MediaPortal Download

MediaPortal is an application that converts a Windows-based computer into a home media center. It plays and organizes TV, movies, music, photos and radio in both local files and network. The app has also been designed to connect to online streams thus enabling the user to have all his or her media in the same place. It is compatible with TV tuner cards to allow watching live TV and recording broadcasts. MediaPortal allows the user to create a home theater system and operate all the devices using a remote or a keyboard without having to alternate between the devices.

The application has a library to sort and browse media. Movies, recorded television shows and music with cover art and descriptions can be stored by the users. There is a possibility to sort the library by genre, title, or release date. The interface is remote-navigable and can be adjusted to televisions or multiple monitors. MediaPortal supports a great variety of video and audio formats and the user can watch or listen to them without changing the files.

MediaPortal complies with the digital broadcast standards such as DVB and ATSC of live TV. Live broadcasts can be paused, rewound and fast-forwarded by the users. They are also able to book series or single episodes. The recorded files are stored in the media library that includes posters and details of the episodes. Such characteristics render the app helpful in the replacement of cable box or DVR and maintaining everything on a single system.

The application is customizable by using plugins and skins. Users are allowed to modify the interface look or to introduce new tools. Some of the more common plug-ins are weather updates, access to streaming services and additional video codecs. Skins can simplify or elaborate the interface depending on the choice of the user. These alternatives enable the users to create a system that fits their taste and viewing patterns.

In order to use MediaPortal, one has to download the software on the official web page and install it on a Windows PC. Once installed they are able to scan the local files, network shares as well as configure TV tuners. The primary menu provides the access to TV, movies, music, pictures and settings quickly. When set up, MediaPortal works well on most systems and can auto-start when windows boot up.

Settings menu allows one to adjust playback options, recording quality and display settings. It is also possible to update, change skin and install plugins using the same panel. The community of MediaPortal provides regular updates to eliminate bugs as well as introduce new features. It is open-source and has no charges. The application is most suitable to people who prefer to have all their media handled and played by a single program.