Wow lots of Media Center news in one day, and all just after I had finished getting this weeks show recorded Doh!

First off Exceptional Innovation has announced a four tuner CableCARD solution at CEDIA, CE pro has all the details. CE Pro also had details of a Sideshow Remote platform using Z-wave, more on Z-wave in this weeks Media Center Show.

Some announcements from Microsoft’s press release:

 

Life|ware™, the industry pioneer in Windows Media Center-based digital entertainment software, unveiled its own line of Windows Media Center hardware, including new high-end systems featuring Quad-CableCARD-tuners. Windows Media Center-based Life|ware home automation software took a leap forward with news regarding a future Windows Home Server Add-in to complement its announced Windows Home Server-based Life|storage™ server.

Home automation giant Crestron Electronics Inc. officially announced that it will now be a Microsoft Windows Media Center direct OEM and will deliver Windows Media Center-based hardware in 2008.

Leading multiroom audio manufacturer Russound announced it will deliver its Smart Media Console line in fall 2007. These Windows Media Center-based products provide custom installers with a simple turnkey solution for enabling advanced home automation and integration with Russound’s whole home audio solutions, allowing faster installs and less programming for integrators.

Niveus Media Inc. is taking digital video recorder functionality to the next level with its announcement to support up to four digital cable tuners. Through the combination of Windows Vista® Ultimate-based Niveus Media Servers and the Niveus Digital Cable Receivers, customers will be able to enjoy four HD premium programs simultaneously throughout the home.

Alienware®has introduced the new Windows Media Center-based Alienware HD Media Server, positioned to fulfill the demand for an easy-to-use, high-definition content acquisition, storage and distribution device in next-generation digital homes. Alienware’s HD Media Server and Hangar18 are both part of the new Alienware Digital Home Channel Program, which is tailored to the needs of system integrators.

Windows Media Center Ultimate Install Contest

To cement its relationship with the CEDIA channel, Microsoft announced the first annual Windows Media Center Ultimate Install Contest. This Windows Media Center-specific design contest will allow installers to showcase their most extraordinary Windows Media Center-based residential projects. Further details are available at http://www.microsoft.com/ceinstaller or at Microsoft Booth 320 during CEDIA EXPO.

News on V2 Extenders!! At last, I know lots of people have been waiting for these.

(via Chris Lanier)

When: Holiday Season 2007

Who: Linksys, D-Link, Niveus Media

What: v2 Extenders (Pika), variety of form factors (Standalone, DVD players, Televisions) and price points, support for Wireless N, Quiet, DivX and Xvid (features can vary by manufacturer)

More details on Chris Lanier’s Blog

Finally news from Doug Berrett that he has joined Microsoft. Doug is the developer of Webguide one of my favorite applications for Media Center that enables you to remotely browse the Media Center guide, set up recordings and stream media. Doug has been a guest on the show a few times so I think it’s about time I got him back on to the show, it’s great news for Doug and great for Microsoft to get a talent like Dougs.

 

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