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Xbox Live Applications

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Something I have been meaning to write about for a bit is the new Xbox apps. So far, in Canada, there is Roger’s on demand, Real Sports, Crackle, TMZ and a UFC application you can install. I could be missing some as well, but that is what we have  installed plus Netflix.

Netflix gets the most use here at the house, followed by the Roger’s on Demand app, the others, not so much use. I do have a Roger’s cell phone which allows me to get more the programs you would get without the application. There are programs from various channels like CBC, CityTV and Treehouse (always a hit with the 2yr old).

For these applications to work, you need Xbox Gold, which is kind of a kick but considering you might pay $80.00/month for cable, I guess it is bit of a deal.

Media Center, Windows 7 and a Xbox360

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Ottawa’s Code Camp ran April 17th this year. I was lucky enough to be selected to make a presentation on Windows 7 Media Center, recording TV using an antenna and using the Xbox as a media extender. It is probably one of my favourite presentations so far to date.

Why? Even though it was probably one of the least technical session I have done to date ; I find it very interesting and something I have been tinkering with since Christmas.

I’ll post more details in future posts but in a nutshell here is what I have.

  • USB TV tuner that records ATSC digital
  • Windows 7 PC with Media Center and a 1.5TB hard drive
  • Xbox360 connected to the TV
  • Xbox360 remote control

The computer records TV from the antenna using the ATSC tuner. ATSC is completely digital, making the picture look great, no snow or ghosting. Files are big, 5gb per hour when recorded in HD. From there they sit on my computer. When I want to watch my show, I turn on the Xbox, hit the green button on the remote and then head to recorded TV. I then select what I want to watch and presto, I can watch my show. I can pause, fast forward and rewind, no problem.

The best part about it is that it is easy for Tracey to operate. She can setup shows to record and watch her shows with relative ease.

She said last night to me as she was watching a recorded show from the weekend, “I love the Xbox”.

For me, I love how easy it was to get everything setup. There is a lot of stuff that goes on behind the scenes, that once setup, that she doesn’t have to know or care about for her to watch her favourite shows.