Is it possible to... If not then... (1 Viewer)

[Efros]

Yeah i saw a script program that did that. But what I mean is starting Mediaportal before the windows XP boot screen even comes up. Before the log on screen even comes up. Read the stuff here http://www.geexbox.org/en/start.html

Qoute from the site "So, GeeXboX is a full operating system, running under Linux and based on the excellent MPlayer. No need for a hard drive, you just have to put the GeeXboX bootable CD into the CD-Drive of any Pentium-class computer to boot it"

Maybe Mediaportal could be used that way.

"You may wonder why you should have to boot another operating system to play your media files, but just think about the Mini-ITX platforms like VIA Epia/Eden or Shuttle barebones. It's now affordable to bring DivX to your home cinema, plugging this kind of computer directly to your TV !!"


As it says, its great for Set top boxes. Maybe a special boot-release ISO which you burn to a CD could be possible?

Not likely, MP uses all sorts of windows drivers, programs and services. Consequently it needs windows and cant be operated without it. What you're describing is a standalone media OS, of which there are a few out there but they can be v difficult to set up in terms of hardware. The closest you'll get is to use something like tinyxp, scriptedlogon and MP as shell. Divx has been available to home cinema for a long time in the form of divx compatible dvd playes e.g. Philips DVP 642 which can be had for about $50 in the US.

Incidentally have you seen Geexbox? not very sophisticated and the hardware supported is fairly limited, if you have the hardware go for it, personally I don't, I have tried it and don't like it.

 

[fraseyboy]

Yeah I tried Geexbox. It didnt do enough stuff and seemed to buggy. But thats the kinda thing i want mediaportal to do. From what you say its impossible....

Oh well il just make do with my 85 second turn-on to logon-screen time...

 

[Efros]

I only reboot when I have done something to the box anyhow, so a 30 second wait every now and then is acceptable.

 

[fraseyboy]

So do you just put it into sleep mode instead?

 

[Efros]

Nope it has insomnia, its awake 24/7.