CNET'S QUICK GUIDE: Having fun with Windows Vista

View media files beyond your PC

By using the xBox 360 Media Center Extender, you can view in your upstairs living room entertainment files that may be located downstairs in the study. This includes photos, music, games, live and recorded TV, and home videos stored on up to five other devices throughout your home. The Xbox 360 gaming system has a Windows Media Center Extender built in. Unfortunately, earlier versions of Windows Media Extenders will not work with Windows Vista; new extender devices are expected to be available upon release of Windows Vista on January 30, 2007.

Windows Vista Media Center also includes built-in synchronization for MP3 players, portable Media Centers, and even integration with your smart phone's Windows Mobile operating system. The fee-based MyTV ToGo feature allows you to sync content such as recorded TV shows to your Portable Media Center or other device, such as an iPod with video capability, a PocketPC, or a PlayStation Portable.

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