What is the better digital media player for the TV. Media player for television. Digital media player. What it is

Network audio players came to replace CD players. In terms of sound quality, they are not only not inferior to the old disk players, but often exceed them, because they are able to reproduce music recorded with ultra-high resolution. If the audio CD sound is recorded with a resolution of 44 kHz / 16 bits, then new HD-audio formats use higher bitrates: 96 kHz / 24 bits and 192 kHz / 24 bits.

Some network player models can operate in a USB-DAC mode (connect to a USB computer) and in the preamp mode.

Formats

Many modern TVs (Smart TV) can independently play video files. However, by the number of supported formats, it is far to the best samples of stationary media players. For example, not every Smart TV boasts the M2TS format support and the ability to play ISO images Blu-ray or DVD. Many media players support lossless formats audio files (without loss of quality) - it is necessary if you plan to connect high-quality acoustics and amplifier to the player.

Additional functions

To view the 3D video content, via the media player requires support for the Blu-ray 3D image playback and the HDMI interface of the version is not below 4.0.

In some media player models, it is possible to work as a torrent client when it can download and save files from torrent trackers to the hard drive.

TV tuner with support for DVB-T2 in the media player will help go to the new digital standard of airtal television. DVB-T2 is defined as the standard of ground digital air television in Russia, but it is not supported in old TV models.

An alternative to TV tuner is IPTV - Internet TV. IPTV support media players allow you to watch television channels if the Internet provider provides such a service.

Recently, the TV has turned from a simple "box" to view the analog television shows into a high-tech device, which in its functionality may well compare with the computer. Modern models can be included in the home LAN. Some use them for surfing on the network, communicating over Skype with friends, as well as for games. Of course, the "iron" of the TV will not pull the powerful 3D-shooters, but "evil birds" you leave for sure.

But here Zaga: Only SmartTV, the price of which often exceeds the cost of a regular TV and a powerful computer combined to be combined to all of the above functionality. Of course, many consumers have a need for such a purchase very big doubts. It is right, since the media player for the TV will turn the old LCD model in a good analogue of "Smart", and for all the pleasures you are unlikely to pay more than five to six thousand rubles.

What it is?

It would be foolish to continue to talk about such devices, without making a retreat and without describing this concept itself somewhat more. So what is the media player for the TV?

If you are a user of gadgets on Android mobile OS, you can imagine a kind of mini-computer under its own control. Have you heard of Raspberry PI? So, the media player is the same "Blackberry" based on ARM processor. Unlike the mentioned mini-computers, it has already installed a branded shell from the manufacturer, usually based on "Android" with the addition of some specific services and programs.

Roughly speaking, this is such a miniature for which your TV acts as a monitor.

Benefits

In principle, you may well guide the positive sides of this kind of technology. Having bought a media player for the TV in just four to five thousand rubles, you will do even out of outdated technology, a modern entertainment center.

Given the development rate of "Android", you can not worry about the absence of some applications: players for video and audio files, browsers, programs for we have already said that there is even a "Skype"! Of course, in this case you will need to purchase an additional webcam, but it is also not too expensive.

In addition, such devices can be connected to portable combinations with the possibility of launching torrent clients. This makes any media player for the TV with a real store for connoisseurs of movies.

Easy customization and safety

If you somehow follow the news of IT technologies, then surely heard about the scandal that broke out around SmartTV from LG. Recall that then users succeeded too intelligent technique in spying. It is not enough to abandon targeted advertising in the settings it was very difficult (the option is flooded), so also after removing the corresponding check box, the user information continued to be sent to the company's server.

Of course, Android OS in this regard is far from perfection. Currently, there are hundreds of thousands of malicious programs that can be dangerous for your personal data. But there are important differences.

First, for Android, there are many effective antivirus programs. Secondly, in the presence of not so deeply knowledge in the subject, not only another firmware, but even a new operating system can be installed on stationary media players. In any case, in the network without special problems are instructions for installing special ARM assemblies Debian and Ubunu.

As can be understood, no such fundamental possibility in SmartTV is provided. Moreover, even with the update of its firmware, problems may arise, since not everyone has a normal wired Internet, and a USB modem is simply not able to identify this technique.

Where can Content be played?

Unlike smart-TV or any easily "picker" a film or a musical composition from a home local network, from an external hard drive or a NAS server, whose popularity is currently very large. Some of them have a built-in hard disk, which you can download music and video, and no one has canceled playback from the flash drive.

Please note that the portable media player with the margin of films will fit into his pocket, becoming a faithful and indispensable companion on a business trip or travel.

Local network settings

Unlike the above-mentioned "smart TVs", with problems you are unlikely to come across. Most often used Wi-Fi network. As a rule, the device immediately "closes" to the home wireless network, requested only the password for the entrance.

If you need to connect a gadget via a wired compound, there may be more difficulties. So, you will probably need to enter the IP address of the console itself, and other attributes. Setting up a digital media player, you will have to refer to the manufacturer, study the procedure for setting up connected devices on its website.

Formats and other buns

As for the number of supported photos and videos, then in this case these devices are located outside of competition. In addition, the media player will be indispensable for those who have a HD video camera at home. Why? Judge for yourself:

• Record on disk? Expensive, tedious, and the optical drives themselves are gradually going into the past.
• From the small display of the camera itself to look at simply uncomfortable.
• Of course, a computer monitor can be used for the same goals, but much more colorful vocational videos will look at widescreen TV.
• In the end, you can connect the system unit or laptop to the TV, but not everyone can cope with the settings.

Media players are different ...

To choose the best media player, it is very desirable to follow some of the recommendations below. First, the appearance and size of the device must be harmonized with the appearance of your entire equipment. It may seem absurd, but if the gadget will stand out against the background of your plasma panel, it will rush into the eyes even when watching the film.

However, much more important than the technical characteristics of the player, including the following parameters must be included:

• The more supported formats, the better. MKV codec in their list is required. Ideal for imitation is the "Classic" software media player.
• It is quite desirable that only the most productive chips are used (like Sigma Designs 8634/8642).
• It will be not bad if the player will support the playback of Blu-Ray disks.
• If you are a novice, you should be interested in the automatic home network scan option for publicly available folders.
• Is it possible to view IPTV? It is perfectly!
• For the same beginners, it will be much better if the technique itself will configure the image output mode to the TV screen.
• In the case when the buyer ranks itself with music connoisseurs, highly desirable HD-Audio (DD Truehd / Master Audio) decoders.

Some shortcomings

Of course, nothing perfect in the world does not happen. Media players are no exception. What disadvantages are the techniques under consideration? How serious are they and interfere with watching movies and listening to music?

You need to start with the fact that the Android platform without a stable and fast Internet is not enough for what is suitable. Of course, you can try to watch the movie on the device just purchased, but no one can ensure that there will be a necessary codec or a "omnivore" player.

Everything needs to be downloaded from the network, so I do not envy the proud owners of the GPRS / EDGE channel in this situation. In their case, still the best solution will be the connection of the laptop or computer to the TV, as they will certainly be able to cope with the image output setting, but it is unlikely to do without a normal Internet. In a word, a network media player, which completely depends on the availability of an Internet connection, we definitely do not fit.

Ease of use

If possible, be sure to turn on the device in the store, try to cope with its control. Often there are cases when the media player himself is quite good, but its menu and navigating it is so terrible that it is impossible to use the device normally.

In addition, it is also worth attributed to the size and ergonomics of the console. Today on the shelves, you can find a lot of these kinds of devices, whose consistent consoles are more reminded by a horseshoe for fleas. It is not known what designers are guided, but in the dark you definitely do not fall on the desired button.

Avoid the consoles on which there is only a pair of buttons: they look beautiful, but much more convenient for many functions to run through the only pressing, and not spinning along several menus. If there is such an opportunity, it is necessary to purchase a universal control device that includes the functions of the mouse and keyboard.

Note that the keyboard, mouse and webcam in most cases will have to be purchased separately. The cost of specialized devices (special camera for the player) is often much higher than those of their usual analogues.

Do not also forget about the platform. ARM processors are not called too productive devices, so that movies in the maximum resolution may noticeably slow down. However, this statement is fairly far from all devices: almost any Sony-media player of this lack almost certainly deprived.

Many modern TV models already have built-in devices for playing multimedia content, but the functionality of them may be lower than that of a separately installed media player for the TV. By connecting additional equipment, you can significantly expand the capabilities of your TV, gain access to social networks and various Internet services, even from the screens of the simplest models. Therefore, many users think about buying an additional TV console.

Modern multimedia TV consoles have replaced video recorders and DVD / CD players. Today they are:

• read almost any video and audio formats;
• able to open any images;
• reproduce information from a variety of sources (portable portable storage devices, mobile gadgets, etc.);
• broadcast streaming video;
• provide the ability to publish the Internet through the browser, enjoy a large number of entertainment services;
• support UTorrent, 3D, Wi-Fi and game functions.

Specific features of the functionality may differ depending on the models.

In appearance, these are small devices with different ports and the control panel. The latest versions may have an LCD display, a touch user tool. Connecting to TV is performed via HDMI cable, wireless connection or component connector.

Some devices are suitable and to old kinescopic types of TV. Information transmission in this case occurs through an S-Video or composite slot. It is worth understanding that the functionality of such a pair will be limited. Because if the media player has any opportunities, this TV will not be able to play, for example, FullHD or 3D format. Of course, more opportunities for users of modern LED TV models.

Composite video output RCA and S-Video

Is it worth buying a media player for a TV with a computer

At first glance, it may seem that such a device is an empty waste of money when there is a PC or laptop. After all, the computer just performs these functions. But not every electronic-combatant device can pass high quality image and soundHow to make widescreen LED TV, especially in high definition format HD and FullHD, as well as Blue Ray.

You can connect to the large laptop screen or system block via HDMI cable, but it is not always convenient. In addition, it is often necessary to break your head over the configuration of the device synchronization, especially to play streaming video or recording television to the hard disk of the computer.

Another plus in favor of a separate TV console - silent work. Since the computer is equipped with a cooling device, it creates a certain noise during operation. The advantages are obvious, so for connoisseurs of excellent quality video playback, you should think about how to choose a media player for the TV.

Connecting the system block of the computer to the TV

What criteria should pay attention when choosing a modern TV console

Today, the market is represented by a wide model number of digital players for televisions. To determine the choice of the most suitable model of the device, you should pay attention to the following criteria:

• media player interface;
• possible playback formats;
• control system;
• sources and media of content (support for Internet services);
• additional feature.

Media player interface

Even before sending to the store for a new device for its TV, it is necessary to find out the availability of ports and connectors that are available at television equipment. This information is important to select a method for connecting the console. The most optimal and popular option is the option -HDMI-Cabel, such a connection will provide high quality video transmission and multichannel sound. This digital connector allows you to play available for modern LED TV models LG, Samsung, Sony and other HD and FullHD permission manufacturers.

In the case of earlier TV models, it may be necessary to support the prefix of the following types of connectors.

1. Component output. For synchronization, many well-known "tulips" are used. A feature of such a connection is to transmit individual components of the video signal over several cables, at the end of which are three RCA connector. This transmits only the image, the sound in stereo format is connected separately.

1. Composite output. The principle of video transmission is similar to the previous one, but the image quality is worse. If possible, it is better to use an analog interface.
2. S.— Video.. Such a connector is rarely found even on the kinescopic TVs, but in separate models it is still present. Constructive feature and quality of video signal transmission are somewhat better composite. It is based on two dividing lines that are used to transmit brightness and color image signals.

In addition to the ports for connecting the media player to the TV, it must support and additional interface set. Modern models, in addition to mandatory HDMI and USB, can have an Optical or a card reader to connect other media. Not all devices provide for the presence of an embedded HDD, but most of the way allows you to connect a removable hard disk (for high-quality operation you need two USB connector).

It is important not only to consider the method of connecting the console to the TV, but also it synchronization with other devices. All necessary connectors must be present in the specifications of the device. Also, if necessary, it is worth taking care of acquiring additional adapters that are not included in the media player.

Possible reproduction formats

Without exaggeration, we can say that modern multimedia TV consoles reproduce almost all video and audio formats, as well as open any images. Even the most budget devices will lose popular AVI, MKV, MP4. Therefore, through most consoles, you can watch movies in BDRip (-AVC) or DVDRip standards.

The entire list of read-reading formats is indicated in the specifications.

But many inexperienced users are mistaken, evaluating the device on the list of supported formats, not considering the concept mediconteners and codecs, equating them. Simply put, if the prefix supports the MP4 container playback, this does not mean that all files with this extension will be highly played. They can open, for example, without sound or with noise, if not supported by audio tracks. Since the concepts of the mediacontener and codec have a different definition. In the first case, this is a file format, in the second - the flow format in it.

For those who wish to watch movies on their home theater in high quality or format 3D.You have to choose extended reading formats. For example, often films with three-dimensional graphics have an extension of ISO or several folders with files of various formats. And the support for the extension of ISO BD3D is far from all models.

3D Media Player 3Q F370HW

Control system

In addition to supporting standard multimedia formats and optimal loading time, the media player must have russian-speaking menu With convenient control and navigation - these are fundamental factors when analyzing this criterion. Users have the ability to control the media design both from the device itself and with the remote control or through a mobile gadget. There are also models that provide support for QWERTY keyboard and computer wireless mouse. These accessories will be by the way when working with social networks or an Internet browser through teleexer. For convenience, you can use a universal remote control, allowing you to control both the prefix and a TV.

Sources and media of content (support for Internet services)

TV prefix can reproduce a media content from various carriers.

1. Built into it HDD. In this case, the size of the carrier will be important. A plus built-in hard disk - All multimedia content is stored in one place and available at any time.
2. Portable storage device (flash drive, external hard drive) connected via USB connector.
3. Camera memory cards, camcorders, mobile gadgets. Their connection is made either through the built-in or external card reader or through the cable.
4. Hard drives of devices connected to Wi-Fi (if possible wireless connections).
5. Online services, such as You Tube, Ivi, Google Video, Apple Trailers, Meta Cafe et al. (If you connect to the Internet).

The capabilities of the media player are constantly expanding. Modern models allow you to read emails that have come to an email, play online games, learn news and weather forecast, view new movies, which are still appearing in a wide box office, etc.

Media Player Zappiti Player 4K

Additional feature

More advanced devices provide users with more features. Therefore, if the purpose of the purchase is to make samsung or lg from your TV - smart TV, it is better to give preference to the filiers with:

• opportunity domestic connection (via a wireless connection or Ethernet cable);
• internet accessto be able to enjoy popular online services, social networks, IP television;
• modern operating systemTo be able to update it, and install additional software.

The choice and purchase of the media player even for modern models of TVs will be very by the way. Especially for those users who appreciate a high-quality image and multichannel sound. In addition, such a device is capable of turning a simple TV into a smart, and in models with the already built-in such function to significantly expand the possibilities. After all, even an expensive home theater may not have any necessary functionality, and the correctly selected multimedia TV prefix is \u200b\u200bcapable of solving these problems.

(Also Multimedia Multimedia Player or Mulmedia Center).

Many families are familiar when, despite the many available TV channels, there is absolutely nothing to watch on TV. In such cases, the media player will come to the aid - a compact device that can turn the usual TV to the center of multimedia entertainment, if desired, showing favorite movies and photos or losing music. In the article we will tell you how to choose a media player model and what characteristics to pay attention to.
The media player is a device for playing a photo, video and music that works in a bundle with a home TV, a monitor or projector, as well as an acoustic system. The advantage of the media player is in relatively compact sizes, so that it can be moved to any room where there is a monitor or TV. The media player will be an excellent choice for the one who often acquires films and music on the Internet and stores its multimedia archive on home PCs, USB drives and hard drives. The fact is that most media players are equipped with standard USB connectors and even reproduce content directly from the home network. To choose the optimal model corresponding to your tasks, you will have to analyze the main characteristics than we will do .

What options to pay attention to

One of the main parameters of the media player - media information. To storing the media system, these devices use built-in hard drives, external HDD, as well as USB drives and memory cards. Sometimes there is a slot for optical disks or the ability to connect an external DVD drive. The advantages of the built-in hard disk are indisputable, but the higher the volume of the disk, the higher the cost. Therefore, for savings, you can purchase a ill-minded model and connect external carriers to it.
A set of video and audio connections on the media player case can differ significantly from the model to the model. : HDMI and tulip connectors. In the more equipped models there is a 6-channel audio output, as well as S-VIDEO and D-SUB. If the media player is required to display information without HDMI output, pay attention to the presence of analog ports at the first.
Many media players are equipped with a network interface for connecting to the home network and the Internet. To do this is used wired EthernetThat will save you from the need to transfer content to the device every time and will play movies placed on a home computer or network drive (). If there is no such possibility, mode support is useful. USB-Slave.. Thanks to this option, the computer determines the media player connected via USB as an external disk, which is convenient to replenish the library files from the main PC.
It is very useful to write some models of media player TV-ether Right on the hard drive.

Inexpensively and functional

As high definition televisions spread, standard Full HD. He began to appear even in the most accessible media player models. So, at its low price (up to 5000 rubles), the Western Digital TV media player reproduces video in resolution to 1080p on the home TV, and among its additional functions, access to popular online photo and video service, as well as a connection to the home network. Externally, the device is Velisting, but the presence of HDMI, S / PDIF interfaces, composite video and audio RCA allows you to connect WD TV to any TV. Impressive and the number of supported formats. In addition to common, the list complements such formats such as OGG and MKA (audio), TIFF (PHOTO) and H.264 (video).
One of the most affordable media players (up to 2500 rubles), HDM33 HDMI, also supports high-definition video. The model is made in a strict rectangular housing, which contains USB connectors and a memory card slot. They are used to download the media system. In addition to music and movies, the media player allows you to view photos in JPEG format with a resolution of up to 8 mp.
A good balance of price and capabilities is distinguished by the FreeAgent Theater + media player. The device provides videos on FullHD TVs and monitors, has a voluminous sound of Dolby Digital and optionally equipped with a rigid disk (250 or 500 GB). The drive is installed in a special docking station. In addition to the hard disk for storing content, you can use USB drives that are connected to the standard connectors. The device works with popular MPEG-1 formats, MPEG-2 (AVI / VOB / ISO) and MPEG-4 (AVI / DIVX / XVID) with a maximum resolution up to 1080p.

Balance prices and opportunities

Media Player-level media players offer an extended list of supported audio and video formats, and sometimes features such as a wireless connection to the home network (Internet) using Wi-Fi.
Concepts of balanced functionality and price (up 7000 rubles.) The developers of the media player O! Play Air HDP-R3 adhered. This model supports all common video formats and is equipped with a rich set of connectors (ESATA, HDMI, USB 2.0), as well as Wi-Fi wireless module (802.11n) and a built-in card reader (SD / MMC, MS / MS DUO, CF). It will save users from the need to place a computer or an external hard drive next to the TV. Please note that the model does not have an internal HDD slot.
For the same price, you can purchase a media player N-1, working with USB drives and memory cards. There is also a hard disk in the model, which has positively affected the sizes of the device: it is miniature and works almost silently. The media player is concluded in a durable and stylish metal case, combining plastic and aluminum. In addition to removable, content can be downloaded from the home network, losing music and video directly from home PCs or network drives. This provides an Ethernet connector.
On schedule, you can write video from external sources of the signal to the HDR12L model. The device uses internal HDD content to store content, allows you to connect two USB drives, an external ESATA hard drive and delete, copy or move files through a built-in file manager. Thanks to the built-in BitTorrent client, HDR12L can download video directly from the Internet. The player supports almost all popular video formats (including AVCHD format used in video cameras), as well as an audio format without compression FLAC. You can purchase HDR12L for 6950 rubles.

The most equipped

The most advanced media players, as a rule, contain a built-in hard disk with a volume of up to 1 TB, a wide range of ports and connectors and many additional features.
It is to such models relate to M-7000. This is a multi-format media center based on hard disk, whose volume can reach 2 TB. The player is made in an unusual cylindrical design, which as it may indicate its central position in the infrastructure of the home theater. Information about played files and system status is displayed on a special display placed on the front panel. A rich set of connectors allows you to connect to the device not only memory cards, hard drives and flash drives, but also cameras and camcorders. There is no Wi-Fi in the player, but there is an Ethernet port, which means that the media player is easily integrated into the home network. The cost of TVIX-HD M-7000 - 11690 rubles.
Media player Egreat EG-M35A is cheaper by three thousand. The model supports resolution up to 1080p and allows you to enter the Internet through the home network, working directly with the popular YouTube services, Google Video, iPodcast, Flickr. There is also a function of receiving Internet radio and IP television. To store information in the player there is a built-in HDD, the volume of which can be selected independently. In addition, it is possible to work with USB drives. Like the TVIX-HD M-7000, the eGreat media player is packed in a stylish cylindrical body and equipped with textual symbolic

Another advanced media player is iconBit HD400DVD, also supporting multiple audio and video formats, including high definition video (up to 1080r), and reproducing digital multi-channel sound. There are analog connectors, which makes the media player universal. In addition to the hard disk, which the user can install on the player alone, there is a DVD-drive on board with a fashionable slot loading. The cost of the model is 10590 rubles.

conclusions

Considering the purchase of a media player is necessary in the context of your home and video engineering at your home. First of all, the media player must match your TV both by the connection method (connectors) and by parameters. If at home there is a good acoustic system and a large TV screen, you should look at the rest of the parameters. A pair of terabytes of disc memory, which at first seem to be excesses, can be very useful after purchasing 3D TV and movies with new standards support.

Media Players: Why are they needed and how to use them?

What is media players? Why do they generally need? What they can enjoy them and what they are more convenient and best of the rest (Bluray, DVD, CD). - Read more about it.

The media player is a video player, music and photo albums (photos).

The media player reproduces the files in which video, music or photos are recorded. The better the player - the more different file formats it supports. Using the best models, you can generally forget about the word "format": just choose and run movies, music, photo albums with standard buttons on the remote control - just like on the usual Bluraft, DVD, and CD players.

Why do you need a media player?
Because it is much more convenient than all the other, which was before it - CD players, DVD players and Bluray players.
What is more convenient? That's what:
1) It is much easier, faster and cheaper to replenish media collecting - a library of films, music and digital photos.
2) Cataloging and search for products of media collecting becomes much more convenient. One or two HDDs with files is much more compact than racks and shelves. Find and run the desired file is much easier and faster than a long time to go through the disk archive. In addition, you can organize information on any convenient exactly for you the principle.
3) Storage of information in the form of files more reliably than on disks.
4) Compared to similar launch of files on the computer - the use of the media player is much more comfortable! You use them as a traditional player - sitting on the sofa before a big TV. Agree, so the movie is simply familiar and more comfortable to watch than behind the desktop in front of a small monitor, keeping the mouse, or what to look from the computer on a large TV, each time to control approaching the keyboard with the mouse.

In addition, the player compared to the computer:
- quieter,
- more compact
- has fewer wires,
- faster turns on,
- Easily managed by one with a push-button remote control,
- less often hangs
- It has a friendly interface like a familiar player, and not like a computer - they can easily learn how to use both a small child and an elderly man who grew up in a compuscript era.

How to use a media player

It depends on the class (capabilities) of the media player you use. Of all the many, which is now on the market, you can conditionally allocate four classes of media players.

1) Players with a USB port, without a hard disk (HDD), without connecting to a local network (without a network port).
This is the class of the simplest and inexpensive models. At the same time, they can work perfectly at the level for which they are intended.

Using
The player is connected to TV, media files are recorded on a USB flash drive (or USB drive), which is then inserted into the USB port on the player. Take the player's console, we find the necessary files on the flash drive, run. We look, listen - here's actually all!

2) Players with the ability to embed a hard disk (HDD), without connecting to a local network (without a network port).
These models are slightly more expensive than previous wildlife. They are convenient because the HDD embedded in them can be recorded and stored files. If the HDD container allows, you can rewrite all your old DVD collection, all the music / movies / photos from the computer and use only the player. You can immediately send a DVD player with racks: where there is a media player, you will not need it anymore!

Using
To burn movies / Music / Photo albums on the HDD player, it is enough to connect the player to the computer as a regular external USB disk and rewrite the desired files. Next, the player can be connected to TV - watch movies, listen to music, flipping photo albums.
In addition, these players, like the previous class of players, are equipped with an external USB port to connect to them external USB hard drives and flash drives from which the players can play files. Many models have the function of background music, i.e. when viewing photos can be accompanied by music. The most advanced models of this class can perform operations with folders and files, like on a computer - copy, move, delete, rename, create new folders - and all this is easily with the help of one remote control.

Note.
The players data (described in paragraphs 1 and 2) can play as soon as SD video (cheap models), so SD and HD video (models are more expensive). However, almost all new SD models are equipped with an HDMI output, and are capable of producing a HD signal on component and HDMI outputs, scalating an SD image in HD.
All media players of the two following classes (paragraphs 3 and 4) are supported by the real (720p, 1080i / p) HD video.

3) Players with the ability to connect to the local network (network port), but without accessing the Internet - both disk and diskless models.
The advantage of these players is that, among other things, the models of the two previous classes can connect to the local network and play files from all available network sources - computers, network disk drives (NAS, Network Access Storage), other network players ( In which built in HDD).

Using
The player is connected by a network cable to the router (network router), video audio outputs - to the TV. Next, you need to enter the player setup to the network settings section and set the parameters corresponding to your local network. In most cases, the factory settings allow the player immediately when turned on automatically enter the network. Further, the disks / folders on computers and network drives (NAS), where media files needed to visit us, you need to assign general network access so that they are "visible" from any other network device, for example, from a media player. After that, the media player will "see" all network drives / folders and can play files recorded in them, and not just files from their local HDDs or USB media. The explicit advantages of this connection is that, first, the player is available much more places where files are located, and, secondly, it is not necessary to copy files to the player (or connect external USB devices to it) - all media collection It can be stored distributed on multiple network devices (or on a large large-capacity network server). For example, if there are several rooms in an apartment or cottage, each of which is equipped with a TV and an audio system, it is enough to have only one network media server, where all movies will be stored, TV programs (recorded by TV receiver), music and photo collection. In each room, you can use your network media player and watch something from a server on the network, without the need to pre-copy files.

4) Players with the possibility of connecting to a local network (network port), Internet access and the possibility of remote control (from a remote computer) - both disk and diskless.
This is the most advanced media player category. They have many options for use depending on the wishes of the user who has its own technique and (often) degree of acquaintance with the themes "Media Players / Computers / Computer Networks / Internet", since a number of initial settings still assumes some immersion in computer themes. But after the settings are made, the player will be able to use anyone, regardless of the volume of knowledge and age. What can such players (in the most common features):
- Play files of almost any formats (naturally heavy HD video files in tens of gigabytes);
- Play files - with internal HDD (if any), from external USB sources (disks, flash drives), with external ESATA disks (some models), network drives (within one local network), with remote Web servers (through The Internet);
- download files (movies, music, photos) from the Internet (according to BitTorrent);
- Play IPTV and Internet TV channels;
- Play the contents of popular Web media resources (YouTube, Flickr, Picasa, Yahoo Weather, etc., right down before viewing email boxes);
- produce operations with files (copy, move, delete, etc.);
- have the possibility of remote control (over the network and via the Internet): configuration management, file playback (selection of a file, remote start, playback stop), turning on / off, downloading new files from the Internet, etc.;
- It is possible to establish a new software, including an alternative, significantly expanding the range of player capabilities.

If there are several rooms (not necessarily located nearby), each of which is equipped with a TV with a media player and Internet access, you can both autonomously run the media player in each room and Manage the entire media player system from one computer. This computer can be both in one local network with players and remote and connect with each player via the Internet (see Figure below). Even a pocket communicator will come up as a computer, such as iPhone. The players themselves can be both in a local network and out of some separate network.

From a remote computer, you can run files on each player, stop playback, change the settings, turn on / off the player, etc. For example, you have a player at home (it is enabled and connected to the Internet), you are visiting, and your friends too There is a similar player (also with Internet access). You want to watch a movie or photo album, or listen to music that are written at your home. What is needed for this? Just connect to your home player and run files from it as from a remote Web resource. You can thus can be easily exchanged with other players with players, while not rewriting files - it's enough to keep the players online (and know their IP addresses, of course).

How can I replenish the contents of a homemade media library? Here are some fastest, lungs and common ways.

1) many Internet providers have one or more FTP serverswhere thousands of video and music files are recorded. It is enough to download everything you need and reset to the player disk (if the player has a built-in disk), or to the computer's network folder, or on a separate network drive. Such download is free, traffic within the provider's network is usually not charged.

2) Go to any of the torrent trackers and just download what you are interested. And completely free! Torrent tracker - Web portal, which contains an extensive movie / music catalog / photo / software / games / etc., from where they download special<* .torren.t\u003e Files that in turn when you open the program torrent clientallow you to easily and quickly download the necessary media files - movies / music / photo / games / Soft / etc. Popular torrent trackers contain a truly huge base - you can find and download almost any film (from Hollywood new products to the classics and "art Haus ") or music. Most popular torrent trackers :; http://torrents.ru http://tfile.ru; http://opensharing.ru.
The most advanced players (the category described in paragraph 4), usually there is a built-in torrent client. You can start<*.torrent> File directly on the player, and the player will start downloading yourself, without the help of a computer (naturally, the player must be connected to the running router, and the router to the Internet).

3) go to any movie or a music web resource offering downloading service (free or paid); Files on such resources are often stored on the well-known file storage http://rapidshare.com (either on similar) - from there and download links to the links specified on the resource pages. If downloading is paid, it is proposed to pay via SMS. Amounts are usually funny.

The enormous convenience of media players, their capabilities and flexibility of settings are worthy of several separate articles. Brief use is enough to understand that DVD and Bluray players are already far yesterday, if not the day before yesterday, and they are not needed by and large. What you really need to have at home is the following:
- HD TV (display, projector) + separate audio system (stereo or 5.1);
- local network combined with a router with Internet access;
- at least one computer connected to the local network (to record new media files);
- Network disk drive (NAS) for storing the entire collection of media files (the NAS role can perform the same computer or another computer);
- media player (disk or dismantled); If it is with the function of connecting to the local network, the capabilities are significantly larger;
- If you are watching TV, then you will need another PVR receiver (satellite, cable or ethereal, depending on which channels you want to watch), preferably connected to the local network.
On the media player you are watching movies and photos, listen to music, see the IPTV and Internet TV channels, YouTube videos, etc. On the receiver, you watch TV channels running from satellites, by cable or from ether, if necessary, write down the TV shows and movies, rapid media Collection of files.

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Of course, a personal computer or laptop is the most versatile means to work with the media content. The ability to install any codecs and use of any players attracts many users. However, in terms of convenience, in addition to sole view, there are certain complaints to this solution. First, you need to connect the device to a widescreen TV and / or receiver that if they are remote location, it may not be easy. Secondly, remote control and configuration of the program or multimedia shell is required. Thirdly, you need to pay attention to the system configuration and software selection. Of course, many users successfully cope with these tasks, but all this needs time and experience.

An alternative to this approach are ready-made network media players. After their minimal setup, the user gets the opportunity to comfortably work with video, music, photos, online services and broadcasts on the large screen over the network - using a media library on a PC or a network drive. In this case, the cost of the solution can be significantly lower than the simplest computer.

A more couple of options that should be mentioned - watching video through modern game consoles and built into the TV players - but today we will not talk about them in detail.

We list the comparative advantages of modern media players and computers to solve the task in the table.

Currently, there are many models of media players, characterized in both opportunities and cost. In general, the minimum list of features looks like this: network work and USB drives, HDMI output for connecting to TV or receiver, video support to Full HD inclusive, built-in tools for working with online resources. Additionally, it can be available: built-in drives, optical drive for BD and DVD disks, built-in wireless controller, network drive services, as well as downloading files from P2P networks, the ability to install additional software. Detailed reviews of interesting models can be found in the "Multimedia" section of our site.

Today, for consideration as an example, we chose the C-200 Player of the well-known Brand Popcorn Hour. A year and a half ago, this model has already participated in testing on our website, but since then it has been implemented some changes, so we will tell a little about the device.

Media Player Popcorn Hour C-200

This model refers to the top class of modern media players. It is made in the format of standard rack equipment and supports all topical sources of the media system. The basis of the device is the Sigma Designs SMP8643 chip, which is capable of playing videos of all formats, with the exception of the Blu-ray stereo. To connect to audio / video equipment in the player there is a wide range of appropriate outputs - from composite video and stereoadio to HDMI 1.3A. An interesting feature of the device is the remote control that operates on the radio channel. This allows you to freely choose the device installation location. The manufacturer also provided the ability to control the Wi-Fi player from mobile devices through special android and iOS software.

In some cases, a large-scale monochrome matrix screen can be useful. With it, you can, for example, include on playback of audio componations without referring to the TV.

The drives are connected via USB ports, SMB / NFS / DLNA network resources, as well as hard drives and optical drives installed inside the device. Molding for the latter in the modification under consideration allows you to simultaneously use the standard 3.5 "hard disk with a quick replacement through a special compartment and" thin "optical BD or DVD drive. They are connected to two SATA ports of the main processor.

POPCORN HOUR C-200 supports a large set of online services, has the ability to change the appearance of the interface and implement extended network functions.

To work with the local network there is a built-in Fastethernet port. Additionally, you can purchase the 802.11n brand wireless controller, which is also installed inside the player. The WMP-ND02 model used by us is based on the RALINK RT2880 + RT2850 chipset and allows you to operate at speeds up to 450 MHz in 2,4 or 5 GHz bands. Its three antennas are installed through the provided holes in the device housing. Support is still not a very busy range of 5 GHz Allows you to view the wireless network with this controller even high-resolution video, including BD images. But, of course, the user will also need a corresponding router. Alternatively, you can use compatible USB dongs or Wi-Fi-Ethernet bridges.

Assembly and connecting player

You must first figure out the hardware options of the device, in particular the configuration of the drives installed inside the player. The most universal option will be an optical BD drive and hard disk. To install the first, you will have to show inlet and attentiveness. The hard disk can be added at any time through the fast replacement compartment on the front panel. The disc can already contain files and they will immediately be available through the player menu.

In addition, you need to pay attention to the ability to install inside the USB drive device. It can be useful for implementing a full-fledged work with the BD menu, as well as the operation of additional NMT applications. You can use any model for 2-4 GB. The advantage of this option is that the drive will not occupy external ports and will be constantly available to the player. This connector is allowed to connect a hard disk if you want to increase the amount of media library and / or have a constantly connected high-capacity drive.

If the original wireless module was bought, it also needs to be installed inside the device.

The last moment to pay attention to is to provide a comfortable temperature regime in the Popcorn Hour C-200 package. The manufacturer speaks about the installation of the fan on the location provided for it in the case only when problems occur in the player or disk. We would recommend to do it with the constant use of the internal 3.5 "hard drive. In testing with long-term HD video view or loading torrents, the temperature of the 1 TB of the Seagate disk reached 48 degrees.

After these operations, the player housing can be closed and installed on the workplace. Many other player models also allow you to install inside the hard disk device for storing files and implement additional functions. Compact devices usually work only with external drives with USB or ESATA interfaces.

In addition to the power cable, at least you need to connect the TV or projector. The most convenient and qualitative option is through the HDMI port. If it is necessary to have multi-channel sound through the receiver, it connects between player and TV, and if the receiver does not have a HDMI port, you can use digital player audio outputs.

Basic player settings

In most cases, after switching on the player and the TV, you will see the Popcorn Hour C-200 on the last interface. If this did not happen, you need to check the settings of the display device and / or change the type of video output of the player through special combinations of the buttons on the remote control.

The basic player settings are in choosing the interface language, audio / video output parameters and setting the network connection settings. For the video, the best option is to use a digital output and turn on the option to automatically select the frame rate depending on the parameters of the file played, in the event that it is supported by the TV. Audio setting includes an indication for the formats of sound tracks of the variant of their processing - output to the receiver in the original form or decoding inside the player and mixing in stereo ("downmix"). The second of them can be useful when installing the player only with TV without receiver.

For medialectors, we recommend using a wired network connection. Only it is capable of ensuring the playback of all high-resolution video options from network resources. This is due to the performance - the maximum video bit rate is about 40 Mbps. Cable connection can work at this speed anyway. But the quality of the wireless communication significantly depends on the state of the ether - obstacles, interference and networks of neighbors. And not all of these parameters the user can control. Standard 802.11g with its real speed in ideal conditions about 25 Mbps can only be used on video files with dimensions up to 15 GB per film (very rough estimate). Since 802.11n, the situation is much better. With good equipment, it provides speeds of 100 Mbps and above, and the ability to work in the 5 GHz range further increases the chances of playing video without delay.

In this regard, the planning model of the player looks very well - its built-in controller is capable of working at high speed and has the support of the range of 5 GHz.

Joint Check Popcorn Hour C-200 and WMP-ND02 cards with one of the fastest routers - ASUS RT-N66U - showed that by 2.4 GHz in the conditions of having a large number of other wireless networks on the air, the player is able to show files up to BD However, during their viewing, friezes and scattering pictures are possible. If you translate the adapter to the 5 GHz range, then there will be no problems - you can view the files specially prepared for the test and 50 Mbps and higher bitrate.

Note that for the convenience of entering passwords of wireless networks and other text fields, you can connect the regular USB keyboard to the player.

As for the setting of IP addresses, in most cases you can use the automatic receipt of them by DHCP from the router. However, if you plan to work with your device's own network service, it is best to configure a fixed destination of addresses to the MAC address of the player in the router.

Work with network resources

To view files from USB media just select the desired document in the player browser. But work with network resources will require the creation and setting of the latter. However, it is easy to do.

Most player models support SMB / CIFS, NFS and DLNA protocols. The first is a standard option for Windows-based networks. A network resource description in this case consists of a server name (or IP address), the names of the shared folder on it and the username / password of the user who has access to it.

On the network drive, we have already set such resources. For convenience, you can program in a special user drive to access from the player by giving it the right to read (or full) to the right network folders. Similar configuration is carried out on the computer - select the folder and provide access to it, not forgetting about the list of users.

Next, you need to specify these parameters in the player in the "Network Resources" section. Here will also be able to enter your own resource name for the player. After programming all links, they will be available from the main menu of the device in the "network" section.

Using the NFS protocol may be useful to those users whose computers are installed Linux. In addition, it is usually supported in modern network drives. For the model under consideration, the NFS player does not have significant advantages, however, less productive devices can potentially provide higher speeds (smoothly reproducible bitrate video).

Consider the setting on the example of the Synology Network Drive. After enabling the NFS server in the common resource properties, you must allow access to it from the required IP addresses. As a result, the data access parameters will consist of a server name or IP address and the path to the shared resource (it will be shown in the settings window on the network drive). Users and password names in this case are not used. Please note that in some cases you need to use the NFS TCP protocol version, which is also supported by the player.

To simplify the setting, you can use the built-in network browser - then it will be left to enter only the resource name and user data.

The third protocol on which the player can receive data from the local network - DLNA (previously known as UPNP AV). It was conceived as an easy way to tie into a single whole numerous home network devices, including PCs, players, game consoles, cell phones for video sharing, photos and music. Unfortunately, even today and in the presence of certificates, you can meet with partial incompatibility of devices or the lack of support for some functions.

To implement the DLNA server on the PC, you must use special software (for example) or regular Windows Media Player, which also knows how to perform this feature. Server settings are usually minimal - you only need to select the folders in which the media system is located and allow access to a specific player. Unlike the standard network protocols described above, sorting and searching for files on the DLNA server does not occur on directories (although this option is usually also provided), and according to specially created indexes. For example, for music files, it can be information from tags - the name of the artist, the name of the album, the year of release. To compile them, the server should spend a certain time, which must be taken into account when using it. The indexing process, depending on the server and its settings, occurs at the request of the user, on a schedule or when new documents appear.

Configuring a server in a network drive consists only of folder selection for scanning.

The advantage of the DLNA, which can be interesting to some models of players with weak processors, is the use of HTTP protocol content, which is more "easy" and allows you to slightly enlarge the maximum available bit rate video.

DLNA resources in the player are connected automatically. They do not need to program anywhere in advance.

Internet services

POPCORN HOUR C-200, like most others, have built-in clients to view content from Internet resources such as YouTube, Shoutcast, Flickr and dozens of others. No special settings to work with them are required. You only need to ensure the access of the player to the Internet.

Additional features

In our opinion, the most correct version of the media viewing in the home network is a network drive with the library and the desired number of simple network players with access to it. This allows you to have a single place to store and process, simplifies the player setting, and they can be compact and quiet, with a connection only to the network.

But this scenario is not always possible. For example, if there is no network drive, you want to have a local media in the player to view high-speed video or the ability to use it outside the network or visiting.

In this case, the possibility of implementing additional functions by the player itself is useful.

So, on the family of the family, you can install a special set of applications that will allow you to use it in new scenarios. To store program code, you need to highlight a special partition on one of the local drives. You can use the internal USB port for this, connecting a flash drive of 2 GB and higher. This will allow you to easily change the hard disk installed in the front compartment, without experiencing applications for the performance. On the other hand, installing on a hard disk will simplify the use of data on the hard drive for embedded services.

Directly the installation of programs is carried out from the "Maintenance" menu → "NMT Setup Wizard". If the player is connected to the Internet, then all the data you need to download it yourself.

During installation on a clean drive, new sections are created - selected for applications and for user files for the remaining place. Please note that the default file system of the data is EXT3, which is not available from Windows without special drivers, but you can write files over the network to the disk.

The standard set of applications for this family of players NMT consists of UPNP AV, Myihome, FTP, SMB, NFS servers and customers to download torrents and files from Usenet networks.

The first two servers can be useful in the case of using a cable hard disk with a media library and presence in the local network of other players. For these protocols, other players will be able to access files on this device. Also for this you can use SMB and NFS.

FTP and SMB will be useful for reading / writing data on a player disk from a computer. Unfortunately, the system does not provide any access to directory access - there is a single user account (name - nmt, the default password is "1234", but it can be changed) to which all resources read and write are available. Note that when NMT applications are installed, you can change the network name of the device and the name of the working group.

The built-in torrent client allows you to upload files directly to the player without PC participation. Two programs are installed in this model. Perhaps it is more convenient to use the second - the well-known TRANSMISION utility. Its web interface is available at http: // PCH-C200: 8077 and is password protected. If necessary, you can provide management and via the Internet - it is enough to configure the 8077 port broadcast on the IP address of the player on the router. If the capabilities of the web interface are not enough, TRANSMISION REMOTE GUI or TRANSMISION-REMOTE-DOTNET will come to the rescue, which can be found on the complete CD. For efficient download and distribution, you also need to open the port of the service itself (default 51413).

When working with additional services, you should not forget that although the processor used in the media player is perfectly coping with video decoding, then if we talk about the function of the network drive, an autonomous system for downloading files or other non-core functions, then in modern standards it is relatively weak. The hard characteristics are not necessary: \u200b\u200bconsidering that the network controller 100 Mbps is used, the network recording speed (SMB protocol) is about 6 MB / s, and reading is more than 7 MB / s.

As you see, setting up a network player in the home network is very simple and accessible to everyone. Using this type of equipment will allow you to not spend time on setting up a computer and software, and use for a comfortable viewing of your favorite TV series on a widescreen TV in a large company.