1. A Windows PC Instead Of A VCR And DVD Player?

It is not uncommon to see more than a half a dozen remote controls lying around living rooms that accommodate an equal number of TVs, DVD players, CD consoles, stereo receivers and set-top boxes. One of Microsoft's propositions with its Windows Media Center Edition (MCE) is that the system eliminates this hodgepodge of remotes and systems and offers a single PC that does it all. The system is not so much about appeasing the geek demands of PC enthusiasts and do-it-yourselfers, but instead is intended to serve as an all-in-one box that requires no tweaking and building by the consumer.

Recent surveys have bolstered the notion that Microsoft's strategy could be successful. One such survey conducted in the European Union in early 2005 reported that nearly 55% of respondents said they could conceive of replacing their home entertainment centers with a Multimedia PC. But is the final product up to task following Microsoft's first less-than-spectacular MCE attempts in North America as well as in Europe?

With its Media Center Edition at the fore, Microsoft's next world to conquer is the living room.

The latest version of the software is called Media Center Edition 2005, and represents Microsoft's third try at delivering a full-featured multimedia PC operating system suitable for general use. This package is built on Windows XP Professional Service Pack 2, with a somewhat reduced set of networking capabilities.

Of course, MCE 2005 is just the software and operating system. You'll also need to either purchase pre-packaged hardware (such as our review of the Datago DE3 here ) or build your own from a barebones system. Check out our review here of media center PC barebones cases.

Windows Media Center Edition 2005 doesn't work with Active Directory and can't join a domain, but works exclusively in peer-to-peer mode instead.

One push of the green Windows button on the Media Center Edition (MCE) remote control or a single mouse click puts MCE to work. Its user interface has been optimized for full-screen display on a TV set, and to be usable at a greater viewing distance than is typical on a desktop. But you can also run the program inside a regular desktop window if you prefer. Menus (and sub-menu choices) appear in large type on screen, and use slick, flowing transition effects when moving from screen to screen.

By design, navigating and running Media Center requires only a compatible remote control. It uses a latest generation "teachable" remote that can also handle most TV sets as well.

Built-in MCE capabilities include TV controls with time shift and a programmable personal video recorder (PVR) that works with an electronic program guide (EPG). It also offers DVD home video playback and digital photo and music file organizer capabilities and playback. You can also use MCE for online access to news channels, digital music vendors and video on demand.

During commercial breaks when you're watching TV, the system offers easy access to games and other programs. A nice addition in MCE is the possibility to keep a small window open on screen when TV channels or DVDs are in play as you switch over to another function. Important activities and menu choices also get their own special shortcut keys on the big, ergonomically friendly MCE remote control as well.