Media Center Extenders 

For those who are lucky enough to already own a computer running Media Center Edition 2005, the entertainment experience can be extended to other televisions in the home with the addition of a Media Center Extender. 

With any Media Center extender, it’s now possible to listen to music using your home stereo or view either live or recorded TV, movies, photos, etc., right in your living room, family room, or any other area your family congregates. 

There are a few options available, but the least expensive is the one made for the Xbox. For those who want a standalone extender, there are a few models available now, such as the Linksys and the HP. Additionally, more choices will be available in the near future. Up to five remote units can be connected to a Media Center computer running Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005. 

Xbox Extender – The Xbox Extender turns an Xbox game console into the ultimate entertainment center. The Xbox console will quickly become used for much more than just gaming. Now watch movies, live or recorded TV, etc. on any TV. Just hook up the Xbox - connected to the Media Center network - to any TV in your house and it instantly becomes an entertainment center. It’s simple to use the remote control and infrared receiver for DVDs as well.  

When I received the Xbox Extender I couldn’t wait to get it working. This was one of the easiest setups I’ve ever done. It took only a few minutes to have things working perfectly. Now, any music, photo, video or TV from the Media Center can be seen on the Xbox TV. 

Linksys Dual-Band Wireless A/G Media Center Extender - The Linksys Media Center Extender connects to the Media Center PC using either a wired or a wireless-A or G connection.  The Linksys connects easily with standard cables. Onscreen menus make navigation simple using the remote control.  

For more information on the Linksys WMCE54AG, check the Linksys website at http://www.linksys.com/products/product.asp?prid=658&scid=38