The Slingbox SOLO Remote Control
The Slingbox PRO makes use of an existing and configured audio and video source. This means that no further setup is required. Before it can work, you need a proper connection and a Slingbox name and password. Once you’ve dealt with that, it should immediately play the stream you want.
The SlingPlayer software emulates a Windows Media Center remote control. This makes the remote navigation easier. Even better than a conventional remote, in fact, because Slingmedia has also added a good amount of controls to its SlingPlayer. You should easily be able to find the appropriate remote control because Slingmedia continuously improves and enhances its collection of virtual controls.
The remote control even allows you connection with a Windows Media Center. Now, you can browse through the program’s whole user interface and access all its other features such as the EPG, recorded TV, and your music and video collection. If you’re computer is set up with state-of-the-art features, you can basically do anything with your player too. Moreover, the Slingbox SOLO was also designed to work with mobile devices like Windows Mobile Smartphones. If you have this technology as well, you also get the whole Windows Media Center user interface provided.
As you can see, the SlingPlayer Mobile also provides an emulated remote control user interface to make the remote use of the set-top box easy and convenient for you. The makers recognize the need to make everything easy to follow and easy to understand. Making your player work is as simple as ABC. It’s a pretty much straightforward tool that gives you amazing results.
The Slingbox SOLO looks Good from Every Angle
When you look in front, the Slingbox SOLO looks stylish with its glossy piano-black finishing. It features three LEDs: the typical power LED indicating when the Slingbox PRO is turned on, another LED indicating when an Ethernet connection is working, and a third LED indicating when the box is currently in use.
Behind, the Slingbox SOLO sports the following: the power port, the Ethernet port, a USB port, audio input and output, composite input and output, S-Video input and output and Component Video input and output ports, and the IR controller port.
Once you unpack your Slingbox SOLO is and connect it to the Ethernet and power, you need to connect it to the audio and video source as well. This is basically every type of media you have at home, just as long as it receives a TV signal. Included on the list are the DVB-T/ Freeview set-top box, a DVB-C (digital cable) set-top box, a DVB-S (digital satellite) set-top box, as well as a DVR such as Sky, Virgin Media, or one provided by your satellite provider. You can also link it with your DVD player or recorder. The source can be even a HD component with a resolution up to 1080i.
The basic principle behind all Slingboxes is that it needs to be in between of the source and the TV. The reason for this is it receives the video signal from the source before it processes it for the Ethernet output while providing the raw signal for the TV. Basically, you will see a 1:1 copy of what you see on the TV as well.
Sling Medias Continued Efforts
It was in 2006 that Sling Media created the Sling Entertainment Group. Its main mission was to develop entertainment experiences and business models that go beyond anyone’s expectations. The group fosters and manages relationships with content creators and owners. Its first project, Clip+Sling, is meant to dramatically alter the way consumers socialize around TV. It basically enables users to clip and share limited segments of their favorite television programs online.
The product line of Sling Media is now distributed in over 5,000 retail stores in 11 countries. Considering its relatively young age, the company has extended its reach far and wide. It has been a great five years for them because they were able to come up with products that people have easily and readily accepted. It garnered enthusiasm from its customers because they have enhanced the viewing experience of people. Sling Media continues to blaze a product development trail focusing on convergence innovation for today’s digital lifestyle.
The Slingbox SOLO, in particular, has been the device of choice for many. Unlike the Slingbox PRO and the Slingbox CLASSIC, the Slingbox SOLO doesn’t include an aerial/coaxial antenna input. It instead offers a Composite Video, S-Video and Component Video input/output that can be connected to one standard or high definition set-top box or DVR/DVD-Player. When you purchase the box, you will get the Slingbox SOLO, a 100 to 200 V AC adapter, a SCART to RCA adapter, a composite AV cable, a remote control IR cable, an Ethernet cable, and a Quick Start Guide that describes in detail the inner workings of this new line.
The History of Sling Media
As they say, success doesn’t happen overnight. Greatness comes when the people behind it give it their all to make constant improvements. Sling Media knows that you have to create something so innovative to make people appreciate it. With the variety of new products available out in the market, they wanted to build their own niche and show their own specialty. Here’s a brief look at the company’s achievements:
1. Sling Media launched their video entertainment web site, Sling.com, on November 24th. Slingbox customers now have access to their home TV through a new, innovative video on demand site. This was made open to the public, which means that even non-Slingbox customers are given access to a vast library of premium video content.
2. The SlingCatcher, launched in October, 2008. This is a universal media that impeccably delivers TV, Internet video and personal content to your TV.
3. Sling Media finally launched its 4th generation Slingbox, the PRO-HD, in September 2008. This model brings true HD streaming to customers who are used to high definition TV source, much like the ones in their own homes.
4. The 3rd generation of the Slingbox was launched in September 2007. It was also at the same time that they introduced the Slingbox SOLO. The Slingbox product family has also been the awarded for its quality shortly after its launch. These awards span innovation, engineering, and design.
With the company’s constant efforts to bring forth new products, customers can expect more of the best in the future.
About Sling Media and Its Products
Sling Media, Inc. was founded in 2004. While the company is relatively young, it has already proven itself worthy to the market. It is a different kind of consumer electronics company. They work to bring all the best technologies together to create gadgets that people can certainly use and appreciate. The products were meant to empower the experiences for the digital media consumer. Its main goal is to embrace and enhance existing products and standards. They make this possible by installing hardware and software that are compatible with the lifestyle of today.
Their first product is the internationally acclaimed and Emmy award-winning Slingbox. it has literally altered the way you are able to watch and access your TV. What it basically does is turn any Internet-connected computer or smartphone into your home television. You can now watch your shows anywhere you are. With the influx of the internet, this means that you can basically do this anywhere in the world.
Sling Media’s innovative SlingPlayer software connects users on all types of computing platforms. They are given complete control over their living room TV. You now are able to control any Audio or Video device. It even works with analog cable, digital cable box, satellite receiver, digital video recorder (DVR), a DVD player, and even a still video camera. The SlingPlayer applications are designed to work compatibly with all Slingboxes sold. You no longer need to worry about purchasing something that apparently works with only a few tools. Sling Media makes sure that you get your money’s worth with their products.
Products from Slingbox
The Slingbox SOLO isn’t the only product that Sling Media, Inc. offers. Among its many products are the following:
1. Slingbox Pro HD: It now streams high-definition video, the Slingbox PRO-HD lets you watch and control multiple devices from anywhere in the world on your computer or mobile phone. Cost of this model is $299.99.
2. Slingbox SOLO: You can watch your TV anywhere with this single standard or high definition video input. It is the perfect tool if you only have a cable or you route your TV through a DVR player. Cost of this model is $179.99
3. The SlingCatcher: You can bring all your digital entertainment to your TV. Just relax while you access digital video from your Slingbox, PC, or the Internet. Cost of this model is $199.99.
While you travel to far off places, you can now rest easy because you know you will have the best companion with you at all times. The movie and TV experience is definitely like no other. With high definition pictures and clear sound, you will feel as if you’ve never left home. It will practically be like watching the show in the comfort of your very own living room. Turn your computer or your phone into a portable movie screen with just a wire.
Times have certainly changed. The generation of today should consider themselves extremely lucky with the technology available right at their fingertips. Sling Media has definitely given people something to be thankful for. They have brought the level of entertainment up a notch.
Your Slingbox SOLO Purchase
When you buy your very own Slingbox SOLO, you have to make sure that your PC meets the specifications set by your latest gadget. This shouldn’t be a problem, though, because it does not require much. Most PCs and computers come with the needed specs. As long as you have the relatively recent models, you’re set. As for your cable subscriber, you need a cable or DSL modem and a 256 Kbps upstream network speed so that you enjoy videos of superb quality.
The Slingbox SOLO comes in a box filled with such wonderful contents:
• The Slingbox SOLO itself
• An AC adapter to allow you connection with different voltages (100-240V 50-60Hz)
• An Ethernet cable so that you can connect to your cable
• A Quick Start Guide to help you with setting up and with the use of your gadget
• A composite AV cable which serves as your connection to your computer or mobile
• A remote control IR cable so that you don’t need to get up every time you want to do something
Your SlingPlayer software works hand-in-hand with the hardware found inside the Slingbox SOLO. You will feel like you are bringing with you your entire living room TV. The viewing experience is so fantastic, and it’s all with the help of this little box. If TV is a must in your life, this amazing little innovation allows you to enjoy the comforts of your TV room. It costs less than $200, and this is a one-time purchase with no monthly dues necessary.
More Features on the Slingbox SOLO
With the new Slingbox SOLO as your connection to the world, you are given these extra features so that your TV experience gets even better:
1. You can access the TV on your mobile and feel truly connected.
2. The SlingPlayer Mobile that is sold separately lets you watch and control your TV. Just choose a program that is compatible to your phone.
3. Watch a remarkably vast selection of clips, TV shows, films, news, and sports in high quality on demand by logging on to sling.com.
4. The SlingCatcher goes beyond a computer or mobile phone screen for your experience. You can even watch and control your main TV and DVR on in and outside your house.
If you need to know what you can connect your Slingbox SOLO with, here is a list:
1. Basic Cable TV Set-top Box
2. Digital Cable Set-top Box
3. Digital Video Recorders including TiVo, Comcast, ReplayTV, DISH, and whatever is provided by your cable provider
4. DVD Player
5. HD component input support with resolution up to 1080i
6. Satellite Receiver such as DIRECTV or DISH
7. Video and Security Camera
8. Apple TV
9. Windows Media Center
All you need is a computer powered by either XP or Vista for the PC and Mac OS X for your apple computer. You need at least 1 GB of RAM, 150 MB disc space, and an internet connection. For great pictures, make sure that your PC specs meet the minimum requirement of a 25-bit graphics allowance with 18-bit sound.
Features of the Slingbox SOLO
With the new Slingbox SOLO as your connection to the world, you are given the following features to enhance your TV experience anywhere you choose to watch your program:
1. The live video buffer that gives you a handle on live TV. This comes with a DVR-like control so that you can easily press the pause, rewind, or fast-forward buttons without having to get up. Enjoy as much as 60 minutes of video on your Windows PC, right from SlingPlayer.
2. The SlingPlayer Guide allows you to see what’s on your menu. It is very much similar to your programming guide at home. The difference is, this one is built right into the software. You can readily find what’s on without using your TV’s programming guide or the remote control.
3. The SlingRemote looks exactly like your real remote control at home, and it functions like one too! You have total control over your viewing experience. You can switch channels, record shows, and click buttons right on your computer.
4. You can watch and control your TV directly from the Sling.com website. All you need to do is use your search engine (Explorer or Firefox), and you are given complete access to your Slingbox and its connected cable box, satellite receiver, or DVR. You also get a floating virtual remote control and a TV guide without having to install the full SlingPlayer software.
5. You are given multiple viewing modes and sizes. You can now work, surf, and enjoy your TV with a screen size of your choice.
What is the Slingbox SOLO?
The television seems to be a part of everybody’s daily lives. The boob tube is now seen as an indispensible tool for information and entertainment. When people travel, they always look for TV. In fact, some consider this everywhere they go. Unfortunately, not every place you go to offers you such luxury. The Slingbox SOLO seems to be the answer to this. It allows you to watch and control your favorite TV source from anywhere in the world. You can now watch programs on your laptop or cell phone. Now, you are able to watch your DVR, digital cable, satellite receiver, or DVD player wherever you want.
With the Slingbox SOLO, you can watch all your favorite TV shows anytime and anywhere. The single output allows connection from one high or standard definition device. Connect your DVR, digital cable set top box, or definition sources. It offers great picture quality as you watch the programs on your laptop, desktop, or mobile device. There are no monthly fees involved here. So you are free to control your programming as you please.
So what exactly is this device? To start with, SlingPlayer is the software that works hand-in-hand with the hardware found inside the Slingbox. So, you can now bring your entire living room TV viewing experience without having to lug around such big items. If TV is something you can’t live without and you are particular about the quality of the picture you are watching, then this amazing innovation is a must-have. For less than $200, you can have the benefits of a great program with just a one-time purchase.