What is a network media player?

A network media player is a device that takes video, music, photos, and other multimedia content stored on computers and consumer electronic devices over a household LAN (local area network) and streams it to your TV.

Not only can it access content over a network, but the built-in standard DVD drive enables playback of commercial DVDs and CDs and data formats on DVD±R and CD-R/RW media created by computers. This product also includes two USB ports to enable data playback from portable hard disks and USB memory.

In addition, content stored on I-O Datas HDL-GX/G Series of network connectable hard disks can also be played back*.

* To support DLNA in the HDL-GX series and HDL-G series is expected soon with a firmware update

Background of DLNA and DiXiM

The DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is a standard that enables consumer electronic devices, computers, and handheld devices connected to a network to share and use digital content among each other. This products firmware uses DiXiM by DigiOn that has been customized by I-O Data and attaches the DiXiM Media Server as a server application. The DiXiM Media Server is an application meeting DLNA Guidelines. Installing it on a computer enables you to conduct instant searches for video and audio content over LinkPlayer according to your purpose.

DiXiM has a long track record to be implemented major electronics makers and PC makers, and now, in LinkPlayer, it provides high compatibility and an operational feeling that more closely resembles consumer electronic products.

Main Features
I-O Data design for quality and reliability

The audio unit features sound quality rivaling acoustic equipment with a S/N greater than 120 dB, distortion less than 0.0001%, and frequency characteristics of -1.00dB at 48kHz. (All findings were based on the JEITA standard measurement procedures.) Built-in HDMI output connector

(first time available in a network media player)*

Audio and video can be supplied over a digital connection with a single cable for output of full digital to a high-definition TV.

*I-O Data Research, as of June 23, 2006. Officially compliant with DLNA Guidelines

This product can share content with the Sony RDZ-D97A/D77A and other DLNA-compatible devices. Support for the NTFS file system

In addition to the conventional FAT16/32 system, USB external hard disks formatted using NTFS, the standard file system in Windows XP®, can now be connected to the USB port on the front panel of this product. This enables you to enjoy extended hours of playback of large video files directly from a hard disk. (In FAT32, files are limited to a maximum of 2GB in size.) Wide range of playback video formats

The main processor uses the EM8620L by Sigma Designs (USA). In addition to support for MPEG-1/2, DivX, and WMV formats, it also supports playback of ISO format (disc images) over a USB connection. Built-in wireless diversity antenna (AV-LS300DW only)

A built-in diversity antenna is included for significantly expanding the transmission range.