The Basics:

The Archos TV+ arrived in a white box which included a single label identifying the model. This is a refurbished unit, which means you might have to live with some slight aesthetic flaws, as well as packaging with reduced appeal. Inside the box, the Archos TV+ was found sitting loosely on one side, with the various included accessories next to it.



The unit has a white and silver color scheme, and the top is supposed to be plain except for a small logo. Across the top of the unit there is a black mark, and while this doesn't take away from the unit's functionality, it is an obvious reminder that the device is not new. Along the front bezel there is a white panel which is where the Infrared receiver is located (ie you point the remote control here). In addition, the Archos TV+ includes a powered Infrared emitter which allows the Archos TV+ to control various devices such as a cable box, satellite receiver, or VCR.



The back of the Archos TV+ is pretty busy, as this is where all of the connections are found. On the far left of the unit is a reset button, which will reset the TV connection settings to the factory default. Next is a SPDIF audio connector. In the middle are the various audio/video input and output connectors. These connectors include RGB, Component, Composite, S-Video, and analog stereo audio. The final three connections are an Ethernet, power, and HDMI connection. The one connection that would be nice to have is a standard coaxial; this would allow for TV recording without needing additional hardware.



Behind a little sliding door there are two USB ports. The first USB port is a standard USB-A, while the second port is a USB-B. This can be used to connect USB flash drives, external hard drives, card readers, or even digital cameras (provided they use Picture-Transfer-Protocol PTP, not Mass Storage Class MSC). Printers will not work with the Archos TV+.



As for accessories, the review sample included two sets of S-Video and Composite cables, a power adapter, a remote control, and while not pictured it also included a user's manual. The remote is one of the nicest remotes I have seen. The Archos TV+ includes a mini keyboard on the remote, which also offers other functions.



The upper left section of the remote includes a navigation pad, as well as left/right mouse buttons. These allow you to browse the web with ease. The upper right section has four navigation buttons which are used to move around the various menus, while using the large OK button as the select. The other buttons in this area have specific functions (M opens the menu, x exits the current operation, -/+ volume control, power, mute and tab buttons are also found here). The lower half of the remote features an alpha/numeric keyboard