Klegg Unveils Two-Way IP Controllable TV with MCE; Runs Vista in Demo

The press release calls Klegg Electronics' KLM401A the "World's First IP Controlled Microsoft Windows Media Center TV."

Indeed it may be, but IP control of the TV (channel, volume, etc.) isn't being demonstrated at the Electronic House Expo (EHX).

But Klegg is controlling the built-in Media Center Edition (MCE) PC via two-way IP, using software from Autonomic, which ships with the unit. The software enables Crestron, AMX, HAI and other IP-enabled controllers to operate MCE and receive complete feedback via touchscreens and other devices on the network.

In the booth demo, an AMX system is being used to operate MCE. The MCE control software was developed in line with the AMX In-Concert Program, an alliance of manufacturers aimed at developing better control products.

Although the demo does not include IP-based control of the television set itself, it is being controlled via a two-way RS-232 serial connection, which is just as good in the custom electronics industry. With the RS-232 connection, the AMX system can communicate directly with the TV and receive complete feedback, such volume status, and even special settings for things like brightness and contrast. These feats cannot be accomplished with most TVs that do not accommodate two-way communications.

The Klegg TV lets integrators download pre-built control modules and integrate the Media Center TV with AMX, Crestron, HAI or other control and automation systems.

"You can look at the content on a Crestron or AMX tablet," says Klegg director of sales Tim Boyd. "It's full two-way feedback."

Klegg CEO Dennis Gentles adds that the bottom line for custom installers is that with this new offering "they don't have to worry about working with one particular company. They can feel comfortable crossing over into whatever is best for the clients."