see more interest in the next few years.

Is this your next TV?

Internet TV: IPTV and net TV

Internet TV: Media streaming