14 DAY TRIAL // With all functionality of the TV and radio implemented in the capabilities of a computer, all you need now is a solid Internet connection and a multimedia application to enjoy shows, movies, and music.
Microsoft developed such a utility that lets you record and watch TV, as well as other media files. The utility is called Windows Media Center, but not long ago, it was announced that the project had reached its end.
Luckily, there are others of its kind and are packed with more than enough features to be a suitable replacement. If you’re ready to say goodbye to Windows Media Center, then you might want to try this on for size.
Windows Media Center alternative
First of all, download and install MediaPortal. Prepare for the first launch, because it runs in fullscreen by default, but this can be changed.
Launch MediaPortal Configuration in order to set up database folders for the application to grab multimedia files. Default Windows special directories are used, but you can remove them and add your own.
Music lets you easily select database directories and plays them with shuffle and repeat options. You can edit and create playlists, and even run an AutoDJ to take care of the audio background.
Videos puts as many options at your disposal. It makes it suitable to leave shows running, even repeating episodes or shuffling through them.
Pictures can be viewed in a custom slideshow. There are options to set transition effects, rotation settings, speed, and whether or not to play videos in the slideshow.
Plugins let you relax, or stay up to date with the latest news. Custom RSS feeds can be added, while playing Tetris or Sudoku in the meantime.
