OK I read most of this long thread and it is just amazing how helpful it is. But it is mostly on the video side and I'm new to this type of component.

Question (Sorry if it is obvious) will it play .wav files from the PC and will it show my playlist etc from musicmatch?

Sorry for such a basic question, but I can't find/read it.

Plus is I now have learned a bunch about all these othe compressed type formats etc

play .wav files from the PC and will it show my playlist etc from musicmatch? It will play wav files.

I am not sure it will show playlists from musicmatch. It will work with Itunes playlists and according to the software, it will play Winamp and Windows Media Player playlists. I have only tested Itunes and it works fine.

Originally posted by Tom Roper
The shortcut trick:

You place a shortcut to the TS file inside the VIDEO directory you are viewing with Link Server.

The shortcut shows up in the Link Server video folder on the AVLP2.

Has anyone figured out how to make this work when a show is split into multiple .ts file segments? For instance, I have the Lost episodes saved, but each episode is in a folder broken up into 2GB segments. i.e: Lost_Episode1_00.ts, Lost_Episode1_01.ts...

When I try to put an alias to the folder in the My Movies, it shows in the list, but the TS files do not show. If I put aliases to all of them in the main My Movies without any folder structure, it will be a mess & will not know to play all from that episode. Any ideas?

Also, does FF/RW work on .ts with the shortcut trick?

Finally, another file cleanup issue: most of my DVDs are ripped versions of the whole disc using DVD Decrypter. Since this player cannot (yet, hopefully) play .ifo files, many of the VIDEO_TS files are useless (such as the one showing the menu, the FBI warning, extras, etc.. Also, since the file browser does not show size of each file, I cannot tell which is the main movie except by trial & error. (In Explorer, I always go to the 1st 1GB file if I want to play the first part of the movie.) Is there a simple way to separate the VIDEO_TS content into main movie only VOBs, without trashing the .ifo, extras, and DVD movie structure items? I would want to keep these in case the player/server can be updated in the future to play .ifo. I'm thinking of going through all the rips & making a sub-folder called Extras in each, that holds all the extra stuff. Then just leave the main movie VOBs in each movie folder. Is there an easier way without re-authoring the movie rip? At least if I keep the .ifo & extras I can always add them back to the VIDEO_TS root later to make them playable. Going through 50+ rips and trying to identify which VOBs represent the main movie will be a real PITA! This is why I was really pushing for .ifo support.

Still have never heard from KJack or anyone at I_O to see if .ifo support is possible w/ this hardware. That would make the decision to keep or not more informed.

Originally posted by Tom Roper
If I added a USB external hard drive formatted NTFS, can I just connect it to the USB on the AVLP2 to play a 5gb vob? Or to play it would I have to connect it to the pc and stream it over the Link Server network to the AVLP2?

I thought this player did not recognize NTFS USB Drives connected directly. I believe you would need to stream it (according to early reports by TUFU).

Originally posted by Tom Roper
Can someone please explain the rules on mpeg2 file size limitation?

When does it apply?

I ripped a DVD-Video to a single 5gb vob file on my pc hard drive, and it streamed just fine over the Link Server network to the AVLP2.

If I added a USB external hard drive formatted NTFS, can I just connect it to the USB on the AVLP2 to play a 5gb vob? Or to play it would I have to connect it to the pc and stream it over the Link Server network to the AVLP2?

Tom, I have played mpeg2 VBR & CBR files that were up to 9.4GB from my server without any problems. I plug in a 120GB WD USB2 drive to the Linkplayer that was NTFS formatted and it didn't see it. I think I read somewhere that all it worked with was FAT32 format at this time, and as a consequence the max file size was 2GB due to the format structure. Yet it will stream files from a network server that is NTFS. Think the reason for this is current firmware can't work with a NTFS formatted drive on the USB port. Just like digital image storage vaults, where the HD has to be FAT32 because the firmware can't deal with NTFS format.

Tom, I have played mpeg2 VBR & CBR files that were up to 9.4GB from my server without any problems. I plug in a 120GB WD USB2 drive to the Linkplayer that was NTFS formatted and it didn't see it. I think I read somewhere that all it worked with was FAT32 format at this time, and as a consequence the max file size was 2GB due to the format structure. Yet it will stream files from a network server that is NTFS. Think the reason for this is current firmware can't work with a NTFS formatted drive on the USB port. Just like digital image storage vaults, where the HD has to be FAT32 because the firmware can't deal with NTFS format.

I haven't tried it but that is the way I also remember reading. However I thought the limit for fat32 avi files became 4 GB a few years ago instead of 2GB. Don't know whether that would apply to the player or not.

- Tom

Reading the manual for the new Iodata NAS device coming out I think it will allow serving large files since it supports two file formats: FAT32 and and another one that the manual isn't the clearest about. I imagine it will be linux EXT3 like the Linksys NAS uses.

I think the IODATA hard drive will serve large files only VIA the network. Direct USB drives must still be fat32 which limits size to 4 gig. Future firmware MIGHT support NTFS. The manual shows the drive showing up in windows only as a "my network " resource. The attached usb ports will allow fat32 drives or a usb printer.

Originally posted by uofmtiger
[B I have only tested Itunes and it works fine. [/B]

I'm a MAC user, Are you able to play purchased music on itunes thru your AVEL. Mine does not show up. My OS is 10.2. Has anyone been able to play itune store purchased music? If so I probably need to upgrade to OS 10.3. or is there a trick to it?

from Hard Disk Users Manual


Troubleshooting | Designations/Marks in This Manual
Manual Home Using I-O DATA DEVICE, INC.'s "AVeL LinkPlayer" (AVLP2/DVDLA)

Using I-O DATA DEVICE, INC.'s "AVeL LinkPlayer" (AVLP2/DVDLA)



Only files of up to 2 GB can be recognized correctly. Files of 2 GB or larger will not be recognized correctly (they will be recognized as folders).


Only JPEG is supported as the image format.
The maximum JPEG image size is 1600x1200.
When a JPEG file is displayed, the image will be automatically shrunk to 640x480 or a smaller size.


Only two "AVeL LinkPlayers" can be played simultaneously.


The folders that can be specified as a library are limited to those shared by all users. (ftp and ftpusr folders cannot be specified as a library.)


Only one shared folder can be set as a library at a given time.


The "AVeL LinkPlayer" does not provide password function.


Do not access the UHDL from the "AVeL LinkPlayer" while the UHDL is being set.

Problem If the "AVeL LinkPlayer" is currently playing, the playback will stop.
The connection with the UHDL will be disconnected.
If you have changed the name of the UHDL, the name of the UHDL displayed on the "AVeL LinkPlayer" will also change.

Action If "AVeL LinkPlayer" is currently playing, stop the playback.
Switch to the login screen and wait for the UHDL to become available for login.


While a file is being played on the "AVeL LinkPlayer", do not delete or move that file or the folder containing the file in the UHDL.

Problem The playback will stop or disabled.

Action If "AVeL LinkPlayer" is currently playing, stop the playback.
Switch to the login screen and wait for the UHDL to become available for login.


While the "AVeL LinkPlayer" is playing from the UHDL, do not copy a file from a computer to the UHDL or edit a file in the UHDL.

Problem The playback may become abnormal or stop.

Action .Do not manipulate files in the UHDL while the "AVeL LinkPlayer" is playing.






1 In the setup screen, click Detail Setup, and then click "AVeL LinkServer" Setup.






2 Select on under "AVeL LinkServer" Function, select the shared folder, and then click the OK button.

The shared folders that can be used by "AVeL LinkServer" are limited to those whose user attribute is set to All Users (click Sharing, and then click Info List).
Selecting off and then clicking the OK button will disable sharing of the selected folder.
* Select the data you want to play in the selected shared folder.







3 Click the OK button.





4 The setting is complete when the following screen is displayed.





5 Connect the UHDL to the network. (Refer to "Connecting to the Network.")



6 When the "AVeL LinkPlayer" (AVLP2/DVDLA) is started, it will recognize the UHDL automatically.






(The specified name of the uhdl is displayed.)




For the procedure to play movies and other data using the "AVeL LinkPlayer" (AVLP2/DVDLA), refer to the user's manual of the "AVeL LinkPlayer" (AVLP2/DVDLA).







How to playback the data in UHDL on "AVeL LinkPlayer"





This completes connection of UHDL to the network.


Return to Top

Thanks guys. It's clear now.

New offer --

Discount on UHDL for existing LinkPlayer customer

or

buy both for a discount together

http://www.iodata.com/news/culture.php?ts=21&tsc=24&newsID=53

Starts December 22 with shipping after Christmas.

Originally posted by Tom Roper
Can someone please explain the rules on mpeg2 file size limitation?

When does it apply?

I ripped a DVD-Video to a single 5gb vob file on my pc hard drive, and it streamed just fine over the Link Server network to the AVLP2.

If I added a USB external hard drive formatted NTFS, can I just connect it to the USB on the AVLP2 to play a 5gb vob? Or to play it would I have to connect it to the pc and stream it over the Link Server network to the AVLP2?

I streamed 7GB VOB's from my PC without any trouble. I've also played back AVI's larger than 2GB, in fact over 4GB.

As others have said, the LinkPlayer doesn't support NTFS formatted drives connected directly to its USB port.

Originally posted by lmengel
I'm a MAC user, Are you able to play purchased music on itunes thru your AVEL. Mine does not show up. My OS is 10.2. Has anyone been able to play itune store purchased music? If so I probably need to upgrade to OS 10.3. or is there a trick to it?

The LinkPlayer doesn't support AAC files with DRM. I believe the iPod is the only device that can playback iTMS purchased tracks, besides a PC or Mac with iTunes of course.

Bummer, I guess Apple has lost another Itune store customer.

Just get Hymn (http://www.hymn-project.org/)

Originally posted by mikemav
Just get Hymn (http://www.hymn-project.org/)

Goggled it before I read ya and downed it already. Hope it works.

Thanks

It's kind of a pain to set up, but I got it working on my Mac w/ FairKeys (command line)
Also works w/o FairKeys if you have a modern iPod. Mine is 1G, so it does not play DRM, which is why I got Hymn. After all, I bought the music, I should be able to play it on my iPod (and AveLink!)

I've searched through this thread but not found the answers to a couple of questions:

Is anyone using the Japanese version of the player to play back TS files (either from another drive or from DVD-R) via the DVI output? Can it just pass it through (ie, 720p is 720p or must it be converted to 1080i)?

I'm assuming that a streamed VOB (or a VOB on a DVD that is not copy protected, like those I made of my home movies) can be output via DVI, as well?

The limitaions of file size in AVLP2 from Japan I-ODATA:

AVEL LINK SERVER ----- -AVI 2GB
WMV9,MPEG FAT32/4GB,NTFS/2TB
LANDISC(UHDL SERIES IN US?)----- AVI/MPEG 2GB
CD/DVD--------------------AVI 2GB, MPEG 4GB
USB-------------------------AVI 2GB, MPEG 4GB

Thanks for the summary.

This is interesting. But not good news, I think.

It sounds like my TS files that are 4.2 GB or so, because I put one file on a DVD-R, would not play back from DVD-R nor over my LAN from my computer. Bummer.

Looks like the search for a machine continues.

It seems to me that if the network drive only supports file size of 2 to 4 gig it is of little value. Everything will have to come from the PC server ntfs partitions or Linux when the version of avlindserver is available for linux. The drive docs indicate that there is an avlinkserver buiilt into the drive case. If so why can't it stream big files like the pc version ?

Originally posted by nathan_h
Thanks for the summary.

This is interesting. But not good news, I think.

It sounds like my TS files that are 4.2 GB or so, because I put one file on a DVD-R, would not play back from DVD-R nor over my LAN from my computer. Bummer.

Looks like the search for a machine continues.

Incorrect. I have played 22 gig .ts files over the network.

I don't have a LANDISC and I also want to know whether the LANDISC(or UHDL series in US) with a built-in avel link server will support files more than 2G or 4G. Someone may comment on this.

I can play TS files either in DVD-R(less than 4G) or via PC(more than 4G is OK in NTFS system) and toggled between various resolution of DVI such as 480p,720p,1080i,or 1024x768 etc.

Web site Lets Hack Landisk (unfortunately Japanese)

http://iwa.ath.cx/landisk/

The little I can see the internal drive is EXT2 format (Linux format) and if you format an attached drive it will be formatted the same.

Those formats should store large files with no problems. Wish someone spoke Japanese to read for sure.

Some more info/questions on TS files:

1) When burned onto a DVD+R, the Linkplayer seems to recognize the files no problem (no need to rename or use the shortcut method). However, the TS files I have are apparently too high a bitrate (19Mbps).

2) Via the server/network, you do either have to rename the files or use the shortcut method. However, I still haven't been able to play 19Mbps TS files.

Anyone out there been able to play 19Mbps TS files (like from the JVC HD10, for example)? It just plays the start of the file (no sound), and after 1 or 2 seconds pauses indefinitely. The machine doesn't lock up or anything, just sits there until you hit stop.

If it is a bitrate issue, I assume the firmware update wouldn't be any help?

Anyway, just got the unit today, it is awesome! So far this is the only thing it hasn't been able to do. It has really exceeded my expectations. I guess the most surprising thing to me is the amount of "fit and finish" to the whole thing, doesn't seem like a hack at all (which is sort of what I was expecting). Also, it is solid as a rock, worst case it won't play a file, but it never locks up.

Ben

Originally posted by TUFU
I don't have a LANDISC and I also want to know whether the LANDISC(or UHDL series in US) with a built-in avel link server will support files more than 2G or 4G. Someone may comment on this.

I can play TS files either in DVD-R(less than 4G) or via PC(more than 4G is OK in NTFS system) and toggled between various resolution of DVI such as 480p,720p,1080i,or 1024x768 etc.

I haven't had any problems playing back files larger than 4GB, VOB's and AVI's- MPEG2, DivX.

Originally posted by Paul_PDX
Web site Lets Hack Landisk (unfortunately Japanese)

http://iwa.ath.cx/landisk/

The little I can see the internal drive is EXT2 format (Linux format) and if you format an attached drive it will be formatted the same.

Those formats should store large files with no problems. Wish someone spoke Japanese to read for sure.

Looks lot a like Buffalo Linkstation

Originally posted by TUFU
I don't have a LANDISC and I also want to know whether the LANDISC(or UHDL series in US) with a built-in avel link server will support files more than 2G or 4G. Someone may comment on this.

Short version is; it won't work because it is connected by USB to the Linkplayer. The limiting facotr is the Linkplayer firmware. So, you're stuck with Fat32 which will limit file size to 2gb of contiguous data... you can split large files to overcome this but then you run into other problems.

The other thing that hasn't been mentioned is that data stored on a FAT32 formatted HD is much more susceptible to corruption. If you get a power failure even for a second or two while the drive is being accessed you stand a good chance of having your data corrupted. Whereas, with a NTFS formatted HD the odds of this happening are extremely remote at best.

If your data becomes corrupted chances of recovery are remote due to the nature and size of the files. If a sector gets hosed... Kiss the whole thing good-bye and pray everything is backed up because you are going to have to do a reformat of the HD. Granted, you may be able to hook it into your computer and salvage some of the files... That is, if the partition map is still intact. If that got trashed.... that is all she wrote... there are methods to try to recover data for a drive with trash partition tables, but the size of the files involved here (not like trying to recover text document fragments) preclude this, because the chance of 2+GB size files keeping their integrity is nil. Main reason being file fragmentation. 2+gb files are not going to be put down contiguously.

Data storage on a FAT32 formatted drive is asking for trouble sooner or later. Especially if it is critical data. NTFS is a very robust and fault tolerant. FAT32 isn't.

Someone mentioned Linux... Only problem there is, again, the firmware. The best option is to run a server networked into the Linkplayer. Maybe they will do a firmware update that will handle NTFS but I think it will take more than that to make it happen.

Shoebox --

The UHDL (Landisk in Japan) is a networked attached NAS server box. It does not attach to the LinkPlayer by USB.

The Japanese sites say it doesn't store data that is readable by Windows if it is formatted with the Linkplayer (one person referred to EXT2 format).. Our question is will it store large files in its native format (which is not in FAT32).

Originally posted by irgaac
Incorrect. I have played 22 gig .ts files over the network.

Fantastic. This is one of those times when I am glad I am wrong.

Now to decide whether I risk ordering from Amazon in Japan and figure I can switch the language of the menus...

Originally posted by Paul_PDX
Shoebox --

The UHDL (Landisk in Japan) is a networked attached NAS server box. It does not attach to the LinkPlayer by USB.

The Japanese sites say it doesn't store data that is readable by Windows if it is formatted with the Linkplayer (one person referred to EXT2 format).. Our question is will it store large files in its native format (which is not in FAT32).

OK Thanks for the heads-up, Paul.

Ext2 format is Linux. Think that is what Tivo uses for it's HD. No, there won't be a 2GB limit. Wonder what they are going to provide for the Mac and Win community to do file maintenance. On the network obviously... but where does this leave the people who aren't on a network so they can do file maintenance.... Unless there will be a utility for plugging it into a USB port on a non-Linux PC. Maybe with the browser?? Figures they would go with Linux for cost reasons alone.

whoa.. does this player record TV to an external NAS..?
http://121ware.com/nsserver/ax/

and

http://www.iodata.jp/prod/storage/hdd/2004/usl-5p/index.htm

Fabian.

Just a quick note about the 'official' documentation on filesize limits. I made a DVD-R of my Fifth Element WMV9-HD encode as a 4.5GB file about a year ago and burned it as UDF only (Not UDF/ISO 9660) bridge. Since the file is larger than 4GB (or was it 2GB or some filesize limitation), Nero will only allow you burn it as UDF.

The December 3rd U.S. firmware WILL ALLOW me to READ UDF only DVD-R's in the drive. This isn't mentioned ANYWHERE in the firmware notes. When I rollback the firmware, the DVD-R isn't readable. I haven't made any 8.5GB encodes yet since dual-layer media is still quite expensive, but I have almost no doubt that with the current firmware releases if you made a 8.5GB encode as a single file, burned as UDF only only a dual-layer DVD-R, the I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 will recognize and play the file.

Originally posted by snoots
It seems to me that if the network drive only supports file size of 2 to 4 gig it is of little value. Everything will have to come from the PC server ntfs partitions or Linux when the version of avlindserver is available for linux. The drive docs indicate that there is an avlinkserver buiilt into the drive case. If so why can't it stream big files like the pc version ? This is indeed odd...

Some time ago I was able to generate an HD version of T2 Extreme, with a 1280x720 Mpeg4 video stream @ 6000Kbps VBR and an 6Ch AAC-LC audio stream @ 448Kbps VBR. The combined .MP4 file comes out at around 7000MB (6.9GB). It would be a real bummer if such files could not be played.

I also have a few more +4GB experimental MP4 encodes. One being the NTSC version of BladeRunner, which I encoded with an "all image" square pixel frame of 848x480 using 2.35:1 DAR and 2Ch AAC audio in .MP4. I'm already able to play this file over my network using my Xcard. It would be a real step backwards if you guys could not do the same!

Has anybody experimented with +4GB .MP4 files?


Cheers

Originally posted by bcbuie
2) Via the server/network, you do either have to rename the files or use the shortcut method. However, I still haven't been able to play 19Mbps TS files.

Anyone out there been able to play 19Mbps TS files (like from the JVC HD10, for example)? It just plays the start of the file (no sound), and after 1 or 2 seconds pauses indefinitely. The machine doesn't lock up or anything, just sits there until you hit stop.

If it is a bitrate issue, I assume the firmware update wouldn't be any help?

Ben

Ben, I have the HD1, and that's *EXACTLY* what happens when I try and play a TS.

But the trick play is to encode it to WMV9. If you are reviewing this stuff, you owe it to your readers to see how good it can be by using TMPGEnc 3.0 Express. It has an excellent suite of filters that are perfect for the HD1/10. When you get it right, there's no loss of quality compared to the native TS, the file size is halved, you correct for the HD1/10's poor exposure latitude, chroma noise, lack of color saturation and blown out whites are all fixed with these excellent filters. It's an inexpensive program that lets you do non-linear editing on the TS, and save it WMV9 or DVD-Video, with only the one re-encode.

Try these settings:

1280x720 progressive, square pixel 1:1, 29.97 fps

Color Correction:
Simple Setting - chroma - plus 25 (give it the 3CCD saturated look)
Simple Setting - gamma - plus 15 (enhance shadow detail)
CMYK Contrast (white base) K: - minus 15 (get the bright highlights under control, without affecting the middle or dark shades)

(Encoder) Performance Slider --> All the way toward "Quality" (Takes longer but wow)
Audio Codec: WMA 9.1 192 kbs 48khz stereo 1 pass CBR
Video Codec: WMV9
Size: 1280x720
Aspect Ratio: Pixel 1:1 (Square Pixel)
Frame rate: 29.97 fps (Progressive)
Video Encode Type: 2 pass CBR
Bit rate: 9200 kb/s
Maximum keyframe interval: 8000 ms
(Motion adaptive) Image Quality Slider --> All the way toward "Quality - 100"

The bit rate is high enough for the best image quality the HD1/10 is capable of, low enough to get a solid hour of HD on a 4.7gb DVD disk, and operate within the limits of the Sigma EM8620L media processor of the AVLP2. These settings hit the sweet spot for the HD1/10 and the AVLP2.

I replaced the loader on the AVLP2 with a Lite-On SOHD-167T from Circuit City for $40. This is the best loader for it yet. It works excellent with the AVLP2. It is a region-locked unit.

But just about anything I have archived on Memorex (CMC Magnetics) from a year ago is now junk, with vast unreadable areas. It's ironic because it won't play on the PC anymore, I can't duplicate them. But in 3 standalone players I have, they will PLAY them fine, Panasonic DVDR-E80H, Panasonic DVD-RP82, Pioneer DV563A. I wonder why standalone, home entertainment players can be so forgiving, yet computer based DVD-ROM readers (including my PC and the AVLP2) are so unforgiving?

Hi,

I am considering to buy an Avel Linkplayer2 in US. Would some one please help me with these questions:

1. Does this product play MPEG/avi/wmv in data format? i.e. burn a data DVD with MPEG/avi/wmv files as data.

2. Does it support 3ivx codec?

3. Where can we get a D4-Component cable that is at least 6ft (component extension will be good enough, or even gender joiner)

Thanks,

Hien Le

I am intending to buy this dvd player, How can I make it region free??
Furthermore what is the D4 cable, is it only a breakthrough cable RGBHV??
Do we have to change the loader like in the momitsu which was crappy??
Thanks for your help

Bruno:)

Originally posted by bannani
I am intending to buy this dvd player, How can I make it region free??
Furthermore what is the D4 cable, is it only a breakthrough cable RGBHV??
Do we have to change the loader like in the momitsu which was crappy??
Thanks for your help

Bruno:) I would advise any European user not to buy this player!

Wait until the European version is released, which should hopefully include a scart socket and/or YUV outputs.... and maybe even 6Ch analogue outputs. Or wait for KISS to release their player!


Cheers

Originally posted by Tom Roper
I replaced the loader on the AVLP2 with a Lite-On SOHD-167T from Circuit City for $40. This is the best loader for it yet. It works excellent with the AVLP2. It is a region-locked unit.

Tom, In what way was the Lite-On and improvement?

You might want to try to use DVD Decryptor to see if you can pull an ISO rip from the bad DVD's... Even if your players can't read them then a decent burner should be able to.... I have a plextor, and have been able to salvage some movies for people what where on crappy media, and do a reburn. FWIW, my plextor 708 can read some stuff that is a mess on my pioneer 525. When I say read, I mean to do an ISO rip with DVD-Decryptor then play the ISO using Daemon tools to mount it on a pseudo drive. If the ISO plays, then just burn it to another DVD.

There's nothing wrong with the EPO 306D loader per se, but there is something different in the way IDE/ATAPI based readers handle the stream compared to standalone home entertainment type DVD-VIDEO drives.

You won't see any difference on DVDs without errors, but DVD disks that have read errors get stalled on CRC checking whereas the typical home entertainment player just blows past the bad areas, dropping frames or doing what it has to so the show can go on.

I've tried 4 different loaders in the AVLP2 now including an expensive Plextor, and would imagine the momitsu 880 is the same way since it uses the same EPO 306D loader. All the loaders get stuck, hang-up and freeze when they encounter disks with read errors.

It just seems to me that IDE/ATAPI loaders are intended for data, and insist upon more robust error checking which is good to maintain the integrity of a file, but bad when you just want to keep the action moving without freezing, while the IDE/ATAPI keeps forcing re-reads of unimportant data when you'd rather move along.

My $0.02 on this is it's not just another crappy loader, but in an overall sense the poor choice to be using IDE drives. Maybe IDE drives are all you CAN use to support the non standard DVD-VIDEO formats like WMV-HD, DivX, Xvid, AVI etc.

If you feed it error free disks, you get problem free performance seems to be the bottom line.

And by the way, I wouldn't go to all this trouble of stuffing a bunch of alternative loaders if not for the reason that the picture is so pretty on the AVLP2. This player is an addiction, and does a lot right, a diamond in the rough.

Originally posted by Shoebox
Tom, In what way was the Lite-On and improvement?

You might want to try to use DVD Decryptor to see if you can pull an ISO rip from the bad DVD's... Even if your players can't read them then a decent burner should be able to.... I have a plextor, and have been able to salvage some movies for people what where on crappy media, and do a reburn. FWIW, my plextor 708 can read some stuff that is a mess on my pioneer 525. When I say read, I mean to do an ISO rip with DVD-Decryptor then play the ISO using Daemon tools to mount it on a pseudo drive. If the ISO plays, then just burn it to another DVD.

The Lite-On is just slightly better at keeping the pace over rough areas of the disk. Something in its firmware, the way it retries. It just tries harder before giving up. It's not a panacea for my bad media problem. It's a little faster on chapter skips, just a little more robust, but not so much I'd recommend replacing the EPO 306D unless you were having problems.

It's a little noiser when it spins up fast, but slows down and gets silent when it's finished searching, and just playing steady. I like it...YMMV. It works better than the other loaders I've tried, and is the only one that interfaces as reliably as the stock EPO unit.

I am going to try your advice to rip an ISO. I've been using Dvd-Decryptor to rip files, and it fails on bad disks. The reason I like it though, is that it makes the most retry attempts. I was actually able to salvage one rip when it succeeded after about 80 tries on a bad area. If ripping the ISO works, I have plenty of workarounds for getting it to play. Thanks for the tip!

And by the way, failing that, I'm off to buy a Plextor PX-716UF.

SeeMoreDigital

Last night for grins I watched "3" the Dale Earnhardt ESPNHD movie. It streamed from my XP NTFS drive with no playback issues at all. I even used the 1x 2x 3x 4x buttons to skip commercials as it was an HDTIVO extracted ty file converted to mpg. The audio and video never lost sync even when skipping commercials or pausing to take a break. The file length on the pc is 8.4 Gig Since the player easily handled the file WHY would IODATA make a "companion" network drive that can't hold files large enough to 1. Rip DVD's which are 9.4 GIG. 2. HD TS streams 3. OTA HD recordings via PC or any other hidef source which by definition are disk hogs ? I hope there is some confusion about the drives and that they will actually allow large files, or the player firmware is in desparate need of NTFS or Linux EXT2 or 3 File support.

Originally posted by Tom Roper
And by the way, failing that, I'm off to buy a Plextor PX-716UF.

Tom:
A friend sent me a D-VHS recording of the World Cup final match on D-VHS tape. The recording was made during the transmission of the gabe in Japan. and I understand that the bit rate was 20 mbits/sec. I transfered the recording from my JVC 30K D-VHS VCR to a hard drive using the MyHJ card in my PC. By default, the files have the extension TP, but I renamed them to MPG, and the Avel link player playes them very well withou any sound. The BS format for HD in Japan uses a different audio format than our ATSC system in the US. When I play the files with the MyHD, I do get sound via my sound card and PC speakers. To check the bit rate, I used the HD2MPG conversion utility, and, in fact, this utility indicates the bit rate as 20.0 Mbits/sec. In the same manner, I have also been able to play other TP files after changing the extension to MPG with the Avel player. And these files are played with stereo sound, but NOT with DD 5.1 which is contained in the corresponding transport streats. I guess many people are having the same problem I am having with this player. Even DVD's are played without DD 5.1 sound. People are duscussing this in another thread. Now, if I may ask a question, what exactly is a LOADER. You indicated that you changed the loader on your player. Can you explain what a loader is? Thanks!

The loader is just the DVD-Rom optical drive.

I might have missed the context of your question. When I said I am off to buy the Plextor PX 716 UF (External USB DVD burner), I did not mean as a replacement for my loader in the AVLP2. There is nothing wrong with the AVLP2 loader that won't be fixed by making better quality burns, and feeding it better quality media. That's what the Plextor DVD burner would be for.

Originally posted by Tom Roper
The loader is just the DVD-Rom optical drive.

Please, forgive me for being so dense, but, do you mean to say that you replaced the internal DVD mechanism in your Ael player? Or did you use an external DVD drive connected to the Avel player through its USB connector? Thaks again!

Originally posted by Shoebox
OK Thanks for the heads-up, Paul.

Ext2 format is Linux. Think that is what Tivo uses for it's HD. No, there won't be a 2GB limit. Wonder what they are going to provide for the Mac and Win community to do file maintenance. On the network obviously... but where does this leave the people who aren't on a network so they can do file maintenance.... Unless there will be a utility for plugging it into a USB port on a non-Linux PC. Maybe with the browser?? Figures they would go with Linux for cost reasons alone.

I don't quite know what you are trying to say.

I believe that Mac's with OS X can read Ext2 formatted drives. That being said, unless you are going to take the drive out of its enclosure, and thus bypass the firmware in the enclosure, there won't be a need for the drive to be readable by a Mac or PC.

The interfaces for these type of devices are usually browser based, much like the interfaces for access points or routers. Any necessary "file maintenance" will be done through this interface.

"This" doesn't really leave the people without a network anywhere.
If you don't have a network you probably shouldn't buy network attached storage.

PHOTOS:
Most of my photos are 4 MegaPix or more hence the resolution is 2240xY. The player shows a big black blank. Anyway around that ? Is IOData planning to support higher resolution photos ????


HTTP-URL-Links:
How do I play audio or video from web-links (e.g. Web-Radio, etc) ?


LinkServer:
Does the LinkPlayer work with other Server software (other than what is provided) ????


RemoteControl:
The system seems not very responsive to the remote-control keys. Usually it takes 1 sec or more between the time I push the button and I see the change on the system.

Thanks again.

I am driving a X1 projector via the D4-> Comp-> VGA . Ideally I would like to have a LCD panel as a secondary display in order to use the Linkplayer to play my music files via the network since I don't want to fire up the projector all the time.

I would also prefer not using a VGA splitter. Is there any way I could run the LCD from the S-Video with an S-Video to VGA adapter??.

Originally posted by gtrogue
I don't quite know what you are trying to say.

I believe that Mac's with OS X can read Ext2 formatted drives. That being said, unless you are going to take the drive out of its enclosure, and thus bypass the firmware in the enclosure, there won't be a need for the drive to be readable by a Mac or PC.

The interfaces for these type of devices are usually browser based, much like the interfaces for access points or routers. Any necessary "file maintenance" will be done through this interface.

"This" doesn't really leave the people without a network anywhere.
If you don't have a network you probably shouldn't buy network attached storage.

The NAS server will play your files.. But there is the matter of getting your files on the server.

I am not familiar with the Mac OS to know if it can read Linux formatted drives. The thing about these player is they are marketed toward the Network based entertainment center. A device to plug in to your entertainment system and play Videos and Audio files from a A/V server.

In my home I have a dedicated server that handles home automation things like interior and exterior lights, irrigation, etc. It also has a WinTV card that I use to record TV shows off of the gateway box that I want to watch. My home is hardwired for computer networking.

Some people have mentioned wireless networking... That will work for you if everything is on the same floor in your house otherwise you will need a repeater. Even then, it work work that well with video, due to bandwidth limitations. It will do audio fine. I mentioned earlier here that the other problem is cordless phones and microwaves. Use one of those and more often than not, the EMI is going to hose your wireless network big time.

Assuming you have a collection of A/V & photo stuff that you want to load to your entertainment center (TV, Stereo, etc.) then you can go the serve route and plug that directly into the linkplayer. The only question then is getting your media on the server. Maybe someone here with a Mac can answer that for you.

Hope this helps

Thanks Tom, TMPGEnc is a great program, one of the best (and cheapest) MPEG2 encoders around. However, that is interesting about the additional features of TMPGEnc 3.0 Express, I will check it out.

Yes, so far I have been converting everything to WM9HD 9.2 Mbps for the AVEL Linkplayer, that is really the ultimate goal anyway (as far as an HD distribution format). The MPEG2 TS thing was more of a coolfactor / novelty thing, as it would have been a nice way to review my TS files from the HD10 without running them through a WM9 HD encoder (which takes ages). Obviously the TS files are of little value for distribution, because at 19Mbps a DVD would only hold around 25 minutes.

Thanks again for the info on TMPGEnc Express, a lot of people over at DVInfo (where I hang out the most) also have great things to say about it.

It's hard to believe Microsoft came up with something that works so well, sometimes Windows Media 9 HD is too good to be true :) It's also completely license free for content distribution, even for commercial use (at least that is what I can tell from their website). All the other major formats have licensing fees (MPEG2, MPEG4, DivX, etc.) I believe.

Originally posted by Tom Roper
Ben, I have the HD1, and that's *EXACTLY* what happens when I try and play a TS.

But the trick play is to encode it to WMV9. If you are reviewing this stuff, you owe it to your readers to see how good it can be by using TMPGEnc 3.0 Express. It has an excellent suite of filters that are perfect for the HD1/10. When you get it right, there's no loss of quality compared to the native TS, the file size is halved, you correct for the HD1/10's poor exposure latitude, chroma noise, lack of color saturation and blown out whites are all fixed with these excellent filters. It's an inexpensive program that lets you do non-linear editing on the TS, and save it WMV9 or DVD-Video, with only the one re-encode.

Try these settings:

1280x720 progressive, square pixel 1:1, 29.97 fps

Color Correction:
Simple Setting - chroma - plus 25 (give it the 3CCD saturated look)
Simple Setting - gamma - plus 15 (enhance shadow detail)
CMYK Contrast (white base) K: - minus 15 (get the bright highlights under control, without affecting the middle or dark shades)

(Encoder) Performance Slider --> All the way toward "Quality" (Takes longer but wow)
Audio Codec: WMA 9.1 192 kbs 48khz stereo 1 pass CBR
Video Codec: WMV9
Size: 1280x720
Aspect Ratio: Pixel 1:1 (Square Pixel)
Frame rate: 29.97 fps (Progressive)
Video Encode Type: 2 pass CBR
Bit rate: 9200 kb/s
Maximum keyframe interval: 8000 ms
(Motion adaptive) Image Quality Slider --> All the way toward "Quality - 100"

The bit rate is high enough for the best image quality the HD1/10 is capable of, low enough to get a solid hour of HD on a 4.7gb DVD disk, and operate within the limits of the Sigma EM8620L media processor of the AVLP2. These settings hit the sweet spot for the HD1/10 and the AVLP2.

Originally posted by rajurocket
PHOTOS:
Most of my photos are 4 MegaPix or more hence the resolution is 2240xY. The player shows a big black blank. Anyway around that ? Is IOData planning to support higher resolution photos ????


HTTP-URL-Links:
How do I play audio or video from web-links (e.g. Web-Radio, etc) ?


LinkServer:
Does the LinkPlayer work with other Server software (other than what is provided) ????


RemoteControl:
The system seems not very responsive to the remote-control keys. Usually it takes 1 sec or more between the time I push the button and I see the change on the system.

Thanks again.



Any comments gentlemen ????

Originally posted by hienle
[B]Hi,

I am considering to buy an Avel Linkplayer2 in US. Would some one please help me with these questions:

1. Does this product play MPEG/avi/wmv in data format? i.e. burn a data DVD with MPEG/avi/wmv files as data.

Yes, that is the beauty of it.


2. Does it support 3ivx codec?

I believe so, not sure in what "wrapper" though. I downloaded a 3ivx encoded file in a .mov wrapper and it played fine. I would imagine it will play it in an MP4 wrapper as well.


3. Where can we get a D4-Component cable that is at least 6ft (component extension will be good enough, or even gender joiner)

Easiest thing is to buy 3 RCA couplers from radio shack (or equivalent) and use your standard component cable. The couplers are cheap. IOData says they will being shipping their long D4 cable the first week in January, they are sending me one as soon as they are in stock as part of my "review kit." Until then I'm just using RCA couplers.

The new 300GB hard disk for this player is so expensive from IO Data. Could someone tell me if I could get a external USB hard disk for this player ? Is USB 2.0 fast enough to play DVD movie off the external USB hard sisk ?

Here are the IODATA disks.
http://shop.iodata.com/shopping/products.php?cat=HNP&sc=HDL

If the DVI player is coming before April, I would wait before getting one. I hope it is non-HDCP.

Thanks

Originally posted by ewclam9
The new 300GB hard disk for this player is so expensive from IO Data. Could someone tell me if I could get a external USB hard disk for this player ? Is USB 2.0 fast enough to play DVD movie off the external USB hard sisk ?

Here are the IODATA disks.
http://shop.iodata.com/shopping/products.php?cat=HNP&sc=HDL

If the DVI player is coming before April, I would wait before getting one. I hope it is non-HDCP.

Thanks

USB 1.1 is plenty fast to play a movie. USB 2.0 should be even better

I would hold out some hope for the Sigma 8620L. Firmware development is behind, that is why there has been such a major delay in deployment of dvd players based on this chipset

The new 300GB hard disk for this player is so expensive from IO Data. Could someone tell me if I could get a external USB hard disk for this player ? Is USB 2.0 fast enough to play DVD movie off the external USB hard sisk ? The upside to their UHLD series is that it has their software built in and it can move files using the network. I am currently using a 200GB HD via the USB2 port and the movies play fine. The downside is the lack of the software interface for playing music while watching a slideshow, a limit on the size of photos, and the inability to import playlists.

In other words, the hard drive still makes it possible to watch movies and listen to music, but it loses some functionality. The downside to using the UHLD seres is that the software is not as good as the Momitsu software that works with the player. I hope that the AVEL software adds the internet browser and the "shuffle/play all" features that make the Momitsu software more user friendly than the current AVEL software.

Originally posted by rajurocket
PHOTOS:
Most of my photos are 4 MegaPix or more hence the resolution is 2240xY. The player shows a big black blank. Anyway around that ? Is IOData planning to support higher resolution photos ????


I believe it's Sigma limitation , something aroung 2.5-3Mega pixel , try viewing them by network this should work.


Originally posted by rajurocket

LinkServer:
Does the LinkPlayer work with other Server software (other than what is provided) ????


Yes at lieast with Momitsu software which is not too great but much better then original .


Originally posted by rajurocket

RemoteControl:
The system seems not very responsive to the remote-control keys. Usually it takes 1 sec or more between the time I push the button and I see the change on the system.

Thanks again.

I don't know why but this also seems to be a problem on all Sigma based players , so probably IR interrupt does not get enough proirity or something .

Originally posted by Lord KiRon
I believe it's Sigma limitation , something aroung 2.5-3Mega pixel , try viewing them by network this should work.




Yes at lieast with Momitsu software which is not too great but much better then original .




I don't know why but this also seems to be a problem on all Sigma based players , so probably IR interrupt does not get enough proirity or something .

When you say "Try viewing them by network this should work". What do you mean ? I am using the LinkPlayer to view the Photos via LinkServer (Network based) ? Are their multiple ways of watching photos ???


Where do you get the "Momitsu software" from ?

Originally posted by Lord KiRon
I believe it's Sigma limitation , something aroung 2.5-3Mega pixel , try viewing them by network this should work.




Yes at lieast with Momitsu software which is not too great but much better then original .




I don't know why but this also seems to be a problem on all Sigma based players , so probably IR interrupt does not get enough proirity or something .

When you say "Try viewing them by network this should work". What do you mean ? I am using the LinkPlayer to view the Photos via LinkServer (Network based) ? Are their multiple ways of watching photos ???


Where do you get the "Momitsu software" from ?

Originally posted by rajurocket
When you say "Try viewing them by network this should work". What do you mean ? I am using the LinkPlayer to view the Photos via LinkServer (Network based) ? Are their multiple ways of watching photos ???


Where do you get the "Momitsu software" from ?

See the link I posted couple pages ago :)

Most of my photos are 4 MegaPix or more hence the resolution is 2240xY The limit on photos is 2048x1532 over the network (and 1600x1200, non-progressive, on the usb2). You will need to resize your photos to get them to work. That is what I had to do.

Originally posted by uofmtiger
The limit on photos is 2048x1532 over the network (and 1600x1200, non-progressive, on the usb2). You will need to resize your photos to get them to work. That is what I had to do.

I have 8000 plus! I should have checked before I bought the unit!

Any feel for if this limitation will go away ?


BTW, I am also downloading the momitsu software, I understand that is better with easier web support.

Originally posted by MF70
Please, forgive me for being so dense, but, do you mean to say that you replaced the internal DVD mechanism in your Ael player? Or did you use an external DVD drive connected to the Avel player through its USB connector? Thaks again!


I had the same questions, don't worry.

Yes, I removed the entire internal DVD mechanism from the AVeL player, and and replaced it with a Lite-On SOHD-167T, which is an internal IDE/ATAPI intended for a PC.

That means it uses the same 40 conductor flat ribbon cable and 4 conductor plug from the power supply as the only connections.

1.) Open the drive drawer on the AVel with the eject button, and remove the face plate from the front of the drawer. It sort of slides/snaps on.

2.) Remove the 4 screws holding the drive to the chassis.

3.) Remove the drive from the chassis, unplug the ribbon cable and the power supply connector.

4.) Re-install the connector and plug to the new drive.

5.) Remove the face plate from the front of the new drive drawer.

6.) Open the drawer and slide it through the chassis opening in the front of the LinkPlayer2.

7.) Set the new drive on top of the mounting pedastals that secured the old drive, and tape it in place with duct tape or velcro. It's not going anywhere. It's already the correct height for the drawer to open/close through the slot.

Thank you very much, Tom! You are indeed a source of good information. My major problem with my Avel is the fact that it does not have DD 5.1 operation with m y Sony AV receiver. This receiver has s blue-light bar on the front panel when it receives a 5.1 audio signal via the coax or the optical inputs. That light comes on when I play a DVD with DD 5.1 sound! But no sound comes from the speakers. The other problem is that MPG files converted to WMV-0 using TEMPGENC EXPRESS 3.0 do not play with the Avel player. I get a screen with garbled color blocks at random, but no image at all. The WMV-9 files are played by the Windows Media Player app, but I hear no audio at all. I am using the evaluation version of the TEMPGENC, so maybe that is a limitation that causes the absence of audio. I wish we had a thread where this app is discussed here on the forum. Anyway, you have been of much help to me, and I thank you once more. Happy holydays!

Shoebox, using DVD-Decryptor to rip ISO images (ignoring read errors) did not work for me. There were just too many errors, 8000+ read errors before I gave up.

I picked up a Plextor PX-716UF external USB/iLink dual layer burner at BB. That saved the year, as it ripped my worst disks with zero errors in no time, sparing my collection of 150+ burned DVDs from a fate of certain extinction...nice.

The disks it burns play perfectly on the AVLP2. :)

The WMV-9 files are played by the Windows Media Player app, but I hear no audio at all. I am using the evaluation version of the TEMPGENC, so maybe that is a limitation that causes the absence of audio.

Don't know if it's the eval problem or not, but keep trying, it works. See my post a page or two back for my WMV9 audio settings with TMPGEnc 3.0 Xpress.

Originally posted by Shoebox
The NAS server will play your files.. But there is the matter of getting your files on the server.


The drive will show up as a "computer" in your domain or workgroup. You can browse it just like you would with any other shared resource on any network computer.
If you were ripping you could just choose the directory on the NAS drive to copy the file to. If you already have files on your PC you can move or copy them to the NAS drive.
Basically, the drive can be browsed in Windows Explorer and anything you can do in Windows Explorer you can do to the drive. Same with the Finder in OS X, provided permissions on the drive are set properly.
The server software running on the NAS is the only thing that has to be able to view Ext2 formatted partitions, it in turn allows PC's and Mac's to access the drive.

Hello,

Have anyone compared the video PQ and the audio stereo sound between Momitsu and this IOData player ? Which one is better on video and/or audio. I am currently using Momitsu and I wonder if I should replace mine with IODATA ? I also like to connect a USB external drive and this is why I am thinking about IODATA. I know IODATA has no DVI yet, so I am talking the component side.

Thanks for any direction.

Originally posted by gtrogue
The drive will show up as a "computer" in your domain or workgroup. You can browse it just like you would with any other shared resource on any network computer.
If you were ripping you could just choose the directory on the NAS drive to copy the file to. If you already have files on your PC you can move or copy them to the NAS drive.
Basically, the drive can be browsed in Windows Explorer and anything you can do in Windows Explorer you can do to the drive. Same with the Finder in OS X, provided permissions on the drive are set properly.
The server software running on the NAS is the only thing that has to be able to view Ext2 formatted partitions, it in turn allows PC's and Mac's to access the drive.

When I replied to your early post you mentioned users not on a network. My reply was based on a non-network Mac user. My reply was in that context. Sorry for the confusion. I don't understand why you asked the questions if you already had the answers...

Happy Holidays

Originally posted by Shoebox
When I replied to your early post you mentioned users not on a network. My reply was based on a non-network Mac user. My reply was in that context. Sorry for the confusion. I don't understand why you asked the questions if you already had the answers...

Happy Holidays

What confused me was the question itself.
Why would someone without a network buy network attached storage?

You can use a NAS device connected directly to a Mac or PC with a crossover cable but they are much more expensive and cumbersome than USB or Firewire drives, which is what I would recommend for those without networks.

Originally posted by uofmtiger
The limit on photos is 2048x1532 over the network (and 1600x1200, non-progressive, on the usb2). Sounds like the the server is downconverting the image before sending it to the player. If that's the case, perhaps a future version of the server software will raise the over the network limit.

Originally posted by epsilon

Originally posted by uofmtiger
The limit on photos is 2048x1532 over the network (and 1600x1200, non-progressive, on the usb2).
Sounds like the the server is downconverting the image before sending it to the player. If that's the case, perhaps a future version of the server software will raise the over the network limit. The information in I-O DATA's manual is a bit confusing: -

http://img52.exs.cx/img52/7426/iodataplayerimagelimit4tc.gif

Can anyone confirm the max pixel limit for images burned to CD/DVD~R/RW?


Cheers

I can't confirm anything, I just ordered mine. Just going by what has been posted here (and my head's still spinning from the amount of information :).

Their table seems to be saying the same thing, albeit in a confusing way: native support for JPEG & BMP up to 1600x1200; the server adds GIF & PNG and goes up to 2048x1532.

How tolerant is the player of mediocre TS streams? That is, I have a few I have recorded that play fine using VLC on my computer, but my DVHS player doesn't like them...

Finally, is there ANY reason one might want a Momitsu instead of this?

Originally posted by nathan_h
How tolerant is the player of mediocre TS streams? That is, I have a few I have recorded that play fine using VLC on my computer, but my DVHS player doesn't like them...

Finally, is there ANY reason one might want a Momitsu instead of this?

DVI output is the only reason I can think of.

Originally posted by nathan_h
Finally, is there ANY reason one might want a Momitsu instead of this? The Momitsu can't handle high-def "encoded" content!


Cheers

I've been messing around with the server software, and I'm now very curious if the Linkplayer will ever be able to support IFO files. So far the only functionality i've been able to find is html interaction (the server software is basically just a web server) and pure media streaming.

Keith: do you still read the thread, and if so, do you know if the Sigma chipset could handle this - is the problem firmly in IO-Data's court? I'm kind of curious (tho don't expect a response) about whether the browser is built into the chipset and if it's extensible via an SDK.

Originally posted by jakob1321
I've been messing around with the server software, and I'm now very curious if the Linkplayer will ever be able to support IFO files. So far the only functionality i've been able to find is html interaction (the server software is basically just a web server) and pure media streaming.

Keith: do you still read the thread, and if so, do you know if the Sigma chipset could handle this - is the problem firmly in IO-Data's court? I'm kind of curious (tho don't expect a response) about whether the browser is built into the chipset and if it's extensible via an SDK.

Curiousity killed the cat, but my guess based on all the other players coming to market which dont support IFO's either is that its not available in the sigma chipset. Someone probally overlooked it thinking well if we support vob's its the same thing. What a shame.

And your right this wont get a response this question has been asked since the begining of this thread without one clear answer.

Originally posted by jakob1321
I've been messing around with the server software, and I'm now very curious if the Linkplayer will ever be able to support IFO files. So far the only functionality i've been able to find is html interaction (the server software is basically just a web server) and pure media streaming.

Keith: do you still read the thread, and if so, do you know if the Sigma chipset could handle this - is the problem firmly in IO-Data's court? I'm kind of curious (tho don't expect a response) about whether the browser is built into the chipset and if it's extensible via an SDK.

My gut feeling is that VIDEO_TS/AUDIO_TS/IFO support can be implemented in firmware and is not restricted due to the design of the Sigma chipset.

Well, i certainly hope so. I gave up on trying to get the Momitsu to do what i wanted (too much is hard-coded into the JSP code) so I'm starting my own server software from scratch. I got music streaming going last night; it's a start.

Originally posted by jakob1321
I've been messing around with the server software, and I'm now very curious if the Linkplayer will ever be able to support IFO files. So far the only functionality i've been able to find is html interaction (the server software is basically just a web server) and pure media streaming.

Keith: do you still read the thread, and if so, do you know if the Sigma chipset could handle this - is the problem firmly in IO-Data's court? I'm kind of curious (tho don't expect a response) about whether the browser is built into the chipset and if it's extensible via an SDK.

I am probably missing something here... But anyway...

I went ahead and did a rip of one on my DVD's (commercial) using DVD-Decryptor. I ripped using the IFO mode with stream processing. I kept the DTS and 5.1 Dolby in the stream and dumped the rest. I sent the VOB file size to 10,000mb and ripped it. I then took the Video TS folder and moved in to my server... Fired up the linkplayer, went to the folder selected the IFO file (that was all that was visible) and hit play It played... Sound showed up as Dolby on my receiver (Pioneer, optical input set to auto), and had surround sound. Of course there were no menus or chapter breaks but the FFW & RW worked fine without any sound synch problems.

Like I said I am probably missing a critical element in this thread. But "IFO's" works for me to the extent outlined above. FWIW I don't normally play in this format... but it took all of 9 minutes to rip the IFO and move it to the server, so gave it a try...

Originally posted by Kermee
My gut feeling is that VIDEO_TS/AUDIO_TS/IFO support can be implemented in firmware and is not restricted due to the design of the Sigma chipset.
That was my feeling too but with 4 more companies jumping into this game with players based on the same chip set, and some with more features ie: 10/100/1000 networking and other features. All of them state vob support only when it comes to ripped/streamed dvd's. Dont ya think someone by now would have figured out to add ifo dvd structures if the issue isnt in the chipset...

Shoebox...maybe i'm misunderstanding, but I believe what you saw was the video_ts.vob, not the video_ts.ifo. Ifo files don't even show up (I added it to the accepted content type on my setup, and it gave an 'unrecognized format' on the Linkplayer).

I'm just wondering because, as I said, it appears to just take in streaming media, and how would it interpret that as something to stream? I could see them doing something where it uses the IFO to know how to stream the vobs in some way, but not pull up menus and that sort of thing. The browser would have to trap that it's not a media stream but a pointer to the dvd video application in the linkplayer itself. I'm sure it's probably doable, depends on how the browser is set up in the firmware. I guess none of us know exactly how it works, so we'll just have to wait and see.

My guess is part of having an official DVD license requires not playing DVDs across a Network and maybe honoring all Prohibitions in IFO files if encountered. By not recognizing IFOs across a network they probably sit in a grey area where the DVD consortium liets them play to vobs but they don't get all the benefits of the DVD.

Iodata is definitely a licensed DVD device as are all the Sigma devices we talk about around here so maybe they are just protecting their license.

Originally posted by Paul_PDX
My guess is part of having an official DVD license requires not playing DVDs across a Network and maybe honoring all Prohibitions in IFO files if encountered. By not recognizing IFOs across a network they probably sit in a grey area where the DVD consortium liets them play to vobs but they don't get all the benefits of the DVD.

Iodata is definitely a licensed DVD device as are all the Sigma devices we talk about around here so maybe they are just protecting their license.
This is a great point not brought up before, i wonder if there is any merit to it.

Originally posted by Paul_PDX
My guess is part of having an official DVD license requires not playing DVDs across a Network and maybe honoring all Prohibitions in IFO files if encountered. By not recognizing IFOs across a network they probably sit in a grey area where the DVD consortium liets them play to vobs but they don't get all the benefits of the DVD.

Iodata is definitely a licensed DVD device as are all the Sigma devices we talk about around here so maybe they are just protecting their license.

Yes, but... DVD-Decryptor and like programs. kill the copy protection and prohibitions when a rip is done. Is that perhaps the reason it works? Or am I missing something. From a pragmatic point of view. I am able to rip a DVD and play it... Sure it is without menus and chapter breaks. But, if I want that I just do an ISO rip and go to DVD Shrink for the whole enchilada, when I want to do a DVD backup.

Originally posted by jakob1321
Shoebox...maybe i'm misunderstanding, but I believe what you saw was the video_ts.vob, not the video_ts.ifo. Ifo files don't even show up (I added it to the accepted content type on my setup, and it gave an 'unrecognized format' on the Linkplayer).

You're right. I have 2 files in my Video_TS folder. A 88kb IFO file and a 5.7GB VOB file. As I stated in my first post, I guess I am missing something... I don't see the problem... It plays from the server... I gather that you are looking to do a rip to the server as opposed to a burn and have the menus and chapter breaks on the rip to the serve to play it from there. It wouldn't work because they isn't a software player link to pick-up the breaks if they were there. I know people were having problems too with multiple VOB's (1gb VOB files) But that is easily avoided by ripping to a single VOB, so the entire movie plays without pauses.

Just got message from I-O DATA and looks like that the AC3 problems that some of us experiance is major issue and Sigma engineers have to work on it. They are waiting for non working receivers samples to see what could be done ....

Shoebox, yes, I think one of the two biggest complaints is the inability to rip a dvd to a hard drive and play it like a normal dvd, with menus and all of that.

The other biggest complaint is the breaks between vobs, which as you said, can be fixed in the rip process. Personally, i rip everything to xvid, so it's not even an issue for me. I'm just curious if it can be done. The licensing is another great point.

Overall, I suppose it's simply a matter that I don't forsee it happening.

I have attempted to consolidate all the information in this thread into a FAQ page here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=484807

Comments, suggestions, anything I'm missing, etc. are needed and welcomed.

Thanks!

Originally posted by jakob1321
Shoebox, yes, I think one of the two biggest complaints is the inability to rip a dvd to a hard drive and play it like a normal dvd, with menus and all of that.

The other biggest complaint is the breaks between vobs, which as you said, can be fixed in the rip process. Personally, i rip everything to xvid, so it's not even an issue for me. I'm just curious if it can be done. The licensing is another great point.

Overall, I suppose it's simply a matter that I don't forsee it happening.

Jakob1321... Think it is going to take some time to fix if ever... would need a software/hardware interface to do it... As it is the chapter and menu command buttons on the remote, just work on the player as would be expected. Can't get be an engineering challenge. It is doable, but expensive in terms of hours and interface variables that would have to be dealt with. Now if it linked to MS media center it might... The wild card here is the fact that they have a hardware based DVD player on board, and that is the obstacle. Without that then the interface would the easier to deal with on a server/media software level... Wonder how the Medicenter on Linksys handles it, if at all... It doesn't have a DVD player so it should work. as you described. As it is the choice with the Linkplayer, was to have the controller talk to the DVD player (stating the obvious).

Good job !
Thanks for your time :)

Originally posted by lifeisfun
Good job !
Thanks for your time :)

Thanks! I will keep it current as long as it has to be. I'm asking EVERYONE for their help in filling in what I'm missing or any corrections to what I have posted.

Thanks!

As long as you are playing from a network anyway, it would seem the only significant disadvantage is the loss of the menus and chapter breaks. You still maintain all the audio tracks and sub-titles, and it's just as simple to rip to one large vob as it is to multiple files.

According to my contact at IODATA, even though the next firmware will have DRM support, there is a problem with the way most of the current "commercial" WMVHD DVD's implement DRM. They apparently utilize a specific method that REQUIRES a windows PC (it requires a certain DLL) to verify the license. Since the Avel LinkPlayer is obviously not a Windows PC, he said that most likely these type of DRM protected discs will not play on the LinkPlayer.

He said that this was a short-term solution on Microsoft's part and that future Windows Media HD discs will implement DRM "correctly".

Hopefully this is not true, but that combined with the fact that WMA Pro 5.1 will not be supported for a while (he said they just got the microcode from Microsoft), probably means the likelihood of playing store-bought WMVHD DVD's is pretty low for the near future.

I know that some WMVHD's use the "clearing house" phone-home method and some use the "on-disc" method. I wonder which type of disc this applies to?

I guess at this point the most prudent thing to do is "wait and see".

Let me add that while I'm not planning on going out and buying up all the WMVHD DVD's, the average joe will want to know why it can only play "some" WMVHD DVD's. This will effect you if you are trying to sell this unit to the public.

So far this is the only real problem I have with this player. It gets 10's on all other points (PQ, build quality, ease of use, compatability with a wide range of formats, wow factor, etc.). The $250 price tag is extremely reasonable.

I think I'm going to hold off on my review until the next firmware. The whole WMVHD question is a big deal for wide acceptance of this product, at least in my mind.

As an aside, I hate DRM. I will spare you my rant here, if you are interested in listening to a crazy person rant please check out HDsource.

I hope someone will grab one of the European WMVHD discs that are available and see if they will play, without audio of course. They are supposed to have on disc DRM.

Originally posted by gtrogue
I hope someone will grab one of the European WMVHD discs that are available and see if they will play, without audio of course. They are supposed to have on disc DRM.

I've tried Underworld when josex came over about a week ago. The video part of it didn't even show. I think it's the issue with filesystem (See IO Data FAQ). It was probably not a "UDF/ISO Bridge" but only UDS.

Originally posted by gtrogue
I hope someone will grab one of the European WMVHD discs that are available and see if they will play, without audio of course. They are supposed to have on disc DRM. With regard to European HD-WMV DVD's.

As this thread is getting longer, and longer. Some people may have missed this link: -

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=477235


Cheers

Originally posted by Tom Roper
As long as you are playing from a network anyway, it would seem the only significant disadvantage is the loss of the menus and chapter breaks. You still maintain all the audio tracks and sub-titles, and it's just as simple to rip to one large vob as it is to multiple files.

This is true Tom, the issue is what about all the movies we have already ripped that play fine threw a htpc due to software based dvd play. Ripping to one vob is great going foward but with close to 100 movies already ripped it becomes an issue (breakes between vob's that is).

Originally posted by webboy10169
This is true Tom, the issue is what about all the movies we have already ripped that play fine threw a htpc due to software based dvd play. Ripping to one vob is great going foward but with close to 100 movies already ripped it becomes an issue (breakes between vob's that is).

That brings me back to my question from a few days ago. If VOB playback is what we are stuck w/ for now, what is the easiest & cleanest way to re-author/convert a bunch of existing DVD Decrypter full disc rips into VOBs of the main movie? Perhaps even converting them into a single VOB to avoid the break between files? Here is the quote:
Originally posted by mikemav


Finally, another file cleanup issue: most of my DVDs are ripped versions of the whole disc using DVD Decrypter. Since this player cannot (yet, hopefully) play .ifo files, many of the VIDEO_TS files are useless (such as the one showing the menu, the FBI warning, extras, etc..)
Also, since the file browser does not show size of each file, I cannot tell which is the main movie except by trial & error. (In Explorer, I always go to the 1st 1GB file if I want to play the first part of the movie.)
Is there a simple way to separate the VIDEO_TS content into main movie only VOBs, without trashing the .ifo, extras, and DVD movie structure items? I would want to keep these in case the player/server can be updated in the future to play .ifo. I'm thinking of going through all the rips & making a sub-folder called Extras in each, that holds all the extra stuff. Then just leave the main movie VOBs in each movie folder. Is there an easier way without re-authoring the movie rip? At least if I keep the .ifo & extras I can always add them back to the VIDEO_TS root later to make them playable. Going through 50+ rips and trying to identify which VOBs represent the main movie will be a real PITA! This is why I was really pushing for .ifo support.

Originally posted by webboy10169
This is true Tom, the issue is what about all the movies we have already ripped that play fine threw a htpc due to software based dvd play. Ripping to one vob is great going foward but with close to 100 movies already ripped it becomes an issue (breakes between vob's that is).

I'm an moron for not thinking of that, Doh!

Originally posted by Bjorn_E
I've tried Underworld when josex came over about a week ago. The video part of it didn't even show. I think it's the issue with filesystem (See IO Data FAQ). It was probably not a "UDF/ISO Bridge" but only UDS.

I suppose it could be the file system. More likely it is still a DRM issue. The LinkPlayer doesn't support any WM DRM so until it does there's no way to truely say if they will play.

Do you think you can try again after the firmware update adds WM DRM?

Originally posted by mikemav
That brings me back to my question from a few days ago. If VOB playback is what we are stuck w/ for now, what is the easiest & cleanest way to re-author/convert a bunch of existing DVD Decrypter full disc rips into VOBs of the main movie? Perhaps even converting them into a single VOB to avoid the break between files? Here is the quote:

Single vob's are the way to go for now. I my self dont see this player ever dealing with ifo's. After ripping apart a ifo to see what it contains i dont think a server side solution is there. It seems to me that this needs to be handled at the player. If thats the case then the issue does lie with in the chip set. after all isnt that where the codecs are being processed??

Originally posted by webboy10169
Single vob's are the way to go for now. I my self dont see this player ever dealing with ifo's. After ripping apart a ifo to see what it contains i dont think a server side solution is there. It seems to me that this needs to be handled at the player. If thats the case then the issue does lie with in the chip set. after all isnt that where the codecs are being processed??

I still think that a server side software app could handle the IFO. It could read the IFO and relay the necessary information to the player.

Originally posted by gtrogue
I suppose it could be the file system. More likely it is still a DRM issue. The LinkPlayer doesn't support any WM DRM so until it does there's no way to truely say if they will play.

Do you think you can try again after the firmware update adds WM DRM?
well then what about something like this?

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/devices/wmconnect/default.aspx

Originally posted by gtrogue
I still think that a server side software app could handle the IFO. It could read the IFO and relay the necessary information to the player.

I guess that could happen but im still betting that there will be that gap between files like there is now with all files. Whats the story with mp3's? does the player support gapless playing of music?? If its not present in music then i would guess it wont be present in any media.

The "gap" issue could be overcome by buffering tricks. Does anyone know what the buffer size is on the LinkPlayer?

webboy10169

One of the "other" server apps I tried had a gapless mode, I can't remember which one it was as I have tried onxlbox, openshow, momitsu, neustron and japanese avlserver, I know not much help but I know it was on the page displayed on the linkplayer itself under music.

Originally posted by webboy10169
well then what about something like this?

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/devices/wmconnect/default.aspx I've not tried this particular M$ software myself...

Does anybody know if it will help some of us T2 Extreme owners living in Euroland watch the disc more easily?


Cheers

Originally posted by webboy10169
Single vob's are the way to go for now. I my self dont see this player ever dealing with ifo's. After ripping apart a ifo to see what it contains i dont think a server side solution is there. It seems to me that this needs to be handled at the player. If thats the case then the issue does lie with in the chip set. after all isnt that where the codecs are being processed??

DVD management is a very key topic to how well this I-O player will work as a replacement to my HTPC, which does have .ifo support. So given than, does anyone know the easiest way to reconfigure or re-master the VIDEO_TS folder for single VOB, main movie only? Will DVD Shrink take a full disc rip w/ .ifo, .bup, and .vob's and convert it to a single VOB of the main movie? How about Decrypter? Also, any easy way to keep the "other" info like the .ifo & unnecessary VOBs organized so a full disc copy could be easily restored in the future if .ifo support is added? My guess is there is no clean way to get around having two copies of everything, since re-mastering the main movie into a single large .vob would make the other .vobs be redundant unless the .ifo/full disc structure is restored.

What I would like to do is take the full disc rips I have but do not have optical disc backups of (one's my 3 yr old son has trashed the disc, for example) and back them onto disc. The problem is that DL media is still too expensive. Is there a way to rip the data from a VIDEO_TS folder onto two blank DVDs easily?

Yes. DVD Shrink will do what you want.

If anyone needs to know how to do this PM me.

What I do is remaster the disc for movie only but have been saving them as multiple VOB's (default mode of DVD Shrink) so now I have to go back and convert them all to one big VOB... not hard to do just a pain/time consuming thing....

I'm pretty sure DVDripper will take an ifo off the harddrive and rip it like it was a standard dvd video.


I want to chime in about the buffering - keep in mind, exchanging data between the Linkplayer and the server software is just like any other transaction, which is why you have the gaps. From a techinical standpoint, the linkplayer ends playing one media item, and then sends a request to the server.

The server then has to read the file system to make sure the file is still there, open it as a binary stream and then pass along the stream.

The linkplayer takes the stream, prebuffers a bit, and starts playing. this is especially noticeable on vobs and other video files because it likes to have a few seconds worth of content (at least, I still haven't figured out what the the buffer size is) and that's a lot of data to move.

This can *totally* be handled on the server side. You just need an application smart enough to know to append any of the rest of the files as part of the stream. However, you'd have to stitch the files in real time, which could be an issue with rewind and things of that nature. Possible, if all the files are of the exact same format (such as VOB's). A bit of extra work, though.


A lot of this could be solved by having an onboard hard drive like some of the kiss players. I still haven't had time to take the linkplayer apart to see what happens if I add one in. Probably not much, but most of the other players based on this chipset will have hard drive support so I'm hoping there's something built into the chipset itself.

Has anyone played an unencrypted PAL VOB (region 2) across the Network??? I know the built in drive is region locked but there is no reason that PAL won't play across the Network is there?

Thanks
Paul

But the point is an HTPC linked to a separate server manages to play with no gaps and play from the IFO without having to transfer any of the data to local storage. So it must be possible. The Linkplayer would have to open the IFO fully and then use which files it need on the server as opposed to having to have server software stream to it.

As far as getting big VOB's go that is easy. Use DVD decrypter in File mode, in settings choose no file splitting. The VOB's of the same group will be combined into one big VOB.
If you just want the movie VOB's then in File Mode settings choose file:Main Movie and choose no file splitting.
DVD Decrypter will not Rip Rips though so you would then need to use DVDShrink. DVDStripper will rip rips but I haven't used it for a long time.

I have 200 Rips, Ripped with DVD Decrypter then the main movie selected in DVDShrink. Shrink rewites the IFO's so the Folder would stand as a valid DVD and play if burned. I don't think that modern DVD software needs that anymore, I think the ripped IFO is sufficent. Haven't ripped in a while you see as I need to get around to building that server.... and I want a network player that will play IFO's as I am cured of HTPC's. I also don't want to have to modify 200 functioning Rips.

-Scott

Originally posted by Smartarse88
and I want a network player that will play IFO's as I am cured of HTPC's. I also don't want to have to modify 200 functioning Rips.

-Scott

Welcome to my boat. Plenty of room in here by the bow. Still 15 days left on that 30-day trial. Sure would be nice to know if the hardware is capable of supporting .ifo files. I've only asked about 8 times, so I agree with an earlier post. Seems like we will not get an answer from Sigma on this unfortunately. Sure would be easier to decide if I want to keep the player, though.

Quick question,

I would want to use this device to playback a lot of HD movies that are in very large .TS files. Most are 5.1 as well.

Does the IOD support .TS files now or is it still a future release?

Thanks!

Any issues with .TS playback anyone?

So I'm hearing a lot about how to use DVD Decrypter. What is there for us Mac folk that want to use the linkplayer as more than just an upconverting player? Anything comparable?

Also, anyone out there that can help me with using my D-VHS deck, HD-Tivo and my Mac with the linkplayer? Thanks.

Originally posted by JaredB
So I'm hearing a lot about how to use DVD Decrypter. What is there for us Mac folk that want to use the linkplayer as more than just an upconverting player? Anything comparable?

Also, anyone out there that can help me with using my D-VHS deck, HD-Tivo and my Mac with the linkplayer? Thanks.

You might want to take a look at the forums, files, guides and news at [URL=http://www.doom9.org] Not too sure what they have in the Mac end of things, but if anyplace does they will.

Orderd the LinkPlayer2 today (USA). I paid for the over night shipping, but have fast do they turn around an order. The web site says they are instock and ships 24 hours, but I sent an email through their web site and got no reply.

This is a little off-topic, but all the iodata experts seem to be hanging out here, so...

I notice that Linkplayer2 owners will have the opportunity to order the new iodata network hard disks and receive a rebate. What I'm trying to figure out is exactly why I'd want one!

I have a simple home wired/wireless network with 5 computers and some other devices. Two of the those devices are the Linkplayer and an XBox that serves as a multimedia center.

Several weeks ago, I thought it might be nice to experiment with network storage, so I originally got the (amazingly slow) Linksys NSLU2 device and a Maxtor 300Gb One Touch. The Linksys was completely useless for streaming video, so I took it back, and then plugged the Maxtor into the USB port of my main computer and Voila!

I can (and do) have my server software point to the drive. Both the Xbox and the Linkplayer access it. If I want other folks in the house to use that drive, I can simply turn sharing on for the drive or a couple of its subdirectories.

Knowing that, what possible use could a $500 300Gb network drive have for me? The Maxtor only cost $300 and does everything (I think) I want. If I needed more storage, I would think the smart thing would be to buy another Maxtor!

Not challenging--I'm just seeking education. Thanks for any insights.

Originally posted by JaredB
So I'm hearing a lot about how to use DVD Decrypter. What is there for us Mac folk that want to use the linkplayer as more than just an upconverting player? Anything comparable?

Also, anyone out there that can help me with using my D-VHS deck, HD-Tivo and my Mac with the linkplayer? Thanks.

No DVD Decrypter for the Mac but there are free tools available.

MacTheRipper and DVDBackup are two programs that come to mind. Check VersionTracker for the latest.

I notice that Linkplayer2 owners will have the opportunity to order the new iodata network hard disks and receive a rebate. What I'm trying to figure out is exactly why I'd want one! If you want to be able to run the AVEL server software with your computer off, you need the UHLD series (it is built in). If you keep your computer on all the time, I am not sure why you would want the UHLD server at the current price.

Originally posted by KeithAdv

Knowing that, what possible use could a $500 300Gb network drive have for me? The Maxtor only cost $300 and does everything (I think) I want. If I needed more storage, I would think the smart thing would be to buy another Maxtor!

Not challenging--I'm just seeking education. Thanks for any insights.

The I-O Data drives contain the server software so you don't have to have any PC's turned on to serve movies.

The server software built into NAS devices is one of the best reasons to use them. You don't have to have a PC or server running in order for all the computers on a network to access them. Since the LinkPlayer requires a special server application this feature is not available with standard NAS devices. In other words, a PC running the Link Server software is still required. For that reason a USB or Firewire drive attached to a PC running the server software will act the same way as a NAS and be much cheaper.


BTW, the Linksys NSLU is notoriously slow.

A different question related to the UHLD server:

I prefer the Momitsu interface to the AVEL software, will I be able to access that program when my computer is on (assuming I buy the Linkplayer UHLD NAS)?

In other words, the Linkplayer AVEL software will work nicely when my computer is off, but I would prefer to use the Momitsu software when and if it is available.

Originally posted by dbrown2
Orderd the LinkPlayer2 today (USA). I paid for the over night shipping, but have fast do they turn around an order. The web site says they are instock and ships 24 hours, but I sent an email through their web site and got no reply.

They are extremely fast and responsive (and answer the phone), but they did announce on the website some holiday closure dates previously. Might be wise to follow up on those if in doubt.

So it looks like with the WMV9 VCM method when using AVI as the wrapper with AC3 or other supported audio, the following might occur on the AVLP2:

1. Perfect playback.
2. Playback with green blocks.
3. Playback with pink/purple splotches.

So far, all of my WMV9 VCM encodes were done in VirtualDubMod so I'm going to play around with the WMV9 VCM settings to figure out why #2 and #3 occurs.

I had an old encode of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider encoded to 1920x816p WMV9 VCM w/AC3 in an AVI container which I had lent a friend a copy of and he's seeing the 'green blocks' issue on it. My HDNET encode sample of Miss Hawaiian Tropics 2002 has the 'pink/purple splotches' issue.

Guess it's time to do some research. I'm very interested in TMPGEnc 3.0 Express so hopefully they offer a trial version and will try to follow Tom Roper's instructions several posts back.

I'm sorry to disappoint but after further testing of PAR/DAR marked XviD files, the results are showing that the flags are NOT being honored on the AVLP2 in either an MP4 or AVI container. I did testing with some files today with the AVLP2 set to 'Actual Size' and 'Fit To Screen' for Zoom. 16:9 marked PAR or DAR that was encoded at 4:3 square-pixels are showing up as 4:3 on the screen on my 16:9 screen.

We had false positives I bet because I'm betting most people have the Zoom setting to 'Full Screen'.

To be sure, upon playback of the MP4 sample files marked 16:9 DAR and 16:9 PAR when encoded at 640x480, it was playing back on my PC as 16:9 and not 4:3.

Originally posted by Kermee
I'm sorry to disappoint but after further testing of PAR/DAR marked XviD files, the results are showing that the flags are NOT being honored on the AVLP2 in either an MP4 or AVI container. Although I have not got one of these players, I would have been very surprised if it had supported Mpeg4 with PAR/DAR signalling in AVI - as currently, only a few MediaTek chip-set based players are able to do this.

However, past experience has shown that Mpeg4 with PAR/DAR signalling in MP4 should work... They do with my Xcard and have done so for well over a year!


Cheers

Originally posted by SeeMoreDigital
Although I have not got one of these players, I would have been very surprised if it had supported Mpeg4 with PAR/DAR signalling in AVI - as currently, only a few MediaTek chip-set based players are able to do this.

However, past experience has shown that Mpeg4 with PAR/DAR signalling in MP4 should work... They do with my Xcard and have done so for well over a year!


Cheers

SeeMoreDigital,

Is there a utility which can tell me the PAR/DAR settings for the video in an MP4 file? I'm using 3ivx/GraphEdit way of creating my MP4's after VirtualDubMod pumps them out to AVI. The easiest way for me to tell is playing them back with the 3ivx Dshow decoder and of course looking at the output, but was wondering if there's another way to double-check.

I'm trying to figure out which 'Zoom' setting, if any, is the correct one for the AVLP2. Right now, 'Full Screen' is just that. It seems to take video and stretch it out to the bounds of your TV. 'Actual Size' is just that (the mode I did to test the Mpeg4 with PAR/DAR signaling) and then there's 'Fit To Screen'.

Hi Kermee,

Unfortunately, I've not found such a utility. Worse still, there are not many software media players that can detect PAR/DAR signalling AVI or MP4 either. Thankfully VLC does and so does Nero's ShowTime player.

When it comes to Mpeg4 DSdec filters, 3ivx and XviD have them, but both have their idiosyncrasies. And sadly, many people report problems if they have both 3ivx and Nero software/filters installed on the same boot. Personally speaking, I have 'Nero only' on one boot and '3ivx only' on another!

Now, with regard to adding or amending PAR/DAR signalling of an Mpeg4 stream, there are a couple of tools you may be interested in: -

The first is a GUI (.NET) based tool called MPEG4 Modifier (http://forum.doom9.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=78050). Which will allow you to change the PAR/DAR values of an Mpeg4 stream in AVI.

And yesterday a guy over on Doom9 created/posted an command line tool called ARchange (http://forum.doom9.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=86870) that allows you to do the same for an Mpeg4 stream in MP4.

For me, one of my favourite muxing/de-muxing tools is still mp4UI.

When it comes to the AVLP2 output settings, I would have thought for Mpeg4 PAR/DAR streams in MP4, the player would need to be set-up in exactly the same way as you would, if you were viewing "16:9 widescreen anamorphic" Mpeg2 DVD's......

My Sigma Xcard's "TV Display Ratio" output settings are set to 16:9, when watching 720x480/576 DVD/VOB and 720x480/576 Mpeg4/MP4 files - And everything works perfectly via an component YUV connection: -

http://img139.exs.cx/img139/9725/smdhitachiplasma9xb.jpg

However, it's a different story when watching 720x480/576 Mpeg4/AVI's as I have set the Xcards "TV Display Ratio" to 4:3 and manually adjust the screens aspect ratio to "Full"

Cheers

Originally posted by Kermee
I'm sorry to disappoint but after further testing of PAR/DAR marked XviD files, the results are showing that the flags are NOT being honored on the AVLP2 in either an MP4 or AVI container. I did testing with some files today with the AVLP2 set to 'Actual Size' and 'Fit To Screen' for Zoom. 16:9 marked PAR or DAR that was encoded at 4:3 square-pixels are showing up as 4:3 on the screen on my 16:9 screen.

We had false positives I bet because I'm betting most people have the Zoom setting to 'Full Screen'.

To be sure, upon playback of the MP4 sample files marked 16:9 DAR and 16:9 PAR when encoded at 640x480, it was playing back on my PC as 16:9 and not 4:3.

Kermee- do you have the player set for HD Browser mode? The zoom control does not function or do much at all in the larger browser. When set to HD Browser (smaller text), the zoom makes noticable changes on most of my rips. Not sure why it would not work on the standard browser mode, and I emailed I-O to ask why. They responded they would look into it.

like this web site: p214.ezboard.com/bdsm320 sorry you will need to copy and past since I have not made more then 5 post yet.


This thread is getting very long. I think it would be easier to keep track with different discussions areas.

Just a thought.

BTW I am learning so much from you guys... Thanks for the extra brain power.


I have one (of many to come) question. If you convert a DVD with DTS and 5.1 to a SVCD movie can you keep the 5.1 in it? I wanted to convert a dvd to one large svcd file. I tried, but lost the 5.1.

I have currently have the DSM 320 and do not like it. So it goes back to Best Buy. I have since ordered me the LinkPlayer and will hope it is better at playing VOB files then the DSM 320.

I have video_ts folders and all of the ifo and vob files in it. The DSM will only play the VOB's (that is ok with me), but it will not play all of the VOB's in the same folder. It might play the first vob or maybe the first 2 vob's. Then when it moves to the next one it freezes. I have used decryptor to create one large vob, but then stops in like the first 4 min of the movie. If you press DISPLAY on the remote (display shows you length of file in min, resolution (720 x 480 or whatever) and bitrate (8000). When I make the one large movie the length of the movie is only 4:19 min. So it ends at that point. Must not be using decryptor in the correct way.

Anyway I look forward to the linkplayer since I have had some trouble with the dsm 320. It even has a limit to the number of mp3's you can have (i think like 5000).

David

From: http://www.iodata.com/usa/products/AVLP2_SW.php

2nd Next Major Update (January 2005)
We will plan to release the newer firmware with these functions:
[ Bug Fixed ]
- Drive Speed Management (Reduce Noise)
- AV Receiver Problem Fixed
[ Additional Functions ]
- Microsoft DRM (Windows Media® DRM for ND) for DVD Movie Playback
- Microsoft DRM (Windows Media® DRM for SD) for Network File Playback
- Microsoft WMA Pro (5.1ch Audio)
[ Services ]
- Rhapsody Internet Radio

2nd Next Major Update (January 2005)
We will plan to release the newer firmware with these functions:

[ Additional Functions ]
- Microsoft DRM (Windows Media® DRM for ND) for DVD Movie Playback
- Microsoft DRM (Windows Media® DRM for SD) for Network File Playback
- Microsoft WMA Pro (5.1ch Audio)


Dont forget the Mac user, IODATA. One reason I picked this player over the Momitsu was that it supported the Mac right off, while Momitsu users are still waiting.

How about DRM for the Itunes.

Had no luck with hymn.

Wow, tons of great info here guys, thanks. I do have one question that hasn't really been addressed regarding music playback. How is the music playback from a browsing point of view? Do you browse via a tree structure, and if so, is that based on ID3 tags or the folder structure on the server side? A lot of these units seem to have problems playing an album properly, most end up playing in alphabetical order instead of track order. Does this unit suffer the same problem?

Some feedback on this would be great.

SeeMoreDigital,

Thanks for all of your info. It's extremely helpful. I'm starting to delve into MP4 instead of just my old method of encoding with DivX and XviD and stuffing them into AVI containers. Lots of new tools to learn.

I do have a copy of MPEG4Modifier 1.3.0 and was using that to set, view and change the PAR/DAR signaling in the AVI files I made. I'll keep on continuing doing my research.

I know for a fact that on playback of .MP4 files, 3ivx's DirectShow decoder is handling the video even though I have Nero installed. Onto more testing...

BTW- Nice setup you've got going there!

Originally posted by mikemav
Kermee- do you have the player set for HD Browser mode? The zoom control does not function or do much at all in the larger browser. When set to HD Browser (smaller text), the zoom makes noticable changes on most of my rips. Not sure why it would not work on the standard browser mode, and I emailed I-O to ask why. They responded they would look into it.

mikemav,

My AVLP2 is set to HD Browser. When I get home from work today, I'll turn it off and see how it affects zoom and AR with the HD Browser turned on and off. I have some 4:3 square pixel, 16:9 square pixel, and some 4:3 and 16:9 DAR and PAR signalled encodes.

Thanks!

Does any know the number (us number perfered) to IO DATA?

I can't seem to find it on their web site.

Originally posted by wingtipz
Wow, tons of great info here guys, thanks. I do have one question that hasn't really been addressed regarding music playback. How is the music playback from a browsing point of view? Do you browse via a tree structure, and if so, is that based on ID3 tags or the folder structure on the server side? A lot of these units seem to have problems playing an album properly, most end up playing in alphabetical order instead of track order. Does this unit suffer the same problem?

Some feedback on this would be great.

wingtipz,

The music browsing is very similar to video browsing. The server software is capable of reading playlists of the .m3u and .pls type and can read ID3 V1 at the very least. It can then, very much like iTunes, sort by Artist and Genre and I'm pretty certain a 3rd field that I can't remember off the top of my head but will check when I get home.

You can also set a specific 'Picture Slideshow' during MP3 playback with some granularity by folders, but some users have reported problems with it.

I'll delve into 'documenting' how the music side of it works a bit later when I have time, but it was not too shabby when I played with it. I've only tried MP3's on this unit and Internet Radio (Shoutcast) and not the other formats. Maybe someone else can chime in.

Hope this helps!

Originally posted by dbrown2
Does any know the number (us number perfered) to IO DATA?

I can't seem to find it on their web site.

It appears at this time that Sales and S&R is the only thing happening here in America. Their tech support is being run out of Japan. I haven't been able to find out if they plan on having a tech support presence here at some time in the future. It is a pain not being able to contact tech support by phone.

I've figured out my 'green blocks' and 'pink splotches' issue with WMV9 HD encoded using the VCM/VFW method. Make sure you're using either the 'Simple' or 'Main' profile when encoding the video. It seems the 'Complex' profile is NOT supported by the Sigma Designs EM8620L. I'm researching to see what the differences are between the profiles.

Originally posted by A/Vspec
Yes. DVD Shrink will do what you want.

What I do is remaster the disc for movie only but have been saving them as multiple VOB's (default mode of DVD Shrink) so now I have to go back and convert them all to one big VOB... not hard to do just a pain/time consuming thing....

Is anyone out there taking a ripped main movie (such as from DVDShrink)
and then running it through DrDivX to get an AVI file with ~Mpeg4 video
and AC3 sound and then streaming that to the LinkPlayer?

This is what I'm hoping to do and was hoping that someone could tell me
their experiences.

Thanks!

Originally posted by istreamdvds
Is anyone out there taking a ripped main movie (such as from DVDShrink)
and then running it through DrDivX to get an AVI file with ~Mpeg4 video
and AC3 sound and then streaming that to the LinkPlayer?

This is what I'm hoping to do and was hoping that someone could tell me
their experiences.

Thanks!

My gut feeling is that it will work perfectly fine but I will test it for you tonight with the trial version.

Originally posted by Kermee
My gut feeling is that it will work perfectly fine but I will test it for you tonight with the trial version.
Works fine here (except that I'm one of the un-lucky people with AC3 compatibility problem)

Duh. Just found the page on I-O Data's website which basically ENDORSES Dr. DivX. So I guess, "Yes".

LINK: I-O Data: "Best Transcode: Dr. DivX" (http://www.iodata.com/usa/products/AVLP2_TIPS.php)

A little off topic but DigitalConnections in Hunting Beach, CA has them in stock. I'm going there to pick one up tomorrow. I have a HTPC which has over 100 movies on its hard drives. I'm anxious to see how the player plays these movies; I also have some movies encoded into Windows WMVHD format. Since they're not protected, I guess they should play.

Hopefully Digital Connections will have a unit connected and ready to go. I'll bring movies just in case.

Thought everyone would like to know of another source for the players.

Originally posted by istreamdvds
Is anyone out there taking a ripped main movie (such as from DVDShrink)
and then running it through DrDivX to get an AVI file with ~Mpeg4 video
and AC3 sound and then streaming that to the LinkPlayer?

This is what I'm hoping to do and was hoping that someone could tell me
their experiences.

Thanks!

It works fine. Just make sure to use 1:1 when encoding anamorphic material so that the aspect ratio is mostly correct on playback.

Originally posted by gtrogue
It works fine. Just make sure to use 1:1 when encoding anamorphic material so that the aspect ratio is mostly correct on playback. Also don't forget... If you decide to use DrDivX to generate your 1:1 (ie 720x480 or 720x576) encodes, they will not include PAR signalling!

So you may have to fiddle about with your players output settings and/or TV settings to obtain the correct AR shape of the movie ;)


Cheers

Originally posted by Kermee
Duh. Just found the page on I-O Data's website which basically ENDORSES Dr. DivX. So I guess, "Yes".

LINK: I-O Data: "Best Transcode: Dr. DivX" (http://www.iodata.com/usa/products/AVLP2_TIPS.php)

I know this is a bit OT for the general discussion, but since it applies to the I-O player, I figured I'd ask. Faced with the same situation of having to re-author my full disc rips to make them more "browsable" without .ifos, I would like to consider MPEG4. I know very little, and realize there is much to be said that does not need to be discussed on this thread. But a simple question- is there any noticeable loss of quality (video or audio) by using something like Dr. DivX instead of the straight MPEG2 .vob files? How much file space can be saved while maintaining max quality? Is there a good place to start reading about this? Finally, is Dr. DivX the consensus best choice (and is it free or commercial) or are there better choices for use with this player?

I connect my I-O player via D4-component to AV-Receiver and Front Projector. Left hand side of the display will flick every two to five seconds, even more frequent when mode is 1080i. Seems like garbage signal and only happened at a menu selection "within AVel server program screen navigation or within DVD menu" but not when DVD movie is playing. I don't have that problem when using other input sources like other DVD player and HDTV Cable box.

Hi mikemav,

When encoding to Mpeg4, whether it be by using, DrDivX, XviD or Nero's Recode2, there will always be a slight drop in quality because your encoding from one lossy audio/video format to another!

However, much will depend on the bit-rate and pixel frame size you decide to use!

One thing you won't get with DrDivX is the ability to generate encodes with chapters. Only Nero's Recode2 offers this level of functionality but whether this player can use it is another matter!

If your not bothered about chapters, you may still have the option of staying with Mpeg2/AC3 after-all.

You might find, all you have to do is re-rip your current separate Mpeg2/AC3 VOB files into one long Mpeg2/AC3 VOB file and re-name the file extension to .mpg ;)


Cheers

Originally posted by SeeMoreDigital
You might find, all you have to do is re-rip your current separate Mpeg2/AC3 VOB files into one long Mpeg2/AC3 VOB file and re-name the file extension to .mpg ;)


Cheers

You don't even have to do that. Just rip the movie as one big VOB. The LinkPlayer plays back .vob files without any trouble.

Reencoding is very time consuming and you lose even more features when you do it. This player doesn't support external subtitle files or muxed subtitles and it doesn't support multilple muxed audio tracks in .avi's. Unless hard drive space is your primary concern I'd just leave the VOB files intact.

SMD is right about the PAR signalling and it's the reason I said the AR would be "mostly correct" on playback. A 1:1 encode with blackbars removed will playback at a slightly incorrect AR. It's very slight and most people probably won't notice.

Originally posted by gtrogue
You don't even have to do that. Just rip the movie as one big VOB. The LinkPlayer plays back .vob files without any trouble. Hopefully this news should provide some welcome comfort to Mpeg2 users :)

When it comes to, PAR/DAR, chapters, multiple sub-titles, multiple audio channels and even multiple audio tracks... it's all possible with the MP4 container. And Nero's Recode2 makes this process very simple to do!

It's also possible to incorporate "menus" into MP4, that look and work exactly like they do on a DVD.

Sadly this player does offer anything like the MP4 functionality it could have done!

I'm in the process of obtaining a "standard-def" NeroDigital certified player from Germany. Which, by all accounts, is already able to offer switching between two sets of sub-titles and AAC audio streams.... So, in this regard, it's already a more flexible player. It also offers a much wider choice of analogue audio and video outputs: -

http://img92.exs.cx/img92/3959/tevion5000rear7hn.gif

Not bad for something that costs just: €69,99


Cheers

Originally posted by loquatsoft
I connect my I-O player via D4-component to AV-Receiver and Front Projector. Left hand side of the display will flick every two to five seconds, even more frequent when mode is 1080i. Seems like garbage signal and only happened at a menu selection "within AVel server program screen navigation or within DVD menu" but not when DVD movie is playing. I don't have that problem when using other input sources like other DVD player and HDTV Cable box.

Do you have the player in HD browser mode?

Unfortunately I haven't been able to find much help in DrDivX regarding
encoding with "1:" AR. Could someone be so kind to explain what this means?

Thanks in advance!

Originally posted by istreamdvds
Unfortunately I haven't been able to find much help in DrDivX regarding
encoding with "1:" AR. Could someone be so kind to explain what this means?

Thanks in advance! If you would like to learn more about encoding with DivX and DrDivx, why not take a trip over to the DivX section of the Doom9 forum (http://forum.doom9.org/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=56)?

Don't forget to use search!


Cheers

Originally posted by SeeMoreDigital
Hopefully this news should provide some welcome comfort to Mpeg2 users :)

When it comes to, PAR/DAR, chapters, multiple sub-titles, multiple audio channels and even multiple audio tracks... it's all possible with the MP4 container. And Nero's Recode2 makes this process very simple to do!

Cheers

The technique of ripping into a single giant vob and being able to play that
certainly sounds interesting! Do menus, chapters, etc work normally when
such a vob is played from a network fileserver? I sure won't miss the 5 hour
re-encodings if network vob play is similar to a regular DVD.

Regarding Nero, I certainly have to agree that I prefer using it over DrDivX.
However, not being able to put AC3 audio in the Nero mp4 container for
routing to my HT preamp is a real bummer. :( How do you deal with
retaining 5.1 audio?

Much thanks for all the wonderful info!

Originally posted by istreamdvds
The technique of ripping into a single giant vob and being able to play that certainly sounds interesting! Do menus, chapters, etc work normally when such a vob is played from a network fileserver? I sure won't miss the 5 hour re-encodings if network vob play is similar to a regular DVD. If they are stored in one big VOB file, then not to my belief.... As far as I know, the files required to display menus and point to chapters have to be stored in separate VOB's IFO and BUP files.

Originally posted by istreamdvds
Regarding Nero, I certainly have to agree that I prefer using it over DrDivX. However, not being able to put AC3 audio in the Nero mp4 container for routing to my HT preamp is a real bummer. :( How do you deal with retaining 5.1 audio? The only way you can retain 5.1 (aka: 6Ch) audio in MP4 is to convert it to AAC.... Recode2 does this very well indeed. But sadly "this" player can't output 6Ch AAC...

...So it's a bust!

Quote:
===================================
Originally posted by Irgaac
Do you have the player in HD browser mode?
===================================
Yup!
It still flick after I unchecked the HD browser mode. It happened while playing DVD movie now. I reported this problem to I-O Data.

I purchased the IO Player from Digital Connections this morning. By 2 PM everything was set up and ready to go. I'm running a Sony HTPC, and have several hundred movies (from TV and Laserdisc collection) on the hard drive, together with over 2gb of mp3 audio files.

To my (untrained eye) the picture output in 1080i by the IO Player is absolutely stunning. Before the IO Player, I ran progressive output into a Centerstage Scaler and out the Component connection to the HDTV. The IO's picture appears to be "sharper" and have more "depth" than that through the Centerstage.

I've converted several movies to DIVX format (using Dr. DIVX). No problem in playing them either via the network or by burning to CD (or DVD).

I've had absolutely no problems with "studdering" movies as I experienced with an LG DVD player. No problems with audio either. No problems with 2, 4, or even 8 gb video files playing through the network. (The HTPC has a gigabit card, and goes through a gigabet switch also).

So far the player exceeds the expectations I had when I purchased it.

Updates to IO-Data's site today:

http://www.iodata.com/usa/products/products.php?cat=HNP&sc=AVEL&ts=2&tsc=&sc=AVEL&pId=MA-D4%2FCPF

D4 to Component Female Adapter MA-D4/CPF

Start to ship on Early Febrary 2005 (Your E-mail is accepted)

"How to get this adapter?"
Please send an e-mail to us (d4order@iodata.com) with the following information:
- Your Full Name (Same as ordered name)
- E-mail Address
- Your Latest Receiving Address
- Product Serial Number
- Web Site Inovice Number
Opportunity: Just One (1) Time
Rightful Customer: Who ordered LinkPlayer IODATA online shopping site (USA only)
Nonapproved Users:
- Canadian Customers
- Twice or more request
- LinkPlayer user who didn't buy on our web site by self
- Returnd or Refunded Customers
NOTICE
For Non Our Web Site Customers: Please ask this request to your seller at first. All our corporated customer will have extra stocks in order to give to current users.
For Replacement: Please apply for the our RMA process

http://shop.iodata.com/shopping/products.php?cat=HNP&sc=AVEL&pId=MA-D4%2FCP05

D4 to Component Cable 5m for LinkPlayer
MA-D4/CP05
Our Price: $39.00


http://shop.iodata.com/shopping/products.php?cat=HNP&sc=AVEL&pId=MA-D4%2FCP10
D4 to Component Cable 10m for LinkPlayer
MA-D4/CP10
Our Price: $69.00



http://www.iodata.com/usa/products/AVLP2_Forum.php

Added new forum threads about the AVLP2

Picture "Softness"
-----
I'm starting to wonder if the included D4 cable is causing more of a problem than we previously thought.

I had been viewing the Linkplayer on smaller screens, until today when I finally got a chance to hook it up to a 100" projection system I set up for one of my clients. The system uses the Sanyo PLV-70 projector, and video from their HD receiver looks pristine on this thing.

Anyway, at 100", there was OBVIOUS ghosting on the picture in 720p. On the LinkPlayer menus the ghosted images of the letters were off at least an inch to the right. Same thing with titles and credits during HD movies (didn't matter what format). At 1080i it was slightly better, but still there.

The funny thing is that when watching HD movies, this ghosting exhibits itself as "softness" in the image unless you focus on the titles and credits. It isn't like a bad analog antenna signal where the ghosting is random or goes in and out and is obvious, when watching a movie the ghosting is so consistent that you really can't see it, except to say the images are soft. Kind of like it is not quite 100% HD.

I imagine that on smaller screens (72" or smaller) this ghosting wouldn't be as obvious, but the image softness caused by the ghosting would be. I'm not sure ghosting is the right word here, basically there is an exact double image of everything on the screen, just offset about an inch to the right. This could also be causing the perceived "overscan" everyone is talking about.

I'm now dying to try a different D4 cable like the JVC one (although $50 is a bit steep for a cable). If that would fix this problem I would be in heaven.

If anyone else who has this unit can hook it up to a nice 100" projection screen or larger (preferably one that looks perfect with other HD sources), please let me know if you see this ghosting as well with the included D4 cable. Like I said, the most obvious place to see it is in the Linkplayer menus (you can see the ghosting from 15' away), and also in movie titles and credits. It is easier to see the problem when you stand close to the screen, so when you move back to your seating position you can't necessarily pinpoint the ghosting anymore but you can definitely tell the picture is softer than normal HD.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,

Ben

Upon further examination, it seems I have overstated the ghosting problem I mentioned in my last post. In turned out that there was some slight ghosting on other HD sources as well. I think the component run is too long and/or exacerbated by the addition of the RCA couplers I had to use to make the short D4 cable work.

However, something is still a bit off, and I think it has to be the cable. I mean, I have probably watched several hundred hours of HD on this screen and never noticed the ghosting or any softness, and it was immediately apparent with the Linkplayer.

I'd still like user's experiences with HD content on the Linkplayer on very large screens (100") in 720p or 1080i, as compared to typical HD. Especially people who have switched out the cable with the JVC one and if it was a big difference on a large screen.

[Free Female Campaign]
Product Name: MA-D4/CPF
Shipping Date: Early Febrary 2005 (Your E-mail is accepted)

Guess IO Data is pulling out all the stops on this one! :P

Looks like existing/previous AVLP2 will get the adapter also.

Jeez,

$39.00 for a 5m "D4 to Component Cable" and $69.00 for a 10m.... This really is way too much money!

One of the first rules of audio and video is... "Never use the supplied cables" - as they are more than likely total crap!

Surely there some type of "D4 to RCA/Phono" adaptor you guys can buy? Allowing you the choice of using some good quality cables/ leads!


Cheers


EDIT: It looks like Kermee has found such an adaptor... What does it look like?

Originally posted by bcbuie
Upon further examination, it seems I have overstated the ghosting problem I mentioned in my last post. In turned out that there was some slight ghosting on other HD sources as well. I think the component run is too long and/or exacerbated by the addition of the RCA couplers I had to use to make the short D4 cable work.

However, something is still a bit off, and I think it has to be the cable. I mean, I have probably watched several hundred hours of HD on this screen and never noticed the ghosting or any softness, and it was immediately apparent with the Linkplayer.

I'd still like user's experiences with HD content on the Linkplayer on very large screens (100") in 720p or 1080i, as compared to typical HD. Especially people who have switched out the cable with the JVC one and if it was a big difference on a large screen.

I'm using the Linkplayer with my NEC projector and 100" screen
No ghosting but the 480p is the only acceptable output since 720p and 1080i is not as sharp ( blurry ?)

Originally posted by irgaac
Updates to IO-Data's site today:

http://www.iodata.com/usa/products/products.php?cat=HNP&sc=AVEL&ts=2&tsc=&sc=AVEL&pId=MA-D4%2FCPF


Looks like the before Christmas firmware upgrade will not happen :(

bump

Originally posted by lifeisfun
Looks like the before Christmas firmware upgrade will not happen :(

they changed the Dec 23rd release to End of December a couple of weeks ago.

Originally posted by lifeisfun
I'm using the Linkplayer with my NEC projector and 100" screen
No ghosting but the 480p is the only acceptable output since 720p and 1080i is not as sharp ( blurry ?)

Thanks for the info.

Are you saying that even with native 720p HD material (WMVHD, DivXHD, etc.), your 480p still looks better than 720p!? That would be shocking that 720p material looks better output at 480p, after all it is being downconverted to 480p and then re-upconverted to 720p by your projector.

Or are you talking about DVD material? It wouldn't surprise me if 480p was better than 720p for DVD material, the scalers in the newer projectors are probably better than the scaler in the LinkPlayer.

Have you tried a different D4 cable? Not another component cable with couplers, but an actual replacement for the included D4 cable? Someone mentioned that there is some problem with the included D4 cable that causes the softness, and when they tried another one (like the one from JVC) the picture got sharper.

I've got to get that JVC cable and do a "scientific" comparison of the two. I've never put much weight in cables affecting picture quality, but I have to admit the included cable doesn't seem to be a great match for this player (it barely stays in).

I'm glad I-O Data is listening to customers and actually doing something about the cable, it is rare to get such quick response from a manufacturer.

Ben

I tested several DVD's and one HD Divx file - all better in 480p then 720p or 1080i
This includes the browser screen and setup menu !
Unfortunately I don't have another D4 to component cable to test it out :(

Originally posted by istreamdvds
The technique of ripping into a single giant vob and being able to play that
certainly sounds interesting! Do menus, chapters, etc work normally when
such a vob is played from a network fileserver? I sure won't miss the 5 hour
re-encodings if network vob play is similar to a regular DVD.


The menus and chapters are not included in the movie VOB. The audio and subtitle streams will remain if you decide to keep them and you can use the audio and subtitle buttons on the remote to switch between them. The only problem is the the DD 5.1/6.1 audio track may not be the first track in the file so the audio commentary or stereo DD track may play back by default.

You can use the arrow keys on the remote to move forward and backward in the movie by 1% increments.

LINK: AVeL Link Advanced Server Beta (http://www.iodata.com/usa/products/AVLP2_Setup.php#AD)

A beta version of the AvEL Link Advanced Server Beta for North America has been released. It adds realtime transcoding of any Directshow compliant codec to MPEG2. This basically means that if Windows Media Player can play it, it can be streamed to your LinkPlayer2.

It also has a better management interface for your music. You can sort by artists, genres, titles, favorites and more. It also has a built in search function. Playback can be organized several different ways including a rating system.

I personally have not loaded the beta software yet.

For the most part. I few problems with movies, but not much. One question. How do I update the firmware.

I press setup I nav over to firmware press enter and I see "checking for new firmware"

But that is it. It will just set there for 5 min or more. No error, but not update.

The only problem for me I can't seem to make it update the firmware. It found my DHCP server and got an ip address, 2 dns servers and gateway. And finds the LinkPlayer 1.7 server and now beta Advanced LinkPlayer server.

Does anyone know what ftp server it is trying to get to? Can I donwload the firmware and put it on CD and update from the CD?

Just not sure why I would not be able to update from the network.

I do have an older firmware then what is listed on the web.

wow, this forum is huge. I just bought that Phillips 642 this past week for my birthday and wasn't too happy with it. It just didn't play some of the higher quality videos that I would have liked it too. I have a couple Xvids and whatnot that just didn't work out on there. I read about this whole forum about the Avel Linkplayer and was seriously thinking about getting one because I figured since it can do HD it must be able to play files better than the other player. I got fed up and placed an order for a linkplayer tonight and will be returning the phillips next week. I don't know, I'm kind of still in shock because this player was over 3 times as much. What I kind of would like to know is, did I make a good choice in going this way??? I may not use it for the home networking at first. Mainly just a DVD/music player. I just wanted something that will play about anything I can give it and this one seemed like the best choice.

Kohaikibagami,

I have only had it a few hours now. But I had a DSM 320 (dlink) I was not impressed at all with it. It would not play some of the vob's or some of the xvid movies I had. This player has plaed them without any problem at all. The 5.1 audio works great through my HTR 5460 yamaha and I love the fact there are more then one speed on FF and RR.

I found my DHCP server without any problems and was stream video and mp3's without any trouble. I even hooked up my usb jump drive with some photo's in it to see if it would play them. It found the usb at plug in and I could play them with a slide show.

It also read a DVD RW data drive and played the mp3's and jpg's from it.

Has anyone installed the "advanced server"? I have it installed and I am able to get (pro-logic) audio on the WMVHD files downloaded from Microsoft's website (Terminator and Coral Reef clips). However, the video/sound plays for for around ten or twenty seconds and then it starts stuttering. Anyone able to play the stream without it having this problem?

I also tested WMA lossless (audio) and got a message that it was an unsupported format on my screen.

Originally posted by uofmtiger
Has anyone installed the "advanced server"? I have it installed and I am able to get (pro-logic) audio on the WMVHD files downloaded from Microsoft's website (Terminator and Coral Reef clips). However, the video/sound plays for for around ten or twenty seconds and then it starts stuttering. Anyone able to play the stream without it having this problem?

I also tested WMA lossless (audio) and got a message that it was an unsupported format on my screen.

Yup! Same on mine(WMVHD). The DivxHD on the Advance Server looks better. I like Momitsu Internet browser feature, just need a USB mouse+keyboard to make it MSNTV; like that going to happend.

Originally posted by loquatsoft
Yup! Same on mine(WMVHD). The DivxHD on the Advance Server looks better. I like Momitsu Internet browser feature, just need a USB mouse+keyboard to make it MSNTV; like that going to happend. I would love to see a keyboard. I wrote I-O data to tell them that they should add the internet feature to their software and they said they would look into it. I have a Prismiq and the speed of the browser on the Linkplayer puts the Prismiq's browser to shame. I have been using Slimserver software to play back music on the Prismiq and I would bet there is a way to use it with the Linkplayer. With the speed of the Linkplayer' browser, it may actually be a pretty good match.

The Slimserver interface has better management of large music collections and that is why I am interested in the compatibilty with the I-O data player.

added later: I do not believe it is possible tto use the Slimserver interface with the Momitsu software. The Prismiq is able to play music while surfing the internet. The Momitsu software stops music play when you leave the music folder. I tried playing the Slimserver from the browser, but it needs a player.

Unlike the regular server, the Advanced doesn't pick up folder shortcuts in My Videos directory. I'm forced to add files manually. Is there a workaround to this?

Originally posted by epsilon
Unlike the regular server, the Advanced doesn't pick up folder shortcuts in My Videos directory. I'm forced to add files manually. Is there a workaround to this?

Yeah, that is a fix they should work out before the final release, since this is just a beta. Otherwise it would be too much of a PITA to even bother. Also wonder if there is a way to specify the directshow filters used....this could make for some interesting stuff. Like being able to play .ty (TiVo files) or even use some video tweaks on the PC-side. I am not totally clear how the advanced server works. If it transcodes anything into mpeg streams, I wonder if FFDShow applied before it leaves the PC would be possible or beneficial. The again, probably not a good idea to make this into an HTPC, for those of us hoping this replaces the HTPC :)

Ive been playing with it all day, I can get it to play .ty files but so far I am only able to get the audio not the video and then only on some ty files not all. The documentation SEEMS to implly that anything played by media center on the pc using directshow filters *( tyshow filters :) ) should be playable.

Does AS transcode everything you play through it, or does is only do so if the player doesn't understand the codec? It'd be nice if it is the latter.

i think it is in the config. look aqt the server-config.xml file

<mediaType typeId="video">
<mediaFile extension=".asf" transcode="yes"/>
<mediaFile extension=".avi" transcode="no"/>
<mediaFile extension=".dat"/>
<mediaFile extension=".divx" fake=".avi"/>
<mediaFile extension=".hnl" fake=".mpg" resumable="yes"/>
<mediaFile extension=".m1v"/>
<mediaFile extension=".m2p" fake=".mpg" resumable="yes"/>
<mediaFile extension=".m2v"/>
<mediaFile extension=".m4v"/>
<mediaFile extension=".mov" transcode="yes"/>
<mediaFile extension=".mp4"/>
<mediaFile extension=".mpe" fake=".mpg" resumable="yes"/>
<mediaFile extension=".mpeg" resumable="yes"/>
<mediaFile extension=".mpg" resumable="yes"/>
<mediaFile extension=".rmp4"/>
<mediaFile extension=".vob" fake=".mpg" resumable="yes"/>
<mediaFile extension=".vro" fake=".mpg"/>
<mediaFile extension=".wmv" transcode="yes"/>
<mediaFile extension=".xvid" fake=".avi"/>
<mediaFile extension=".div" fake=".avi"/>
<mediaFile extension=".vg2" transcode="yes"/>
<mediaFile extension=".ty" fake=".mpg"/>
</mediaType>

Thanks. That's better than nothing, but not very useful. Do you know what the "fake" attribute does? Does it mean treat the extension as if it was the "fake" value?

If I add the ".ty" fake=mpg then my TIVO files show up in the video folder and SOME of them playback audio but no video. I believe that we may be able to get the transcoder to play them back or figure out how to have the server invoke the registered tyshow filters that are on the pc

looks like you need to add the transcode="yes" to the node.

<mediaFile extension=".ty" transcode="yes" />

the fake="" is what the normal file extension is, even though that's not the stream type as the Linkplayer would see it. If the files are ".ty", there's no need to add the "fake" attribute in.

Ok, I guess I am little slow. I figured out how to check for new updates. Go to Firmware tab and then move down to "check for firmeware updates").

http://www.iodata.com/usa/products/AVLP2_SW.php
The usa web site reads "The latest Verion: 03-78-041130-01-IOD-234-000", but my firmware is "03-19-041018-01-IOD-234-011". But when i check the firmware the system tells me I have the latest version. Is the web site wrong? Even though it's on their USA web site is the 03-78 for NON USA products?

If you have a look at the site you linked you will notice that their server is down "Now our update server is not working for the maintainace."

/BE

You know, I am little slow that proves it. Sorry for overlooking that. I seem to have a problem with over looking things.

Will it downconvert HD for playback through SVideo? I'd like to use it to stream some of my HD captures to my SD TV.

Originally posted by madpoet
Will it downconvert HD for playback through SVideo? I'd like to use it to stream some of my HD captures to my SD TV.

Good question, I'll try and check it out for you later.

Originally posted by madpoet
Will it downconvert HD for playback through SVideo? I'd like to use it to stream some of my HD captures to my SD TV.

Yes. It will downconvert HD playback through S-Video.

Sweet, thank you. Looks like this is where the Christmas money is going.

Originally posted by madpoet
Sweet, thank you. Looks like this is where the Christmas money is going.

Just a warning. Let me clarify my answer.

It will downconvert HD, and any material for that matter, to 480i on S-Video output. However, you cannot have both the S-Video AND component outputs ON at the same time. So as long as you're not worried about pumping out 480i S-Video and 1080i/720p/480p/480i on the components at the same time...

... then you're okay. :)

Has anyone streamed PAL Movie video (from a PAL VOB) to the Linkplayer over the NET?

I have been playing around with non-region coded PAL disks and they play from the DVD drive or as VOBs accross the NET. Both ways play with stutter indicating an issue with 50 to 60 FPS issues.

From what I hear the other Sigma based players do PAL without stuttering.
However, I only have Video Sourced PAL disks as opposed to Film based PAL disks, so I wonder if this is an issue only with Video (as opposed to Film) sourced disks?

BTW the picture from the PAL disks is stunning except for the repetitive stutter effect.

Originally posted by Kermee
Just a warning. Let me clarify my answer.

It will downconvert HD, and any material for that matter, to 480i on S-Video output. However, you cannot have both the S-Video AND component outputs ON at the same time. So as long as you're not worried about pumping out 480i S-Video and 1080i/720p/480p/480i on the components at the same time...

... then you're okay. :)

Thanks, that would not be an issue.

-MP

I do see the note on the web page that their update server is down right now, but the linkplayer reports that my firmware is up to date. Not "can't connect to server" or something like that. Now maybe the linkplayer just reports that no matter what. Does anyone know if that is true?

I went to http://myibox.net/update/local-bus/03-42-041101-01-IOD-231-000.bin and downloaded this firmware and downloaded the new 03-78 version too. Not sure though if my device is going to that location or not.

Ok I did a little research and found the following:

My device is reaching the update server (myibox.net) It first tries http://myibox.net/firmware/update.jsp and then something on that page determines what version I have on my box and decides that I have the latest firmware.(wrong) They do have the latest firmware on that system and I have downloaded to my webserver here. I have also setup a fake dns entry here to make the linkplayer connect to my web server instead of myibox.net, but since it is looking for /firmware/update.jsp and I don't have that file it fails.

I know I can't just make a .jsp file since some java is being used to compare my version on my linkplayer to files on the web server.

Oh well, I will need to wait for them fix their web server before I can update.

David.

Anyone using a Yamaha AV receiver with the Linkplayer2? Wonder if you have the same video flicking problem as mine (RX-V2200).

Thanks
Adam

loquatsoft

No Issues here with an RXV-2400

I have been reading the forum and it is unclear of what this unit will do and not do with respect to upscaling store bought DVD output to 720p or 1080i over Component Cables:

Will it without problem upscale store bought DVD output to 720p and/or 1080i? (Example: Star Wars, Oceans Eleven, etc.)

Is this truly upscaling (cleaning video for upscaling) or just outputing a 480p in a 720p resolution.

According to IoData DTS (even though not supported) will work, can this be confirmed?

Thank you

I tried to play King Arthur last night and everytime I tried to jump past the commercials the machine locked up and had to be power cycled to work again. I know there has been some talk about problems with commercial DVD's . Has anyone experienced this total freeze before ?

Originally posted by videosir
According to IoData DTS (even though not supported) will work, can this be confirmed?
DTS is not supported for the stereo output, but it will be passed through to the digital output. So if your receiver supports DTS, then DTS will work.

New firmware update is available see firmware update page at iodata.com

It upscales all DVDs and networked media to the output resolution you are set for.

True upscaling with pull down and scaling (not just doubling).

DTS works if you are using digital outs (tosl or coax).

Originally posted by videosir
I have been reading the forum and it is unclear of what this unit will do and not do with respect to upscaling store bought DVD output to 720p or 1080i over Component Cables:

Will it without problem upscale store bought DVD output to 720p and/or 1080i? (Example: Star Wars, Oceans Eleven, etc.)

Is this truly upscaling (cleaning video for upscaling) or just outputing a 480p in a 720p resolution.

According to IoData DTS (even though not supported) will work, can this be confirmed?

Thank you

All,

Throughout this thread there have been comments made that state playing commercial DVD on the IOData have been hit or miss, can anyone truly state this to be true or from time to time fluke?

In since my goals it to have a unit that can:

1st ) Play my commercial purchased DVD Collection, how has this been great, good, okay, sucks?
2nd) Play my centeralized MP3/WMA music collection, how has this been great, good, okay, sucks?
3rd) Play my WMV-HD files, how has this been great, good, okay, sucks?

Thanks,

King Arthur was my first problem disk. I will try the new firmware update when I get home as it might work better with a different drive speed setting. Streaming has worked well for me on both music and mpeg files converted from my 3 TIVOS

Originally posted by videosir
...In since my goals it to have a unit that can:

1st ) Play my commercial purchased DVD Collection, how has this been great, good, okay, sucks?
2nd) Play my centeralized MP3/WMA music collection, how has this been great, good, okay, sucks?
3rd) Play my WMV-HD files, how has this been great, good, okay, sucks?


1. For my NTSC (US) disks Great - No problems . For PAL (UK) disks. Haven't decided final answer yet until I can try some Film based PAL disks.
2. Good. (Will be great if they get WMA Lossless working and album cover art in the UI.)
3. For now Okay. If they get the licensing things done for commercial media and can transcode WMA digital to Dolby Dig or Analog without needing advanced server I will change rating to great.

I am happy to report that the new firmware corrects the WMA issues I have had with the last two firmware revisions. 25 pages back or so in this monster thread the first issue was that WMA files would have the first second or so clipped off. Then after the last update there would be a hiccup in the WMA file about a second or so into it. This was always confirmed by other users.

Well with the latest firmware my WMA test files play fine, just like their OGG and MP3 counterparts!

All the best,
Ricardo

RicardoD,

Excellent!

I will be doing a more thorough update of the FAQ later tonight when I get home from work to play with the new firmware.

1. Resolve a problem that an 5.1ch audio (ex: Dolby Digital) lack sometimes happens on DVD movie's trick playing.
I don't know what "trick playing" means, but I still get no AC3 audio.

Edit: Never mind, I see that this will be addressed in the January update. Keeping fingers crossed.

Does anyone know where you can get the new updated server software to play .ts files? Of course, it played them before, just they did not show up on the server unless you used a shortcut trick or if they were in a subfolder. The firmware update says you need to also update the software for this feature. Also, since I prefer the Momitsu software, this is a shame. Can someone who knows code see what they do to enable it & see if we can make that change to the Momitsu as well? I really like the web browsing, internet radio, & larger fonts I can enable w/ the custom theme developed here.

Also, I played a .ts file I have now, and it will not fast forward, rewind, or jump to a %. A hi-def .vob does all of these fine though.

Not sure what the swuare pixel mode is, but what is still not fixed is that 4:3 ripped DVD files will not play pillarboxed on @ 720p/16:9 unless the player is set for HD Browser mode. The zoom control still does next to nothing when in normal mode. Shame, since I cannot see the text on my smaller set when in HD Browser mode. Guess it is back to the Momitsu software custom big theme.

Originally posted by mikemav
Does anyone know where you can get the new updated server software to pay .ts files? The firmware update says you need to also update the software for this feature.
I did try it and it does play .ts files directly. No shortcut or new server s/w necessary (there's no new server software that I can see).

Originally posted by mikemav
Also, I played a .ts file I have now, and it will not fast forward, rewind, or jump to a %. A hi-def .vob does all of these fine though.
Same behavior here. Incidentally, any files played through Advanced Server lack these features too.

Originally posted by epsilon
I don't know what "trick playing" means, but I still get no AC3 audio.

Edit: Never mind, I see that this will be addressed in the January update. Keeping fingers crossed.

I believe "trick playing" refers to any mode of "repeat". (e.g. "Repeat One", etc.)

Originally posted by epsilon
I don't know what "trick playing" means, but I still get no AC3 audio.

Edit: Never mind, I see that this will be addressed in the January update. Keeping fingers crossed.

Same here, no AC3

My receiver was sent to I-O DATA for testing today
I hope I'll get it back in one piece and working :)

I've had 100% success with store bought commercial DVDs, no problems.

On burned DVD-R media, it's been hit or miss, about 50-50. The problem is the I-O Data is not great at playing back poor or marginal media. After experiencing a number of episodes of video freezing, stuttering, skipping and total lockups, I went out and purchased a better DVD burner, a Plextor PX716A dual layer. It comes with utilities for evaluating the quality of your media before and after burning it.

One of the post-burn tests is called the Q-Check TA Test. It grades the burn as follows:

Excellent
Good
Not Good
Bad

Regrettably, about 75% of my burned DVD movie collection (150+) graded as Not Good or Bad. These were all burned on a Toshiba DVD burner.

Of the disks that graded Bad, all of them play back fine on three of my standalone DVD players, a Pioneer DV563A, Panasonic RP82 and Panasonic E80H recorder.

Of the disks that graded Bad, they are certain to be problematic in the I-O Data LinkPlayer2 and also in two of my PCs.

Of the disks that graded Not Good, they can be hit or miss, usually playing fine in the I-O Data if I avoid FF/FR/chapter skip, which seems to upset the apple cart.

To achieve a burn grade of Excellent, I have to burn the recommended media (Verbatim Mitsubishi Chemical Corp, Taiyo Yuden, Maxell, TDK) in the Plextor using the optimum burn strategies, at less than the fastest speeds.

Most burns in the Plextor grade as good, it's tough to ahieve the combination of good media and optimum burn strategy to get a grade of excellent.

All burns that grade "Good" play back 100% problem free under all conditions in the I-O Data, including FF/FR/chapter skip functions.

Has anyone ordered a UHDL to be the first to give us a review??

They supposedly start shipping today so someone out there could have one tomorrow...

Originally posted by epsilon
I did try it and it does play .ts files directly. No shortcut or new server s/w necessary (there's no new server software that I can see).

Well then I don't know what I am doing wrong. I have a drive called Video_3. I have a folder in that drive called HD Movies and Shows. I have that set as a watch folder in the Avelink server. When I go it it on the player, it only shows the .vob & .mpeg files in that folder, not the .ts.

I also have another drive w/ HD shows, these in subfolders (Almost Famous folder, contains Almost Famous_00.ts, Almost Famous_01.ts, etc..) When I click on the Almost Famous folder on the I-O player GUI, I get a message (same as before) "there is no file in the default movie folder." If I make a shortcut to the actual .ts files & not the folder, it works (as it did before.) however, this is not pratical w/ the MyHD captures I have that are split into 2GB files, many w/ 8-10 per show. If it worked like DVD's .vob's do, I could select the Almost Famous folder, hit play, & it would play them all. I thought that is one of the main things this firmware was supposed to do.

Also, I have been meaning to ask this, but what is Video@MediaSink (on the PC it shows up as Video Sink?)

how good is the d4 -> component cable that comes with this unit? That's one of my largest concerns, if the cable is low quality I can't just run down to my local store and get a better one (or can I?)

Also, anyone been able to get region free working on this? Also a big one for me.

Sorry if these have already been asked ... 74 pages is a lot to go through

ok i just read the faq closer and found the answer to my second question (no) ... but i'd still like some opinions on the cable quality. 1m length is fine.

i'm going back and forth from this and the zenith dvb318 ...

mikemav
That is IODATAs photo management software in Japan (I imagine they have an easy way to tie into its database for JPEGs instead of just using folders).

Paul_PDX

I have a drive on order, so far it has not shipped today though the site still shows today for shipping date. Keeping my fingers crossed :)

Does anybody have a link to a small .ts file i can test with ? Thanks

Originally posted by mikemav
Well then I don't know what I am doing wrong. I have a drive called Video_3. I have a folder in that drive called HD Movies and Shows. I have that set as a watch folder in the Avelink server. When I go it it on the player, it only shows the .vob & .mpeg files in that folder, not the .ts.

I rushed to reply without checking network play...

Whereas .ts files now are visible / play off the player drive, a shortcut or rename is still necessary for them to play via Server. So, the comment about newer server s/w being required is correct.

BTW, UDF-only Nero formatted DVDs are now recognised.

Originally posted by jackshakes
ok i just read the faq closer and found the answer to my second question (no) ... but i'd still like some opinions on the cable quality. 1m length is fine.


The cable quality is definitely sub-par. The JVC Cable (http://www.jvcservice.com/store/ShoppingCart.asp?Part=QAM0465-001) is shielded better and cleans up the picture noticeably.

Originally posted by epsilon
I rushed to reply without checking network play...

Whereas .ts files now are visible / play off the player drive, a shortcut or rename is still necessary for them to play via Server. So, the comment about newer server s/w being required is correct.

BTW, UDF-only Nero formatted DVDs are now recognised.

I was looking for updated server software as I want to play my TS stuff over the network. Do you still have to shortcut as before (or name to mpeg) to get them to play? Also, how is the playback if I burn a TS to DVD?

:)

[ Additional Functions ] NEW
- UDF Format Support for DVD/CD media
- CD-ROM Update Function
- Add the "Drive Speed" menu to change drive spin speed
- Add "Square Pixel" mode on video zoom menu for a adjustment of AVI aspect ratio


Anybody played with the "Drive Speed" menu to see if that makes burned DVD playback any better. Does it quiet the drive?

Thanks

mikemav

I downloaded a small .ts file of monday night football, it shows up in my directory and plays fine. You will need to add the line below to your
server-config.xml file so that the ts extension is recognized by the player.
<mediaFile extension=".ts" />
After editing the file and restarting the advanced server the ts showed up in the folder and played ok. It was a very small clip but all I could find on google.

Has anybody with DVDG version seen any updates, or read any information on when to expect them? (My AVLP2/DVDG don't show any new update.) I'm in Region 2 country, but don't understand Japanese at all. I prefer Swedish or English...

Originally posted by snoots
mikemav

I downloaded a small .ts file of monday night football, it shows up in my directory and plays fine. You will need to add the line below to your
server-config.xml file so that the ts extension is recognized by the player.
<mediaFile extension=".ts" />
After editing the file and restarting the advanced server the ts showed up in the folder and played ok. It was a very small clip but all I could find on google.

Thanks for taking the time to check into this snoots! Very nice of you to download a test file. BTW, the way I got a lot of my .ts files was to take the vob from the HD tivo & convert it w/ VLC. Some reason the .ts were more stable on the MyHD card platform. Anyway, looks like the vob may be a better choice for this player.

Regarding the .ts issue, I have .ts files that show up as well, but I think they may have been via the shortcut method. I will double check. What did not work was if the .ts file was in a sub-directory. In other words, if I dragged a folder for a group of .ts files to the video pane of the server app, the player could navigate to the the folder, but they showed it empty. When a movie is all one long file, I could eliminate the folder and they would show up & be playable. I will check into it some more & try your suggestion. I need to look around at the Momitsu software to see if I can find the server-config.xml equivalent, since I prefer that server.

Look in
C:\Program Files\I-O DATA DEVICE,INC\AVeL Link Server\webapps\ROOT\xml

for a file called video.xml
edit it like this
<extension>
<ext>dat</ext>
<ext>mpg</ext>
<ext>mpe</ext>
<ext>mpeg</ext>
<ext>m2v</ext>
<ext>m1v</ext>
<ext>vob</ext>
<ext>avi</ext>
<ext>divx</ext>
<ext>xvid</ext>
<ext>rmp4</ext>
<ext>mov</ext>
<ext>mp4</ext>
<ext>vro</ext>
<ext>m4v</ext>
<ext>m2p</ext>
<ext>hnl</ext>
<ext>ts</ext>
<ext>ty</ext>

Sorry, I think the momitsu has the same file only look under momitsu not IOdata

C:\Program Files\MOMITSU MEDIA CENTER\webapps\ROOT\xml\video.xml

adding ts allow playback

Hmmm, it looks like they have rolled the last 2 firmware upgrades into one now. I am wondering if you can rollback more than just one firmware revision. I can't check this myself since I had to rollback the previous update due to the DivXHD lockup problem.

Originally posted by snoots
C:\Program Files\MOMITSU MEDIA CENTER\webapps\ROOT\xml\video.xml

adding ts allow playback
Yep, I just found it too. You rock! I also added wmv and asf, as they were listed on the Avel server so I figured they would play as well. The only issue now is that some of my MyHD captures are .tp, and it comes up w/ unknown format error. However, quick solution: change the extension to .tp and it works! Still no FF/RW on transport streams, however. change it to mpg, and it plays as well, but still no ff/rw. Changing the extension to vob, it also plays, but ff/rw still do not work. Perhaps if I really process the file to transcode to vob or mpeg using VLC (if that is even possible.) I know VLC can convert .vob to a .ts, but I am not sure about the other way around.

This brings me to a somewhat unrelated question I have been trying to solve for some time. Perhaps some of you computer experts can help. I have a problem on XP pro SP2 w/ mpg files. The are associated with MyHD application, and always play fine. However. something recently has gone wrong, and every time I so much as click on a mpg file in Windows, Windows Explorer crashes. It recovers, but if I open a folder w/ an mpg again or try to move, open, or rename it, it crashes again temporarily. Any ideas why? The files still play fine, BTW, in MyHD or using "play with" for another app, but the file listing always crashes explorer. Sorry to be off topic, but if anyone has any ideas, please PM me. Thanks!

I have seen a similar problem on my pc with ty files extracted from my HDtivo that are larger than 4 gig. If I right click on them explorer dies dead as a dog. As long as they are under 4 gig they don't do it. How big are your mpg files ?

Originally posted by snoots
King Arthur was my first problem disk. I will try the new firmware update when I get home as it might work better with a different drive speed setting. Streaming has worked well for me on both music and mpeg files converted from my 3 TIVOS

What are you using to convert your Tivo files Snoots? TyTool? Is that necessary though? From reading other posts in this thread it sounds as if .ty extractions play as-is after configuring the extension in the XML config. Have you tried this? Anyone else doing this?

Having the ability to play Tivo recordings on the LinkPlayer would probably cause me to plunk down money for one of these tomorrow. We have one Tivo in the house and I envision automating the download of .ty's to make them available to the LinkPlayer stationed at another TV.

Originally posted by snoots
i think it is in the config. look aqt the server-config.xml file

Please note there are TWO copies of this file for the Advanced Link Server. I learned this the hard way, after many hours of trying to figure out why it wouldn't recognize my .m2t files.

Anyway, the copy of "server-config.xml" under "C:\Program Files\I-O DATA DEVICE,INC\AVeL Link Advanced Server" doesn't do anything.

The one you want it under "c:\documents and settings\%username%\application data\I-O DATA DEVICE,INC\AVeL Link Advanced Server".

To have it recognize other files you need to add the line:

<mediaFile extension=".m2t" transcode="yes"/>

under the "<mediaType typeId="video">" section.

Obviously change the extension to your liking.

Now it will finally play ANY of my .m2t files, even ones created with our JVC JY-HD10U camcorder. Admittedly the quality isn't great, lots of macroblocking when it transcodes, especially considering the max transcode bitrate is only 8 Mbps (the originals are 19Mbps). However, I just wanted it to play the files for my convenience, makes it easier for me to log shots. If I want to play them high quality later on I will convert them to WMVHD or MPEG2 PS.

Anyway, I'm a happy camper :)

Wow, I'm really starting to be impressed by the realtime transcoder on the Advanced Link Server.

I just discovered it will playback all my DV .avi files, as well as my Cineform HD .avi files. These are 25 Mbps and 50 Mbps file types, so the fact it can transcode them down to 8 Mbps MPEG2 in realtime (without hardware) floors me.

If you want to do this, make sure you check the "Video Transcode *.avi, too(A)" in the server configuration.

Note you are going to lose quality here, but it is just nice (to me anyway) to be able to playback any media file from your computer on your TV in another room, especially when you are in my business (video production).

Ben

After messing with DV and Cineform .AVI playback, I noticed some other things about the Advanced Link Server.

First, if you tell it also transcode .avi's, this means all .avi's, including DivX.

If you want to avoid this, change the extension of your DivX files to .divx instead of .avi.

Also, it will now play Windows Media 9 HD files with "pro" audio, but this also means it transcodes any and all Windows Media Video files by default (via the Advanced Server). To avoid this, add an entry in your server-config.xml file (see above) for ".wmvpro" transcode="yes", and then change ".wmv" to transcode="no". Then change any fancy .wmv files that the LinkPlayer won't play natively to extension .wmvpro.

Now it will play regular WMVHD files without transcoding (better quality), and will only transcode those files that you have changed to .wmvpro (those that have "pro" audio).

Hope this helps!

Ben

Originally posted by snoots
I have seen a similar problem on my pc with ty files extracted from my HDtivo that are larger than 4 gig. If I right click on them explorer dies dead as a dog. As long as they are under 4 gig they don't do it. How big are your mpg files ?

All over 4GB. The ty files seem fine though, but when I covert them to mpg & then try to work with them, explorer dies every time. They are all on NTFS drives, so file size should not be an issue. What a pain. I wish all these tools were available for my Mac. OSX/Panther is solid as a rock for me. Anyway, I digress.

We've just finished and posted Part 1 of our LinkPlayer review at HDSource.

URL's in my sig.

Enjoy!

Ben

Looks like new firmware is out for US:

Date: December 29, 2004
The latest Verion: 04-33-041227-01-IOD-234-000
[ Bug Fix ]
- WMA noise problem fixed
[ Codec Support ]
- AVI2.0 (Over 2GB)
- DivX® HD Movie (Full version)
- MPEG2-TS (Standard Spec: Packet Size 188 Bytes)
[ Additional Functions ]
- UDF Format Support for DVD/CD media
- CD-ROM Update Function
- Add the "Drive Speed" menu to change drive spin speed
- Add "Square Pixel" mode on video zoom menu for a adjustment of AVI aspect ratio
[ Notice ]
- For LinkServer users, it needs to be updated for MPEG2-TS playback
- For Advanced Server users, it has not had 100% compatibility for the latest firmware


http://www.iodata.com/news/culture.php?ts=21&tsc=24&newsID=56

This was reported yesterday :0)
Have you been drinking again LK ? :)

Originally posted by lifeisfun
This was reported yesterday :0)
Have you been drinking again LK ? :)


Happy New Year to you too :)
cheers !