Transcript: Windows Media Center Edition, November 18, 2004
Published: November 28, 2004
Chat Date: November 18, 2004
Please note: Portions of this transcript have been edited for clarity
Introduction
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
Hi everyone, and welcome to the Media Center chat!
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
Today we are answering your questions about Media Center.
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
Now, I'll have our hosts for the chat today introduce themselves:
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
I'm Andrew Brown, and I'm the MVP Lead for Media Center, and the moderator for this chat.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Hi folks! I'm Andy Vanosdale, an MVP for Media Center and a Student Ambassador for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Let's have a great chat!
Barb_MVP (Expert):
I'm Barb Bowman and I'm a Windows MVP. Media Center + Extenders Rock!
Nick_MS (Expert):
Hey, all - I'm Nick, a software developer on Media Center Extender.
Chris H [MVP] (Expert):
I'm Chris Hassler, Media Center Edition enthusiast and MVP.
Owen__MS (Expert):
Hello all. I'm Owen Paulus, I work on Media Center Extenders at Microsoft.
Tony_MS (Expert):
I'm Tony and I'm a tester on Media Center Extender. Hello everyone.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Hi; my name is Todd. I am program manager working on Media Center Extender technology
MarkS_MVP (Expert):
I'm Mark Salloway, a Media Center MVP based in the UK.
Start of Chat
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Can I specify an audio source (in my case the onboard soundcard line in) for TV recordings in MCE, if the capture card has no line in?
A: No. Media Center will only recognize the TV tuner card's audio source. This is because when the MPEG stream is encoded, it comes from the TV tuner card along with the video. There is also a slight delay in the encoding process so, it would get out of sync very easily.
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: In 2005 MCE my video (live and recorded) hesitates at times
A: I've seen this a few times when other cpu intensive activity is happening. If I pause (or stop and resume), it clears up for me.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Most of us know that DVD playback is not supported trough an extender because of MPAA, but how come VOB files cannot be played, as they are simply just MPEGII files?
A: What happens if you rename the VOB files to .mpeg?
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: Hello MVP & MS folks, I have a simple question: Will support for a single OTA HDTV tuner card (without requiring an additional analog card) be provided in an upgrade to MCE 2005?
A: Currently, you must have an analog tuner in addition to your ATSC HDTV card. We have not announced details regarding future product versions at this point.
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: I have seen many posts where users are getting the error where MCExtender immedialty disconnects and says "....unexpectedly disconnected from MCE PC..." any ideas on what can be causing this...?
A: Are you using Dynamic Disks or an old version of McAfee?
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
Q: I am trying to set the Playrate Property from a VB Addin. I have found that the SDK Documentation doesn't seem correct. For example the SDK says to set 'play' you would set: host.CurrentExperience.Transport.PlayRate = 2 I have found that to set Play
A: This chat is specifically for Media Center Edition, but you are free to ask more general questions in one hour when the chat room returns to Windows XP support. For more information on SP2, please visit: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/322389
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Any news on the idea of not using tuner cards, i.e., if we have a set-tob box with firewire out and spdif out, why do we need tuner cards? Like to use something better than SVideo from the STB to the PC.
A: This has been suggested in the past and is a great recommendation. The product team is fully aware of the suggestion. Thanks!
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
Please ignore the above, sorry.
Owen__MS (Expert):
Q: my internet service works fine. my media center program cannot connect to the internet to down load the TV guide...any suggestions?
A: What error message do you get when guide download is attempted. During First run, when you did the internet connection test, did it succeed?
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: my internet service works fine. my media center program cannot connect to the internet to down load the TV guide...any suggestions?
A: Are you in the US? Can you see your guide at www.zap2it.com? What happens if you try another zip code? How are you connected to the Internet?
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
Q: I can’t seem to get the Microsoft scanner and camera wizard. I can’t find it under the accessories menu, though I did have it some time ago. Where can I get a download of this, or how do I enable it, if it is on my computer?
A: This chat is for Media Center Edition questions for the next 50 minutes. You are welcome to stay and ask your question once the chat returns to Windows XP general questions after that time. Thanks!
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: haven't seen it yet so.............When will the software for DRM content via an MCX device become available?
A: You can currently view DRM content with MCX devices. You may need to first acquire the DRM license on the PC before playing it back on the MCX.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: What's a reasonable minimum configuration (mhz/MB) for a mediacenter if you want to be able to record and playback at the same time?
A: I would suggest at least a 2.6 GHz with 512 MB RAM. Of course, the more hard drive space, the better. I have a 3.2 GHz HyperThreading machine and it is sooo nice... :-)
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: I use a Pinnacle PCTV 300i analog / DVB-T combi card together with a satellite receiver. the video connection (composite) works fine, but zhe PCTV 300i has no audio in capability, so I connected the satellite receiver audio out with the onboard sound card
A: I don't see a question here. Could you re-submit please?
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: When will remotes for MCX's be able to turn TV's power on / off. Seems strange that I need to goto the TV to turn it on, to start using the MCX......
A: That's a great suggestion; I'll pass it along. At this point partners have not announced plans around this.
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: on the extender disconnecting question: no not using dynamic disks and not using MacAfee
A: Can you check the Event Viewer and see if their is an error message and post it here?
CoreyGouker_MVP (Expert):
Q: Does MCE (or the MCE extender) provide the ability to add remote (web-based) items to the record schedule?
A: Quite a brilliant idea! I'm sure Microsoft is aware of user’s desire for this sort of feature so they'll undoubtedly be keeping that in mind.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: To AndyV_MVP, about the VOB files on extenders, if the file is renamed to .MPG it plays back, but you cannot just change the name if the files are on a DVD disk, it seems odd that the same file will not play because of an extension.
A: MCX does not recognize the VOB extension as a valid extension.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: I just upgraded from 2004 to 2005 ??? went from radon 128 to Nvidia 9700 FX because MCE said video card not compliant. Worked in 2004 just fine, now 2005 crashes at least 1 time in 24 hrs.
A: I would say that you problem is likely caused by a video driver issue. However, when you mean crash, do you mean BSOD or just Media Center exiting?
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: does mce sees a virtual cd rom drive?
A: I would think that if it had content available on it that MCE could use, it would recognize it as it would be a logical drive.
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
Q: should I download the windows service pack SP2
A: The topic for the current chat is Media Center - please try to focus on this topic during our chat session. For more information on SP2, please visit this page: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/322389
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: AndyV_MVP: I do not agree, the VOB file will play on the box, but not the extender, if it is renamed it will only play on the box, it seems like a limitation made for the cause of the limitation.
A: Hmmm... I'll need to investigate further with my equipment... Post this to the newsgroups and either I or someone else can follow-up with you...
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: In MCE2004, when manually browsing photos, even if the random setting was turned on it browsed photos in order. Now it browses randomly both in slide show and in manual browse. Any way to change this?
A: I do not believe there is a way to do this in MCE 2005, epsilonx. You would need to change the settings back to not be random.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: Adding OTA HDTV support in 2005 is great and all, but of course we'd love to see this ability for cable based HDTV (through STB). What are the problems with doing this, since you can do OTA HDTV, and you can do copy protected content as well (HBO)?
A: Digital cable is quite different from OTA ATSC and OTA analog TV content (and digital satellite for that matter) in terms of copy protection technology. Adding the ability to remove the digital cable box is a common request from users and as such is something we will look into.
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: The most common occurrence of this is when I attempt to exit MCE after it has been on for a while. If I clock the "Close Media Center" button with the mouse, however, it exits as it should.
A: What other devices do you have that might create IR interference? This problem might best be discussed in the Media Center Newsgroup
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: The MCE will go crazy, a message will appear saying the video driver crashed, reboot and then a report will be sent to Microsoft media services... I have uninstalled driver, card etc... and reinstalled... everything short of a complete format & install...
A: Keep sending those problem reports in, psoup! If it's a bug in our software, we will look at it. Otherwise, the best advice we can give is to keep your drivers current. Look at your video/tuner card manufacturer's web site for the latest available drivers.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Andy: I will, I develop an add-on, "My DVD Collection", and everyone is asking about playing the DVD's on the extender, since it is not possible, we could at least get to play the VOB, MSFT cannot expect people to reencode a 200 disc DVD collection.
A: That would be fantastic...
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: I am in the US and am connected by cable modem. tried another local zip and still no connection
A: Can you browse the web using Internet Explorer from this computer?
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
As a reminder, the topic for the current chat is Windows XP Media Center Edition - please try to focus on this topic during our chat session. Thanks!
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: When watching a DVR-MS file, I can resume where I last left off. It doesn't do that for WMV files, or other video/audio files. Is this normal or can this be forwarded as a suggestion?
A: It is currently a functionality specifically for recorded TV... I have brought this up with the program manager in charge of that area... Thanks
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: Do MCX devices support Closed caption when muted?
A: Yes. You will need to enable the Closed Captioning on the TV.
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: Do MCX devices support Closed caption when muted?
A: Yes, but you must make sure the television that you have the MCX connected to is configured to display closed captioning. You need to configure this through the television's built-in menus.
CoreyGouker_MVP (Expert):
Q: Any chance MCE will support broadcasting "live TV" to a remote PC/laptop via a web interface and/or WMP? Or does the MCE Extender do this?
A: Again this is another interesting idea. I personally am not sure about watching through an actual web interface. Through WMP would be neat. As for the MCX's they work through your local network and allow you to watch live and recorded TV off of the host MCE PC.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Please provide support for "old style" BT848/878 tuner cards in MCE. There are many thousands of those cards out there that are currently being used on competitor’s products that would prefer to use MCE, but currently cannot.
A: Many old tuner cards do not have BDA driver support. This is required for Media Center to be able to recognize a TV tuner card.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: Just joined in--anyone have answers yet to the Event 8 problem showing on MCE2005 when an Extender tries to connect. Several of us on the net are having the problem and getting no real answers yet. The Event 8 event shows "unauthorized window"
A: This refers to a window other than Media Center being displayer
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: After a short while, I am unable to use the MCE remote to make selections or open certain programs. I can highlight everything still, and when I press the "ok" button, it depresses on the screen, but nothing else happens.
A: Same answer as the other question - are you using any other IR devices? This is an issue you probably should pursue in the Media Center newsgroup and post some system details.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Question regarding extender disconnecting: not using dynamic disks and no, MacAfee is not installed. Xbox extender installed fine, but each time I try to use it, it immediately disconnects with this error: "....unexpectedly disconnected from MCE PC..."
A: How is the extender connected to your network? If it is wireless, I would try move the extender to the computer and make it wired to see if wireless is your cause of problem. If it is wired, I would make sure your wired network has a 10/100 switch and not a hub.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Does MCE work with an OTA HDTV USB device?
A: If it has BDA drivers available, then it should work with Media Center. Which one are you referring to?
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: Does MCE work with an OTA HDTV USB device?
A: We have not tested any OTA HDTV USB devices, so try at your own risk. As long as they comply with the requirements that the HDTV tuners the OEMs are shipping meet, they *should* work.
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: Kodak application for Ofoto can't be installed without adding a non intuitive site to trusted list in IE. I had to go to history in IE outside of Media Center to work through the issue and finally get where I could sign up. Have you seen this issue?
A: I personally was not aware of this, but several members of the product team are here in this chat and now are aware. Thanks for the feedback.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: On the Event 8 question: yes, I understand the "unauthorized window" but none of us having the problem have any software installed (just bare video drivers and network). There ARE NO windows showing up on login, no programs installed--hence our dilemma
A: Typically this refers to a window popping up on top of Media Center; because Media Center must be in the foreground for MCX to work (remote control button presses wouldn't make it to Media Center otherwise), MCX is disconnected if an application or window pops on top of Media Center.
Owen__MS (Expert):
Q: Since you're taking questions about configs, what would be a reasonable config for recording 2 cable inputs and 1 OTA HDTV while also watching recorded content?
A: A 3Ghz CPU with at least 512MB of RAM should support this scenario. Make sure you get a good video card to get the best HD playback experience.
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
If you have general Windows XP-related questions - rather than ones about our chat topic, Media Center Edition - you can ask them in 40 minutes when our current chat is over. Thanks!
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Is the EPG usable in The Netherlands? Does it include most of the available channels?
A: The Netherlands should have accurate guide data available. If you find that some of the information is incorrect, I recommend that you let Microsoft know of the inaccuracy at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/mce/reporting/epg.aspx. Thanks!
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: Where can I go for the specific information that I need?
A: For information on Media Center and Media Center Extenders, visit www.microsoft.com/mediacenter
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: I too cannot get Ofoto installed from within MCE2005. Onluy externally and I must authorize via IE. Can you fix this. NO one can get this working from within the MCE2005 interface.
A: I will let the SDK team know about this issue. Thanks!
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: I too cannot get Ofoto installed from within MCE2005. Onluy externally and I must authorize via IE. Can you fix this. NO one can get this working from within the MCE2005 interface.
A: Consider it reported and passed on to the product team as a suggested enhancement
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: Any idea when the XBox extenders will be available in Australia. I asked my local XBox delaer and they had no idea. Neither did Microsoft in Australia.
A: We cannot discuss future product plans at this time.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: On extender disconnecting (aka Event 8), I AM using dynamic disk so is that a know problem on the MCE2005 PC?
A: Yes - usage of dynamic disks causes issues with the validation process that ensures Media Center is running in the foreground. Currently, you will need to switch to a basic disk to work around this.
Owen__MS (Expert):
Q: I have MCE2004 on an HP system with GEForce 5600 with a 2.8GHz processor 512MB memory. Will I have problems upgrading since the GEForce 5600 is not listed on approved MCE 2005 video cards using 2 extenders?
A: If you are asking about using two extenders on this config while watching TV on the PC, it should work. The video card should not cause a problem, but adding more RAM in your PC will improve performance in the cases where you are watching TV in all 3 locations.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: There is OnAir USB HDTV. That's the only OTA HDTV USB device I know of for sure.
A: Looking at the website at http://www.usbhdtv.com/, it is compatible with MCE. However, they do not state their compatibility with HDTV in MCE 2005. I would contact the manufacturer to see if it is compatible with MCE 2005. Thanks!
CoreyGouker_MVP (Expert):
Q: Any chance that the "Audio" part of MCE will be extended to display a hierarchical directory-based view of my CDs? MCE currently doesn't work very well with over 500 CDs organized into directories by genre, then artist!
A: I've got about 1500+ albums on MCE and I kind of agree with you. I'm not sure about having a hierarchical view, it might not be the best solution. You might be interested in how Microsoft solves some of these problems on the Portable Media Centers which work quite well. One thing you can do in Albums view is just to a specific letter by pressing the associated number on the remote's number pad.
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: Could you tell me what I would need for the 2 cable and 1 OTA HDTV recording? Is that 1 video card and three tuner cards? Or are their supported dual tuner cards?
A: At this time you will need a single video card, two analog tuner cards and one ATSC tuner cards. As for dual tuner cards, there aren't any that we support at this time.
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: Any care to talk about DRM content and MCX devices? Is that fix coming soon? Anyone have the URL to download it?
A: Already answered this one, Buckey. DRM content is supported on MCX, but you may need to acquire the license on the PC first by playing the content there before it will play on the MCX. If you are asking about CGMS/A content, we are working on this now and it will be available sometime in December.
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: Can usual TV remote used with MCE using irDA receiver?
A: No. Media Center does not support IrDA.
Owen__MS (Expert):
Q: in regards to the extender disconnecting: no its 100 wired based, no popup's or weird windows for new users. have even looked at reg keys for MCX1 user and all looks good. MCX has never worked passed setup. We need a fix for "unauthorized window"
A: Can you please look in your event log and post the detailed information for the unauthorized window error. This is problem caused by an app installed on your PC that is attempting to launch a window in the MCX session.
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: Why I can't see video when play with Media Center? only the sound comes out. Please help
A: Could be a number of reasons. What kind of video card and tuner card are you using? Is it only Live/Recorded TV or does it also happen with stuff in My Videos? Have you checked your video/tuner card manufacturer's web site for driver updates?
MarkS_MVP (Expert):
Q: Any ideas if/when an Xbox extender might be available in the UK?
A: At this point there has not been an official announcement regarding the availability of Media Center Extenders outside the US/Canada and Korea.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Is it possible to get 5.1 surround from cable t.v. or is it just stereo that is being simulated as 5.1? In other words, would my music files, or television be any better if I were to connect my SoundBlaster 5.1 to my home theater in 5.1 format?
A: You wouldn't be able to get from analog NTSC. Media Center will not necessarily simulate but send it to the other speakers. However, if you have OTA HD and they broadcast in 5.1, you should be able to get that. You would need a 5.1 soundcard and speaker system.
Todd_MS (Expert):
buckeyeboy - as Tony said, DRM-protected Windows Media content is supported; CGMS-A TV content will be enabled in an update released by end of year
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: When attempting to exit from MCE after being in the MCE interface for a while, the "Exit" button depresses, but nothing else happens. If I click the button with my mouse, MCE exits as it should.
A: I would think your graphics card is the main culprit. What graphics card do you have?
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: Is there any reason why we can't import XBox Media Center Extenders from the US?
A: At this time the Xbox Media Center Edition is not designed to work with PAL or DVB-T signals.
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: Todd_MS: I don't necessarily mean removing the STB, what I mean is that I'd like to be able to record HDTV from my STB. In the end, I can go get a Comcast box that will record HBO HD, but I'd like my MCE to do that!
A: You can record the HD channels, but it will not be in high def, it will play back like the non High Def channel.
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
Q: Are you going to answer my question about my address bar and why I don't have one?
A: Our current chat topic is Media Center Edition. If you have general Windows XP-related questions - rather than ones about our chat topic - you can ask them in 25 minutes when our current chat is over. Thanks!
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: everything in my media center appears to be working, except when I go to update the guide.. it won't connect to the internet. my internet works fine
A: Can you try entering a different zipcode and see if that downloads for you? If not, can try a different zipcode? Also, is this MCE 2005 or 2005?
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: Is it possible (or even legal) to burn a DVD of media center recorded content? (to take on airplane when travel) Or to record a DVD onto the media center for later viewing (keeping a library like my audio)?
A: Yes, you can create DVDs of your recorded TV shows if you have a burning program that is designed for use with Media Center.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: everything in my media center appears to be working, except when I go to update the guide.. it won't connect to the internet. my internet works fine
A: I am seeing that too... It looks like it just a Media Center 2004 issue as 2005 does not exhibit the problem. I will let the SDK team know about the issue.
CoreyGouker_MVP (Expert):
Q: I have my Music library setup on a shared folder. I ripped them using Musicmatch. I only have about 10% album art. Is there any way of forcing Media Center to retrieve album art for this missing ones?
A: You can't really force Media Center to retrieve the album art. Basically what you want to do is go into the Windows Media Player and then go into your Library. Once you get the music found by the Library and have it set to update all the meta data and such it will eventually get all of the album art. Note that by default WMP will not make any changes to music or files on the share. So you'll actually have to do this locally. Once album art is found it will be stored in hidden files in the folder as Folder.jpg and AlbumArtSmall.jpg. Also you can use any 200x200px image and name it Folder.jpg and MCE will use that for the album art if you place it in the album folder.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: Can you modify MCE in the future to not "lock" the tuner on the BDA driver when MCE boots up? Currently in order to use 3rd-party TV apps we must first "kill" the "eh___" processes. Very annoying!! This shouldn't be needed until MCE is actually running.
A: This is certainly something we can look into. I'll pass it along to the appropriate folks.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Why can't enter text in the search box in MSN Music(from Online Spotlight). It looks like I have a part of a broken icon in the upper left corner. All other functions are working. Using MCE2004.
A: I am seeing that too... It looks like it just a Media Center 2004 issue as 2005 does not exhibit the problem. I will let the SDK team know about the issue.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: everything in my media center appears to be working, except when I go to update the guide.. it won't connect to the internet. my internet works fine
A: Can you try entering a different zipcode and see if that downloads for you? If not, can try a different zipcode? Also, is this MCE 2005 or 2005?
Owen__MS (Expert):
Q: Will anyone else be making MCX devices soon?
A: No additional OEMs have announced products.
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: Can you recommend a list of DVD & MCE compliant burning programs?
A: There are two different ones listed in the Onlight Spotlite.
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: Barb_MVP- I have 2004 edition and yes I tried another local zip code
A: It's a known issue apparently.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Can you recommend a list of DVD & MCE compliant burning programs?
A: There are two different ones listed in the Onlight Spotlite.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: I want software MCX for Tablet PC and Pocket PC, would be SO great instead of having to get LCD display + MCX device
A: This is certainly an interesting suggestion. Regarding MCX for Pocket PC - high speed wireless and media decode capabilities are not present in currently available hardware. You may want to look at Portable Media Centers (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsmobile/portablemediacenter/default.mspx)
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: Todd_MS, Barb_MVP: Essentially, yes. At this time we cannot record HDTV in HD from the Set Top Boxes (i.e. Motorola 6208's) right? But we can OTA HD, and we can record Digital Copy Protected HBO, so why not Digital HDTV?
A: Yes, I can record the HD channels off a 6208. The HDTV issue on cable is complex. There's an active on-going discussion in the Media Center newsgroup. You should join in there.
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: I intend to have 2 MCE 2005 systems and 1 XBox Extender. Will I be able to access media between all 3 machines through the Media Center interface?
A: You can affiliate an extender with only 1 MCE machine. You can, however, tell MCE and the extenders you want to access content on folders shared over the network.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Ecommerce sites sell the 2005 OEM version for $130.This is an expensive option for those people who must upgrade every year that Microsoft comes out with a new version if their OEM (i.e. Sony) will not provide an upgrade. Will there ever be an OEM upgrade?
A: The upgrade needs to come from the OEM as there are other upgrades that need to happen for Media Center to work. Microsoft works with the OEMs to help provide this upgrade to Media Center users. I would keep letting Sony know that you would like the upgrade.
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: Barb_MVP- is there a solution
A: Can you post the error message that appears in the event viewer? I'd like to recommend you continue this conversation in the Media Center newsgroup.
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
To those just joining us: if you have general Windows XP-related questions - rather than ones about our chat topic, Media Center Edition - you can ask them in 15 minutes when our current chat is over. Thanks!
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: Dunno if you guys also work on Windows Media Connect, but is there any actual devive to play audio through WiFi available using the Media Connect protocol ? (and btw, did you see the talk about Apple patenting the idea of network playback ?)
A: There are many wifi-capable Windows Media Connect devices currently on the market; for example take a look at the D-Link DSM 320 Media Lounge (http://www.dlink.com/products/?sec=1&pid=318)
CoreyGouker_MVP (Expert):
Q: Will Microsoft eventually provide any kind of utility to convert from the MCE DVRMS file format to MPEG 2 or DivX? It is currently very annoying having to use 3rd party utilities to convert these files to any commonly-used video standard today!
A: Check out www.thegreenbutton.com for downloads and the forum for further information on this. You might also be interested to know that if you have a media device plugged in to sync and such (like a Portable Media Center) with WMP10 you can actually have it convert your DVR-MS files to WMV.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Is there a way to set up caller id through Media Center? Are there future plans of adding some form of an answering machine app?
A: Caller-ID is a part of Media Center. It is in Settings->Communications. There is an SDK for someone to write an extensibility application for this type of program...
Owen__MS (Expert):
Q: I intend to have 2 MCE 2005 systems and 1 XBox Extender. Will I be able to access media between all 3 machines through the Media Center interface?
A: Yes, you should be able to configure the PCs to make this work. The Xbox Extender can only be connected to one PC, so I would suggested putting all of your content in the shared docs folder of that PC and then configure the second PC to access the first PC. If that's not an option, just make sure that both PCs have content in the shared docs folder and network file sharing is enabled.
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: is there any way to control the media center extender from MCE?
A: Other than disconnecting it, no, there isn't.
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: [ SetTopBOX ] is there a list of the supported boxes by mce? (remote control function)
A: We do not have a list of supported set top boxes. I know the built in list is very extensive and covers the majority of them. We have also included IR LEarning functionality in Media Center to help configure those few STBs taht we do not support "out of box"
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: With HP releasing HP Tunes with their version of MCE 2005 which supports access to copy protect ACA files (itunes) is there any possibility Micros soft will adopt this code and make it standard with MCE?
A: That's certainly an interesting idea.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Is it beneficial to make another MCE to watch the videos I record on my primary MCE for playback on another TV or is Media Player 10 good enough?
A: Why can't you play them on the Media Center PC through the Media Center interface? You can hook up a TV to the Media Center PC...
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: For those of us who can't get an upgrade from their OEM (Sony), and who must upgrade by buying the '05 version elsewhere. Is there a site that tells what specific components (i.e. video cards) are supported/recommended with the new version?
A: We have a list of products that have passed the certification/logo program for Media Center available at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/mediacenter/partners/dfw/partnerlisting.mspx
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: I can play on the media center PC, but I have a wireless laptop that I am sure will not meet the MCE 2005 qualifications, I am wondering if I should make another MCE box (is there a real benefit vs. cost)?
A: You should be able to play back Recorded TV shows through Windows Media Player 9 and Windows XP Service Pack 1. There is also a patch on Windows Update that will allow this to happen.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: Any plan to allow DVD to WMV conversion like we can record CD to WMA ? (guess you could find a DRM scheme that doesn't let studios sue you :p)
A: That's an interesting suggestion, but as I'm sure you can imagine, it would introduce many legal/policy issues.
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: can you tell me where to find directions on getting a HDTV tuner config'd in MCE 2005?
A: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/mce/expert/hdtv.mspx is a good starting point
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: Re: my prev. question: If the slideshow settings are set to RANDOM, even just basic browsing of a photo folder is now random in MCE2005 (wasn't like this in MCE2004). Is there any way to change this back instead of having to change settings every time?
A: No, there is not a way to do this without changing the settings every time. I will suggest that we allow this as an option in the future.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: can you tell me where to find directions on getting a HDTV tuner config'd in MCE 2005?
A: The main instructions are to install the HDTV card, install the driver, launch Media Center, go to Settings -> TV -> Set up Digital TV
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: I scheduled a program to record at 8:00 Today, but at some point, I canceled the program and then scheduled a different program to record at 8:00 Today. At 9:00 Today, I checked the recording, but it hadn't recorded, and was still scheduled at 8. Any ideas?
A: I would check the Scheduled Recordings history to see why the show did not record.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Has anyone discovered a working solution for HDTV overscan issues with MCE?
A: If you need to make it full size, hit More Info (or Details) on the remote and select Zoom. This should help you with the overscanning
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: I'm going to assume extenders will need upgrades at some point to deal with s/w and firmware bugs and to be compatible with future version of MCE ... I have not purchased a MCX yet .. how are upgrades handled .. do you download via the associated PC
A: Yes, and there is an extender manager application that you open and select "update extender" and then pick the extender to update, and it will do the upgrade for you.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: Todd_MS: yes they play fine on usual XP too. But how do you define fine? ;) Id like to see a nice smooth playback of moving picture on TV where no frames from video aren't duplicated of skipped because of fps difference between video file and TV-out fps.
A: We're definitely working with multiple partners in the hardware industry on tuners for Media Center. Unfortunately, I am unable to comment on announced products.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Does the 'Zoom' feature work better on MCE 2005? When I got MCE configured to work with Zoom, my pictures never filled my 16:9 screen.
A: If you are talking about My Pictures, the pictures should stay at their aspect ratio. If you are talking about TV, then the zoom feature is much better. :-)
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Will there be a MCE 2005 OEM version?
A: There is... Many OEMs use this version.
Tony_MS (Expert):
You can check the scheduled recordings history by going to My TV->Recorded TV->Scheduled->History.
Andrew Brown [MSFT]
(Moderator): Okay, we'll be ending the Media Center chat in 5 minutes. Last chance!
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Is there an easy way to change the default interface colors and sounds in the MCE shell?
A: No... This has been suggested to the product team, but I will bring this back up with them...
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Q: With MCX .. if someone tries to schedule a program to record and someone at the PC also tries to schedule another program at the same time .. what user is prompted with the "confict" message and who has ultimate authority?
A: the last person that attempts to schedule something that is in conflict gets the conflict message - the person getting the conflict message gets to make the decision.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: Currently MCE only officially supports 1 HDTV TV card, the ATI HDTV Wonder. Do you know if other manufacturers are working on making BDA-compliant HDTV cards? If not, is there a list of not-supported, but working, HDTV cards? Thanks guys/gals!
A: We are definitely working with multiple hardware partners on tuners for Media Center. Unfortunately, I cannot comment on unannounced products at this point.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Are there any provisions for computer clubs or other small groups to obtain the components and MCE 2005 licenses to build their own systems?
A: System builders are probably your best option as they have lighter limitations on their selling of MCE 2005 and components.
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: how do I check the scheduled recordings history? Thanks :-)
A: You can check scheduled recordings history by going to My TV->Recorded TV->Scheduled->History.
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: Are there any upgrade options available to existing MCE owners that cannot get the original system builder to provide an upgrade other than buying a totally new system?
A: You will need to continue asking the original system builder and keep after them for the upgrade. There are also some smaller system builders that have been selling Media Center 2005 with specific hardware such as new video cards or tuner cards.
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: Will a 2/6 GHz Celeron be OK for simultaneous recording and playback?
A: yes
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Bill: You can change your resolution in Display Settings. However, I would not want a vertical picture to be stretched that big...
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: AndyV_MVP: regarding previous question on zoom. My pictures specifically. Is there a way to stretch the pictures? If not is there a way to change the resolution easy so pictures will fit to a 16:9 screen better?
A: You can change your resolution in Display Settings. However, I would not want a vertical picture to be stretched that big...
Tony_MS (Expert):
Q: The screen saver seems to be locked on the fish tank. It that by design or should I be able to install and switch to other screen savers?
A: You should be able to switch. How is it locked? Does it not let you select other ones or does it let you select a different one but then it changes back to the fish tank?
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: When is list in Europe (Germany) to rakes with a correctly functioning EPG? Which partner/contact address is responsible for "EPG Germany"?
A: We have partnered with several different companies to provide the EPG data to our customers. If you are experiencing problems such as missing or invalid data please report it at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/mce/reporting/epg.aspx
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: Chris Hill> Is selling the MCE2005 OEM version with just the Tuner PCI card and remote considered legal ? I though it needed to be sold with a PC
A: Since MCE 2005 can now be sold through the System Builder channel, the System Builders can provide the OS and a hardware component that must be used in the system.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Q: I've seen posting that copy protected material i.e. HBO will not play in extenders .. has this problem been fixed?
A: We will release an update by end of year that enables playback of CGMS-A (copy-protected) TV content on MCX. DRM protected Windows Media content is currently supported.
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
This concludes our Media Center chat for today. Thanks for coming, everyone!
Andrew Brown [MSFT] (Moderator):
Please feel free to stay and continue to chat about Media Center or other Windows topics.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Q: How does MCE 2005 measure up to Tivo?
A: Media Center is a great product that I highly suggest you try out in stores to see for yourself
Chris Hill [MSFT] (Expert):
Q: Is it possible to view the EPG on another non-MCE PC? Or via a browser session?
A: Not at this time.
Barb_MVP (Expert):
Thanks for joining us.
Todd_MS (Expert):
Thanks everyone for participating.
AndyV_MVP (Expert):
Thanks everyone!!! We'll see you next month!
For further information on this topic please visit the following:
Newsgroups: microsoft.public.windows.mediacenter
Transcripts: Read the archive of past Windows XP chats.
Website: Visit the home page for Windows Media Center Edition
