The main new feature of Windows Vista Media Center is the implementation of Digital Cable Tuners, which allows you to view high definition cable television through a computer. The downside though is that Digital Cable Tuners have to be purchased with new computers and through only certain vendors that have been approve by CableLabs. Below is a quick list of computers currently announced or shipping with Digital Cable Tuners.
Currently Shipping
- Velocity Micro PC - This is the first company to offer Digital Cable Tuners (DCTs). Systems, with two DCTs, cost over $2,500.
- Niveus - This is the high-end company for media centers, with a dual DCT system costing over $5,000.
Shipping Soon
- Dell - Dell will be offering the XPS 410 with DCTs. No date has been provided though PCmag.com recently previewed the system.
- Sony - VAIO® Digital Living System™ VGX-XL3 will be released by May at a price of $3,200.
- Vidabox - Shipping systems with DCTs this May though no pricing is currently available on their website.
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May 3rd, 2007 at 1:20 am
[...] I think Vista’s Media Center is a very slick program, oozing with potential. However, I have no plans to buy a media center computer right now, even with the release of CableCard support. This is not meant to be a negative article rather just a list of why I am not pulling the trigger on a new system. I would love to have one but I am having a hard time justifying buying one. Here are some of the reason why I am hesitant: [...]
July 26th, 2007 at 1:29 am
[...] Where are all the media center computers with digital cable tuners? Digital cable tuners (DCTs) were supposed to have ushered in a new era for media center PCs, allowing HD cable television to be watched on your computer. Unfortunately, reality has been less than exciting. VelocityMicro PC is the only viable vendor for purchasing such a computer system (with requisite two DCTs). HP is no longer selling Digital Cable Tuners and Dell, although offering the XPS 410 for reviewing, has not delivered a commercial product. [...]
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