Computer Networks & Broadband: Infinite Possibilities (NAPSA)—Whatwill the Inter- net-enabled homeof the future be like? According to industry analysts, the Internet will not be just for schoolwork and e-mail. It is projected that the broadband Internet connection will become increasingly popular as devices and applications emerge in the area of home entertainment. All of the applications listed below are made possible through a broadband connection (cable or DSL) and simple local area network (LAN), equipment provided by companies such as NETGEAR, an industry-leading provider of affordable, flexible and easy-toinstall networking solutions. Internet audio—Companies are launching a new breed of audio services, like listen.com, and Internet radio systems, like those from Philips, that take advantage of broadband Internet connections to play streaming Internet radio content. This type of appliance allows people to get away from the computer, yetstill enjoy the entertainment content that the Internet can provide. Internet radio allows listeners to easily navigate pre-categorized stations based upon genre, language and region. Multi-System Gaming—Networkable game systems like Microsoft’s Xbox make it possible to connect individual game consoles together via Ethernet ports for head-to-head multiple player gaming. Wireless networking equipment allowsusers to “bridge” gameconsoles together without unsightly cables. In addition, utilizing a broadband Internet connection and a service called Xbox Live, Xbox users can simultaneously play and chat with gamers around the world. * Digital video-on-demand— Video-on-demand distribution subscription services promise to deliver full-length movies. At present, this is a progressive download: people can begin watching the movie just a few minutes after they start receiving the file, while the rest of the movie continues to be sent over the next 30 minutes. With broadband networking providing faster throughput speeds, a i With broadband connections and home networks, computer users can truly discover what the Internet has to offer. higher quality video will be able to be carried through the home network and displayed on the home theater system. ReplayTV—The ReplayTV 4500 from SonicBlue uses a highspeed broadband Internet connection, allowing users to record their favorite shows and watch recorded shows without commercials. The broadband Internet feature makes it easy to send and receive programs between ReplayTV 4500 units (i.e., you can share recorded programswith friends and family). Also, two units connected via the Ethernet port can share programs, so a unit upstairs in the bedroom can play programs recorded downstairs in the living room. In addition, a networked PC can transfer digital photos to the ReplayTV 4500 so that they can be displayed on the television (no more crowding around the PC monitor). Fortunately for most families, installing a home computer networks doesn’t have to be a complex operation. For example, NETGEAR offers a diverse line of cost-effective, networking solutions including Ethernet, wireless, phone-line, and power-line, networking technologies. NETGEAR’S products are available through leading retailers nationwide. To learn more about home networking, visit their Web site at http://www.netgear.com/go/howto.
