Will any modern Centrino/Centrino Due Laptop support Windows MCE?

[bradavon78]

I want to buy a Sony Vaio Ultra Mobile (or similar) as the physical size is perfect for me. I will be plugging it into a standard TFT/LCD monitor and wireless keyboard so it will primarily be used just for the processing power/storage. Occasionally I'll use it while away hence why the size is even more important but generally it will be sitting on the desk shut.

The problem is Ultra Mobiles don't come with Windows MCE (I guess because they assume the screens are to small).

I'd like to therefore try and buy a laptop without Windows installed and buy Windows MCE separately. I plan to use it for general computer use, Internet, E-mail and Windows MCE's Audio functionality (as it will be replacing my CD Hifi) BUT won't be using it's PVR functionality.

I'd like to be able to play the odd DVD on it but my proper Home Cinema setup will use this more. Looking at the hardware requirements it all looks standard laptop stuff for the last few years.

Being Windows XP underneath couldn't I just install PowerDVD for when watching DVDs? I presume all standard Windows XP software works on MCE (e.g - DVD Shrink)?

Oh and how does the official Windows MCE 2005 keyboard/remote control work, is it via non-wired USB connection (i.e - USB Stick)?

Cheers

[Stiggy]

Yes, you could run MCE on a laptop. In fact Dell sell high-end laptops with MCE preinstalled.

Are you sure you need MCE though? You can do most of what you describe with just XP.

You will struggle to find a new computer without XP preinstalled on it, but you can buy MCE separately from some suppliers. Thread on it here.

You shouldn't need to install PowerDVD on MCE. Just get a codec (there are a few free ones around) and play the DVDs in the MCE application.

The MCE keyboard and remote use an infra-red connection. The IR receiver comes with the remote, and it's a bit big and ugly, but works great.

[bradavon78]

Cheers Stiggy. It makes you wonder why you can't buy MCE Retail. I hear because of it's hardware requirements but that's easily resolved by creating a "Designed for Windows MCE logo.

Originally Posted by Stiggy

Are you sure you need MCE though? You can do most of what you describe with just XP.

Good question. It will be replacing my Hifi so for me (and future girlfriend ) must be as simple as possible. I'm treating it as mainly a clever Hifi if you will not a PC.

The MCE interface looks so user friendly. I installed WMP11 last night and that goes along way to making things as easy as popping a CD in but it's still to technical.

Plus I want a proper remote which will properly integrate and control my music like a Hifi.

Originally Posted by Stiggy

You shouldn't need to install PowerDVD on MCE. Just get a codec (there are a few free ones around) and play the DVDs in the MCE application.

Good to hear. I was asking as I wasn't sure if I made the mistake and bought some non-MCE compatible hardware.