DVD Player as 802.11b Peripheral

sysadmn writes "Instead of building a PVR from a computer, why not let your DVD player access the computer you already have? That's the thinking behind Sonicblue's new Go-Video D2730. The just-announced DVD player will use an 802.11b (Wi-Fi) wireless network connection to access content on PCs, such as photos, music and videos. The player is aggressively priced at about $250 US and is due out in first quarter 2003. Full details are on CNET."

Re:Is this really priced competatively?

[TurdTapper]

For only 250, this would seem like a really good idea for the general public. Those that aren't going to worry about the different formats.

Sometimes the price is worth it, and 250 compared to some of the hassle seems pretty cheap to me.

Here's why you want to DIY instead of BUY

[4/3PI*R^3]

From the Sonic Blue web page:
SONICblue reserves the right to automatically add, modify, or disable any features in the operating software when your ReplayTV 5000 connects to our server.

Translated:
We will sell you this box with a list of features you want but once the *AA gets congress to pass favorable laws, wins a court battle, or becomes a major shareholder in our business we will promptly castrate your box without sending you one penny in refund.

Sonicblue jumps the gun again

[asv108]

Sonicblue has a history of trying to add cool features to unrefined products. The title is misleading since 802.11b requires an additional purchase. Last month I decided to get a PVR. Sonicblue's replay tv 5000 had some real cool features, but the interface sucked. Interface is extremly important in consumer applications such as a cell phone or PVR. I ended up getting a tivo after i learned that you can use usb ethernet adaptors with the series 2. Anyway, my point is sonicblue has a history of sticking some cool features in a completely unrefined product.

WAR viewing here I come

[4/3PI*R^3]

Who wants to bet the SSID will be hard coded and it probably won't support WEP (and if it does support WEP the key will be hard coded) beceause most l^Husers won't be able to figure out how to make this work.

So all I need is a laptop with an 802.11b card and a couple of people in my neigborhood with HBO and an penchant for "The Sopranos"!!!!