Answering MediaSmart HDTV Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Media Center PC to use my MediaSmart HDTV?

No, a Media Center PC is not required. Your MediaSmart HDTV works with any PC that supports Windows Media Player 11 or other UPnP-compliant program. The MediaSmart HDTV has its own interface and can connect directly to many Internet services. Also, the MediaSmart HDTV shows television or content from a connected DVD or other device, just like a regular TV does.

However, the MediaSmart HDTV works well with a Media Center PC, and can act as a Windows Media Center Extender to play recorded HDTV shows and protected content. (The Extender feature requires that the computer have the Windows Vista Home Premium or Ultimate operating system. The HP MediaSmart Services Gateway software does not support computers with a 64-bit operating system; however, Windows Media Player 11 still works well as a server.)

Why does MediaSmart HDTV use Windows Media Player?

Windows Media Player file sharing is based on industry standards (UPnP) and is widely used. It is easy to install, set up, and use, and it supports digital rights management, which enables access to premium online content.

Can my MediaSmart HDTV software be updated?

Yes, MediaSmart HDTV firmware (software) is automatically updated as needed when the TV has access to the Internet.

Can MediaSmart HDTV play AAC format and other music file types?

Yes, your MediaSmart HDTV can play music files in a variety of formats, including unprotected AAC files. For supported music file types, see “Supported Media File Types” on page 112.

What is the wireless type to use to stream video to my MediaSmart HDTV?

The quality of streaming video over wireless depends on many factors such as the bitrate of the original video, the reception quality, and the access point. For best quality over wireless, HP recommends using an access point that supports IEEE 802.11n.

IEEE 802.11a or 802.11g is the second choice. IEEE 802.11b access points work well for audio and picture streaming, but are not recommended for video because of bandwidth limitations.

What version of Windows Media Player works with the MediaSmart HDTV?

The MediaSmart HDTV supports Windows Media Player 11.0. If you have an earlier version of WMP, you can get a free download of version 11.0 from the Microsoft Windows Media Player Web site.

Can I play recorded TV shows or downloaded shows or movies from my Media Center PC on my MediaSmart HDTV?

Microsoft Media Center PCs record TV programs in a proprietary format called dvr-ms. Your MediaSmart HDTV supports playback of dvr-ms files through the Windows Media Center Extender feature; see “Using the Windows Media Center option” on page 94. For supported video file types, see “Supported Media File Types” on page 112.

Finding Answers to Questions

Finding Answers to Questions 105