New features for your PC

Dec 16, 2005 18:26 GMT  ·  By

TerraTec launched Cinergy 2400i DT, a DVB-T PCI-e Dual TV Tuner, which brings the possibility to watch a program while another one is recorded. The new product is jointly developed with Micronas, the two companies collaborating for launching the first PCI Express card for the reception of DVB-T (Digital Video Broadcasting-Terrestrial).

The device receives digital terrestrial signal using conventional methods so that both tuners internally split the same signal. The card is inserted in the PCI Express (PCIe) slot and is compatible with Microsoft's Windows XP Media Center Edition operating system, so users can take advantage of this TV technology.

The product will be available in two versions.

Cinergy 2400i DT costs US$157 and includes the software application CyberLink PowerCinema 4.5, which allows users to watch TV content, listen to radio, or play movies and videos. Also, PowerCinema makes it possible to watch a movie in full screen mode and simultaneously watch another channel in a smaller window (Picture in Picture). Moreover, Cinergy 2400i DT will allow access to Teletext and will come with a remote control for easier access to features.

The second version, Cinergy 2400iDT MCE Edition, priced at US$132, is delivered with the CyberLink PowerDVD version 6.0 software application. This card won't include features like Picture in Picture, Teletext or come with a remote control. However, this model is recommended to those who just want to upgrade their current configuration.

TerraTec Electronic was founded in 1994 by Walter Grieger and Heiko Meertz as a two-man business in Germany. A few years later, the company had become the largest German manufacturer of sound cards in terms of sales volume and one of the leading multimedia brands in Europe.

Micronas Semiconductor Holding AG is a semiconductor company with headquarters in Austria and worldwide operations. At its locations in Germany (Freiburg and Munich), Austria (Villach), the Netherlands (Nijmegen) and in the United States (Palatine, Illinois), the company develops microchips - integrated circuits (ICs) and sensors.