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TV guide screen
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MyTinyTV is not a subscription for Internet TV. Instead, it is a pair of software programs -- one running on a desktop PC, and the other running on a Pocket PC -- that deliver live TV signals over the Internet from the desktop PC to the Pocket PC, according to Softel.
How it worksThe software on the desktop PC side works with the PC's television tuner, receiving cable or broadcast TV signals and sending them, along with program listing data, over WiFi to the Pocket PC.
The software on the Pocket PC side provides channel up/down buttons, program listings, and the ability to review program descriptions, according to the company.
The setup does not require the Pocket PC to be within range of the desktop PC's local WiFi network; in that case, the TV signals can be transmitted over the Internet to a remote Pocket PC that is located within a wireless "hot spot."
The viewing area on a Pocket PC held at a comfortable viewing distance appears similar to that of a 27-inch television as viewed from across the room, Softel says.
System requirementsMyTinyTV requires a TV tuner-equipped PC running Windows XP SP2 with at least 512 MB of RAM and a 2.8 GHz or better processor. The Pocket PC software runs on devices having a minimum screen size of 320 x 240 pixels, and running Windows Mobile 2003, 2003 SE, or Windows Mobile 5. At the moment, TV sources include an antenna or analog cable -- digital cable and satellite are "not yet supported," according to the company.
For local WiFi access, about 500Kbps of bandwidth is used, "so network requirements are minimal," the company adds. In the case of Internet-based remote wireless use, the home PC requires at least 250Kbps of upload capacity to the Internet, and the remote wireless connection requires a similar download capacity (lower speeds still work, but with less acceptable video quality), the company says.
AvailabilityThe package is priced at $59, which includes a full year of free television listings. A seven-day free trial download is available
here.
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