Digital 5 Prototype NAS Media Server

By Alexander Grundner | June 22nd, 2004

Digital 5, in partnership with TDK at the SUPERCOMM 2004 conference in Chicago, is demonstrating a prototype NAS (Network Attached Stoage) Media Server device that can server up digital media content like music, movies, and photos around the networked house, but can also connect directly to a television and stereo for content playback — think of it as hybrid Media Adapter with NAS capabilities. Now if they can just add Personal Video Recording functionality with a free Electronic Programming Guide (and shrink down/redesign that ROBOTECH enemy fighter looking enclosure) they would have a real winner here.

Excerpt from Digital 5’s press release:

The NAS Media Server product provides an economical and efficient way to store and retrieve vast amounts of data, media files and content. Like traditional file servers, the NAS Media Server allows multiple embedded devices to securely store, and retrieve content. The core technology, which allows the devices to locate and connect to the NAS Media Server, is enabled on an embedded operating system feature on the device side, designed for environments where a dedicated server or traditional PC, monitor, mouse or keyboard are not available or not readily accessible. The devices may have their own front panel display or they maybe connected to a DVD or TV, which can offer a richer user interface experience.

The advantages a NAS system brings to the Telecommunications industry are myriad. The systems strive for easy administration and include features such as secure quantification, web-based content management, seamless PC connectivity, and standards compliance for interoperability.

The Digital 5 software embedded in the NAS device is currently deployed to power connected Consumer Electronic DVD products from major OEMs such as, Gateway, Apex, Oritron and Go-Video, as well as Digital Media Adapters from Netgear. Digital 5 technology incorporates advanced Digital Rights Management (DRM), Quality of Streaming (QoS) and a robust Security framework as well as UPnP compatibility into their software offering.

Additionally, Digital 5 is utilizing its technology to deliver premium media content throughout the home from leading services such as AOL and Real Rhapsody. The Digital 5 networked products allow the consumer to stream digital music, movies, and pictures, from either their personal libraries or premium service providers over the home network and the Internet.