What is the Intel Viiv?

(Syndicated from MyDigitalEntertainer.com)

You’ve probably seen the commercials and heard the hype. But what exactly is Microsoft’s Intel Viiv? Simply put, Intel Viiv (rhymes with “five”) is a catch-all for the latest in a growing line of marketing initiatives by Intel. In fact, if you bought your computer after early 2006, chances are you’ve may already have a Viiv.

Much like Intel’s last marketing splash, the Centrino, there’s no set-in-stone configuration for these systems. Instead, the Viiv offers a host of possible features to choose from, including processors, chipsets, and even an optional TV tuner. With an Intel Viiv PC, you can access, play, and share your digital media—all from one convenient spot. You can also use your Viiv with several different online entertainment sources, allowing you to download and play tons of music, movies, and more.

The Viiv is capable of connecting directly to your television, plus it offers a quick and easy one-touch on/off function—just like most standard DVD players. Plus, it neatly organizes all of your digital media files so you spend more time enjoying your content, and less time searching for just the right files.

Inside the Box

Viiv systems offer support for up to 1080i HDTV, Intel Matrix Storage Technology for setting up a RAID 0, 1, 5, or 10 array; Another great option available in Viiv Pcs is the Optional Integrated Media Server (IMS); this software’s designed to allow other portable devices to be used in the same network as the Viiv.

There is flexibility in the hardware for Viiv certified PCs, but they're all required to feature dual-core processors. There are five different processors available for the Viiv:

In addition to the processors above, Viiv PCs also incorporate specific chipsets. Any of the following will satisfy the requirement for Viiv certification:

  • Intel 975X Express, 955X Express, 945G Express, 945P Express, 945GT Express, P965 Express, G965 Express or
  • Mobile Intel 945GM Express Chipset
  • And one of the following network adapters
  • Intel PRO/1000 PM, PRO/100 VE, or PRO/100 VM

Of course, the Viiv isn’t only about processors and chipsets. Intel offers some great optional features for the Viiv, along with some pretty good standard ones too:

A Final Word

Yes, it's a marketing gimmick, which can really turn some people off to a product. But the fact of the matter is, the Viiv is a powerful PC, fully capable of handling any kind of content for your home theater. If you’ve already got one and didn’t know it, start putting its power to use for you today! If you don’t already have a Viiv, then maybe it’s time you take the plunge.

 

Connect With Techlore