New
#1
Modern Smart TV's - do we need media servers any more
Hi there
My new Panasonic TV connects just fine (both Wifi and Ethernet facilities are available in the TV) to the shared files (SAMBA) on my Linux Server and I can play multi-media files direct from the Media Player function on the TV with no problem (including most sub titles).
The TV will also recognize a Windows MEZZMO media server from a Windows box as well but I don't think I need to run the server any more. It can also connect to shared files on the Windows box too if my multi-media files are on Windows
I think all modern TV's are now enabled with this type of facility -- when you buy a new one check to see if it has a decent Media PLAYER application in it so you can connect to shared files on your computer / NAS without having to bother with a full blown media server application.
I had an Older TV and played multi-media through it via an LG Blu Ray player which needed a media server (PLEX / MEZZMO) to ccess remote multi-media and then played that through the TV. Direct remote playback is much easier and simpler.
Check when buying a new TV if it has easy remote access to your computers and if it will play mp4/avi/mkv. Samsung and Panasonic models all do decently as well as most LG ones.
Simply set up your shares on the remote computer and "Register" access via the TV interface. Then browse the files and just hit PLAY. !!
(Over the Internet tas wellI think even android devices can access your home files too so IMO a multi media server application seems unnecessary now).
Cheers
jimbo