[theReaper0908]

I would like to know if I require any hardware piece in order to make media center work on my computer before I go out and buy the OS. Currently I have a windows xp home edition. Also, can I do ANYTHING I do on windows xp like installing and playing a game, run different .exe files, install all the softwares that I had installed, etc and do all that in media center? I kinda know I can but I'm not positively sure and I want to know before I spend bucks on an OS. thanks.

 

[Dunedin]

Hello theReaper0908 :smile:

Media Centre is XP Professional with extra digital entertainment elements.

I would like to know if I require any hardware piece in order to make media center work on my computer before I go out and buy the OS. Currently I have a windows xp home edition.
If XP Home is running well you should be fine. I would suggest you have at least 1GB RAM for better performance

Also, can I do ANYTHING I do on windows xp like installing and playing a game, run different .exe files, install all the softwares that I had installed, etc and do all that in media center?
Yes you can do everything as the system is XP Pro.

.

 

[theReaper0908]

oh ok thanks Dunedin. And yes I have 2gb ram with an ATI radeon x1600 pro 512mb vram.

 

[ThorXP]

If I am hot mistaken Media Center has to come installed on the computer there is no upgrade for it that is legal to install.

 

[Riskyone101]

thats right media center is not sold separately. or atleast not yet for that matter,

when i called microsoft about this, they told yes you can, vista is the media center

that you can purchase. Although some of us do have a single copy of MCE 2005...lol

 

[Codyg]

Reaper0908-

Hey, my name's Cody, and I'm working with the Windows Media Outreach Team to help answer any questions users might have about Windows Media.

The other folks were right: in Windows Vista, Windows Media Center is no longer a separate edition of the OS, but is integrated within the Windows Vista Home Premium and Windows Vista Ultimate editions.The main bonus that goes with having a Media Center PC is that it makes connecting with your other media devices (TV, etc.) a lot easier, basically extending your PC 's functionality around your home.

Something to keep in mind is that if you'd prefer to not have to plug your computer directly into your TV to connect it with Windows Media Center (here's a link that shows the hardware you'd need to plug directly in: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/mediacenter/getstarted/wmc-on-tv.mspx), you'll need to get what are called Windows Media Center "Extenders." Extenders are pieces of hardware that'll let you connect your PC to your TV no matter where it is located in your home. Here's a great overview of the extender technology: http://www.extenderforwindowsmediacenter.com/overview.html (side note- if you've got an Xbox 360, then you already own an extender).

If you'd like a bit more info, I recommend checking out the Media Center homepage at http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/mediacenter/default.mspx

I know I bombarded you with links, but I think they are all pretty useful. I hope they're helpful!

Thanks,

Cody
Windows Media Outreach Team