Windows Media Center PC is the latest from Microsoft. It is equipment that allows the users to have the functionality of computer with the added features of a home entertainment system such as TV and radio. Viewers can record, play, rewind and pause daily broadcasts. It is all part of the Windows Media Center (2005 edition). While the system comes pre-installed with specific hardware requirements, you can install the Media Center easily on your existing computer as well.
Instructions
1. Visit your nearest computer dealer and buy a new PC with the Media Center version of Windows XP. Make sure it has a TV tuner card. This way you will not need to install it onto your old PC.
2. Check the configuration. The most important aspect of running Windows Media Center on your desktop is the configuration. If you plan to use it for 3-D games, the computer requires high-end graphics and a powerful processor with high memory. If you wish to use it only as a TV or as a home theater, you can settle for a basic configuration.
3. Upgrade your current PC or an older computer. Computer supply retailers will be more than happy to sell a stand-alone copy of Media Center (2005 edition). This is usually sold with other hardware, including a TV tuner card and other components to transform your PC into an entertainment powerhouse.
4. Do not install your Media Center OS on any PC having a processing power below 1 Giga Hertz. The minimum configuration required is 1 GH and 256 MB RAM. Check this before the upgrade.
5. Remain alert while upgrading your old PC. You will have to manually open your PC box and plug in the TV tuner card as this is an internal hardware component. Installing the OS from the CD is easy, as you just need to follow the steps as they are displayed on your computer screen during the installation.
6. Hire a software expert if you have trouble installing something.
7. Pick up a guide to install Windows Media Center OS. It is available for free on many websites. You can also buy a copy from the nearest bookstore.
Tags: Media Center, Windows Media, Windows Media Center, tuner card, 2005 edition