Linksys Media Center Extender DMA2200

The list of file formats supported is reasonable, with support for MPEG-1 and 2, WMV 9 video up to 1080p, and also H.264 for video, plus MP3, WMA, WMA-Pro and AAC-LC audio formats, though there are gaps: notably Ogg and Flac for audio.

But the main problem with this box doesn't lie with its lack of lack of file format support, or the fact that it crashed when faced with a slow Wi-Fi link. In fact it's good to see draft-n Wi-Fi making the transition from routers, laptops and adapters to other devices. We simply think the DMA2200 is too specialised - there are far too many requirements to fill before you can start to take advantage of its full capabilities.

If you've already made the switch to draft-n wireless, own a desktop PC or laptop with Vista Home Premium, don't want to move the PC close to your TV and happen to have an aerial output close to your PC too, it's worth a look ... if you also happen to live in an open plan flat or one with paper-thin plasterboard partition walls and the aforementioned PC is no further than 10 metres away, that is.

If not, you're better off with a Microsoft Xbox 360 Core (£180 inc VAT) and a Wi-Fi adapter/bridge (£60). This package offers similar Media Center Extender features, costs about the same as the Linksys and offers gaming too - all for only a few pounds more.

Author: Jonathan Bray