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NAS
(Network Attached Storage)
Network storage facility. This is generally a very large-capacity (> 200 GB)
storage device to which other devices have access. If the NAS server includes
a UPnP-AV server service, then the
Music Receiver
has access to media files
stored on the NAS, and can play them back.
Powerline-LAN
In a Power-Line LAN data is transferred via the existing mains power cabling.
Devices known as “Power-Line modems” are required at the transmitting and
receiving end. In most cases Power-Line offers relatively problem-free data
transfer with adequate data rates for audio streaming. We recommend Power-
Line modems with bit rates of 85 or 200 Mbit/s.
Proxy server
A Proxy or Proxy server is a computer in the network which is capable of
carrying out data transfers faster and more efficiently, and can increase
security through the use of access control mechanisms. Most home networks
do not include a proxy server. In this case there is no need to enter a Proxy
address when configuring the
Music Receiver
network.
Router
Central network device which creates and manages the connections between
the network devices. In most networks the router also assumes the function of
Gateway to the outside world.
Server
Network device which provides data and services for other devices in the
network. For example, a UPnP-AV server typically stores audio / video data,
and makes it available to other devices (the Streaming Clients). Many
UPnP-AV servers also offer functions such as cataloguing, and easy
identification of media content using criteria such as artiste, album name,
genre, etc.
UPnP-AV
Network protocol that makes media files available on the home network.
On PCs and NAS storage devices a UPnP-AV server software must be
installed to enable the
Music Receiver
to access media files stored on these
devices.
Examples for UPnP-AV server software compatible with the
Music Receiver
:
Windows:
•
Twonky Media Server
http://www.twonkyvision.de/
•
Windows Media Receiver 11
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/de/default.aspx
Linux:
•
Mediatomb
http://mediatomb.cc/
•
GmediaServer
http://www.gnu.org/software/gmediaserver/
WLAN
(also W-LAN, Wireless LAN)
Radio network. The network is connected by means of radio waves operating in
the 2.4 GHz frequency band. Radio networks are easy to install as no cables
have to be deployed, but they are often problematic and unreliable - especially
when the transmission distances are substantial. Power-Line networks, which
can also be installed without separate cabling, are a better choice in many
situations. In every case the deployment of a network cable is the most reliable
and problem-free technology for data transfer.
Compatible hardware
and UPnP servers
The marketplace offers a vast number of routers, NAS devices and USB hard
discs made by a very wide range of manufacturers.
equipment is generally
compatible with other makes of machine which bear the UPnP label. A list of
devices which
has checked for compatibility can be found on the Internet
at: http://www.taelektroakustik.de/hardware/comp_lan_hw.pdf.