I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 FAQ

Unofficial I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 FAQ
WARNING: This is somewhat outdated now.
Updated: November 1, 2005



Original I-O Data Thread this FAQ is based off of TUFU's original thread:
LINK: My preliminary impression of I-O DATA AVEL LINKPLAYER2

Thanks to ALL members and owners of the I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 who have contributed all of this wonderful information! This FAQ attempts to answer any questions about the AVLP2/DVDG (Japanese version with DVI and 802.11g) and the AVLP2/DVDLA (North American Version) of the I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This FAQ is offered 'AS-IS'. Basically as a CYA, there are no guarantees to the accuracy or validity of this FAQ as it is a compilation of many sources, including my own. With that said, REASONABLE effort has been put into the accuracy or validity of all the information contained in this forum thread. In other words, I'm not responsible for any information posted here, including my own remarks and others, but there are no reasons to believe any information presented are not accurate and valid.

AVSForum Related Threads
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LINK: Original I-O Data Thread a.k.a. "Now the fastest review in English words!"
LINK: Does Your AVeL Linkplayer2 Play Dolby Digital Audio?

Notes
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LINK: I-O Data U.S.A. Website For AVeL LinkPlayer2
LINK: I-O Data U.S.A FAQ Page
LINK: I-O Data Japanese FAQ Page (In Japanese!)
LINK: Latest I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 Firmware Information (U.S.A.)
LINK: Pictures of switching to LiteOn 167T Loader by Kermee
LINK: spyfy's notes on installing the LiteOn 167T Loader

First player based off the Sigma Designs EM8260L chipset available in the United States.

LINK: Sigma Designs EM8620L Series Digital Media Processors with WMV9

* DivX Home Theater Video Certified (29th Sep 2004)
* DivX High Definition Certified (13th Oct 2004)

LINK: Divx.com Link to I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2


Manual (PDF) Links
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LINK: I-O Data U.S.A. PDF Manual


Customer Support
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I-O Data USA Support: 1-866-6-IODATA
I-O Data USA Support (FAX): 1-800-679-0042
I-O Data USA E-Mail Support: LINK


Pictures/Gallery
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LINK: I-O Data U.S.A. Gallery of AVLP2/DVDLA
LINK: I-O Data Japan Pictures of AVLP2/DVDG
LINK: LOTS of Pictures of the AVLP2/DVDG (Japanese Unit on Taiwanese Forum in Chinese) Including Guts


Software Links
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LINK: NEW AVeL LinkPlayer2 Server Software v2.0b (North America - Windows ONLY!)
LINK: AVeL LinkPlayer2 Server Software v1.9b (North America - Windows ONLY!)
LINK: AVeL LinkPlayer2 Server Software v1.8 (North America - Windows ONLY!)
LINK: I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 Server Software v1.4 (U.S.A. - Mac OSX - DMG File)
LINK: I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 Server Software v1.0 (U.S.A. - PC/MAC)
LINK: I-O Data AVLP2/DVDLA Advanced Server Software *BETA* (1.3) (N. America - Windows/PC)
LINK: I-O Data AVLP2/DVDLA Advanced Server Software *BETA* (1.2) (N. America - Windows/PC)
LINK: AVeL LinkPlayer2 Server Software v1.0 for Linux
LINK: Momitsu V880N MMC Version 1.2 (Compatible)
LINK: Neuston Virtuoso MC-500 for Apple Mac OS X (2.0) (Alternative)
LINK: Japanese 1.52/2.00 AVLP2/DVDG Advanced Server Software (WARNING: In JAPANESE).

NOTE: It should be mentioned that the Momitsu server software for the V880N is based off the same software core and is fully compliant with the AVPL2, and adds some internet functionality, search and other useful tools. (Thanks jakob1321)


Content/Authoring Software Links
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LINK: TMPGEnc 3.0 XPress (WMV9-HD) (Commercial) (PC/Windows)
LINK: Windows Media Encoder 9 Series (WMV9-HD) (Free) (PC/Windows)
LINK: VirtualDubMod 1.5.10.1 Build 2439 (WMV9-HD VCM/DivX/XviD) (Free) (PC/Windows)
LINK: Koepi XviD 1.0.3 Binaries (XviD) (Free) (PC/Windows)
LINK: Windows Media Video 9 VCM Codec (WMV9-HD VCM) (Free) (PC/Windows)
LINK: DivX Codecs (DivX-HD) (Free/Commercial) (PC/Windows/Mac OSX)
LINK: NanDub 1.0 RC2 (DivX/XviD/WMV9 VCM) (Free) (PC/Windows)
LINK: AutoGK (DivX/XviD) (Free) (PC/Windows)

AutoGK is recommended by RicardoD. It's almost a one click process to convert MPEG-2 or any other format to MPEG-4 which is compatible with the AVLP2. Works great with DVDDecrypter also.


Current Firmware
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Released: October 31, 2005
North American Version: 10-88-051027-02-IOD-234-000
[ Bug Fix / Improvement ]
- Fix the problem what the reddish and dark video image is output after rebooting
- Chinese fonts (BIG5) available (Japanese fonts removed)
[ Tips ]
- No more "Roll Back" accepted after this updating
- The factory info is set after this updating (you may need to hit "TV mode" button to fit your TV and setup your last one again)

Future Firmware
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No notes yet.


Previous Firmware
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Released: August 05, 2005
North American Version: 08-83-050802-02-IOD-234-000
[ Bug Fix / Improvement ]
- Improve network buffering performance
- Support 24bit wave audio file playback
- Fix the small size photo problem
- Display the elapse of playback time in VFD
- Display the playback file info (after hitting INFO button)


North America - 07-74-050622-02-IOD-234-000
Released: June 24, 2005
[ Update Info ]
- DLNA verified (Repeating supported ) *see the compliance device list
- Microsoft Media® Connect working better (Repeating and Trick Plays supported)
- Device name: I-O DATA AVeL LinkPlayer on Microsoft Media® Connect
- SPDIF problem fixed
- DVD movie problem fixed
- Rhapsody problem fixed
- WMV DVD-ROM compliance (more info coming soon)


North America - 06-35-050430-02-IOD-234-000
Released: June 03, 2005

[ Update Info ]
- WMA Pro (Windows Media® Audio Professional) supported *Analog 2ch out only
- Microsoft Media® Connect supported
- Microsoft Media® DRM for SD implemented (Play PC's DRM video streaming)
- PAL TV Video Output
- DLNA compliance
- DVR-MS file supported (w/ LinkServer or Windows Media® Connect)


North America - 06-20-050406-02-IOD-234-000
Released: April 04, 2005

[ Update Info ]
- Support Rhapsody with AVeL LinkServer Ver1.9b
- Support subtitles (SRT file)
- Fix over 2GB file playback issue
- Improve Screen Saver menu


North America - Version 05-47-050302-02-IOD-234-000
Released: March 04, 2005

[ Update Info ]
- Add the "Online Premium Contents" option in setup menu
- Add the "NTP Server access" option in setup menu
- Stop video signal after turn off remote power button
- Support MPEG2-TS with MPEG1 layer2 audio playback
- Improve Navigation sound
- Improve vTuner with HD mode


North America - Version 04-91-050127-01-IOD-234-000
Released: February 04, 2005

[ Bug Fix / Improvement ]
- Dolby Digital AV Receiver compatibility (VERIFIED)
- DVD Loader eject button function
- MPEG2-TS file playback quality (Need to update AVeLLinkServer)
- DVD MPEG2 file trick playback stability
[ Additional Online Services ]
- vTuner Internet Radio
- Internet News RSS (free)
[ Notice ]
- You need 2 different firmware updating in order to add all these new functions. This means a normal update, and D: update (for user interface refresh). (Assumed Translation: You need to install AVeL LinkPlayer Server V1.8)
- For vTuner usage, don't use HD browser mode (the next update will support it). firmware. (If you attempt to use vTuner in HD browser mode, you will not get sound.)


North America - Version 04-33-041227-01-IOD-234-000
Released: December 29, 2004

[ Bug Fix ]
1. Resolve a problem that an 5.1ch audio (ex: Dolby Digital) lack sometimes happens on DVD movie's trick playing.
2. Add unaccepted words on Wireless LAN SSID. (N/A)
3. Resolve a problem that some AVI files audios and videos aren't matched.
4. Resolve a problem that a front panel stop button doesn't work correctly.
[ 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 to video menu toadjust aspect ratio of AVI file
[ 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.

North America - Version 03-78-041130-01-IOD-234-000

* December 3, 2004

* Fixed the intermittent sound which might occur after fast forwarding, slow playback
and pausing while you are playing a DVD disc.
* Fixed loss of sync between video and audio when you play certain AVI files.
* Fixed the stop button on the front panel which may not work properly at all times.

Japanese:
* Main FW 03-42-041101-IOD-231-000
* DVD Transport (EPO-LDR DP306D): 586H
(Thanks Bjorn_E)


Current Issues
-------
AC3 passthru was fixed in the 02/04/2005 firmware. Just for reference, here was the list of receivers with the AC3 issue before the latest firmware upgrade.

- Boston Acoustics Digital Theater 6000
- Denon 2800
- Denon 3802
- Harman/Kardon AVR-85
- Kenwood VR407 DD/DTS
- Kenwood KR-V990D
- Pioneer VSX-D606S
- Sony STR-DA555ES
- Sony STR-DE935

Currently, there seems to be some problems with TS MPEG-2 playback in the 03/04/2005 firmware.

HD Sample Content
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LINK: Nero Digital Trailers - Note: Could be MPEG-4 ISO 14496-10 (H.264)
LINK: DivX.com Movie Trailers - Note: Look for ones marked (HD)
LINK: Microsoft WMV HD Showcase - Note: Cannot use ones marked '* Uses DRM'

UPDATED: February 10, 2005

Pre-Sale Issues
-------
Q: How long is the included D4 to component cable?

A: For many, it's too short. It's only 1 meter long. JVC offers a component cable that is better shielded, cleaner picture, and has a longer length. I-O Data is planning to make longer cables available soon. (Thanks irgaac & Tom Roper)

LINK: Order JVC QAM0465-001 D-Cable

General Section
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Q: Is the I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 region-free/region-changable?

A: Neither the North American or Japanese versions are region-free/region-changable. They are both locked to their respective regions.

Q: When will the AVLP2 have DVI and 802.11g (WiFi) for North America?

A: I-O Data states a version with DVI output and 802.11g built-in will happen in early 2005.

Q: Can I change the DVD tray-loader in my AVLP2?

A: The Lite-On SOHD-167T is a functional replacement. (Thanks Tom Roper)

Video Output Section
-------
Q: Does the I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 (U.S.A. Version) output 1080i/720p on the components?

A: Yes. As of right now, anything played back on the unit, whether a commercial DVD to a stream DivX file off a compatible AVeL LinkPlayer2 server software will upconvert to 1080i or 720p.

Q: Does the I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer 2 (Japanese Version) output 1080i/720p from commercial DVD's to DVI?

A: No. Only 1080i/720p out through the components.

DivX & XviD Section
-------
Q: Does the I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 support QPEL & GMC?

A: According to the manual, it does not support QPEL, however we have confirmed reports that the manual is indeed incorrect and QPEL *AND* 1-point warp GMC *IS* supported by this unit. (Verified by Keith Jack from Sigma Designs).

NOTE: XviD encoders use 3-point warp GMC and are NOT compatible with the AVLP2. DivX encoders use 1-point warp GMC.

Q: Does the I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 support B-Frames? (i.e. Adaptive Single Consecutive or Adaptive Multiple Consecutive Frames)

A: According to the DivX HD certification specs, ASC (Adaptive Single Consecutive) support is a requirement. This has been verified to work in both DivX and XviD files. Any more than one-consecutive B-frame in the video stream may or may not cause stutter as reported by other members.

Q: Does the AVLP2 support DAR/PAR signaling?

A: We have tested 1440x1080p/23.976 16:9 PAR flagged XviD encodes interleved with AC3 with no issues. Reports of other DAR flagged encodes have also displayed properly. ** UPDATE 12/22/2004 - This is now in question as I have tested it proving otherwise. **

WMV9-HD Section
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Q: Can I use the WMV9 HD VCM method for putting my WMV9 HD encodes into an AVI container?

A: Yes. Just make sure the profile setting is set to either 'Simple' or 'Main'. 'Complex' does NOT work and is not supported by the Sigma Designs EM8620L.

Audio Section
-------
Q: Does the I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 support AAC-LC 5.1?

A: The Sigma Designs EM8620L only supports 2-channel AAC-LC. (Verified by Keith Jack from Sigma Designs).

Q: Does the AVLP2 support WMA Lossless?

A: The Sigma Designs chipset supports it. Current firmware releases of the AVLP2 does NOT.

Since I'm maintaining the FAQ for now, I thought this would be a great place to write a introduction about the I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 and some of my thoughts.

Introduction
-------
Basically, the I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 is one of the first commerically available "networkable standalone DVD players" which has the Sigma Designs EM8620L chipset. Quick background on the Sigma Designs EM8620L chipset is that it is capable of decoding high-definition (HD) MPEG-4, WMV9 HD, and MPEG-2 HDTV streams. It is also capable of upscaling any ordinary content to HDTV resolutions (720p/1080i) from commercial DVD's to network or disc playback of your homemade DivX or XviD. (There are upscaling limitations on the DVI output of the Japanese version).

History
-------
I-O Data, a Japanese company which started itself in a garage in 1976, first released the AVeL LinkPlayer2 in Japan and then in the United States several months later in November of 2004. The LinkPlayer2 is the 2nd Generation of LinkPlayer devices. The original LinkPlayer was released in 2003 based off the popular Sigma Designs EM8550 chipset.

The Current Issues
-------
As with any 'bleeding-edge' technology, there are bound to be bugs. Currently some users are experiencing problems decoding the AC3 stream from the LinkPlayer2. Some are having issues with lock-ups on certain commercial DVD discs/software which work perfectly fine in other DVD players. So far, I-O Data has been listening and a few firmware upgrades are planned to take care of issues within the next several months including the ability to play certain WMV9 DRM'ed content and WMA Pro.

Why a "Networkable" DVD Player?
-------
I am one of the few people who couldn't get into figuring out how to build the right HTPC. Looking at the HTPC section on AVSForum is enough to make the vast majority of people dizzy. This is not an insult to the HTPC enthusiasts in any way and in actuality, I am in awe of them. I have professionally been a computer service technician and avid hardware tinkerer for the better part of 10 years. However, when it comes to making sure the right Directshow filter is installed for a particular codec then trying to change the priority level of multiple vendor filters for the same filetype, dealing with and tweaking with the latest Catalyst drivers from ATI or what not... frankly not all people want to mess with all of that.

Then there are the Microsoft Media Center PC's available from retailers and on-line shops. That's still is too much. What a lot of us wanted was a DVD player which allowed us to enjoy the best of what entertainment has to offer. There are of course, DVD's, HDTV, music and pictures. We're the group which goes, "Why can't they just put everything into a DVD player and keep it simple?" I am the group which downloads or archives personal content to DivX and XviD. I am part of the group which likes HDTV and wants to be able to download, archive, and purchase HDTV content (WMV9 HD on-disc DRM'ed titles are already available in Germany). So here comes the HDTV "networkable" DVD player. This DVD player basically connects up to your home network, you run a server on your PC and you are able to stream the most popular media files, within reason, to your LinkPlayer2 on demand in a nice GUI on your HDTV set, or regular TV set for that matter.

Want to watch the latest DivX HD trailer of a movie? Download it and watch it on your 50" DLP HDTV set. Want to listen to Internet Radio or play tunes from your personal music collection while having an HDTV slideshow of pictures from your recent vacation? The I-O Data AVeL LinkPlayer2 will do it!

Conclusion
-------
The AVLP2 is basically for anyone who wants:

* The ability to upscale DVD's or other content to HDTV resolutions. This is nice since in most cases if your TV set is LCD or DLP HDTV, you want to run this at your native resolution. (720p)

* The ability to play HDTV content including the forth coming WMV9 HD, DivX/XviD HD or archived MPEG-2 TS (proper support for TS coming in a firmware update).

* Have the huge library of DivX/XviD/MP3/WMA/OGG/AAC etc. on a PC/Mac and would like to enjoy your content on your HDTV set without having to 'burn' to a CD-R/RW or DVD-R/RW. All over the network!

* Anyone who's thought about an HTPC or a Windows MCE PC but balked at the complexity or price.

Last Revised: 12/22/2004

It took six-months to get my home built but here's the results! Finally got the InFocus 4805 installed!



My screen is a 92" Da-Lite HCCV PermWall. I have:

* Three Triad InCeiling Gold/6 Omni's for FL, C and FR.
* Two Polk TC610i's for surrounds.
* Two Polk TC80i's for rears.
* One Linn SIZMIK 10.25 subwoofer.

Using a Denon AVR-3805 receiver and only have an I-O Data AVLP2 hooked up to it right now.

I'm loving it!

[FAQ Stub #5]

Hi Larry!

Thanks for making this a sticky. This FAQ will be updated with pertinent information for as long as needed (which I'm assuming is going to be QUITE a while).

-Kermee