At the 2009 International Builders Show (IBS) in Las Vegas

Jan 21, 2009 09:33 GMT  ·  By

The evolving global financial crisis failed to represent an impediment for Microsoft to pimp Windows Media Center (the component integrated in the Home Premium and Ultimate editions of Windows Vista) as the heart of an entertainment and automation solution designed for the luxury digital home. Named Platinum Technology Sponsor for the New American Home 2009 featured at the the 2009 International Builders Show (IBS) in Las Vegas, the Redmond company managed to place Windows Media Center at the heart of the ideal set for high-end technology offerings, applauding the platform as a hub for home entertainment and media management.

“Microsoft is proud to have Windows Media Center at the core of the connected home technology in this house,” Kevin Collins, director of the Custom Installer Channel in the Connected TV Business, Entertainment and Devices Division, at Microsoft, explained.

“With Windows Media Center, the owners of the home can enjoy high-definition (HD) TV, videos and photos throughout the 11 HD displays in the house; listen to music anywhere on the property; and control all the lighting and security from mobile control devices. This home allows anyone to see how truly integrated a connected home lifestyle can be with shipping products, and provides insight to builders on what they can easily integrate into their customers’ homes.”

Nothing spells luxury as a plethora of high-end audio and video electronics in a completely connected household. In this regard, the Windows Media Center software is simply an accessory to products including 10 LCD 1080p flat panels, a 16-zone multiroom audio system, 40 in-wall and in-ceiling speakers, a 1080p HD projector, a 130 G3 projection screen, and even touch screens.

“The New American Home 2009 is the most technologically advanced home in the 26-year history of the series,” Sandy Dunn, chairman of the board of NAHB and a builder from Point Pleasant, W.V, added. “The builder — Blue Heron — and the folks at NCHI have all worked very closely with Microsoft to design a home technology system that is truly on the leading edge. This isn’t technology for technology’s sake. This is technology that makes this home more energy-efficient, more user-friendly, and more fun.”