| Sling Media Slingbox Personal Video Broadcaster
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Every once in a while a product comes along that seems to generate a buzz with ease. Sling Media's Slingbox is definitely one of those devices! The basic concept of the Slingbox doesn't seem that complicated, but it is definitely unique and offers a whole new way to enjoy two different technologies.
In case you don't yet know what I am talking about, the Slingbox allows you to watch and control your television from anywhere. The box connects to your cable TV connection (or other A/V source) and your network, and allows you to use just about any computer to watch television as if you were plopped down right in front of the tube itself.
There are a few limitation, but when I say just about "any computer" all you need is a Window's based system connected to the same network, or with an Internet connection capable of reaching the Slingbox anywhere in the world. You can watch TV on your desktop downstairs, on the wireless laptop in the back yard, or on that same laptop while travelling half-way around the world.
Although I was familiar with the Slingbox previously, it wasn't until I actually started using it that I realized all that it was capable of. This review will take a look at the basic features of the Slingbox, and a few applications that make it quite an appealing gadget.
Let's start with a look at the published data, as provided by the review's sponsor, Geeks.com...
Features/Specifications:
General Features:
» Enjoy your home TV programming wherever you are
» The SlingRemote in the SlingPlayer software gives you full control over virtually any A/V device
» Works seamlessly with your existing home theater setup and PC technologies
» Supports literally thousands of devices
» Easy to use and set up
» Automatic device discovery and a setup wizard
» Stand-alone device connects directly to a home network without depending on a dedicated host PC
» Get TV on an unlimited number of PCs without the hassle and cost of adding new hardware
» SlingStream optimization algorithms automatically adapt to changing network conditions
» The Slingbox is powered by a high-performance digital signal processor from Texas Instruments
» Signal outputs allow the Slingbox to operate in pass-through mode
» S-Video, Composite, and Coax inputs accommodate a wide variety of television sources
» Absolutely zero subscription fees
» RJ-45 connection for network connection
» Built in NTSC tuner
Input Connections:
» RCA audio (L/R)
» Composite video
» S-video
» RF/coaxial
Output Connections:
» RCA audio (L/R)
» Composite video
» S-video
» RJ-45 (for network)
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