This means Windows CE .NET, the embedded operating system used in the media center extenders, is being ported to ATI's Xilleon 225 SoC.
The Xilleon 225 integrates an extensive set of processing, graphics, video, audio, and I/O functions, including: 300MHz MIPS CPU, dual-HD (high definition) capable MPEG decoder, audio decoder, dual display engine, conditional access, transport demultiplexers, PCI bus, USB, and hard drive interfaces.
Xilleon SoC functionsThe goal of Microsoft's Windows Media Center Extender technology is to extend the reach of Media Center PCs (running Windows XP Media Center Edition OS) to television displays in various locations around the home. Capabilities will include access to live and recorded television, photos, movies, and music -- all supplied by the home's Media Center PC.
Architecturally, the Media Center PC serves as the hub of a home network (see
diagram, with Media Center Extenders delivering content to television screens throughout the home. The extender technology, which is powered by Windows CE .NET, can either be embedded directly in the TV, or it can be provided via a specially designed TV set-top box. (A prototype Media Center Extender set-top box is pictured above.)
Microsoft has stated that several consumer electronics device manufacturers are currently developing various types of Media Center Extender products, including set-top boxes and TVs with the technology built in, for introduction by the 2004 holiday season. These companies include Alienware, Dell, Gateway, HP, Samsung, Tatung, and Wistron.
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