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Product/Link:
Slingbox
Synopsis: Watch your home TV from anywhere with a broadband connection.
Requirements: Internet broadband connection at home and a broadband connection away from home. Windows XP, CD ROM, Router
Price: $249.99 (No monthly service charge)
Rating: The faster the broadband the better the image. But it does work.
Comment:
I love my Slingbox but it does have some quirky aspects. Let's start with the setup. At home you're going to need a broadband connection with upstream bandwidth of 256 Kbps, a router, and in my case a cable box.
Also, Windows XP, CD ROM and Ethernet Network Connectivity. You'll need to run an ethernet cable from the Slingbox to your router and some cables from the Slingbox to your cable box. Check out the set-up guide here. If your router isn't near your TV you'll need to purchase a longer cable then the one supplied. Allow a minimum of 30 minutes to figure out the various connections.
Prepare to crawl around your TV.
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Once all your wires are running to the correct places you'll need to install the software. I installed version 1.0.3 and the images looked good. But when I upgraded to version 1.0.4 the images became degraded. I don't know why and neither did the Slingbox support people. It's possible I need to upgrade my graphic card drivers. But my computers are fairly new. I recommend you start with the 1.0.3 version first. If everything works then try the newer version.
Away from home you'll need to install your software on any broadband enabled computer to view your home television. I use a spare laptop at work to keep an eye on Fox News during the workday. The image at work is not as good as the home image. This is because the broadband speed leaving my house is only around 400Kbps, whereas within my house the connection speed is more like 1200Kbps. So, if you're buying the Slingbox primarily for use away from home be sure to check your upstream broadband speed.
Controlling your television via your computer is simple. The Slingbox software provides you with a virtual remote control. Note: The television at home does not have to be turned on. Just click on the channel number you want or click the "Last" button to switch between channels. Most of the standard remote controls are available.
There are some other limitations aside from the whole broadband issue. One, you can only access your home television from one computer at a time. Two, if there is someone watching the actual TV at home you'll have to agree on a channel. Three, if you have a sound system connected to your television and it is not turned off when the TV is turned off; when you start up the Slingbox remotely you will also start the sound system. My son who had a sleepover was not thrilled when first thing in the morning I started the Slingbox from the kitchen. Apparently "The Three Stooges" caused him to fly out of his sleeping bag.
On the other hand I can keep track of what the kids are watching from work.
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