DreamBox DM 500S

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 01:25:06 -0500

The Dreambox 500-S is a Linux open-source powered FTA satellite receiver. With the latest firmware provided, you get extending functionality to receive all satellite channels wide open.

Features

250 MHz PowerPC Processor (350 Mips)
Linux Operating System
1 x Smartcard-Reader
MPEG2 Hardware decoding
available tuner DM500: DVB-S, DVB-C, DVB-T
available tuner DM500+: DVB-S
V.24/RS232 Interface
10/100Mbit compatible Ethernet Interface
2 LED status
unlimited channel lists for TV/Radio
channel-change time < 1 second
full automatic service scan
supports directly bouquet-lists
supports EPG (electronic program guide)
supports own videotext
supports multiple LNB-Switching control (DiSEqC)
fully adaptable OSD in many languages and skin-support
S/PDIF Interface for digital bit stream out (AC-3)
1 x Scart-interfaces
Size (W x D x H): 195 mm x 130 mm x 40 mm
Weight: 0,6 kg

Coolsat 8100HD micRo PVR

Mon, 03 Mar 2008 18:31:46 -0500

The Coolsat 8100HD micRo PVR is a FTA receiver capable of tuning both ATSC and satellite signals for free. Released in the fall of 2007, the 8100HD supports HD television broadcasts and includes PVR functionality by attaching an external USB hard drive up to 500 GB. It is compatible with DiSEqC 1.0 and 1.2 protocols allowing you to connect up to 16 satellite sources with a single coaxial input. The 8100HD has HDMI and component outputs, and supports resolutions up to 1080i.

Features

Outputs: HDMI, Component, RCA, S/PDIF digital optical
MPEG 2 & MPEG 4 Support High Definition (ATSC Only)
Digital Terrestrial(ATSC) & Satellite Set-Top-Box(TS combo)
Multiple Video Outputs HDMI, RGB, Ypbr, S-Video & CVBS
Seletable output for 1080i, 720P, 576P and 576i format
Tunes & Decodes all 18 ATSC broadcast formats
Max 500 GB external USB 2.0 Host Hard Disk Drive (Fat32 format)
Premium Grade VFD displaying 12 character(CH #, CH name & Local Time), Recording mode(Record & Play mode)
Status Icons(TV/Radio, Dolby Sound and Left HDD capacity)
Play back a recorded file at PC
Dolby Digital(AC3) 5.1 Channel Surround Sound via optical
Aspect ratio adjustment 4:3 (16/9 crop), 4:3 (16/9 letterbox), 16:9 (4/3 pillar box)
User friendly OSD and operation.
Favorite channel selections.
S/W upgrade through USB 2.0 port and RS-232
Parental Guide and rating control.
Picture in Picture support (Aux input/optional)
Electronic Program Guide
DiSEqC 1.0 & or DiSEqC 1.2
Flash memory 4MB
DDR RAM 128MB (DDR400 16MX16) X 4ea
Universal Remote Control
Smart Card Reader (Option)

PVR Functionality

To record television broadcasts you must purchase a separate, compatible external USB 2.0 hard drive. This hard drive is limited to a maximum size of 500 GB and must be formatted in FAT32. Because of the FAT32 restriction, no recording can exceed 4.1 GB in size, limiting HD recording to 38 minutes. Standard Definition recording can be hours long. There is speculation that a newer version of the player's software will automatically split the recording into multiple files as a way around the FAT32 restriction. The files are are stored in a .TS unencrypted format, capable of being archived and played back on your PC and other devices.

Installation

To begin viewing FTA satellite programming, you must also purchase a separate satellite dish, one or more LNB receivers, coaxial cabling and optional DiSEqC switch. The satellite dish must be mounted outside with line-of-sight to Geocentric satellites. Once the dish has been mounted and connected to the Coolsat 8100HD, the satellite dish and LNB must be pointed at a satellite and positioned for a maximum signal strength using the installation menu in the 8100s software and on-screen guide. Select the appropriate LNB type and satellite from the settings, and scan for channels.

ProductWiki

DreamBox DM 500S

Features

Coolsat 8100HD micRo PVR

Features

PVR Functionality

Installation