Creating new thread so we don't make the general one useless with technical talk.

when i browse through 7.0.6\media i just see a bunch of s0-s9 with 160 size but when i try to go into them they go no where. i keep getting the same directory listing.

drwxrwxrwx 1 root other 160 Sep 01 02:07 0m
drwxrwxrwx 1 root other 160 Sep 01 02:07 1m
drwxrwxrwx 1 root other 160 Sep 01 02:07 2m
drwxrwxrwx 1 root other 160 Sep 01 02:07 3m
drwxrwxrwx 1 root other 160 Sep 01 02:07 4m
drwxrwxrwx 1 root other 160 Sep 01 02:07 5m
drwxrwxrwx 1 root other 160 Sep 01 02:07 6m
drwxrwxrwx 1 root other 160 Sep 01 02:07 7m
drwxrwxrwx 1 root other 160 Sep 01 02:07 8m
drwxrwxrwx 1 root other 160 Sep 01 02:07 9m

are you sure 7.0.6 is the right partition?

Originally posted by NiteOwl


Here is how to access the other partitions:

one slash seems to be enough

while in ftp, changing directory to the following will open the other partitions:

7.0.5/ is the default active boot partition, contains dbs and dvd cover art
7.0.6/ has the mp3 media files
7.0.7/ clean image of 7.0.6
7.0.8/ appears to be the same as 7.0.7
7.0.9/ CDR
7.0.2/ has the radio stations and tar files contains clean copies of the dbs
7.0.1/ active partition for brand new units, 7.0.5 takes over after settings are configured

If you look though 7.0.6/Media, you will find that alot of MP3s are 0 bytes in length. I found that was the cause to why some didn't want to play, yet listed.

-NiteOwl

Originally posted by slocko
when i browse through 7.0.6\media i just see a bunch of s0-s9 with 160 size but when i try to go into them they go no where. i keep getting the same directory listing.<snip> are you sure 7.0.6 is the right partition? It is correct. I backed up my MP3s from there today. There are two levels of directories just like in numerous other places on the Entre's harddisk. The difference is that these are 0m - 9m where others were s0 - s9.

0m has directories 0m thru 9m in it. Within those directories are just a hand full of MP3s. I've seen a max of 17 in mine. There are no directories down further.

i.e. a partial list of my harddisk backup structure that parallels the Entre.

D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706>dir /s *. | FIND "MP3"

Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\0m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\0m\0m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\0m\1m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\0m\2m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\0m\3m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\0m\4m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\0m\5m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\0m\6m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\0m\7m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\0m\8m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\0m\9m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\1m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\1m\0m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\1m\1m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\1m\2m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\1m\3m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\1m\4m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\1m\5m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\1m\6m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\1m\7m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\1m\8m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\1m\9m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\2m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\2m\0m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\2m\1m
Directory of D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706\2m\2m
...
Something appears to amiss with your setup...not to state the sad obvious.

Okay . . . do I assume that the 7.06 thing is the way to get rid of the MP3 ghosts?

If so, how do you get to 7.06//Media from CuteFTP? I could not simply rewrite over the 7.05 dropdown box; I right-clicked and it gave me the choice of revising the directory and also creating a new directory. I tried both, but there was no 7.06//Media to be created or revised.

Once you tell me how to get there, does this mean you delete those MP3 files in Entre that have 0MB in length? Is that the idea?

Thanks,

Nick :cool:

Originally posted by NiteOwl
<snip> one slash seems to be enough<snip> True enough. I was able to do this via the "DOS" FTP application. Under CuteFTP when just entering 7.0.6/ it appeared to strip the / off then fail. Also if you enter 7.0.6// it would strip the // then fail. Entering 7.0.6//Media it would not strip anything and would work. Looks like a CuteFTP thing.

this is driving me nuts. I did mean 0m and so forth. But they all say 160 and i don't see any mp3s in any of them.

what extension do your mp3s end in?

Originally posted by Nick Satullo
Okay . . . do I assume that the 7.06 thing is the way to get rid of the MP3 ghosts? If so, how do you get to 7.06//Media from CuteFTP? <snip> Nick, you need to enter 7.0.6/Media in CuteFTP. You could polk around but ...

You best hold off fixing ghost issues until slocko takes a crack at it.

Originally posted by slocko
this is driving me nuts. I did mean 0m and so forth. But they all say 160 and i don't see any mp3s in any of them.

what extension do your mp3s end in? See attached example.

Are you sure you are going down 2 levels. Entre PWD to check your current directory.

Originally posted by slocko
this is driving me nuts. I did mean 0m and so forth. But they all say 160 and i don't see any mp3s in any of them.

what extension do your mp3s end in? Back the truck up...

Apparently you are using FTP "DOS" command. I just tried it and got the same as you. I would do a CD 0m and it would say successful but I don't think it was. If you enter PWD it shows you didn't move.

Try this from the Media directory.

ftp> ls 0m/0m

You should see a list of your MP3s. I did. HTH your sanity. Get a real FTP program <grin>.

What I do is type the path manually
clicking on the directory just confuses the ftp client.
I have tried Cuteftp, WS FTP, FlashFXP... and it happens on all of them.

-NiteOwl

Originally posted by NiteOwl
What I do is type the path manually
clicking on the directory just confuses the ftp client.
I have tried Cuteftp, WS FTP, FlashFXP... and it happens on all of them.
-NiteOwl FYI - I don't have any trouble clicking on the directory in CuteFTP Pro. It works as I'd expect and takes me to that directory.

Guys,
Under \7.0.5\commerce\html

I modified my top.html file to send me to google.com instead of opening the ad banner's link. Now if I want to browse the web, all I do is click on the top banner. I am thinking of creating a new html file containing my favorite links, so I can browse site from there.

-NiteOwl

Scott,

Since CuteFTP Pro works fine... where you able to batch transfer all your mp3s with it?

-NiteOwl

Originally posted by NiteOwl
Scott, Since CuteFTP Pro works fine... where you able to batch transfer all your mp3s with it? -NiteOwl Indeed. Assuming what you are thinking is what I did (terminalogy).

I just pointed to "Media" and to my harddisk directory. It ftp'd down all my MP3s and created the corresponding directories as you saw in an above post. It got 80% done and stopped for some reason. I had left it running when I went to work. I was able to start it up again tonight and it finished the rest of them.

I also then did a 'sync' where I told it to make my 'local' look like the 'remote'. It did go through them all pretty quickly but they were all the same as I expected.

P.S. As I mentioned in e-mail my USB-Ethernet connection stopped. I did the remaining 20% by just using the HPNA connection on the Entre. I'm leaving that for now and will try the USB again this weekend.

LOL...

I just noticed the posts regarding howto access the other partitions... I was really excited this morning when I stumbled onto it by myself. We really need to put together a technical fact sheet... so we dont have to go through so many posts and/or reinvent the wheel.

just a thought...

Originally posted by NiteOwl
Guys,
Under \7.0.5\commerce\html

I modified my top.html file to send me to google.com instead of opening the ad banner's link. Now if I want to browse the web, all I do is click on the top banner. I am thinking of creating a new html file containing my favorite links, so I can browse site from there.

-NiteOwl You are brave.:eek:

BTW, you can take the URL in that html file ( http://www.openglobe.net/kenwood-ce3/main.asp?pid=MusicHome ) and just browse it directly. It is the same interface you get when you go thru the Entre. You do have to sign in. This is the user id and password listed in the Entre setup menu. (also the same one on the 'standard' web interface for your MP3s playlist creation that no longer works.)

It is really really too bad that the movie search with the Entre OG website doesn't match what the Entre uses in it's look up. The Entre uses its "MovieDB / VideoDB" and the Entre OG website uses " AMG All Movie Guide".

Thanks,

I am getting CuteFTP Pro now... the other apps just aren't cutting it for me. I thought it might have been the 0byte length files. There were also files with the same file name (except for a incremental number at the end) with different lengths. I guess when MM failed during a transfer, it would not cleanup after itself.

To be honest... one of the main factors why I bought the Entre was because the salesperson showed me the remote and pointed out to me the email and web buttons. He pitched it to me as a webtv unit on steroids. When I took it home, well you know the rest. Now I can check my email and browse the web without waiting for my workstation to boot up and shutdown!!! JOY........

Originally posted by NiteOwl
To be honest... one of the main factors why I bought the Entre was because the salesperson showed me the remote and showed me the email and web buttons. He pitched it to me as a webtv unit on steroids. When I took it home, well you know the rest. Now I can check my email and browse the web without waiting for my workstation to boot up and shutdown!!! JOY........ That's a funny story. So you are going to point top.html to some custom page that provides links to your e-mail or to avsforum or to whereever. People obviously do that today on their PCs and make that custom page their browsers default page.

What I'm curious about tho is the resolution of the resulting web pages you go to. i.e. can you read all the letters/words in your e-mails. Is this on a RPTV using component. I use the RCA out of the Entre to a 16" TV today to play with the Entre instead of firing up my overhead LCD projector.

Opposite problem I guess as I leave my PC on 24x7.

I use a 27" inch Sharp that has component inputs. It looks fine. The only problem is the resolution. Its like 800x600. On pages like Yahoo, you can't see the right most column. Other than that, I can't complain. I wonder if I could use CSS to override font size and colors on websites? Sites look best when the background is a dark color. Now I know why OG used them.

Originally posted by ScottF200 in post 10-08-03 11:46 PM
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2770568#post2770568

<snip> same one on the 'standard' web interface for your MP3s playlist creation that no longer works.<snip>

This is what was I refering to: https://www.openglobe.net/kenwood/Login.asp?Mode=S

It is a web based tool allowing you to create/edit playlist. ie. from your work office or any PC in your home without MM installed. It does not allow playing. That'd be cool and we discussed it early in the other thread.

I've e-mailed them a few times in the past couples months but they don't respond. I didn't even get an acknowledgment of receipt...geez.

>>> error >>>
Technical Information (for support personnel)

Error Type: Microsoft VBScript runtime (0x800A01A8)
Object required: 'objXML.getElementsByTagName(...).Item(...)'
/kenwood/Play3.asp, line 4376

Browser Type: Mozilla/4.0 (compatible; MSIE 6.0; Windows NT 5.1; .NET CLR 1.0.3705)

Page: GET /kenwood/Play3.asp

Time: Thursday, October 09, 2003, 1:08:44 PM
<<<<<<<<<

I have been using WS FTP and dos ftp with the same problems.



Originally posted by NiteOwl
What I do is type the path manually
clicking on the directory just confuses the ftp client.
I have tried Cuteftp, WS FTP, FlashFXP... and it happens on all of them.

-NiteOwl

I guess cuteftp pro it is. i can't wait so i can begin attacking the ghost problems and to see if there is anything wrong with the groups I edited.

i didn't realize you could surf with the entre. so does that mean that arrow keys jump from link to link on a page?

do you need to modify the xml files to create links or can you surf natively without modifying anything?

Originally posted by slocko
I guess cuteftp pro it is. i can't wait so i can begin attacking the ghost problems and to see if there is anything wrong with the groups I edited. It has a decent viewer as well built in. Right click on the file name and pick 'view' menu option.

Originally posted by slocko
i didn't realize you could surf with the entre. so does that mean that arrow keys jump from link to link on a page? do you need to modify the xml files to create links or can you surf natively without modifying anything? If I understand your question...then you can not just "surf" anywhere without doing what NiteOwl did. After pushing the openglobe button...you are surfing the web but just the pages that they have links to on the pages they bring up.

Off the suject. a bit...
For anyone interested in running the Entre behind a firewall, Kenwood has published a Technical Support Bulletin for Firewall Port Configurations.

The information is available at www.laaudiofile.com/entrefirewallports.pdf (http://www.laaudiofile.com/entrefirewallports.pdf).

I was trying to get this information earlier, but had a tough time finding it

Evening, gentlemen!

Looks like you are making progress getting in and out of the Entre via FTP. Have you found a way to open the FTP connection without having an Axcess? PM me if necessary.

Mike

I sense that there are private conversations going on. Is Kenwood trying to keep a wrap on what you guys have discovered?

Originally posted by stickman
I sense that there are private conversations going on. Is Kenwood trying to keep a wrap on what you guys have discovered? I / we / they / them / her / have no idea whatsoever of that which you are talking about or implying.

I talked to my psychic today, however. The stars say [a little more] "patience is a virtue." Again I have no idea what that means.

sorry scott, but cuteftp pro was too expensive for my thin wallet :)

i found another one that works well and has a 30 day free trial.

turboFTP

http://download.com.com/3000-2160-10224461.html

i browsed my mp3s but there were no zero byte files located there. so i think my specific problems is with the xml files. i will look at those next.

Originally posted by slocko
sorry scott, but cuteftp pro was too expensive for my thin wallet :)
i found another one that works well and has a 30 day free trial.
turboFTP http://download.com.com/3000-2160-10224461.html i browsed my mp3s but there were no zero byte files located there. so i think my specific problems is with the xml files. i will look at those next. I had the regular cuteftp but then got an e-mail from them for a $9 upgrade offer as I recall. I was only point out what worked well for me. I don't get any kickbacks. I think others user BulletproofFTP http://www.bpftp.com/ as well. Heck I like that name more than CuteFTP.

Originally posted by isfman
Off the suject. a bit...
For anyone interested in running the Entre behind a firewall, Kenwood has published a Technical Support Bulletin for Firewall Port Configurations.
The information is available at laaudiofile.com/entrefirewallports.pdf.
I was trying to get this information earlier, but had a tough time finding it. Not off the subject at all. All geeky stuff welcome. I would have guessed these ports are always open on home users "linksys" hub? When are these needed then? Perhaps for those that lock down their PC firewall hard and don't use a hub (ie. linksys or the like)? The Entre needs outside access, however, so if you don't have a hub then likely you are using Sygate, Windows ICS sharing, or the like?

Those seem to be common ones that I would expect to normally be open.

www-http 80/tcp World Wide Web HTTP
https 443/tcp http protocol over TLS/SSL
ms-streaming 1755/tcp ms-streaming

I guess 1500 is not listed/needed because that is just for local LAN traffic. i.e. between PC (MM) and the Entre or between an Axcess and the Entre.

I wasn't trying to imply anything. Maybe I'm just a bit paranoid about missing some really juicy info :rolleyes: I've been following some threads about "fixing" XP MCE and Microsoft is trying to squash some of those discussions. Really a shame if you ask me.

Keep up the great work guys.

Kenwood mentioned that the LinkSys routers default their firewall "off" and as a result work well with the Entre in many cases.

i have dlink and never had any problems. why would a router block outgoing traffic by default? that would be a nightmare to support from a consumer point of view.

Any idea what port the Entre gets its regular updates on? 80?

i have dlink and never had any problems. why would a router block outgoing traffic by default? that would be a nightmare to support from a consumer point of view.

It seems that OpenGlobe actually tries to access the unit from outside in response to the Entre's request. I just opened up the ports (80, 443 and 1755) on my SMC router for the IP used by the Entre and it now works fine. Has anyone checked their routers using one of the following port scanners? Both will check your system for open ports through the router - a hacker's dream.

http://probe.hackerwatch.org/probe/probe.asp
https://grc.com/x/ne.dll?bh0bkyd2

Originally posted by isfman
It seems that OpenGlobe actually tries to access the unit from outside in response to the Entre's request.<snip> I think your key phrase is 'to the Entre's request'. Most "routers" use NAT (http://computer.howstuffworks.com/nat.htm) that "blocks" "uninvited" incoming traffic. Even for those that only have one computer a router using NAT is a great level of security. Next is a software firewall (i.e. my fav Outpost (http://www.agnitum.com/products/outpost/) or the like).

Originating request vs. incoming example...in those links you will see it test ports like 80. That may be closed or stealth to the outside world but your browser (requester) obviously uses that port for outgoing and receiving information just fine.

Originally posted by ScottF200
<snip>Under CuteFTP when just entering 7.0.6/ it appeared to strip the / off then fail.<snip>Looks like a CuteFTP thing. using "7.0.6/." (adding dot) works under CuteFTP and likely others. A single dot is commonly "the current directory". i.e. if you did LS that is the same as LS . (or DIR vs DIR . under "DOS")

After adding a new DVD today I saw that several files were changed. No surprises tho.

A new XML file was added: 7.0.5\Database\Movies\DVDs\s5\s8\1066030158.xml : <dvdname>Italian Job - Special Collector&apos;s Edition, The</dvdname>

An existing XML file was updated: 7.0.5\Database\Movies\Groups\Action\Action.xml : <count>36</count>
(was 35)

The "database" files were updated: 7.0.5\Database\Movies\Movies.db and Movies.dbref (internal format unknown (binary & text)

Scott:

Did you get my Email delivery?

Nick :cool:

Originally posted by rbienstock
<snip>While you guys are browsing around inside the Entre, I'm wondering whether you have seen whether, in addition to adding cover art, whether there is any way to modify other data in the database, for example, by entering description and cast info to unknown disks.<snip> The "Movies.db" is changes when you modifiy the title so that may be risky editing it's corresponding XML file. I will try the description. Perhaps that is not in the "Movies.DB". In other words, maybe there is key in the DB that is used to access the rest of the details that are stored in the XML file. That would "mean" you could edit those XML files, I would think.

Kenwood/Openglobe, if you are "listening" please notice we are looking at doing some very user basic management things using FTP that are hard to do otherwise with your product. (ie. add cover art, back up MP3s, fix descriptions). I am not trying to corrupt your system.

I never saw if there was a reply to "unlocking FTP" without having an Axcess. Anyone have any luck with this yet??

Thanks in advance !!!

Let's just say that maybe only two of us here have axcess units :D

Originally posted by m s jaxjag
I never saw if there was a reply to "unlocking FTP" without having an Axcess. Anyone have any luck with this yet?? Thanks in advance !!!

ALL, if one did have any luck how would "this" be easily distributed without the risk from those that have an interest in possibly keeping "this" out of the publics usage. Those with interest have not objected as far as I've heard.

Originally posted by ScottF200
ALL, if one did have any luck how would "this" be easily distributed without the risk from those that have an interest in possibly keeping "this" out of the publics usage. Those with interest have not objected as far as I've heard.

Let me retreat to my traditional position as the Antagonist of "Those."

Those are the same people who wrote, on page 71 of the original Entre manual that:

Entre will display DVD Audio discs as "Unknown Disc"
under the DVD category in the Movie mode. Once
the on-line DVD Audio database is operational, DVD
Audio discs will appear in the Music mode.

Those are the same people that have no clue as to solving nearly anything when it comes to the marvelous program called Media Manager. When they want to tell me that it's the firewall which prevents me from viewing my music Entre's contents, I have the retort that . . .ummmh, I have Two Entres running off the same router. One gets noticed, the other doesn't. The same is true from either a wireless laptop, or a hardwired pc.

Those are not the people that should be heard to complain when their hard-paying customers create solutions that they themselves have either neglected to provide, or simply couldn't figure out.

We are all big boys. We can certainly communicate about hypothetical things by way of PM or email.

Alternatively, if a very shy, anonymous-type person were to show up and, on a one time basis, post a recipe that all of us were dying to cook, we could always just point back to the shy guy's post. There are such people, you know. ;)

On the other hand, the secret society thing is actually fun. For those who want to discuss such theoretical things, I think they realize to whom they must turn--everyone at their own risk, of course.

Nick :cool:

the thing about the router is bull crap. i connected my laptop directly to the entre and still had the same problem.

Scott,

You wouldn't happen to have a LAN sniffer capture file of the traffic on your net would you? I was thinking about writing my own little ping-type program......

Originally posted by SammyB
Scott, You wouldn't happen to have a LAN sniffer capture file of the traffic on your net would you? I was thinking about writing my own little ping-type program...... Plz PM me with your e-mail.

In case there are others who have "figured out" how to FTP here is where the DVD cover art should go (IMHO) to solve the problem of when the Entre doesn't locate your DVD. This 'problem' may be temporary (as in most of my cases) because you should e-mail dvdtitles@kenwoodusa.com with the details (special edition, etc) and the UPC number. Remember you can search the thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2672563#post2672563) set up for missing titles.

Originally posted by ScottF200
<snip>
7.0.5/Database/Music/Covers <-- this is where MM puts cover art

7.0.5/Database/Movies/Covers <-- this is where I think DVD-A/movie art should go. (relative/corresponding to music location)

7.0.5/Database/Movies/Covers/s0 <-- this is where I originally said to put it
<snip>


DVD cover art is ~(255-265)x365 from my sampling of what they download to the Entre from OG.

Anyone have any thoughts on how to stop the Entre from getting software updates automatically?

It has 3 shifts you can assign. Mine is set to something like 12am to 8am. Would be nice to have a software or hardware solution to block it's MAC/IP during that time frame.

Proxy?
Alternate (or bogus) DNS server during that time assigned to it's MAC/IP?
Unplug <doh> and plug in when adding new DVD?

Originally posted by ScottF200
Anyone have any thoughts on how to stop the Entre from getting software updates automatically?

It has 3 shifts you can assign. Mine is set to something like 12am to 8am. Would be nice to have a software or hardware solution to block it's MAC/IP during that time frame.

Proxy?
Alternate (or bogus) DNS server during that time assigned to it's MAC/IP?
Unplug <doh> and plug in when adding new DVD?

Is the Entre looking for a specific server when it tries to do its updates? Maybe you can run a DNS server internally, that forwards all requests to an external server (the one that the Entre would normally use). You could point your Entre to your internal server, which would have an entry for the specific server that the Entre was trying to reach. You could make that entry an invalid address. This will only work if the Entre is trying to query the update server by name, rather than IP address.

If the Entre is using the dotted decimal (IP) address, then you could set up a firewall rule to block any incoming traffic from that address.

Are you looking for something automated to block traffic from the update server ONLY during the scheduled update period?

uh2

be careful using ftp. i accidently dragged a directory out of it's place and now my entre thinks it's missing 20 disks and want to lookup the first 99 dvds.

the problem only surfaced when i went to add a new dvd.

Originally posted by uh2
Is the Entre looking for a specific server when it tries to do its updates? Maybe you can run a DNS server internally, that forwards all requests to an external server (the one that the Entre would normally use). You could point your Entre to your internal server, which would have an entry for the specific server that the Entre was trying to reach. You could make that entry an invalid address. This will only work if the Entre is trying to query the update server by name, rather than IP address.

If the Entre is using the dotted decimal (IP) address, then you could set up a firewall rule to block any incoming traffic from that address.

Are you looking for something automated to block traffic from the update server ONLY during the scheduled update period?

uh2 Thanks for the reply. The answer to your "ONLY during..." question was yes, ideally. For the simple reason I want to use the Entre "normally" but avoid any updates without explicitly requesting them.

I will have to sniff the line to see about some of your questions. I was thinking that the same address is used for retrieving DVD information/coverart as was used for the 'software update package'. That would mean that it would not matter if a DNS lookup is done (name->ip) or a specific dotted decimal addresss is cached/hardcoded. That is I would not be able to then allow DVD lookup but block the 'software update package'. (Unless different "ports" were used I guess. i.e. HTTP:80 vs HTTPS:443).

Regarding your DNS point...I have some time ago used ExtraDNS ( http://www.extratools.com ) on one of my PCs as the Entre's DNS server. I saw it doing DNS look ups but don't recall if it was during a software update. It would have had to been a manually initiated one as my "shift" in the Entre setup is from 12am to 8am. Potentially I could change my Win98 "HOST" file on that machine running ExtraDNS using some automated method from 12am to 8am.

All seems kludgy, however.

Originally posted by rbienstock
<snip>While you guys are browsing around inside the Entre, I'm wondering whether you have seen whether, in addition to adding cover art, whether there is any way to modify other data in the database, for example, by entering description and cast info to unknown disks.<snip> In one test I did recently by changing one letter in the description using the Entre normal manual interface showed that the the database did not get updated but only XML file.

It would seem that the descriptions could be updated without any problems but per my previous post the titles could not.

NOTE: I have not tried either of these by putting modified files back onto the Entre. I only downloaded all the files before and then after. I then used Beyond Compare 2 (http://www.scootersoftware.com/) (very slick software) to look for differences.

any chance we could get ten people or more to buy an entre in equal shares??? if Scott or niteowl is amenable, we could have one of them experiment with it and after we unravel how this thing works, we can sell back on ebay and get our money back.

i think this would speed up the process of figuring it out. most of us here are hesitant or don't have the time to rebuild if we screw up the entre with experimentation.

not to say we haven't made progress, we are light years ahead of where we where just a month ago.

just a thought. i know Derek showed interest. any others? depending on the price, we might need less than 10. i just figured on an 800 entre, but we might get lucky with a cheaper one.

moved this here since it's very useful info.

Quote:

Here is how to access the other partitions:

one slash seems to be enough

while in ftp, changing directory to the following will open the other partitions:

7.0.5/ is the default active boot partition, contains dbs and dvd cover art
7.0.6/ has the mp3 media files
7.0.7/ clean image of 7.0.6
7.0.8/ appears to be the same as 7.0.7
7.0.9/ CDR
7.0.2/ has the radio stations and tar files contains clean copies of the dbs
7.0.1/ active partition for brand new units, 7.0.5 takes over after settings are configured

If you look though 7.0.6/Media, you will find that alot of MP3s are 0 bytes in length. I found that was the cause to why some didn't want to play, yet listed.

-NiteOwl

I deleted this file 7.0.5//Database/Music/Groups/MP3s/MP3s.xml

It removed the MP3 group from the entre. I copied it back and refreshed the guide and it came back.

The MP3 group and one of my custom groups contain a ghost mp3, but not the ALL group. I searched all the folders in the Media directory and I don't have any zero byte files.

If you look at the xml file, I believe it is what the OS uses as a query of the database file on the entre to dynamically build the list of mp3 albums to display.

So it looks like the database itself might contain the ghost entries. I think the music database is located at:

7.0.5//Database/Music/music.db and music.dbref

Any ideas what kind of database format that might be? Heroildo any ideas or comments? It's not a flat file since I only see gibberish when I open up as a text file.

Long time ago I remember a dos product using the .db extension, but i don't think it's the same thing. I think it was called dbase

<?xml version="1.0"?>
<!DOCTYPE groupinfo SYSTEM "http://www.openglobe.com/eureka/groupinfo.dtd">
<groupinfo href="erp://KMC-10900342/7.0.5/Database/Music/Groups/MP3s/MP3s.xml?type=groupinfo" version="1.0">
<name>MP3s</name>
<count>48</count>
<resource>erp://KMC-10900342/Library?index=MP3s#Music.query</resource>
<coverart/>
</groupinfo>

good news.

i deleted the same mp3s.xml file from above and rebooted the entre.

when it came back, it rebuilt the index, but more importantly it rebuilt the mp3 library and got rid of the ghost mp3s.

this has had no effect on Media Manager. Just blew away the directory correpsonding to my entre and resynced. same problem, no cover art.

Originally posted by slocko
<snip>Long time ago I remember a dos product using the .db extension, but i don't think it's the same thing. I think it was called dbase <snip> There are various sites tha show common extentions. ie. http://www.perfectdrivers.com/fileext.html
.db Configuration (dBASE IV - dBFast)
.db Database (Paradox - Smartware)

I would venture to guess that it is a proprietary database that Wind Systems (their development toolset) has built in functionality for.

If I were you I'd just delete those databases and see if he rebuilds them ... or not <grin>. Too bad that didn't fix your MM access issue. Gutsy move deleting that XML file.

Originally posted by ScottF200
In one test I did recently by changing one letter in the description using the Entre normal manual interface showed that the the database did not get updated but only XML file.

It would seem that the descriptions could be updated without any problems but per my previous post the titles could not.

NOTE: I have not tried either of these by putting modified files back onto the Entre. I only downloaded all the files before and then after. I then used Beyond Compare 2 (http://www.scootersoftware.com/) (very slick software) to look for differences. I was able to change the description in the XML file from my PC then immediate go to the Entre and see it when I pressed the (info) button.

I was cautious to remove entities (see this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2705775#post2705775)) when I cut and pasted in my new text. I did this for my disc 2 of my Matrix Reloaded set (which is not found in the OG database).

I got rid of them but accidently put in a character that the Entre didn't understand. He put in 3 questions marks (?) for SOME of the dashes below. We have seen this in titles. I think he only understands simple ASCII (x00-x7F) or even a smaller subset (i.e. look at the Entre's remote). I put in this text:

Preload – Bet Behind The Scenes
The Matrix Unfolds – The total Matrix phenomenon
The Freeway Chase - How they did it
Enter the Matrix - Making the game
Get Me An Exit – Inspired design and advertising
What is the Animatrix? – Trailer & Inside the Animatrix
The MTV Movie Awards ReloadedNotices the "dashes". They vary in lengths. Actually different characters and binary values from each other. There are "en dashes", "em dashes", "horizontal bar", etc that look the "same". (use your START|RUN command to execute CHARMAP and look at verdana or courier_new as examples.)

Nick,

If you want to be daring like me, let me know if what I did was clear enough for you to attempt. If not, I will be willing to post a step by step process of what I did to get rid of the mp3 ghosts.

Originally posted by slocko
good news.

i deleted the same mp3s.xml file from above and rebooted the entre.

when it came back, it rebuilt the index, but more importantly it rebuilt the mp3 library and got rid of the ghost mp3s.

I want to be sure I have this right.

First, I FTP to the Entre unit.

Then I delete the file 7.0.5//Database/Music/Groups/MP3s/MP3s.xml

Then--without copying the file back to the Entre via FTP--do a reboot (not a re-registration?) and when the unit boots back up, the MP3 library is rebuilt, without ghosts?

Did I get it right?

Thanks,

Nick :cool:

yep. that is what i did.

the rebuild took like 5 minutes, so be patient and let if finish.

Hey guys...

I haven't FTP'd into the Entre yet, but, has anyone found the area where we can easily add internet radio stations directly into the file system? That'd be much nicer than thru the UI.

Also, is anyone interested in creating a FAQ for the Entre regarding the tech side?

Y'know, once this thing is really accessible, Kenwood is going to have an entirely new userbase of people who are going to want one.

I'm really, really psyched that you guys have figured out this much so far. I'm forseeing custom-apps available in the OG section where we can search our own database of CDs for song titles (or DVDs for actors)!

Open systems eventually prosper. Closed systems eventually deteriorate.

I can't wait to try this for myself...

Originally posted by JonDeutsch
I haven't FTP'd into the Entre yet, but, has anyone found the area where we can easily add internet radio stations directly into the file system? That'd be much nicer than thru the UI.<snip> I'm not sure about adding them as that changes the databases. It would seem like you could cut and past the url, however, in the downloaded XML file then upload it again.

For example, use the Entre interface to create a new Iradio station but only put one character in for the url. Down load the "radio" subdirectory and it's subdirectories. Locate the XML file dated today. Edit it and paste in the correct URL from Media Player or whatever else plays ASXs on your system. I don't get the differenence between the iradio subdirectories and the radio subdirectories. When I did the above (add a iradio station), the Entre added the XML file under the 'radio' directories and not the iradio. May have been an early design to have them separate then that didn't pan out so they only use radio.

Note: that the above is probably a lot simpler than it seems. Using a good FTP pgm it will download a directory and subdirectorys. Using a search you could search the for the "title" of your new radio in all the XML files in your PCs downloaded directories. That XML is editable in notepad. Just upload that one file to the same location. I could do more testing if you really really want to do this. For me I typically listen to Sirus or my MP3s.

Originally posted by JonDeutsch
I haven't FTP'd into the Entre yet, but, has anyone found the area where we can easily add internet radio stations directly into the file system? That'd be much nicer than thru the UI.<snip> On another note...from the looks of the Media Manager MS Access database it appears that Media Manager was supposed to handle radio stations as well. Looks like they ran out of time or hit some technical issue. Although MM has it's shortcomings (assuming syncs for a given user), it would be better than using the remote!

Originally posted by Slocko
Slocko serial port sniffing (compare sizes of parts to see what may be a backup of another):
Part ID : 1 Start: 63 Size: 409537 WP: 0 partition.readonly=7.0.1/
Part ID : 2 Start: 409600 Size: 409600 WP: 0 partition.update=7.0.2/
Part ID : 3 Start: 819200 Size: 409600 WP: 0 partition.backup1=7.0.3/
Part ID : 4 Start: 1228863 Size: 409537 WP: 0 partition.backup2=7.0.4/
Part ID : 5 Start: 1638400 Size: 409600 WP: 0 partition.active=7.0.5/
Part ID : 6 Start: 2048000 Size: 10240000 WP: 0 partition.media1=7.0.6/
Part ID : 7 Start: 12288063 Size: 10239937 WP: 0 partition.media2=7.0.7/
Part ID : 8 Start: 22528000 Size: 10240000 WP: 0 partition.media3=7.0.8/
Part ID : 9 Start: 32768000 Size: 6332416 WP: 0 partition.media4=7.0.9/

NiteOwl:
7.0.6/ has the mp3 media files
7.0.7/ clean image of 7.0.6 [backup for 7.0.6 or .5?]
7.0.8/ appears to be the same as 7.0.7 [backup for 7.0.6 or .5?]
From some browsing of "user message" files and based on the above...it sure seems like they were going to put in a feature that allows you to take a snapshot of your current files/configuration. There are messages that ask the user if they are sure they want to restore to the last known good copy and such. Too bad they didn't implement this or make it accessable. Perhaps it was error prone.

This obviously wouldn't help if your harddisk crashed but only if you accidently deleted files or did some series of commands that messed up your interface.

This is odd -- this is the exact same issue I had when I upgraded by Entre to 120GB drive. Everything seemed fine, but MM would not upload or download the cover art. I wonder if your partitions are somehow screwed up. Maybe there's something wrong with your part.prp file. Just a thought.

I guess maybe my upgrade did kind of work ... sort of ;)

Originally posted by slocko
this has had no effect on Media Manager. Just blew away the directory correpsonding to my entre and resynced. same problem, no cover art.

i haven't messed with any of the system files. i thought for sure rebuilding the mp3 library would have fixed the problem. next i am going to try and rebuild the cd library.

In this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2770031#post2770031) I mentioned I backed up my MP3s from the Entre to my PCs harddisk. You can see in that post the tree/directory structure of where my files are.

I normally don't sit and listen to MP3s while at my PC but a combination of things is causing my interest: a) I have all my MP3s on my harddisk now b) a friend in the secret society is playing around in that area.

I was searching a little on the net tonight to see if there was a WSH (windows script host) example I could use to traverse that structure (0m(0m-9m); 1m(0m-9m), etc) and build a Windows Media Player playlist.

Turns out a little poking reveals a sea of information about XP and Media Player. There are nuggets everywhere in this OS and parts.

Anyhow, I easily created a playlist using using the Windows XP search.

1) Here's how:
a) From Windows Explorer I navigated to "D:\ENTRE\MP3\BCKUP706".
b) Right-click on BCKUP706 and select "Search..." from the menu.
c) Specify *.MP3 or an artist like *Chesnutt*.MP3 (or just Chesnutt since all files below that directory are MP3s in this case
d) Hightlight one of the resulting files then use the standard Windows "select all" command of CNTL+A)
e) Right click on one of the files and select "Add to playlist..."
f) Windows Media Player will pop up and a dialog window titled "Add to Playlist" will show up. Select "new". Specify the name like "Entre Chesnutt". Click OK.
g) Play the "Entre Chesnutt" playlist as you normally would. (drop down list on upper right while in Media player). OR better yet just keep short cuts to your favorite WPLs and double click on them.

You could just call your playlist "Scott's Favorites" as well. Then you can redo that search picking whatever other albums you want. You can use "Add to playlist" to just keep adding them.

2) When you are playing one of your Windows PlayList (*.WPL), you can also do Menu option File|Save_Playlist_as... to save your playlist in M3U format. WPL is XML based it appears.

3) This same technique can be used to from one of your other PCs and just point to the MP3s on your main PC with your backup directory. (UNCs (http://webopedia.com/TERM/U/UNC.html) appears to be supported in WPLs and M3Us).

4) Windows Media Player appears to just be a shell/skin on top of the underlying APIs (COM). Ton of information out there: http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/default.asp?url=/library/en-us/dnwmt/html/WMPlayer_9_SDK_Intro.asp


Do a search for WPL files on your PC. This built-in "Windows Media Player" feature has ton of features. It is XML for goodness sakes. I don't know if you can do anything like that in M3Us or the player (3rd party) has to support those types of features.

For example I found the built-in Favorites -- Have not heard recently.wpl. It's XML finds files I have listened to in a week and are at least 4 stars. Here it is (AVS Forum software removed indentation!):

<?wpl version="1.0"?>
<smil>
<head>
<meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Windows Media Player -- 9.0.0.2773"/>
<title>Favorites -- Have not heard recently</title>
</head>
<body>
<seq>
<smartPlaylist version="1.0.0.0">
<querySet>
<sourceFilter id="{4202947A-A563-4B05-A754-A1B4B5989849}" name="Music from my Media Library">
<fragment name="Effective Rating">
<argument name="condition">Is At Least</argument>
<argument name="value">4 stars</argument>
</fragment>
<fragment name="Last play date">
<argument name="condition">Is Before</argument>
<argument name="value">Last week</argument>
</fragment>
</sourceFilter>
</querySet>
</smartPlaylist>
</seq>
</body>
</smil>

Here's the sequence:

1. Axcess arrives. CuteFTP enables FTP to Entre on a hardwired PC, and a wireless laptop.

2. Weeks go by, and all is well. Then, one day, an error message appears on both computers, denying FTP access. I had sent it off to Scott, who said that it appeared to be a transient error.

3. The next day, hardwired PC starts working again with FTP to Entre.

4. The day after that, the "new" approach to FTP without Axcess is installed.

5. Both the new approach to FTP and the Axcess route work via the hardwired PC. Neither work on the laptop.

6. Weeks later (yesterday), I download a different FTP program (I'll get you its name later) to the laptop. This one now works. CuteFTP still fails--only on the laptop.

Nick :cool:

Originally posted by Nick Satullo
Here's the sequence:
1. Axcess arrives. CuteFTP enables FTP to Entre on a hardwired PC, and a wireless laptop.
2. Weeks go by, and all is well. Then, one day, an error message appears on both computers, denying FTP access. I had sent it off to Scott, who said that it appeared to be a transient error.
3. The next day, hardwired PC starts working again with FTP to Entre.
4. The day after that, the "new" approach to FTP without Axcess is installed.
5. Both the new approach to FTP and the Axcess route work via the hardwired PC. Neither work on the laptop.
6. Weeks later (yesterday), I download a different FTP program (I'll get you its name later) to the laptop. This one now works. CuteFTP still fails--only on the laptop.
Nick :cool: My gut feeling is that if you can do the native Operating Systems (i.e. Windows) FTP command (see this post) (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2633125#post2633125) but not connect with FTP via some 3rd party program that it is a problem with the 3rd party program.

If the 3rd party program did work from the computer in the past but doesn't now then it is suspicous. That would generally indicate to me not a problem with the program but with the installation. I would just uninstall the program, reboot, and install it in the same directory as it was in before (in case the uninstall didn't clean up 100% completely).

Nicks ftp issue could also be due to Cuteftp sending Passive(PASV) requests. I am not sure if the Entre supports that.

-NiteOwl

Originally posted by NiteOwl
Nicks ftp issue could also be due to Cuteftp sending Passive(PASV) requests. I am not sure if the Entre supports that. -NiteOwl CuteFTP automatically switches to PORT. See its log below.


COMMAND:> PASV
425 Can't open passive connection: system error.
STATUS:> PASV failed, trying PORT.
COMMAND:> PORT 192,168,0,6,19,4
200 PORT command successful.
COMMAND:> LIST
150 Opening ASCII mode data connection for .
226 Transfer complete.
STATUS:> Transfer complete.

After the CuteFTP program flunked on my laptop, I downloaded several others that also wouldn't work. It was not until I found the new program, called WS_FTPpro, which you can download from http://www.ipswitch.com, that I was able to use FTP again from my laptop. By the way, uninstalling and reinstalling CuteFTP doesn't work--but I did give it a try.

As an aside, has anyone else found movie information on the Entre, that apparently cannot be accessed from the Entre, but which apparently is getting sent to it by OpenGlobe. I'm finding html files that, when originally opened, linked to OpenGlobe and provided a wealth of disc information on the DVD For Love Of The Game. I found another one, of the same ilk, providing the same type of information on My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Now, however, these files provides links to nothing, but they did at the time they were copied. They look like this h00002e1c.html

If you could open that file, you'd see that it has entries for cast, disc info, similar movies, etc. In case you wondered, I own each of these discs, and, in the case of My Big Fat Greek Wedding, it's something that was recently purchased, and downloaded recently from OpenGlobe--but before the FTP fun started. I'd have to go back to find where I actually found these files.

Nick :cool:

Nick,

Maybe at some point you were browsing open globe (specifically those titles) through the entre and it cached those html files to the entre for faster access. Lots of applications cache information locally for faster display access.

Originally posted by Nick Satullo
<snip> h00002e1c.html <snip> Nick, it'd be a better clue if you stated the entire directory of where that was. I think that Slocko is right about your OG surfing on the Entre.

I found similar named files in the "recommend" directorys like:
7.0.5\recommend\movieinfo\mv0\html\h00002dfa.html and

At the bottom of those pages are:
>>>
AMG Content provided by All Movie Guide. © 2002 AEC One Stop Group, Inc. All Movie Guide is a registered trademark of AEC One Stop Group, Inc.
<<<
which is not from OpenGlobes's lookup in it's "VideoDB" it seems.

Jeez you guys! I go away for a few weeks, and it seems that you've formed a Secret Society. Cool. I'm gonna send a few PMs and see if I can learn the secret handshake.

Well, it was a zip file, and I've forwarded it via email. However, as noted in that email:

"Following up to my post on the technical discussion thread, I'm attaching a zip file that comprises the information in my Entre on My Big Fat Greek Wedding. I compared this to what I see in the information section concerning this disc, and it is not the same. How it got there, I don't know.

When you display the contents of the Entre, there are folders identified as cache, commerce, conextant, etc. After the folders appear (the last entitled tidsp), there are files not contained in any folder, such as address, agent unknown, etc. This particular zip file appears as "me7456.tar," whatever that might mean. The only thing that prompted me to look at it was the apparently odd appearance of a zip file in this group. The other one has to do with the movie For Love Of The Game. "

Following up to my post on the technical discussion thread, I'm attaching a zip file that comprises the information in my Entre on My Big Fat Greek Wedding. I compared this to what I see in the information section concerning this disc, and it is not the same. How it got there, I don't know.

When you display the contents of the Entre, there are folders identified as cache, commerce, conextant, etc. After the folders appear (the last entitled tidsp), there are files not contained in any folder, such as address, agent unknown, etc. This particular zip file appears as "me7456.tar," whatever that might mean. The only thing that prompted me to look at it was the apparently odd appearance of a zip file in this group. The other one has to do with the movie For Love Of The Game.

Just for kicks, I've copied the entire contents of my Movies Entre to another folder, as I still tiptoe around the Entre whenever making file transfers. It was amusing last night, however, when I substituted an unflattering digital image of my fifteen year old for the defaultCoverCD image. His friends liked it, anyway. "

If anyone wants to see the zip file that hasn't already seen it, email me at nicksatullo@msn.com, and I'll send it via return email.

Nick :cool:

Nick et al,

Are the movie descriptions that come up in the Entre INFO screen formatted like the AMG movie description files you get when surfing OpenGlobe's web links? Seems like it might be possible to surf to a movie you need the description for, then copy that file into the appropriate location on the Entre (or copy the text into the appropriate existing description file on the Entre).

Mike

Originally posted by Mkellyvich
Nick et al, Are the movie descriptions that come up in the Entre INFO screen formatted like the AMG movie description files you get when surfing OpenGlobe's web links? Seems like it might be possible to surf to a movie you need the description for, then copy that file into the appropriate location on the Entre (or copy the text into the appropriate existing description file on the Entre). Mike Funny post...in the sense I've been talking Nick about this same thing. In my post above ( http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2810358#post2810358 ) I pointed out that you can change the description in the XML files. Caution: do not leave apost (and other XML entities) in them. More on that later. I gotta run.

I'm trying to edit the information on a disc. With Scott's help, I was able to understand how to detect what was contained on the xml files, and to offer some editing.

Here's what the xml file looks like, after being opened on wordpad, of the one disc I've attempted:

<?xml version="1.0"?>
<!DOCTYPE dvdinfo SYSTEM "http://www.openglobe.com/eureka/dvdinfo.dtd">
<dvdinfo href="erp://KMC-10800998/7.0.5/Database/Movies/DVDs/s1/s8/1058553918.xml?type=dvdinfo" version="1.0">
<rsrc href="erp://KMC-10800998/ExternalChanger?changer=KDVD1;slot=00123"/>
<dvdtype/>
<dvdname>Trial and Error</dvdname>
<location/>
<image>erp://KMC-10800998/7.0.5/Database/Movies/Covers/trialanderror__real.jpg</image>
<barcode/>
<year>1997</year>
<length>98</length>
<rating>PG13</rating>
<displaytype/>
<ogid/>
<group>Comedy</group>
<systemgroup>All</systemgroup>
<studio/>
<producedby>Produced By</producedby>
<inassocwith>In Association With</inassocwith>
<description>This comedy features TVs Seinfeld regular Michael Richards in his first starring role, opposite Jeff Daniels.Daniels plays Charlie Tuttle, an up-and-coming attorney engaged to Tiffany Whitfield (Alexandra Wentworth), the daughter of the law firms boss (Lawrence Pressman). His boss sends him to a small Nevada town to represent a down-and-out relative, Benny Gibbs (Rip Torn). Benny has been charged with fraud for bilking people in a mail-order scam. At a bachelor party that Charlies future father-in-law arranges for him in the small town, Charlie gets plastered. A small-time actor, Richard Rietti (played by Richards), agrees to switch places with Charlie for a simple hearing that day. The judge and prosecutor think hes Tuttle. As the trial begins, Charlie tries to pose as his associate, but the judge won't allow that. Charlie is forced to send signals to Richard during the trial by honking on a car horn in the parking lot. In the meantime, Charlie finds a new kind of happiness with a free-spirited local waitress, Billie Tyler (Charlize Theron).</description>
<notes/>
<reviews/>
<ratingnotes/>
<other/>
<volume/>
<md5key/>
</dvdinfo>

Actually, this is a watered down version of the file as it originally appeared, but the idea is that we can substitute different information, and then send the new file on to Entre in place of the old. But I still have to get the hang of it.

The information on the file is amenable to revision. Thus, note that: <year>1997</year>
<length>98</length>

. . . originally appeared as 1962, and 78 minutes, respectively (Entre only finds the 1962 version). When I substituted 1997 and 98 minutes, those changes showed up on Entre. I finally got the description to take, too, but haven't yet figured out how to add "stars" and "studio."

So, we can change covers, and we're on our way to controlling the description data. Hopefully, Kenwood will see the relative ease with which this is done, and permit anyone, via a Kenwood-packaged program, to get control over Entre.

Nick :cool:

Nick,

If you want to be brave, try finding the xml file that corresponds to your DVD-Audio collection and copy it from the movie side to the music side.

It probably won't work, but it's worth a shot.

I dont' have the time now, but later I will try and posts the relevant locations.

Originally posted by Nick Satullo
{snip}
<group>Comedy</group>
<studio/>
{snip}
Nick, in XML terms you have a begin and an end element.

This page explains: http://questml.com/syntax/xml_element.htm

An XML element can consist of an opening and closing tag, or just a single tag. A tag always starts with "<" and ends with ">". A tag pair is one that encloses other elements or text, for example: <element>Text</element>.
A single tag doesn't contain anything, for example: <element/>. Notice that studio only as a "single tag". You can look at other XML examples in the Entre and where Studio has a value as well as some "Actors" filled in. Use other ones (XMLs on the Entre) as an example.

As a reminder, I WOULD NOT change the title. That appears to be a "key" in accessing the database (i.e. movies.db on the Entre). There may be others but I've only tested description and title on their effects to the moveies.db.

I think that an experienced developer that has a familiarity with XML could write something fairly quickly that would FTP down the "movies" XML files and allow them to be edited (SOME of the tags that is!). Then they could FTP the results back of a changed file. There certainly are VB or MFC functions that "understand" XML tags and rules about XML entities (aposts). Gosh I wish I had more time.

A couple XML editors I've found are Cooktop (http://xmlcooktop.com) and Peter's XML editor (http://www.iol.ie/~pxe/index.html). For simple "replacement" editing WORDPAD seems to suffice.

Nick et al,

Very intriguing. Now that I've finished my MS degree and can read for fun again, maybe it's time to start getting smart on XML... At my current level of ignorance I'm likely to hose things most thoroughly.

Mike

RE: What method does the OG/Escients use to look up DVDs.

Moved to missing title thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2850510#post2850510).

Here's an xml question for those who can respond.

Last night, I added four discs to my DVD collection--they were some remastered episodes of the original Sherlock Holmes series. I'm guessing that this has only recently been released by Universal, since the Entre did not find any of them.

I scanned the Cover Art and FTP'd it to the Entre for each disc. Thereafter, I entered the titles and some information from the Entre keyboard. So the discs are titled, and cover art is correct.

Now, I'm assuming that this created an xml file in some directory, but there are, I think, 100 to choose from. I have no way of knowing "where" the information got stored, and what the xml file looks like . . . or do I?

Can anyone think of a way to search within the Entre to discover what directory the xml file is located? If so, I can then copy it, examine it, and try to make corrections, and thereby further perfect the art of hacking into the Entre.

Thanks,

Nick :cool:

Nick,

Using your FTP application, download the entire directory structure from the very top. This should be a 1-step procedure, though it may take some time to complete.

Once it's all on your hard drive, you can use Windows to search the contents of all the files in that directory structure on your hard drive.

Once you identify the file(s) modified, you may not need to go through this procedure again the next time.

I should add that this should work in theory. I have not done this myself, so I'm not absolutely certain it will work. But I see no reason why it shouldn't

Originally posted by JonDeutsch
Nick, Using your FTP application, download the entire directory structure from the very top. This should be a 1-step procedure, though it may take some time to complete. Once it's all on your hard drive, you can use Windows to search the contents of all the files in that directory structure on your hard drive. Once you identify the file(s) modified, you may not need to go through this procedure again the next time. I should add that this should work in theory. I have not done this myself, so I'm not absolutely certain it will work. But I see no reason why it shouldn't That is sort of how I do it. I use CuteFTP to sync up the Entre directory and my like PC directory. It will download (sync) new or changed files. (Optionly to sync is just "drag and drop" that "DVDs" directory to a one_time_use temp directory on your PCs harddisk. Then do searches from there.)

I sync this:
7.0.5\\Database\Movies\DVDs
with this:
D:\ENTRE\705\Database\Movies\DVDs

Then I use XP search or Superior Search (http://www.superiorsearch.com/) to find the *.XML file I want to edit. (I've had some strange results with XP search at times. Like not finding files I knew were there!)

Originally posted by JonDeutsch
Nick,

Using your FTP application, download the entire directory structure from the very top. This should be a 1-step procedure, though it may take some time to complete.

Once it's all on your hard drive, you can use Windows to search the contents of all the files in that directory structure on your hard drive.

Once you identify the file(s) modified, you may not need to go through this procedure again the next time.

I should add that this should work in theory. I have not done this myself, so I'm not absolutely certain it will work. But I see no reason why it shouldn't

Thanks, Jon. I had actually done something very similar to this, i.e, copied all the files to my hard drive, and then searched the "dummy Entre." That works, as Scott showed me how to search it, but, as I add discs (which I did yesterday) I don't want to have to recopy the entire Entre again, just to find out where, say, two or three new discs get placed. Your system will work, but I'm thinking that I may have to repeat the process as I add discs. I should have been more clear on that.

If what I've said is wrong, then I am all for being corrected on this one. You guys are the experts, I'm just the willing beta tester.

Thanks,

Nick :cool:

Originally posted by Nick Satullo
<snip>If what I've said is wrong, then I am all for being corrected on this one. You guys are the experts, I'm just the willing beta tester. <snip> Nick, I'm guessing we were typing at the "same" time and you missed my update about only worrying about the "DVDs" directory and below with either syncing or downloading a temp versions of it. It is not much data if you start from that directory so it should go quick.

Attached is my CuteFTP sync options. NOTE {NOTE} it says "Mirror Remote (Make local just like remote)" i.e copy from the Entre to your PC and not from the PC to your Entre. It may be easier just to drag and drop DVDs to a temp for you, however.

Originally posted by ScottF200
Nick, I'm guessing we were typing at the "same" time and you missed my update about only worrying about the "DVDs" directory and below with either syncing or downloading a temp versions of it. It is not much data if you start from that directory so it should go quick.

Attached is my CuteFTP sync options. NOTE {NOTE} it says "Mirror Remote (Make local just like remote)" i.e copy from the Entre to your PC and not from the PC to your Entre. It may be easier just to drag and drop DVDs to a temp for you, however.

Exactly right. As soon as I saw what you were talking about, I copied the existing DVD directory (still took 5 minutes or so . . . ) and found the Sherlock Holmes discs. I then substantially revised the xml files, including a full description from the internet (forgetting what you'd told me about the dreaded apostrophe . . . but in a failry chunky paragraph, nary an apostrophe to be found), as well as actors, years, the whole bit.

You could now never tell that this did not come from OpenGlobe . . . unless you consider that my home-brewed version contains better and more information than OpenGlobe provides.

Thanks,

Nick :cool:

I haven't had enough time to try even adding cover art here, but what Nick is doing is really the goal. One thing that I know is that it is possible to export one's DVD Profiler database into XML. I wonder if there is any translation possible, i.e., some sort of automated method to go directly from the DVD Profiler data into a format that the Entre can accept.

Have any of y'all hacked into the machines with Telnet? It's kind of interesting if you want to control the device. I'm using a Fireball and have hacked up a little Access/vb application that let's me use my PC as a remote control....

Just telnet to the device on port 251 and send the commands in Appendix D of the manual.

Kind of fun.

Originally posted by rbienstock
I haven't had enough time to try even adding cover art here, but what Nick is doing is really the goal. One thing that I know is that it is possible to export one's DVD Profiler database into XML. I wonder if there is any translation possible, i.e., some sort of automated method to go directly from the DVD Profiler data into a format that the Entre can accept. Wow. Now there we just took a turn I didn't fully expect. I didn't realyze DVD Profiler could export XML. Of course, it's "definition" (layout/structure/DTD) are different but there are possibilities. Not to mention title differences.

Envision an application that
a) FTPs to the Entre to get all XML files defining the DVDs.
b) Let's you click on the DVD titles from a list and then brings up a diaglog which allows you to edit descriptions/authors etc.
and/or
c) on the right hand side of the dialog is a list of DVD titles extracted from your DVD profiler XML file.
d) highlight a title DVD title from the Entre on the left and the "corresponding" DVD title from the DVD Profiler on the right and then click "Sync description" or "Sync actors".
e) click on another button that is for "Sync title with Entre" where the highlighted title on the left will have it's corresponding Entre_named_XML file FTP'd back to the correct directory on the Entre (i.e. s6/s7)

Of course most would be thrilled with just a, b and e. Cutting-n-pasting the overview/description is pretty trivial into an edit box in a dialog.

DVD Profiler XML example.
<DVD>
{snip}
<Title>The Sherlock Holmes Collection: Volume One</Title>
<SortTitle>Sherlock Holmes Collection: Volume One</SortTitle>
{snip}
<Actors>
<Actor>
<FirstName>Basil</FirstName>
<LastName>Rathbone</LastName>
<Role>Sherlock Holmes</Role>
</Actor>
{snip}
</Actors>
<Overview>The master detective Sherlock Holmes (Basil Rathbone) and his faithful cohort Dr. Watson (Nigel Bruce) are back, preserved and digitally restored in 35mm to original condition by theiUCLA Film andiTelevision Archive. This newly restored version of the classic film includes the period war bond tag, studio logo and credits from its original theatrical release. Filled with ominous shadows and interesting camera angles, the visual beauty of the film in 35mm is stunning.
Contains four classic feature films:
Sherlock Holmes and the Voice of Terror (1942)
When taunting saboteurs warn of a Nazi invasion of the British Isles throughia horrific radio menace, the British intelligence's Inner Council calls in Sherlock Holmes to help in the crisis.
{snip}
Holmes and Watson are summoned to Musgrave Manor to investigate a murder. Holmes solves a complicated puzzle of an ancient family ritual to expose the murderer.</Overview>
<LastEdited>2003-10-29</LastEdited>
</DVD>


Well off to work coding MVS (z/OS) assembler language...pays the bills (i.e. HT bills <grin>Scott</grin>)

Originally posted by cbeebe
Have any of y'all hacked into the machines with Telnet? It's kind of interesting if you want to control the device. I'm using a Fireball and have hacked up a little Access/vb application that let's me use my PC as a remote control....
Just telnet to the device on port 251 and send the commands in Appendix D of the manual.
Kind of fun. I only have a vague understanding here of sending those commands to the Fireball (Entre enable these?). I wonder if you could send a UDP packet with that command sequence?

Keyboard/Remote commands are interesting. Do you know if the below three are talking about "Passthru". I was thinking someone here wanted a "discrete" command like 43 below.

10 41 Guide (toggles between Guide and Player) **
10 42 Guide Explicit (always goes to Guide) **
10 43 Player Explicit (always goes to Player) **

I don't know about UDP.

This stuff is pretty easy to try out though. Use Hyperterminal or DOS TELNET to connect to the ip address of the device on port 251. Then you can type commands in and see what happens.

The Fireball Owners manual has a decent appendix D that explains the command structure (ex. "ESCX1008" = Power On). Try typing that in to see if it works....

As one of the few chaps on this board who uses his Sovereign system primarily for musical enjoyment, I am very interested in collaborating with someone to build the following Entre app:

A webpage (accessible from the OpenGlobe section of the Entre) that allows me to search my library of song titles, locate the discs the song is on, and play it.

Now, this would be a pretty hefty app considering the limitations of the architecture, but I do think it is at least possible.

Here's how I envision this being possible:

1. Host a webserver on your local PC (most Windows machines can do this with very little configuration)
2. Create a batch program that "syncs" the Entre with your PC (daily, weekly, whatever)
3. Build an simple web app (asp, jsp, php, whatever) that is able to index and search this "mirrored" Entre on your HD, and return results based upon your search criteria in a webpage.
4. Modify the OpenGlobe homepage on the Entre to link to this internally hosted app on your local server. This link could simply be "search my library" or the form could be right on the homepage. However you wanted to do it.

Now, to the more advanced/adventurous part... making the results list dynamic... allowing the user to actually CLICK on a result, and have the Entre play the track that you clicked on!

5. Get more acquainted with the TELNET command set for the Entre, and learn how to build a command to play a disc, and track. Build this logic into the results links in your web app you've built.

The user process should be simple: Click on the OpenGlobe button (which is labeled "web" on my universal remote, more appropriately), click on the "search my library" link, and then type in the keyword you want to search for. The web server would execute the local app, and respond with a webpage that displays the results on the Entre UI. Then... the tricky part...the results page has links that launch a TELNET session and script (generated by the commands embedded in the link) that commands the the Entre to play the track by selecting the disc, and then track #.

What do you guys think?

Scott,

It doesn't have anything to do with Passthru -- it's basically saying take me to the "Now Playing" screen or take me to the "Guide" screen. Just like what happens when you press the guide button on the remote. This is just giving you discrete codes for both ... vs. a toggle.

hm

Originally posted by ScottF200
I only have a vague understanding here of sending those commands to the Fireball (Entre enable these?). I wonder if you could send a UDP packet with that command sequence?

Keyboard/Remote commands are interesting. Do you know if the below three are talking about "Passthru". I was thinking someone here wanted a "discrete" command like 43 below.

Has anyone tried copying mp3s from the computer to the entre yet? Where are you putting them? Haven't had a lot of time lately but finally ftped into my entre last night. Very cool. Great job guys.

Jason

Originally posted by JonDeutsch
5. Get more acquainted with the TELNET command set for the Entre, and learn how to build a command to play a disc, and track. Build this logic into the results links in your web app you've built.

The user process should be simple: Click on the OpenGlobe button (which is labeled "web" on my universal remote, more appropriately), click on the "search my library" link, and then type in the keyword you want to search for. The web server would execute the local app, and respond with a webpage that displays the results on the Entre UI. Then... the tricky part...the results page has links that launch a TELNET session and script (generated by the commands embedded in the link) that commands the the Entre to play the track by selecting the disc, and then track #.

What do you guys think? [/B]

Jon. I love the idea. The telnet stuff is pretty straightforward. I have a vb/access app running on my pc now that allows me to pick, play, stop, etc.

c

Scott, Cbeebe,

Are the telnet commands for discrete guide and player screens matched by a corresponding IR code? If so, that could solve a remote setup problem I've struggled with since I got the Sovereign system...

Mike

Originally posted by Mkellyvich

Are the telnet commands for discrete guide and player screens matched by a corresponding IR code? If so, that could solve a remote setup problem I've struggled with since I got the Sovereign system...

Mike

Mike,
I'm not sure....it seems like there probably is an IR equivalent but I have no idea of how to determine it.

Curtis

Mike,

If you really want to figure that out, you would have to buy a jp1 compatible remote, go to the jp1 group and learn how to decipher the device type and protocol that was used to build the IR code list for the entre. You could then program a jp1 remote with the device code and try all 255 advanced codes to see if one of them is the discrete you are looking for.

It's on my to do list since my jp1 remote has reached it's limit in learned commands. I had to learn all the entre commands. so next i have to figure out how the device protocol used from analysing the learned signals. one of these days :)

http://store.yahoo.com/bestdeals/max20gig54.html

in case anyone wants to buy a replacement for their entre as backup. i am not sure if it will work, but technically i don't see why not.

http://www.upgrade-solution.com/detail.cfm?PID=745

this one is $40 bucks. that is cheap insurance.

does anyone know what type of drive is inside the entre?

Hopefully one of us will document a process to image the entre's drive, remove a failed drive, replace with new one, and re-image the contents back.

Originally posted by slocko
<snip>does anyone know what type of drive is inside the entre? Yes. You do <grin>. Look at the file you uploaded from when hook up your laptop to the serial port on the Entre.

i also took pictures of the inside, but i was hoping somebody had the information of the top of their heads!!! :)

Originally posted by slocko
i also took pictures of the inside, but i was hoping somebody had the information of the top of their heads!!! :) Slocko, fom the file you uploaded (serial port sniffed) this is the drive. Correct? Same as you picture shows? http://www.seagate.com/support/disc/specs/ata/st320410a.html

it looks like the same one, but here is an exact match:

http://www.thenerds.net/productpage.asp?un=159408&s=1

Originally posted by slocko
it looks like the same one, but here is an exact match:

http://www.thenerds.net/productpage.asp?un=159408&s=1 Your link is "bad". The model number in your and NiteOwls serial stiffed file was "st320410a". Your link may be bad because I had bought the only harddisk that they showed was in stock earlier today.:D I had actually found that place and a few others using froogle.google at least a week ago but didn't pull the trigger. Thanks for the reminder. I'm backing up my harddisk before it's too late.

Scott, you probably did buy the last one in stock!!! :D

I didn't realize that was such a good price till now.

Still trying to copy mp3s from my computer to the Entre. So far I've tried uploading one file to 7.0.6/Media/9m/9m. There was already one mp3 there that I ripped using the entre. Did a reboot, didn't show up. So I thought I would try deleting the 7.0.5//Database/Music/Groups/MP3s/MP3s.xml file. After rebooting and rebuilding the library it still didn't show up. Any ideas what to try next?

Also I've been trying to filter the info in this thread to a faq format. You can view it at http://homepage.mac.com/jbryer/Entre.txt. If you'd like PM with any questions or answers you have and I'll add it to the document.

Thanks,
Jason

Jason,

Just for clarification to your FAQ, according the partition definition file for a 20GB Entre -- The 7.0.6, 7.0.7, 7.0.8, and 7.0.9 are all media partitions.

hm

Originally posted by stickman
Still trying to copy mp3s from my computer to the Entre. So far I've tried uploading one file to 7.0.6/Media/9m/9m. There was already one mp3 there that I ripped using the entre. Did a reboot, didn't show up. So I thought I would try deleting the 7.0.5//Database/Music/Groups/MP3s/MP3s.xml file. After rebooting and rebuilding the library it still didn't show up. Any ideas what to try next?

Also I've been trying to filter the info in this thread to a faq format. You can view it at http://homepage.mac.com/jbryer/Entre.txt. If you'd like PM with any questions or answers you have and I'll add it to the document.

Thanks,
Jason

My guess Jason is that an entry needs to be written to the database file. Unfortunately it's a propietary database. It can be done though since that is the way MM does it.


Originally posted by stickman
Still trying to copy mp3s from my computer to the Entre. So far I've tried uploading one file to 7.0.6/Media/9m/9m. There was already one mp3 there that I ripped using the entre. Did a reboot, didn't show up. So I thought I would try deleting the 7.0.5//Database/Music/Groups/MP3s/MP3s.xml file. After rebooting and rebuilding the library it still didn't show up. Any ideas what to try next?

Also I've been trying to filter the info in this thread to a faq format. You can view it at http://homepage.mac.com/jbryer/Entre.txt. If you'd like PM with any questions or answers you have and I'll add it to the document.

Thanks,
Jason

I guess I'll have to try media manager then.

keep your fingers crossed. something causes MM to stop synching with the entre. i'm hoping we can figure it out.

Nick's began working after rebuildig the library and re-registering. that didn't work for me.

the alternative is to burn a cd with the mp3s you want, and burn it to the entre.

MM has been working great for me. I have it hardwired via CAT5. I gave up on the wireless bridge long ago.

What I do is import a maximum of 5 MP3s at a time then sync. This has worked great so far. I have imported about 50% of my collection without an issues, even after canceling the CDDB lookups and typing in Artist, Album, and coverart info manually.

I suspect that there is too much latency using Wireless.

Also... I DO NOT recommend you not upload MP3s directly via FTP. It is useless, since XML data needs to be sent as well.

You might wind up screwing up your system! Take it as a warning. I learned this lession the hard way! While I do not know what happened to my Entre, I suspect uploading files directly had something to do with it.

Sit tight... I am sure we will figure this out shortly ;)

I pretty much ruled out latency when I directly connected my laptop to the entre using a cross connect cable. It still didn't work.

Of course, it could be that something was already corrupt at that point.

I wish MM worked as advertised.

Update on: 11/2/03

OK here are my initial observations...

MM when sync'ing will upload the xml file
and media

it places all the media into the
7.0.6//Media/ folder
I guess it doesn't want to deal with the m?/m? hierarchy
Why would Escient do this? Is there so little memory that it can't handle a certain number of files per directory?

When the Entre is rebooted and/or the library is reindexed, the Entre goes and sorts all the mp3s in the abovementioned folder. The sorting method is simple. When the album or track record is created it is given a unique id. The last two digits of the id will define where the file is stored. For example: 19021212 will result in ?1/?2 being where the file is stored. This applies to xml file and media (xml file is S? media is M?).

One side effect ( that pisses me off mind you ) is that eventually the indexing fails. Resulting in tracks not playing... For certain the first track of every album uploaded via MM will work. This strange phenomena always happens to every track except for the first. There is a bug in this code that doesn't update the new file path (i.e. 7.0.6/media/m0/m1/mp3file.mp3). When this occurs MM begins to misbehave. I am trying to figure out this condition. Is this happening to anyone else?

-NiteOwl

Update on: 11/2/03

I looked up the correct path of all the broken MP3 via FTP. Then I opened MM, left it alone after it sync'd with the Entre. Opened the Access database and edited the correct path in the tracks table. I then set the update flag on the albums tables. Then closed the access database. Then I modified a any track title so MM can let me Sync. Then proceeded to initiated the sync'ing process. After it was done. The XML files were correct.

This following statement was incorrect:
But since the Entre itself does not use the XML files, I can't play them on the Entre but can on my Axcess. The Entre must use the db file.

I had a typo in my batch file, resulting in the path having too many forward slashes (ie. 7.0.6///media). This caused the Entre to not be able to play the file, but the Axcess could.

After I corrected this issue, everything worked fine. Bottom line, we do not need to figure out how to access the db or dbref files. The XML files sync to the db/dbref files and vice versa.

-NiteOwl

can you eject and load disks without stopping a movie that is playing?

i believe you can. i think the manual covers this.

for anyone thinking of backing up the entre here is a link with some tools:

http://www.ultimatebootcd.com/

Has anyone restored a backup done with ultimatebootcd?

I have used Acronis True Image to backup and restore. I have not had any problem what so ever after a restoration.

-NiteOwl

i'm trying to locate a suitable drive for a suitable price so I can attempt a backup. hopefully soon.

I am thinking about writing an app that will allow me to manually edit my DVDs (Entre/5050m system). I am currently in the research stage. Does anyone know if there are any APIs available to databases like DVDProfiler?

-NiteOwl

as far as i know, dvdprofiler never released a sdk. But it does have an export function.

you might want to PM Mario Casio, creator of the dvdlobby products. they are now offering their own lookup via upc. so apparently there must be a service you can subscribe to for dvd data.

After a little research, it seems that the Entre employs encrypted queries by way of SSL to obtain DVD information. This limits me, since I do not know of any other system that we can query for DVD information. I have decided to limit this app to just edit title, studio, length, year, rating and description information. Same as the Entre's GUI interface. I will also add a means of uploading coverart into the Entre.

Originally posted by NiteOwl
After a little research, it seems that the Entre employs encrypted queries by way of SSL to obtain DVD information. This limits me, since I do not know of any other system that we can query for DVD information. I have decided to limit this app to just edit title, studio, length, year, rating and description information. Same as the Entre's GUI interface. I will also add a means of uploading coverart into the Entre. So have you ruled out getting the data from the DVD Profiler XML file?

See this post:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2855460#post2855460

All this seems a bit strange since the Entre is supposed to do this!!!:rolleyes:

Scott,

Excellent... I will definately include sync'ing via the DVDProfiler XML file. You are a great resource.

-NiteOwl

Originally posted by NiteOwl
Excellent... I will definately include sync'ing via the DVDProfiler XML file. You are a great resource. Thanks. I'll humbly take that compliment for some of the other work/research we have done outside of the forums threads and testing/feedback I do for you. Robert suggested the original idea for that and I just expanded on it.

Just bought a brand new entre drive on ebay for $43.00 including shipping.

Easiest way to land one is to set up an automatic search that emails you everyday with whatever it finds. I simply put in the model number for the search criteria.

Guys,

I think I figured out what causes MM to stop sync'ing. It seems the Entre can only have approximately 5 files open at a time. When MM opens a file and crashes, that file remains open. MM doesn't do a good job of cleaning up after these crashes. So it just goes and opens another file. After time... it exhausts the availability of these files, so it just hangs. Only way to resolve this is to reboot the Entre. If someone has trouble sync'ing with the Entre... try rebooting and let us know if that helps.

-NiteOwl

i guess there must be several problems that have the same symptom. i can't synch with MM, and i have rebooted my Entre several times.

what are these files so i can verify if maybe they have been left behind and they are causing problems.

An open file can be anywhere (i.e. coverart or any music xml being updated.) There really isn't a specific location. The only place that comes to mind is 7.0.2/tempEurekaURI. This directory houses temp files. After a reboot it should be empty.

-NiteOwl

Here are my symptoms. I do not get cover art displayed in MM. If I try to copy cover art to a cd, it never appears in the entre.

This probably worked once, and it never worked again. I've deleted the entire entre director in MM with the same results. Something in the synch with the entre gets screwed up.

Also tried it with my laptop directly connected to the entre with a cross connect cable to rule out latency issues.

Doesn't really matter anymore since we can now copy over coverart manually, but it would be nice to solve this mystery.

Out of curiousity do you have other Entres or Escient units on the network do you?

I am not sure if you can use MM at all... maybe not since you can't sync at all. In case you can, try this. Upload 1 coverart file using MM. Have FTP open to the coverart root directory. When you see the media transfer happening, refresh the ftp app to see if you see the file in question being uploaded. If you can't, most likely the progress bar won't even move.

Let me know what happens. I had a similiar issue while figuring out how to upload files from the dvd editing app I'm writing.

-NiteOwl

I only own one entre.

MM runs, identifies the entre and then lists all my music. However, it only displays covert art for maybe 1 percent of the music.

If I try to associate cover art with a cd that didn't get recognized, it never shows up on the entre.

When I have time, I will try to do what you suggested. I have also been meaning to install access and take a peek at the tables to see what's in there.

I'm posting this on the Technical Discussion Thread, and the General Thread, for hopes that a lifeline will be sent.

Back before Joe's DVDEdit arrived, I made a mistake in editing some disc information. I revised an xml file to include actors, descriptive information, etc., but mistakenly just copied the same xml file for all 4 discs (Sopranos 4th Season). The result was that 4 discs appeared in the Entre guide as being in slot 60. To make it worse, not one of them was in slot 60, as that slot was occupied by a prior season's disc of the Sopranos (which I copied a lot of the information from).

I first emptied the Changer of the discs, reinserted them, and tried a disc lookup. What ultimately happened is that Sopranos Season 4 did appear on the Entre in the right slots (I had to FTP cover art), but the "old" season 4 remained, all being depicted as if they occupied slot 60.

What I then did (and am now going to undo, but it will still leave the problem), was to identify the xml files of the "ghost" DVDs, and to delete those files. Well, that made matters worse. What now appears in the Entre Guide is the remaining "ghost" DVDs, with no slot identified, and no cover art. It simply indicates that the title is captured as "internal DVD" (something I've never heard of in the Entre).

I tried to rebuild the library, hoping that Slocko's cure for MP3 ghosts would work, but that process involved deleting a particular group first, which isn't an option here--I wouldn't know what to first delete.

If anyone can hazard a guess as to what's happening, I'd be interested.

Thanks,

Nick :cool:

i successfully backed up my entre drive to another drive using ghost 2003.

1) Took the case off the entre and removed the entre's hard drive. This requires the removal of two screws on the chasis, then removal of the chasis, then 4 more screws that hold the drive in place to the chasis. This is really not difficult at all.
2) unplugged my cd rom drive and connected the entre drive in it's place.
3) Booted up and had the pc recognize the new drive. Windows recognizes all the partitions as drive volumes. Say no to it's offer to format them. Very important you say no.
4) install ghost 2003 and run the backup wizard. the source is the disk with all the partitions (entre) and the target will be your c: drive. give the target file a name.
5) ghost will ask you if it can ID the disks as ghost disks. I was hesitant, but I said yes.
6) It will create a virtual drive with PC DOS and prompt you to reboot the pc. Say yes.
7) When it boots up you will be presented with the Ghost DOS GUI and it attempt to begin the ghosting process. Cancel out of it.
8) Type "ghost -IR" at the command prompt. This is important. The IR is what tells ghost to run a true bit by bit copy. I'm sure this is the reason that no one has had luck with ghost and cloning the entre's drive. if you want more information, type ghost /? and it will describe the switch to you.
9) after running ghost, choose the option to copy disk to image file. mine took 34 minutes to complete the copy with no compression chosen.
10) after it's finish, exit ghost and power down pc.
11) remove the entre's drive and replace with the new 20 gig drive you are going to use.
12) power on pc and it will load pc dos again. i think you cancel out this menu and just rerun ghost (the -IR is not needed for this part).
13) If not, and it takes you back to windows, let windows recoginize the new disk. i had to actually run disk manager and add the new disk. not sure why. it should have been automatic the way it was the entre's disk.
14) run the ghost wizard but choose restore this time. you might get a message that the previous operation did not complete. you can ignore that.
15) make sure the source is the ghost image file that was created from the previous operation and the target is the new drive.
16) Again, it will ask you to mark the new drive as a ghost disk. Say yes.
17) Let it reboot and i think it will automatically start the restore once the pc dos boots up. If not, run ghost and choose disk, restore from image file. Point it to your image file and away it goes.
18) put the newly imaged drive into your entre and using the serial cable that comes with the entre, connect it to your computer's serial port and run hypterminal with the defaults. plug in the entre, and if you imaged it correctly, you should see all the partitions boot up and leave you at a prompt. disconnect it, and put it back into your rack.

That's it. It looks more complicated that it was. But I don't think it's something someone with no experience replacing drives should attempt. That is probably the trickiest part. for some one with no experience, i suggest you take off the entre's case, and remove the chasis, followed by the drive. label the entre's drive and take both to a mom and pop shop with my instructions. let them do it for you.

I am happy. I have an image file that I now can restore when ever i want. So next time the drive dies, i have the original drive to put back in. With the shipping costs to send the drive back to california, it's probably just easier to buy a $40 dollar drive yourself than wait for the 2-3 weeks it takes them to send you a new entre.

Slocko That is great! Congrats!!!

A few months ago, I couldn't find my license of Ghost so I used Acronis True Image. The steps involved are pretty much the same. I however I created an image (approx. 5.1gb) and burned it to 2 DVDs. I have restored the image twice and can guarentee this app works also. I guess it is not important which app you use as long as it does a bit by bit copy.

I have tried restoring to a larger drive. But True Image leaves gaps b/w partitions so the partition start/end addresses are off. Maybe hex editting the addresses to the larger drive may resolve the larger drive issues. I will play with this during Xmas.

Another thing... has anyone tried accessing the Sirius streams via a web browser? If the streams are still there, we might just have to manually add the stations.

-NiteOwl

Guys-

I am going through a major MP3 file orginization fit. I have taken all my music files from my three Macs (iTunes) and my PC, as well as most of the stuff from the Entre and have it all in Music Match to employ SuperTagging. For those not familar- it looks up the MP3 files on the net and downloads cover art, corects the ID3 tags, and can rename the files on your drives in a standard way based on the corrected tags. Someone said it will even burn the cover art to the CD along with the MP3, and had success loading these into the Entre from CD (I think it was DerekFSU?) Anyway, I want to get everything just so, with cover art, and then delete duplicates on my hard drives. Then I want to repopulate my Mac's iTunes and my Entre with the corrected files. What do you think the best way to do this is with the Entre? We are talking about around 10 gig of music, and about 5 of it is on the Entre now. I do not want to end up with duplicates, so I would like to wipe the MP3s from the Entre before I start. I DO NOT want to initialize alltogether since I DO NOT want to lose my movie info, groups, etc.. Any ideas?

Also, does anyone know of a PC (or Mac) utility or feature of a jukebox program that allows one to identify and delete duplicate music? I have many of the same songs over and over again, sometimes with different file names but similar ID3 tags or the same file size, etc.. Should not be that hard, but not fun to do manually.

On the entre, the only thing I can think of is to do it manually. using the circular key on the entre remote, you can select albums at a time to delete.

To repopulate, I think Derek's and Heroildo's way is the best. Burn them to cd and then to the entre.

i haven't looked carefully at the menus, but i don't think there is a way to delete all music.

after you delete all the music, you might be left with some ghost entries. look through this thread for a way to clear those. basically you delete the mp3.xml file and reboot. it will rebuild your index and remove all the false entries.

good luck. also, i would practice making a backup of the drive since you are undertaking some major work that you dont' want to lose with a drive crash.

I posted this to a new thread last night by accident, so I'm sure it was missed by most. Meant to post it here.

Sorry if this has already been covered. I am just starting to play with DVDEdit. Thanks for your hard work NiteOwl. I see when a disc has cover art on the Entre I can see it in the application. Is there a way to edit it or insert cover art for DVDs without a specified cover in the Entre already? Also, I see there are two XML files created, on listing DVDs and ratings, and one with descriptions. Has anyone tried importing this info into DVDProfiler or DVDLobby yet? Would having two XML files confuse the third-party app, or are they both not needed? Thanks

Joe:

Several of us have been trying to get hold of you by way of email today. It keeps bouncing back as undeliverable. I suspect you know that by one of the emails you sent, but three of us have confirmed that we can't get through.

Just letting you know.

Nick :cool:

Originally posted by mikemav
I posted this to a new thread last night by accident, so I'm sure it was missed by most. Meant to post it here.

Sorry if this has already been covered. I am just starting to play with DVDEdit. Thanks for your hard work NiteOwl. I see when a disc has cover art on the Entre I can see it in the application. Is there a way to edit it or insert cover art for DVDs without a specified cover in the Entre already? Also, I see there are two XML files created, on listing DVDs and ratings, and one with descriptions. Has anyone tried importing this info into DVDProfiler or DVDLobby yet? Would having two XML files confuse the third-party app, or are they both not needed? Thanks NiteOwl has worked incredibly hard on that application and it is a several releases ahead of what is on that website where I assume you got it. Several of us are beta testing it and providing feedback. He worked through some tough issues. He is in the process of allowing coverart to be uploaded (from PC to Entre) and associated with the DVD being edited. He is still working the kinks out and adding resilency code.

No mention of importing XML from Entre to DVD Profiler. If you compared the information exportable from DVD Profiler to what is in the Entre's XML it is very lopsided...that is DVD profiler would be better as the source to populate the information in the Entre.

The need seems to be when OG look up fails and you want the basics: Coverart, title, and category/genre, and overview. To me cutting-n-pasting the information beyond that does not seem like a good use of computer cpu <grin>. Coverart, title and overview is about all the energy I want to give out. Now if I could do a click or two to sync a DVD with my DVD Profiler XML then that is easy enough.

Scott-

Thanks for the feedback. Even the "older" verison of the app is amazing for what it is, adn I appreciate all of NiteOwl' work and everyone else's thta is helping out as well. I am just getting into this topic. If you could PM me with some "secret handshake" info I would appreciate it. Also, where to get the latest DVD Edit version...

I wish I knew more about Windows (I am a Mac guy)....I would love to help the effort out more. I like the idea of syncing with DVD Profiler. The reason I asked about export XML was that I have not been using DVD Profiler yet, so I do not have any database at all. I would like to get a head start with the basics you mentioned (title, cover art, etc..) without having to lookup or find the UPC for everything all over again. It woudl be nice if there was a way to sync what is in the DVD Edit XML file with DVD Profiler at least to start my Profiler database. I see from their wab page there is no XML import function, so I am probably SOL on that one anyway.

Mike,

Originally sync'ing with DVDprofiler was one of my goals. As Scott has stated, the Entre and DVDprofiler store their data very differently. For the time being, I am putting this on the backburner. Once I am happy with DVDedit (stability and feature wise), I will revisit this. I do not see this being too far away, just so you know. Only challenge right now is find the time with the holidays around the corner. :)

Best Wishes,
NiteOwl

Nick,

Sorry about the bounced messages. I truly need to start running my own mail server! Hotmail blows bigtime. I am monitoring my mailbox filesize closely, let me know if you continue to get bounced messages. I set up an account at mail.com to see if that was better but having to use a browser for email is a pain... too used to Outlook.

-Joe

maybe you have the option to keep sent messages. if so, then those exe's you send can eat up your space pretty quickly.

also, keep in mind that if you setup your own server with your own domain, some isps might block email you send others. I know AOL likes doing that.

I have been unsuccessful in trying to ftp my Entre. Can someone clue me in or pass along the secret documents on how to do it right. I have tried cuteftp and dos ftp with no success. I'd greatly appreciate it if someone can tell me the steps to take. Thanks in advance!

Originally posted by kapsig
I have been unsuccessful in trying to ftp my Entre. Can someone clue me in or pass along the secret documents on how to do it right. I have tried cuteftp and dos ftp with no success. I'd greatly appreciate it if someone can tell me the steps to take. Thanks in advance! What do you plan to do with the FTP access? Generally it was used to add coverart but NiteOwls DVDedit software does that now. How would the secret society know that you are not a KW or Escient lawyer? You are new to the forum? -- Scott: avsforum at fauque dot com

For those who are interested in changing the look of your entre GUI here are the details.

You need FTP of course. See NiteOwl for help with this.

I began by snooping around which is when I found the folders below:

\\7.0.5\\Guiresources\images\generic and
\\7.0.5\\Guiresources\images\english

Originally I pulled all images from both folders over to my PC. I used a graphics browser to view all the images and find the ones I recognized.
I saved the originals as orig_the_file_name.jpg or .gif on my PC.

All the original files have names that correspond to what they do i.e. Player_background.jpg So for instance orig_defaultCoverCD.jpg and orig_player_background.gif are originals out of the english folder. I opened these files and looked at there properties.

I either created new or resized existing files to use as replacements. The original files are only 256 color the new files I used were full color and of course look much better. The full screen images on the entre are 720x480. Replace the existing file on the entre and go to the GUI screen to see your new background.

The entre did not seem to notice the change and everything works as it did originally, however do this at your own risk. I am not sure what would happen if the entre did not like the new file, it may lock up. I suggest one at a time for now until we figure out the limitations.

I have begun to think about a way to automate a slide show of sorts. I imagine an app running on an external PC or automation controller that through FTP would rename a file every x minutes so that the background of lets say the guide would change everytime you view that GUI screen on the entre. So one could save a bunch of files in the appropriate folder and call them player background_1.jpg - player background_x.jpg and just copy the files over the original to make the change. I can mange a crestron module to do this but would need assistance to put together a PC based app.

Have fun playing,
Fred

What do you plan to do with the FTP access? Generally it was used to add coverart but NiteOwls DVDedit software does that now. How would the secret society know that you are not a KW or Escient lawyer? You are new to the forum? -- Scott: avsforum at fauque dot com

Scott,

Great questions. I just purchased an refurb Entre from the Kenwood Outlet in Santa Fe Springs, CA for $699.97. I have had some issues with it and now I have it running great. I am somewhat of a techie and build my own computers from the ground up. Now, with the Entre, I'd like to explore what I can do with it. That is why I'd like to learn just how to FTP to my Entre. I am interested in changing the GUI graphics and also getting rid of cover art that doesn't work and is just taking up space. I have checked out DVDedit, but I currently just have the Entre hooked up with no DVD changer. Basically, I am using the Entre for storing Mp3s and Internet radio stations for now until my house is built and then I'll be installing a full blown home theater in the new home.

My main goal is to see just what I can do with the Entre outside of media manager and look for ways to improve it's functionality. Someone in this thread said that they changed one of the graphics to point to google and now they can surf the web from their tv/entre. I'd like to look into figuring out a way to set that up as well as posting an html page on the entre that would have all of my favorites on it. For example, where the one user put a link to google, my link would go to a page named something like "favs.html" and on this html page all of my favorite links would be on it so that I could use the entre to surf the web from my family room.

Anyway, I am not a lawyer for Kenwood or Escient. There is no way to prove that I am not, but everyone here could potentially be. Nobody knows! I am just a new user who found these forums after I purchased the entre and I am intrigued by the potential fun I could have with the entre.

That's it, please hook me up!

hint,

if you run dvdedit, you can ftp as long as you haven't rebooted the entre after running dvdedit.

any ftp client works as long as you don't use passive mode.

and if you work for Kenwood, Damn you!!!!!!!!! :D

I'll try dvdedit again tonight. I have never been able to get dvdedit to connect to the entre but media manager works fine. When I try to connect, I just get a "searching" message. For the last time, I don't work for Kenwood. If I did, I surely would provide all the info I could to all of you because I want the entre to work better than advertised.

you need for it to connect successfully. only then will it open up the entre for ftp access. make sure you have the latest. i think it's 2.4

if you worked for kenwood we would drive you away from here like that other poor fellow that worked at kenwood :D

Thanks again for the info. Does it take a while for dvdedit to connect?

not overly so. this might sound dumb, but make sure you are not running firewall software that is blocking the connection.

i run kerio personal firewall and the stupid thing only pops up message to the person that launched it first. so if my wife turns on the laptop first and logs in, i don't get any notifications that kerio is blocking the executable. only when i swith to her profile do i see the message.

That could be it, I'll revisit my settings tonight. I use windows xp pro, but I do have internet connection firewall disabled. I can get to the entre via media manager though, in my current config. Do I need to have the dv-5900m installed for dvdedit to work? Do I have to tell dvdedit where the entre is (i.e. the ip address)?

if you have it disabled and are not running any other firewall software, it should work fine.

i dont' see why you need the 5900 installed. maybe it did connect but it's hung looking for the movie xml files that don't exist.

so i would go ahead and after launching dvdedit, try to ftp.

Cool, can't wait for work to be over and get cracking on the entre! I'll let you know if I am able to get in.

Hi guys. I'm in Michigan for a one-nighter at Greektown Casino, then off with a group of lawyers to meet a great client tomorrow.

Just wanted to tell you . . . so far, the Escient sucks. It has nothing, I mean nothing over the Entre (less, actually), and the FTP "ability" that it pretends it has, so far doesn't work.

Hats off again to my man, Joe Sampo (and, as sort of the Godfather of this whole scheme, Scott Faque), because we have taken this Entre scheme to where no others have yet tread. I'm privileged to be part of the inner circle. Hans, Robert . . . you know where the core group is.

Joe, if you're interested in developing something for the DVD-M100, let me know and I will "participate."

Nick :cool:

Originally posted by slocko
<snip>if you run dvdedit, you can ftp as long as you haven't rebooted the entre after running dvdedit.<snip> Actually that would be news to me. DVDedit, as far as I know, uses the same method as Media Manager...which is not FTP.

My apologies. I thought he was sending the UDP command when DVDedit launched, even if he didn't use ftp to do the transfer.

I am too lazy to reboot my entre right now to test it out :)

Scott, should I give him the secret handshake?

Originally posted by slocko
My apologies. <snip> Scott, should I give him the secret handshake? No worries, mate. I PM'd him.

RE: Entre Graphics, Coverart, GUI and more....

I must be some sort of sick pup....I can't wait 'til the weekend so that I can try this! I feel like I'm at my ~1994 Windows 3.1 corporate asset. I discover a new game or app that I HAVE to HAVE on my work PC - to waste time at work of course. I load it. I get amazingly horrendous results, and spend the rest of the day figuring out how to restore my network compatability ---AND KEEP MT APP!

aaaah....the bleeding edge!

I tried earlier to use DVDedit and it didn't work. Scott thanks, I received your email but I am not home to try it. :(

But tomorrow I will be having some fun. I always wanted to make my Entre look more like the Escient. I would rather not have that dark background.

I'm having problems with DVDedit too. Joe mentioned secondary IP settings, but they're set the same as my primary : automatic (DHCP).

Any help?

Jon

I am using HPNA and the second setting are set exactly like the first. Both are set to DHCP. It works fine. Are they both set to ethernet?

I have always had a problem getting the ethernet part to be stable. So i switched to HPNA and haven't had a problem since.

i use hpna and both are set to dhcp. i even switched from cable modem to dsl and everything continued to work fine. i was afraid that the hpna might have problems with the dsl, but nope.

Taking a tip from Fred, I have downloaded all the Entre graphics to my PC, and noticed a few very interesting things: first, all the Open Globe advertising banners seem to be there, so there might be a way, at last, to make these go away. Second, in browsing the files, I came across SMPTE color bars, a pluge and a needle pulse. These might be somewhat useful for calibration to those whoe may not have Avia or DVE. I've never seen these displayed on the Entre itself, however. I wonder how they're accessed. Finally, I'm not sure that there was a full set of the guide graphical components. I hate the orange and black color scheme and would love to be able to change that. Any ideas?

>



*** Connection Problems ***

In the begining I had a problem with DVDedit it took a entre reboot without the ethernet adapter and then plug in the adapter while the unit is on and change your IP by at least one digit. If both ports are set to ethernet and the same IP you should be in business.
Hope this works for you too.


*** Graphics etc. ***
rbienstock " I came across SMPTE color bars"
These color bars are available in the setup menu under audio & video settings. I agree about the colors of the guide but that is a selection in the software not a graphic file but I will keep my eyes and ears open.

I did forget to mention something in my previous post. The active *.gif files are replacable also. I replaced the spinning globe you see during lookup with a set of eyes that look around. The OpenGlobe ones should be the same. There is some good animator software out on the web.


*** Need info ***

Has anyone watched serial port 1 while rebooting the entre? I believe this is the console to the Operating system as well as the receiver control port.

Has anyone tried to Telnet in successfully?

Boy am I enjoying this. I never thought getting the entre would be so much fun.

Fred

Originally posted by fz1234
*** Graphics etc. ***
These color bars are available in the setup menu under audio & video settings. I agree about the colors of the guide but that is a selection in the software not a graphic file but I will keep my eyes and ears open.

I did forget to mention something in my previous post. The active *.gif files are replacable also. I replaced the spinning globe you see during lookup with a set of eyes that look around. The OpenGlobe ones should be the same. There is some good animator software out on the web.

*** Need info ***
Has anyone watched serial port 1 while rebooting the entre? I believe this is the console to the Operating system as well as the receiver control port.
Has anyone tried to Telnet in successfully?
Fred, from the main thread here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=95150&perpage=30&highlight=serial%20port&pagenumber=162) you can go to the top of the web page and put text in "search this thread". You then can look for telnet. I think a couple have done this.

Re: serial port. (you can search for this too but more hits)
A couple people have done this as well. I will e-mail their output as I'm sure I still have it.

Re: graphics
I had those all downloaded to my PC already...boy is XPs thumbnail view sweet for looking at them all. I actually had looked at them a few months ago but most of them seemed like they would be boring to replace...i.e. just small icons. I see there are a couple that I would consider replacing now, however. (i.e. background).

Hmm...seems like we should start another thread that has graphic replacements? Not sure if David would allow this, tho. Or not sure if the file size limits on uploads would hamper us. I'd like the eyes looking around instead of the globe spinning !

Originally posted by fz1234
I agree about the colors of the guide but that is a selection in the software not a graphic file but I will keep my eyes and ears open. Have you ever seen the Escient Fireball interface? It is essentially the same as the Entre, but it not only has a different color scheme, but also has a more 3D look. In, say, the music guide, the category (genre) tabs are rounded on top and the menu items have shading added. One would think that these were graphic elements, but perhaps they are excludive to the Fireball and don't exist on the Entre. I'm going to start by trying to get rid of the OpenGlobe banners, as this seems easy to do. This is very cool.

Originally posted by fz1234
[B]Has anyone tried to Telnet in successfully?B] I don't think so. You can obviously telnet into it, but who knows what the UID and password are. I tried my OG UID and password, but they didn't work.

Originally posted by rbienstock
Have you ever seen the Escient Fireball interface? It is essentially the same as the Entre, but it not only has a different color scheme, but also has a more 3D look. In, say, the music guide, the category (genre) tabs are rounded on top and the menu items have shading added. One would think that these were graphic elements, but perhaps they are excludive to the Fireball and don't exist on the Entre. I'm going to start by trying to get rid of the OpenGlobe banners, as this seems easy to do. This is very cool.

I don't think so. You can obviously telnet into it, but who knows what the UID and password are. I tried my OG UID and password, but they didn't work. Seems like we could speed up some research if someone here :rolleyes: has the fireball and would share the graphics that are in the equivalent directory (folder) on that machine as are in our Entres. Not to steal necessarily mind you but just to compare. You would then see what is possible. I'm sure Fred/Robert would love to take a look at them.

It's too bad that the background images Entre looks for are gifs rather than jpeg files. After reading Fred's post, last night I tried to create some "snazzy" backgrounds, inclusive of photos, text and/or graphics (gradients and the like), as new background images to replace the "plain", stock files of the Entre. They look great on my computer monitor, but once I save them as gifs of the proper size (720x480 pixels) and upload them to the Entre, they turn absolutely terrible blown up on my 65" RPTV. Smooth color areas are OK, everything else turns into a garbled, pixelated mess. Maybe I am doing something wrong when saving/converting files. I am using Photodraw as image editor.

Regardless, this "gem" of a find by Fred could turn out to be a lot of fun for the non-artistically challenged. Thank you, Fred.

--
Umberto

Does the Entre need to be connected with ethernet or does HPNA work also?

Originally posted by Carbo
Does the Entre need to be connected with ethernet or does HPNA work also?

You can FTP Entre via HPNA (that's how mine is connected to the netwoirk). I do have an Axcess, though. Don't know if that makes a difference or not.

--
Umberto

i'm also with HPNA. but you need to open the ftp port first. PM me with an email address and I will help you out.

Can Someone explain to me how this ftp connection works??

you need to either buy or download a ftp program and use the entre's ip address to connect using anonymous and active mode (these values are usually the default).

if you have an axcess the ftp port will be open already. if you do not, you need an applet to open it.

after you connect, read this thread from the beginning to see the various partitions on the entre and where different stuff is stored.

HEY ALL READ THIS!!!


Originally posted by rbienstock
Have you ever seen the Escient Fireball interface? It is essentially the same as the Entre, but it not only has a different color scheme, but also has a more 3D look. In, say, the music guide, the category (genre) tabs are rounded on top and the menu items have shading added. One would think that these were graphic elements, but perhaps they are excludive to the Fireball and don't exist on the Entre. I'm going to start by trying to get rid of the OpenGlobe banners, as this seems easy to do. This is very cool.

I don't think so. You can obviously telnet into it, but who knows what the UID and password are. I tried my OG UID and password, but they didn't work.



I found the graphics for the guide bars and they in fact can be changed.


\7.0.5\GUIresources\images\generic\

- guide_rowON.gif
- guide_rowOFF.gif
- guide_filterbar.gif
- guide_filterbarRight.gif
- guide_filterbarLeft.gif



Originally posted by Turin2006

once I save them as gifs of the proper size (720x480 pixels) and upload them to the Entre, they turn absolutely terrible blown up on my 65" RPTV. Smooth color areas are OK, everything else turns into a garbled, pixelated mess.




As for the pixelation issue, I have yet to put this on the bigscreen however I do not see any pixelation on a 17 LCD. It did take some trial and error at first to get them to look good. There are a few things to keep in mind. When you resize you are reducing or expanding the of pixels and each pixel of the image will be estimated due to the resize. The key here is to either create an empty pic at 720x480 with a black background an then add your graphics or cut a 720x480 portion out of a larger image. Try not to resize your final file. There are some button builder programs out there that allow you to set size. Personally I use a combination of paintshop and Crestron VTProe.

Have Fun!!

Fred

Oh you the man...sweet!


I think you left off the ON/OFF part of those names...

604x26 : \GUIResources\Images\Generic\guide_rowON.gif
604x26 : \GUIResources\Images\Generic\guide_rowOFF.gif
(the guide_rowOFF.GIF can be transparent which will then show your "guide_background" (see below comments). Actually parts of the other OFF gifs can be transparent as well for the same cool effect).

120x24 : \GUIResources\Images\Generic\guide_filterbarLeftOFF.gif
120x24 : \GUIResources\Images\Generic\guide_filterbarLeftON.gif
120x24 : \GUIResources\Images\Generic\guide_filterbarOFF.gif
120x24 : \GUIResources\Images\Generic\guide_filterbarON.gif

604x26 : \GUIResources\Images\Generic\guide_filterbarRightOFF.gif
604x26 : \GUIResources\Images\Generic\guide_filterbarRightON.gif

I used the existing
720x480 \GUIResources\Images\Generic\help_background.gif
to replace the
720x480 \GUIResources\Images\Generic\guide_background.gif
but _after_ I rotated it 180 degrees.

Hello again

I almost have a whole theme complete, however I can not find the recording background. Has anyone seen it? I havn't figured out how big a ziped set would be but I will if anyone wants to check it out.

Fred

i'm interested. email me. thxs.

I replaced my background images for those found in the Fireball but seems that the text positions don't quite line up. Anyone else got this issue? Has anyone figured out if there is a PRP file for the cordinates of where we want the coverart and details to be populated?

BTW Fred I'd be most interested in checking out your theme.

-NiteOwl

Originally posted by NiteOwl
I replaced my background images for those found in the Fireball but seems that the text positions don't quite line up. Anyone else got this issue? Has anyone figured out if there is a PRP file for the cordinates of where we want the coverart and details to be populated?

BTW Fred I'd be most interested in checking out your theme.

-NiteOwl Yes. No but only looked after reading your post. It must be there as it only makes architectural sense but I'm more than satisfied with just replacing the current graphics.

Wonder if the next software update will reset everything. It'd be my guess.

Wouldn't it have been cool if KW would have supplied themes. I suspect that they were quite limited in their "look" compared to the Fireball. I suspect that it is part of a "brand image" by the PR for both Fireball and KW. You'd think the the Fireball would allow a few different colors tho' because how had would that be for them to implement.

Ok!

I have completed the majority or this theme. WOW! what a time consuming process.

Does anyone have a web page or FTP server set up? I dont mind emailing the theme but alot of people have voiced an interest and it would be easier to put this up somewhere for download.

Some info about the other new posts.

NiteOwl - I do not know if the Fireball filenames match the entre but you are welcome to give it a shot.

NiteOwl & ScottF - If you find the right PRP files let me know! I would like to make the image size for a few things bigger.

ALL - I used a software update ver 2.0.0.8 CD and yes the upgrade puts everything back to stock graphics. Running the install was a nice easy revert to default!!! I have kept all changed files in a directory for easy recopy to the entre.


I have been having fun with this but I must move on to other things! Like installing the system in my home theater. I mean its nice to look at the boxes and all!



OH ONE MORE THING? Has anyone figured out how to get rid of the anoying opengobe banner at the top of the guide screen??????

Fred

Hey where did you get an update cd and how do you use it? If you could post a zip of that somewhere, that would be great. The dialup update of the software sucks, I'd love to have a burned copy of the cd. I did notice when ftp'ing that there is a 2.0.0.8 directory that is around 10 megs, is that the full update package? If it is, is that where you got the cd? How did you load from cd, just put the cd in and reboot the entre?

Just curious.....

I take my hat off to all of you. The work that you guys have done is excellent. I have been playing around with the GUI and having fun. I have been mostly changing the colors of the original pictures.

First let me say thanks to everyone for helping me out.

While looking around from folder to folder I stumbled on this folder and was wondering if the rest of you have the same contents within. It looks like they where planning to add web links to certain web sites.

The folder is:

7.0.5/Database/Web/Websites

Originally posted by Carbo
<snip>While looking around from folder to folder I stumbled on this folder and was wondering if the rest of you have the same contents within. It looks like they where planning to add web links to certain web sites.
The folder is:
7.0.5/Database/Web/Websites Yes, I have that. "planning"...look at your remote. See the button marked "web" :D The more you poke around the more you truly "see" that they put a significant amount of work into this product (ie. fireball). I've pointed out in the past various things like text messages that refer to "backing up"..which seems like user message. Lots of stuff.

Originally posted by fz1234

Does anyone have a web page or FTP server set up? I dont mind emailing the theme but alot of people have voiced an interest and it would be easier to put this up somewhere for download.



I'll happily throw it up on the web if you email it to me, apnar at botch dot com.

-apnar

I knew that button was there, but now I see that the software part was worked on, but never added.

Originally posted by fz1234
OH ONE MORE THING? Has anyone figured out how to get rid of the anoying opengobe banner at the top of the guide screen?????? Yes. Here's what you need to do: (1) get some graphics software and create a 46x26 canvas. I used PhotoShop, but pretty much any decent program should work (not MS Paint, though). (2) Make the canvas a single layer that is transparent and empty. (In photoshop, you go into the layer and set its opacity to 0%.) (3) Save the single empty layer canvas as a GIF with the name ad1.gif. (4) Make four copies of ad1.gif and name them ad2.gif, ad3.gif, ad4.gif and ad5.gif. (5) FTP into the Entre. (6) In your FTP client, Navigate to each of the following Entre directories:

7.0.5\Database\Ad\MovieAds\Images
7.0.5\Database\Ad\MusicAds\Images
7.0.5\Database\Ad\RadioAds\Images

(7) rename any files you find there with a .bak extension and then copy the five ad*.gif files into each directory.

This will kill the ads, but they'll come back if you ever do a system upgrade.

One question? How does a lawyer become so proficient with Photoshop :)

Originally posted by slocko
One question? How does a lawyer become so proficient with Photoshop :) Actually, I'm not. I just know a few things, like how to resize, change resoultion and the like. I also know how to remove stuff I don't want and how to use the clone tool to fill in the gaps. That's about it. When I was doing the latest graphics project, I thought about creating some new elements, but I was completely stumped as to how to do that. I like to play around with photos, so I can do some pretty good edits, but even there I can't do even rudimentary stuff you hear about people doing all the time (like grafting Britney Spear's head on a nude photo of Jenna Jamison).

Now that we are all hacking away at our Entres, has anyone figured out a way to exchange the measly 20 gig hard drive for a larger one, say an 80 gig or 120 gig? Is it as simple as ghosting the old 20 gig to a new drive or will that not work with all of the partitions and settings on the 20 gig?

I would hope that with the lower costs of hard drives, we all could figure out a way to do this successfully. Escient has their 40 and 120 gig models. One would think that it would be pretty easy to do.....

Originally posted by rbienstock
<snip>(2) Make the canvas a single layer that is transparent and empty. (In photoshop, you go into the layer and set its opacity to 0%.) <snip> Related to transparency...the MS Photo Editor (not MS Paint) located C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\PhotoEd\PHOTOED.EXE on my system has a nice feature to make various colors (up to 10%) variations of RBG #'s transparent. I've been using it on my latest graphics project. See attached for that option located under menu Tools|Set transparent color.

I haven't been rushing to replace the graphics on the Entre (though I'd fooled around with it before . . . replaced the blue OpenGlobe generic cover disc with the black Kenwood Sovereign image) because I'm trying to get my Fireball DVD-M100 up to snuff. Finally figured out the FTP scheme, so the essentials are all there.

But . . . .I'm going to be sending Joe some information on the DVD-M100. If there's a way for me to copy the whole damn thing, graphics and all, I'd be happy to do it . . .

Would that help?

Nick :cool:

Originally posted by ScottF200
Related to transparency...the MS Photo Editor (not MS Paint) located C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\PhotoEd\PHOTOED.EXE on my system has a nice feature to make various colors (up to 10%) variations of RBG #'s transparent. I've been using it on my latest graphics project. See attached for that option located under menu Tools|Set transparent color. I don't think that this photo editor is part of Windows, at least it isn't on any of my XP Pro machines. I'm guessing that it is installed as part of MS Office, which I don't use. I'm guessing that it is for graphical editing in PowerPoint.

Originally posted by Nick Satullo
I haven't been rushing to replace the graphics on the Entre (though I'd fooled around with it before . . . replaced the blue OpenGlobe generic cover disc with the black Kenwood Sovereign image) because I'm trying to get my Fireball DVD-M100 up to snuff. Finally figured out the FTP scheme, so the essentials are all there.

But . . . .I'm going to be sending Joe some information on the DVD-M100. If there's a way for me to copy the whole damn thing, graphics and all, I'd be happy to do it . . .

Would that help?

Nick :cool: Please check your PM.

How do I set up my ftp program to connect to the entre??? I have tried with dvdedit running and still cannot connect??

Danny, make sure you have your Axcess up and running so the port is open. Make sure you the ftp program is set to active. Check your PM if you can't get it working.

kapsig

check back in a few days... things are looking promising.

Niteowl,

Cool deal. Keep me posted!

Thanks Slocko, fz1234 for the help I am In......

fz1234,

VERY NICE!!! thanks for the detailed effort - clearly not a trivial task.

One question, is there any way to get the fonts in the guide row on to be white instead of black?

thanks
Jack

I would like to open a challenge to the folks who are hacking into the Entre quite nicely. I realize that these challenges may be quite impossible, but then again, they might not. So, it can't hurt to ask.

I would like the ability to use the Entre interface to:

1. Perform a keyword search for CD title and display the search results in an actionable list (ability to select and play one of the results in the list)
2. Perform a search based on song title and display the search results in an actionable list
3. Move DVD-As into the MUSIC area :)

Call me crazy, but I think these features would be killer!

Jon,

Changing settings and the look of what is already there is not a problem, however changing the way it works is. Without the source code for the software the actually functionality of the interface is untouchable.

My condolences,
Fz

Fz,

I haven't FTP'd into the Entre yet, but I was kind of imagining that there would be a bunch of scripts that run the functionality (ie., not compiled code) -- kind of like FTPing into a website. Sure, it's an application, but if you can figure out JSP, you can alter and update what the pages do.

I guess that is a bad assumption about the Entre.

Niteowl might be able to do number 3.

I don't see why it wouldnt' be possible to move the information from one area to another.

Niteowl, whatcha u think?

Jon, you should ftp and play around moving xml files around.

The actual program running has been compiled. The information it handles has not. There are many pieces to this puzzle. Operating system, GUI, datebases, etc. There is in fact the ability to query the database and search for just about anything. The problem lies with building this into the interface on your TV. This functionality can take place outside of the Entre. There are modules written for Crestron, AMX, Elan and others that allow for an alphnumeric search.

Fred

fz,

OK, so there's the door: the OpenGlobe area of the Entre is exactly that: external systems. If this area of the Entre can also query the database, then a locally hosted webserver (or dedicated server that I could host, hint, hint) could provide additional functionality to the Entre experience.

So, I'm imagining a whole subsystem (written in ASP, preferably :) ) that I can host on my local PC that can hit the Entre db and provide additional search/retrieval functionality via a custom 'homepage' accessible from the OpenGlobe area of the Entre.

Am I fantasizing again?

Jon

That just might work It has been mentioned some where about changing links on the OpenGlobe side, so I imagine that would be possible. I posted a link not to long ago to a web site with a compatible external control protocol. Take a look, the command structure is fairly straightforward and you can communicate to the entre over TCP/IP.

FZ

Originally posted by fz1234
T<snip>I posted a link not to long to a web site with a compatible external control protocol. Take a look, the command structure is fairly straightforward and you can communicat to the entre over TCP/IP. FZ Forgive my ignorance here...but I dont' get it. Are you refering to this support_integration_crestron (http://www.escient.com/support_integration_crestron.html) link. I don't see anything there that talks about communication via TCP/IP. It seems to be all IR or RS232 based?

And Doh!...I missed the fact that there are documents and sample ccf files for the Pronto remote (as well as others). Menu on left then CCFs on lower right. Geez that could be awesome.

Originally posted by JonDeutsch
<snip>1. Perform a keyword search for CD title and display the search results in an actionable list (ability to select and play one of the results in the list)<snip> That's so 90's. MP3s/WAV/WMF man!

You are correct that the doc only talks about rs-232/serial. Both the Entre and fireball also can be controlled over TCP. The entre port 226 is open for business when using an HPNA adapter.

FZ

Originally posted by fz1234
You are correct that the doc only talks about rs-232/serial. Both the Entre and fireball also can be controlled over TCP. The entre port 226 is open for businaess when using an HPNA adapter. FZ Talk to me like I'm a 5 year old <grin>. I did read that early. What I don't get is how do you connect/communication with port 226? An application just sends a UDP packet with the data portioin as those control codes? ie. ESCX1008 to "Power On"

Originally posted by slocko
Niteowl might be able to do number 3. This could be trickier than it sounds. Think about the differences in functionality between the Music area and the Movie area. In the Movie area, you only have one level, and if you highlight a movie, all you get to do is send a Play command. In the Music area, you go down another level and can select a specific track on the disc. Because of the menu structure of DVD-A and the multiple layers, selecting a particular track and bypassing the disc's menu structure isn't that straight-forward. For one thing, the structure varies from disc to disc. If I were to guess, I'd guess that it is this issue that has prevented the implementation of this feature in any of these products with the Escient OS.

I am underwhelmed with their CCFs (at least if the screenshots in the integration manual (PDF) are representative of the CCFs).

I'm very happy with my Marantz RC5200 Entre / changer screens. PM me if you are interested in them.

Jon

Originally posted by ScottF200
And Doh!...I missed the fact that there are documents and sample ccf files for the Pronto remote (as well as others). Menu on left then CCFs on lower right. Geez that could be awesome.

90s?! Ha!

The bulk of my music fills up my 5900M. I have never burned a CD to the MP3 area of the Entre. Is that what you're referring to? Or are you referring to the Entre streaming PC files from external sources, like it does iRadio?

So, to rephrase, what exactly are you talking about Scott?! :D

Originally posted by ScottF200
That's so 90's. MP3s/WAV/WMF man!

Very true. but i wonder if the entre gui is just reading pre-formatted html files and that determines the functionality. A press on the title could trigger it to look for another html file and display the tracks.

if we figure out the structure of the html files for music, we might be able to construct them for the dvd-audio discs.

Originally posted by rbienstock
This could be trickier than it sounds. Think about the differences in functionality between the Music area and the Movie area. In the Movie area, you only have one level, and if you highlight a movie, all you get to do is send a Play command. In the Music area, you go down another level and can select a specific track on the disc. Because of the menu structure of DVD-A and the multiple layers, selecting a particular track and bypassing the disc's menu structure isn't that straight-forward. For one thing, the structure varies from disc to disc. If I were to guess, I'd guess that it is this issue that has prevented the implementation of this feature in any of these products with the Escient OS.

Sorry about that scott! It is similar to TELNET in connection method. Once you connect there is a listener waiting for properly formated commands and a status string that is automatically sent out for current selection and track time.

So lets say you are using an HPNA adapter, because thats the only way it seems to work! Start Hyperterm and set for TCP/IP connecting to port 226. Try to establish a connection. I have found that initially the connection may fail. If it fails go to setup and internet config and reselect your current HPNA settings, save and try to reconnect. Your connection should be imeadiate after that. Once connected play a CD and you will see the status strings comming in every second, with the track time advancing as it goes. Anytime you may enter a command formatted as ESCXxxxx. Try ESC1055 or stop.

Fred

Originally posted by JonDeutsch
90s?! Ha!
The bulk of my music fills up my 5900M.<snip>So, to rephrase, what exactly are you talking about Scott?! :D :) I meant using the 5900M as a CD changer ... reminds me of a bar jut-box (sp?) because the pauses between songs is so slow for a random play (which I like). I suppose if you like listening to a CD at a time it'd be good.

I ripped/burnt all my CD using the Entre transport...albeit high compression (low bit rate). We only listen to it via the Axcess in kitchen/bath/bedroom so higher compression is Ok with me there.

Ever since seeing the flexibility of MP3 (or the eqiv) in a machine for streaming and random play and party mixes I can't see using CDs. Actually if I was really into it I wouldn't use the darn Entre for this at all. Robert and several others have pointed to much better alternatives (ie. tcp/ip devices that use PC as server and such).

Hope that explains better...now you'll still share your remote files with me won't ya :p

Originally posted by fz1234
Sorry about that scott! It is similar to TELNET in connection method. Once you connect there is a listener waiting for properly formated commands and a status string that is automatically sent out for current selection and track time.

So lets say you are using an HPNA adapter, because thats the only way it seems to work! Start Hyperterm and set for TCP/IP connecting to port 226. Try to establish a connection. I have found that initially the connection may fail. If it fails go to setup and internet config and reselect your current HPNA settings, save and try to reconnect. Your connection should be imeadiate after that. Once connected play a CD and you will see the status strings comming in every second, with the track time advancing as it goes. Anytime you may enter a command formatted as ESCXxxxx. Try ESC1055 or stop.

Fred Ahhh....now you are speaking in language I understand. That is a cool example (hyperterm). P.S. I use HPNA..as I have the Axcess.

Yeah, it's a conundrum -- I would love to use my Entre to serve up my music off the HD and avoid the transport delays inherent to the mega-changer.

However, I am a music enthusiast (remember, I'm one of the 3 people on earth who see the Entre as a music management system vs. a movie management system :)), and I enjoy the full resolution of my CDs... and actually find them lacking as compared to my beloved DVD-Audio discs.

So... I need 1 of 2 things to happen:

1. I need to be able to upgrade my Entre HD to about 200GB so I can rip the bulk of my CD collection at the highest bitrate.

2. I need the Entre to be able to access an external system (ie., a PC harddrive) via TCP/IP and stream mp3s/wmv/wavs like it does iRadio.

...and then I'll be happy all over again with the Entre!

I'm patiently waiting for the good folks here to figure out how to do either/or both of the above! :)

Jon

PS - Yes, I do tend to listen to entire CDs at a time. When I need a "mix" for a party or event, I usually find an appropriately genred Sirius or Radioio station.


Originally posted by ScottF200
:) I meant using the 5900M as a CD changer ... reminds me of a bar jut-box (sp?) because the pauses between songs is so slow for a random play (which I like). I suppose if you like listening to a CD at a time it'd be good.

I ripped/burnt all my CD using the Entre transport...albeit high compression (low bit rate). We only listen to it via the Axcess in kitchen/bath/bedroom so higher compression is Ok with me there.

Ever since seeing the flexibility of MP3 (or the eqiv) in a machine for streaming and random play and party mixes I can't see using CDs. Actually if I was really into it I wouldn't use the darn Entre for this at all. Robert and several others have pointed to much better alternatives (ie. tcp/ip devices that use PC as server and such).

Hope that explains better...now you'll still share your remote files with me won't ya :p

I have enjoyed making christmas or Halloween party mixes, mellow morning, cocktail hour, and just general party playlists as well. When I get around to it I am going to orgainze a set of playlist/favorites for my wife. The flexibility of this feature was the single most important feature to me....something in it for everyone.

Thanks Fred and Scott for all of the help on the GUI. I have used pieces from everyone but added a very nice picture of vinyards in Chianti that I took a few yrs ago as the changer background (transparent bars - no pixelation, no openglobe). Very cool...thanks guys...

Jack

Originally posted by jt3461
I have enjoyed making christmas or Halloween party mixes, mellow morning, cocktail hour, and just general party playlists as well. When I get around to it I am going to orgainze a set of playlist/favorites for my wife. The flexibility of this feature was the single most important feature to me....something in it for everyone.

Thanks Fred and Scott for all of the help on the GUI. I have used pieces from everyone but added a very nice picture of vinyards in Chianti that I took a few yrs ago as the changer background (transparent bars - no pixelation, no openglobe). Very cool...thanks guys...
Jack That's great. I spent 2-3 hours doing some more touch up on my this morning (Blue and tan/yellow theme). [See attached .. not good photo but just on a little work 13" TV next to the Entre]

Re: Wife
Yesterday I showed her how to use Media Manager and she just created her own playlist in just a few minutes...walked to the Axcess and started playing it. (reminder tip put an * as the first char of the playlist name)

BTW, the tools I used when playing with graphics as I don't have photoshop. I'm a graphics hacker that is for sure but could do enough to set up a theme to match my HT color scheme.

MS Paint - minor editing of JPGs (note zoom feature exist but is buried)
MS Photo Editor - setting transparencies; building a new graphic from parts of others
Pic2Pic Pro (http://www.wavelsoftware.com/pc2pcpro.htm) - slick tool for many purposes but I used it mainly to convert one color to another. This is done with a preview mode and saving various color changes to one script. That script can be used to change multiple files at once. Be sure to set output file type correctly as the Entre used GIFs and JPEGs. Work on one type at a time to avoid confusion. Not many gradient graphics you use will have 100s of colors (RGB numbers combos). This tool allows you to set a "range" when you change one "color[RGB]" to another.
Web Color (http://www.gold-software.com/webcolor.shtml?10) - used to quickly see the RGB numbers for a particular pixel. Hold down Alt-I to zoom to max.

This is a little beyond my expertise, however, I married a programmer/web developer/technical writer. Here are my two main questions:
1.Can I ftp the entre without a hpna bridge?
2.If using a cable modem and linksys wireless router (entre hardwired to router using "Dynamic" setting) how do I figure out my entre's ip address?

if you go into setup on the entre, there is a system information screen where you can see the ip address assigned to the entre.

i am guessing that if your entre is on the network, there should be no reason you can't ftp to it.

I did get the IP address and used Hummingbird to FTP the Entre, but it could not find it.

My Entre has access to the Internet through the wireless router, however, it is not visible to the other computers on the network. The other computers are assigned to a workgroup name, which I am assuming the Entre does not recognize. Is there a specific workgroup name that I must use in order for the Entre to be recognized on the network?

Originally posted by Adam Mrotek
I did get the IP address and used Hummingbird to FTP the Entre, but it could not find it.

My Entre has access to the Internet through the wireless router, however, it is not visible to the other computers on the network. The other computers are assigned to a workgroup name, which I am assuming the Entre does not recognize. Is there a specific workgroup name that I must use in order for the Entre to be recognized on the network? You can't set a workgroup name on the Entre....that is mainly a MS Windows thing, I believe, and used for user friendly names/discovery (disregarding local networking protocol used for file/print sharing). It is n/a for the Entre. If you can use the "DOS" PING my.entres.ip.nbr command and get your Entre to respond I would think you could FTP to it.

Scott, Slocko,
thanks for the prompt reply!

Adam,

if you are using firewall software, it might prevent the ftp program from communicating. if you are using windows xp, it has a built in firewall that gets activated automatically if you set up file sharing. you will need to disable it because it's an all or nothign type of feature.

other firewall software will give you a chance to allow the ftp program to continue and the entre to respond.

you also need to have the ftp port open by using the entre applet.

Originally posted by Adam Mrotek
I did get the IP address and used Hummingbird to FTP the Entre, but it could not find it.

My Entre has access to the Internet through the wireless router, however, it is not visible to the other computers on the network. The other computers are assigned to a workgroup name, which I am assuming the Entre does not recognize. Is there a specific workgroup name that I must use in order for the Entre to be recognized on the network? Adam,

Did you set your secondary IP address as described here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3099727#post3099727)?

Wow, thanks for all the feedback!
Robert, yes the secondary IP is set identically as the first (ethernet:dynamic). I have tested the connection and it pings.
Slocko,
my guess is you are probably correct with the firewall theory. I remember reading about this before but didn't tie it in until your post. This might explain why I can't use MediaManager or DVDedit. I even thought it had something to do with why I couldn't use Remote administration until I called Kenwood and they reminded me that they no longer support it.
Tomorrow we are both off and will dedicate the day to making this work and using the wife's front-end skills on the GUI.
I just installed a Futuresmart wiring panel with an ethernet switch between some of the computers but I don't think this could be an issue since the Entre is wired directly to the wireless router.
Thanks again for the feedback everybody!

Slocko,
I've got MM working albeit only on my hardwired computer which operates on Millenium.I can ping the Entre from either computer.My wireless is running on XP. Still can't run dvd edit on either computer although the one running Millenium knows the IP of the Entre.
My question is this; Do I need a specific applet as you stated earlier to open the ftp port?

if you don't have an Axcess you do need it. Are you running DVDedit 2.4 ? That should work, without the applet. Make sure you have both network connections set the same on the entre.

I guess that is the answer then: You MUST have an axcess unit in order to ftp.
Yes, I am running DVDedit 2.4.

Oops!
DVDedit 2.4 on one of the laptops and 2.2 on the wired computer.

No, Adam, I don't have a Axxess and I have no problem ftp'ing the Entre from my desktop. Now my laptop is a different story, I cannot use either MediaManager nor DVDEdit. I also can not connect to my Entre from the laptop......Go Figure, I have tried everything and nothing seems to work. I am just happy I can connect with one machine......

Thanks for the confirmation Danny. I suspected that it was possible.
Sure would be nice to use your laptop for DVDedit and MM. I am assuming your laptops are wireless like mine? I have been able to ping the Entre from the laptop though. I thought the problem might have to do with the different operating systems (desktop is ME and laptop is XP)

Niteowl,
Whenever I run DVDedit it connects to the entre however, on the statusbar it states "receiving DVD list" (packet#16) at that point it displays "run time error" "out of memory". Am I doing something wrong?