FreeAgent Theater+:

Seagate's FreeAgent Theater system also received an upgrade. The Theater+ [reviewed here] now outputs 1080P resolution, will stream data from the DockStar, and not just YOUR DockStar... Any DockStar that you have access to over the internet! If your friend has a DockStar and allows you to access their data, you can stream video directly from their DockStar to the Theater+. This will be available in a Firmware update in February.



Another new feature coming in February is the ability to stream NetFlix movies, and utilize PlayOn. PlayOn is an application that the user runs on a computer, then you can stream almost anything to the Theater+ such as Hulu.com.

Seagate has listened to its users and has upgraded the number of CODECs now supported, too. They will constantly upgrade the CODECs as new ones becomes popular. I am not sure what the threshold will be, but be sure they will listen to the FreeAgent Theater community for input.

Sadly, there is no support for a USB keyboard, so any searching still needs to be done using the on screen keyboard. However, the FreeAgent Theater+ does support Logitech Harmony remote controls, so simply set up the Harmony remote for the FreeAgent Theater and the necessary codes are included.



Conclusion

Seagate is always pushing the limits on new hardware. They are a little late to the SSD world, however their Pulsar drive is working to catch up. We'll be watching for when they come out with consumer based SSDs.

Finally entering the market for NAS devices, they made sure to cover all possible needs. With NAS devices from one drive to four drives, each capable of supporting 2TB hard drives, there should be a Seagate NAS for everybody.

USB 3.0 and SATA 3 promise a much needed boost in speed. Keep an eye on Bigbruin.com for reviews and real world testing of products compatible with these new standards.

Please drop by the Bigbruin.com Forum and feel free to post any comments or questions.