What is Windows Media Center

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What is Windows Media Center

Windows Media Center is the home entertainment software created by Microsoft which has been implemented in both Windows XP and Windows Vista. The software was first created back in 2002 and was originally named "Freestyle". Microsoft wanted to get Windows XP more connected with the living room TV. The media software allowed you to view pictures, music and videos on the TV and also watch DVD's through a simple and easy to use interface

What were the first "Media Centre" PC's like

Microsoft and Hewlett-Packard bought out the first "Media Centre" PC.

The midrange system featured:

2.53GHz Pentium 4 processor

512MB of double-data rate (DDR) SDRAM

120GB hard drive

DVD+R/RW drive

64MB Nvidia GeForce2 MX 420 graphics card

Creative Labs Audigy sound card

Five USB 2.0 and two FireWire ports

56kbps modem

10/100 networking

Klipsch Pro Media 2.1 speakers

This machine retailed at $1,650

How Do I Display "Windows Media Centre" on my TV

You can transmit visual data from the PC to a TV via the following cables:

HDMI
DVI
Component
VGA

What is the difference between the Windows XP version of and the Windows Vista Version

The Windows XP version of Media Center included new features such as:

Media Center Extender
Windows Media Player 10 Mobile

This was Microsoft's attempt to increase PC sales and also move the Windows operating system into the living room space.

The difference between the XP and Vista version can be seen in the layout and look:

Windows XP Design

Windows Vista Design

The new features added in the Windows Vista version were:

Music was organized into a wall like display

New wireless Extenders supports Microsoft's gaming console XBOX 360

New TV Guide in Windows Media Centre called "Webguide" which allows you to view recorded content, and schedule new recordings all at the same time

All New Sports Lounge

In collaboration with FOXSports.com, Microsoft have bought " Sports Lounge to the big screen" View stats, scores and watch live sport games on your TV.

Microsoft have created a media experience like no other with this media software bundle, it brings connectivity and media into one nice bundle which everyone can become immersed in and enjoy!