ZeeVee, Inc., a Massachusetts start-up is announcing a new consumer electronics device today - the ZvBox™ - which will allow consumers to view any PC or internet video content on any HDTV in their home, as long as that HDTV has a digital cable (QAM) tuner. The ZVBox Zv-100 model is expected to begin shipping in June for a list price of $499 with no additional monthly fees.
The ZVBox hooks up to a PC's VGA or analog DVI output (for video) and USB port (for sound) and broadcasts this content over existing cable TV or coax antenna cables within the home. The technique, known as "localcasting" is designed to simplify the distribution of PC-based content throughout a home.
The ZVBox comes with an RF (Radio Frequency) remote control which operates software running on the PC to display local content and remote content from sites such as YouTube. And you're not limited to video content - the device supports remote viewing of virtually any application installed on your PC. The ZVBox software and hardware convert the output signal in real-time to a QAM-formatted HDTV broadcast which is sent over a coax cable to your HDTV. The HDTV then tunes in the channel like any other digital cable channel on its built-in tuner. Note that for this to work your HDTV must have a built-in QAM (digital cable) tuner.
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| ZeeVee Inc.'s ZvBox. |
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| The ZvBox uses VGA and USB connectors to hook into your PC's audio and video output. A VGA loop is provided so you can still use a traditional external monitor with your PC or laptop. |
Since the content is technically being "viewed" on the PC in real-time, there is no need for a separate DRM license or additional monthly subscription fees above and beyond whatever you're currently paying for your broadband connection and any optional movie download services you may have installed such as iTunes, Vongo or CinemaNow.
ZVBox is not currently supported for use with satellite TV wiring due to potential signal interference, but through the use of a diplexer or by plugging the ZVBox in at the over-the-air input of a satellite multi-switch, it is possible to piggy-back the signal over existing satellite TV cables.
Where to Buy:
More information is available at: ZeeVee.com.
