loss of media center functionality

[artso]

I've recently started to lose some functionality in VMC. I can't seem to time-shift anymore, as in live TV the usual button is 'play' rather than 'pause'. Can't explain it any better. I have no problems recording normally though, and have plenty of space for the recorded file.

Also, whenever I switch on the live TV I seem to get a time-line bar (like the seek bar on a dvd), which eventually goes, but its annoying that is there.

Thirdly, the 'i' (information/right click) on my remote seems to have stopped working too.

Essential specs: Nebula DigiTV card, Philips SRM5100 remote

If it was a normal piece of software I would just reinstall, but as its VMC, anyone know of any fixes/advice?

[artso]

Fixed the problem entirely by accident. Seems that my MPEG-2 decoder was not installed properly. For others with similar problem to mine, use Garry Whittaker's Vista MediaCenter Decoder Utility.

[kopite]

Whats VIsta like for a media centre?

[artso]

I find Vista perfect for media functionality. I use it hooked up to a 24" screen, install a codec pack and its ready to handle anything I throw at it. Had no significant problems, but there is so much support out there most problems have an answer. Check out thegreenbutton.com for more.

Just waiting for there to be a VMC version of the web-based BBC iPlayer. That would be sweet.

[six5tring]

For web functionality check out... http://www.asciiexpress.com/webguide/ for VMC brilliant little app!

I find VMC a great improvement on MCE more stable and better power management for standbys! Just waiting for Yougle to fully work.

six

[kopite]

When its in media centre mode can you browse the web?

[six5tring]

You can put something like VMC brower on... http://leeanderson.myzen.co.uk/vmc_browser/index.html but I find it's just as easy to minimise VMC and use IE providing your screen is large enough to read on the other side of the room! There are some other browser app's being developed I'm sure but making a standard web site useable to 10' use isn't easy. There were for MCE certainly apps for ebay etc and that's probably the easiest way to go about it. One plugin per site that you want. Think there's an RSS plugin too.

six

[kopite]

Hmm. Well Really I am gonna be using the HTPC on a HDTV so I`m looking at high res..

[six5tring]

Why do you really need to surf to net on tv though really? Nice gimmick but really not ideal way to surf!

six

[kopite]

Maybe not the ideal way but when ur downstairs and just want a quick surf it seems a good idea.

Mythtv is supposed to allow web browsing.

[six5tring]

Yeah... well VMC browser does let you surf but it's just hard work at distance. If you use it then cool congratulations... but it just doesn't quite work for me!

Six

[kopite]

I have had my laptop plugged into the tv and browsing on the screen wasnt too bad so I reckon it should be fine for browsing.

I will give vmc a go and see how it works.