Slingbox User Guide i
© 2005 Sling Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Patents pending. Slingbox, SlingPlayer, SlingStream, and SlingBar are the property of Sling Media, Inc. All other products and services, screen images, logos, trademarks, and movie quotes are the property of their respective owners. SlingPlayer uses the SoundTouch Sound Processing Library, which is licensed under the terms of the GNU Lesser General Public License. (http://sky.prohosting.
Contents Contents .................................................................................... iii Introducing Slingbox™ ...................................................................................1 Welcome ..................................................................................... 1 Setup is easy...ignoring your TV is difficult ..................................... 1 It’s not magic, but it’s close ...............................................................
Windowed Mode ............................................................................... 59 Minimized Mode ................................................................................ 59 Docked Mode .................................................................................... 60 Full Screen Mode ............................................................................... 60 Resizing SlingPlayer and SlingRemote ........................................... 60 Listening Options ..............
1: Introducing Slingbox™ Welcome You’re being followed…by your television! Your new Slingbox makes your television accessible from anywhere. It sends your living room television to wherever you choose to watch. We call it “place-shifting.” You can call it your TV...anywhere. And, if you choose to set up remote viewing, following your favourite baseball team from your office cubicle has never been easier—not that we’d encourage that. However, we’re working on a “boss” button. Setup is easy...
Introducing Slingbox™ Stream of Consciousness It all comes together once you start up SlingPlayer application. Slingbox compresses your television source (or other audio/video content) making it available digitally through your in-home router. Watch it in another room or even in the garden. It gets more impressive when you venture outside of your home-network range.
Welcome Conflict Management. You can now “bump” a viewer if he/she is watching your Slingbox. You are the king. Remote Updation. With this release, you can update your firmware remotely. Index. This user guide now includes an index. Use it to get instructions on “bumping” a user.
Introducing Slingbox™ Using this Guide This user guide provides details about using your Slingbox and SlingPlayer so you get the most out of your new television experience. The guide includes step-by-step instructions for using your Slingbox. If you haven’t already, refer to the Quick Setup Guide for an overview of the connection process. Additional instructions, troubleshooting help, tips and tricks, and the most up-to-date information about this guide are always available at http://www.slingmedia.com.
Package Contents Package Contents Make sure you have received the following items with your Slingbox. See “Included Cables” on page 10. • • • • • Slingbox 2 Audio/Video cables Ethernet cable Coaxial cable Quick Setup Guide System Requirements • • • • • • • • Windows XP Home/Pro/MCE/2000 (SP4) Pentium IV 1GHz 256MB RAM 100MB Free Hard Disk Space Graphics Card (24-bit colour) Sound Card (16-bit) CD-ROM Drive Ethernet Network Connectivity (wired, 802.
Introducing Slingbox™ Important Safety Instructions Please read all of these instructions and retain for future reference. Follow all warnings and instructions. Do not use Slingbox near water. Do not place the product near heat sources such as direct sunlight, radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. Do not block the ventilation holes on top of Slingbox. Slingbox requires adequate ventilation.
Important Safety Instructions Lightning. For added protection of this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods, unplug it from the wall outlet. Power lines. An outside antenna system should not be located near overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits.
Introducing Slingbox™ The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons. The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.
2: Connecting your Slingbox About Connections This section contains the following topics: • Included Cables on page 10 • Rear Panel Connectors on page 12 Connecting Slingbox is easy, and takes just a few minutes. Refer to the Quick Setup Guide before reading this chapter. This chapter provides additional information and instructions.
Connecting your Slingbox programming from wherever you are by turning any laptop or Internet-connected computer into a window to your home. It’s that simple. You can also connect other A/V devices to Slingbox, such as a DVD player, a VCR, or a CD player. See “Connecting Other Audio/Video Devices” on page 16. Included Cables You probably won’t need to use all of the cables included with your Slingbox.
About Connections Table 1: Cables provided and their use Cable or Cable Combination IR Control cable Why do I need it? If you have a cable box, satellite receiver, DVR, or other external device, Slingbox uses this cable to control these external devices, just as you do with your remote control. This cable sends remote control signals from Slingbox to your cable/satellite box or DVR.
Connecting your Slingbox Rear Panel Connectors • Power: Slingbox does not have an on/off switch. Plug it in to power it on. The green Power light on the front indicates that Slingbox is on. • IR (infrared): Allows Slingbox to change channels on your cable box or satellite receiver, and use the menus of the device you connected, including a DVR. The emitter ends of the IR control cable are placed so they point at the IR sensor on your device.
Connecting your Audio/Video Sources to Slingbox Connecting your Audio/Video Sources to Slingbox This section contains the following topics: • Connecting a Cable Box, Satellite Receiver, or a DVR on page 14 • Connecting an Antenna, DVB-T, or Analogue Cable on page 15 • Connecting Other Audio/Video Devices on page 16 • Sharing an Audio/Video Source on page 18 • Connecting Multiple Audio/Video Sources to Slingbox on page 18 Additional information about the steps in the Quick Setup Guide is provided here.
Connecting your Slingbox Connecting a Cable Box, Satellite Receiver, or a DVR If you have a cable box, satellite receiver, or a DVR, connect this device to Slingbox, as shown below. 1. Connect your cable box, satellite receiver, or DVR to Slingbox. Choose one of the connections below based on the available outputs on your cable box, satellite receiver, or DVR. See “Included Cables” on page 10 for more information on the included cables.
Connecting your Audio/Video Sources to Slingbox Connecting Using a SCART Output Use this setup if your TV source has a SCART output. Connect the SCART adaptor between the source and your TV. Connect the other end of the SCART adaptor to the A/V In cables. Connect the A/V in output to Slingbox. Once connected, continue to connect Slingbox to the network. See “Connecting Slingbox to your Home Network” on page 21.
Connecting your Slingbox Important You cannot use S-Video or A/V Out from Slingbox to your TV if you use this setup. Connecting Other Audio/Video Devices One additional advantage of Slingbox is the ability to stream more than just your television programming. Slingbox can control DVD players, VCRs, and CD players. Yes, you can even listen to music from your CD player. You can additionally connect non controllable devices such as camcorders too. 1.
Connecting your Audio/Video Sources to Slingbox Important Though you can connect many A/V devices to Slingbox, not all can be controlled. If your device category (for example, a camcorder) is not among the categories listed during setup, choose Non-controllable device.
Connecting your Slingbox Sharing an Audio/Video Source Complete this step if you have to remove the cable or cables currently connecting your cable/ satellite box or DVR to your TV to include Slingbox in your setup. You may need to do this if your device has only one set of outputs. This connection passes your television source through Slingbox and back to your television. Connect the same cable type for the output back to your TV as you used for the input to Slingbox.
Connecting your Audio/Video Sources to Slingbox Important If you plan to connect an A/V source to both A/V In and S-Video In, you will only receive the audio signal from the source to which the A/V cable is connected. However, you can use one of these combinations and receive both audio and video: • Antenna/Cable In and A/V In, or • Antenna/Cable In and S-Video In (along with the red and white audio from the A/V cable). Connecting Another A/V Device 1.
Connecting your Slingbox Connecting the IR Control Cable The IR control cable allows Slingbox to act as a universal remote, controlling the device you connect to Slingbox. It works with your cable/satellite box, DVR, and many other devices. Place your Slingbox close enough to your device so the IR control cable can be attached to the front of your device. 1. Connect the IR control cable to the IR connector on Slingbox.
Connecting Slingbox to your Home Network Connecting Slingbox to your Home Network Slingbox works with any high-speed Internet connection or broadband home network. You must have a router to use Slingbox. Slingbox comes with an Ethernet cable. If it’s not long enough to reach your router, you can use a longer cable, or one of the optional connections. See “Optional Networking Connections” on page 104.
Connecting your Slingbox Powering-up your Slingbox Connect the supplied power adapter to Slingbox and to an electrical outlet. When plugged in, the Power light on the front of Slingbox comes on, and then the lights on the front of Slingbox will blink a few times as Slingbox starts up. The Network light remains on if Slingbox successfully received an IP address (your router recognizes Slingbox as a new device on your network).
3: Installing SlingPlayer Once Slingbox is connected and the two green lights on it are on, you are ready to install SlingPlayer, which you will use to watch your Slingbox. This chapter provides an overview of the installation process. Click Help at the bottom of each screen if you need assistance during setup. Important The Setup Wizard and SlingPlayer automatically discover Slingbox on your network. Certain personal firewall security software may block this process.
Installing SlingPlayer About the Software Installation You will be guided through setting up Slingbox to work with your television source and your home network. If you are a cable/satellite box or DVR user, it may be helpful to know the model number. Free Slingbox Finder service Having to remember IP addresses can be a significant obstacle if you want to access your home files, media, or Slingbox on a regular basis.
Installing SlingPlayer on your PC Installing SlingPlayer on your PC Follow these steps to install the software for your Slingbox. 1. Navigate to the folder containing SlingPlayerSetup.exe. Double click to start the installation wizard. 2. Follow the on-screen steps to complete setup. If you connected the cables correctly, the video from your television source displays during setup. Recheck your connections if you don’t see the video. Make sure all the cables are securely fastened.
Installing SlingPlayer SlingPlayer Application Setup There are five key steps to the setup: 1. Setup Type. Here you need to select whether you are setting-up SlingPlayer and Slingbox for the first time or you are upgrading/reinstalling SlingPlayer. 2. Audio/Video Setup. If you properly connected the cables, you will see the video from your TV source on the setup screens. Refer to the Quick Setup Guide or click Help if you don’t see the video. Make sure you connected the cables properly.
SlingPlayer Application Setup Setup Type 1. Click the top button to set up your Slingbox for the first time. OR Click the bottom button if you have previously set up your Slingbox. 2. Click Next on the “Welcome” screen and follow the on-screen instructions. Checking for Updates If you selected Click here to set up your Slingbox for the first time in the previous screen, the wizard will check for updates. This is to ensure that you have the latest software. 1. Click Check For Updates Now!.
Installing SlingPlayer Audio/Video Setup If you properly connected the cables from your television source to Slingbox, and connected Slingbox to your router, you will see the video from your TV source on the setup screens. Refer to the Quick Setup Guide or click Help if you don’t see the video. Make sure the outputs from your television source are connected to the inputs on Slingbox. Click Next to continue. The settings for your Slingbox are loaded.
SlingPlayer Application Setup Location of Your Slingbox 1. Select the location of your Slingbox from the list. 2. Click Next.
Installing SlingPlayer Connection Type It’s important to indicate how you connected your television or other A/V source to Slingbox. The S-Video connection provides the best video quality. If your television source has an available S-Video output, you should take advantage of the superior video quality it delivers. If you see video but don’t hear the audio, or vice versa, you may have wrongly connected the cables. Make sure what you choose on this screen matches the cables you used to connect your Slingbox.
SlingPlayer Application Setup Audio/Video Settings The default audio and video settings are typically ideal for most computers when watching your TV using SlingPlayer. However, for the best possible viewing experience, the audio and video signal from your television source or other A/V device may need a slight adjustment when you watch your Slingbox. Note You can adjust these settings can only after installing SlingPlayer. To access this screen, select Slingbox > Properties.
Installing SlingPlayer Video Connections to your Slingbox If you have connected an RF cable to your Slingbox, choose one of the following options. 1. Select one of the following options: • Choose External box if you connected a set-top box or other device (for example, a satellite receiver or digital cable set-top box) to Slingbox. See “Connecting a Cable Box, Satellite Receiver, or a DVR” on page 14.
SlingPlayer Application Setup TV Tuner Setup If you chose Internal Tuner in the Video Selection screen, you need to select the TV source. Slingbox also scans and makes a list of all the available channels from the selected source. 1. Select the source connected to your Slingbox. • Antenna. This refers to the metallic device that can receive signals transmitted by a TV station. It is also known as an aerial or rabbit ears. • Cable.
Installing SlingPlayer Television Source If you connected an external device to Slingbox, choose the type on this screen. It’s important that you choose the correct device and brand so its remote control code can be used by Slingbox. Using the IR control cable, Slingbox will test the communication with your device. Also, SlingPlayer’s remote control, SlingRemote, displays the buttons for the device you connected to your Slingbox.
SlingPlayer Application Setup Device Brand You need to select the brand of the video source. This screen will be displayed only if you selected a Composite or an S-Video cable during setup. Slingbox needs to know the brand of the video source for the IR feature to work properly. Along with the brand, it also needs the control code which you will configure in the next screen. 1. Select the brand of the connected device from the list. 2. Click Next. Continue to select the IR control code of the video source.
Installing SlingPlayer Control Code You need to set the control code for the IR feature to work. The type of device and the brand must be correct for the remote to work. This screen will be displayed only if you selected a Composite or an S-Video cable during setup. Ensure your IR control cable is attached and the emitter is placed near the IR input of the device. 1. • • • Select a code from the list and click Power. If your DVD player switches off, the code you selected is correct.
Name and Password Setup Name and Password Setup Assigning a Name Give your Slingbox a catchy name, if you like, or use the provided name of “My Slingbox.” If you have more than one Slingbox in your home, give each a unique name so they’re easily recognized. Click Next after you name your Slingbox. Tip Name your Slingbox “Fester Bestertester” if you’re not into the whole brevity thing.
Installing SlingPlayer Assigning Passwords Slingbox offers two levels of password protection. You must enter each password a second time to verify the entry. • The first password restricts the viewers of your Slingbox. Each time you want to view your Slingbox, you will need to type this password. • The Administrator password is used if you want change the settings associated with your Slingbox. Note The user password and the Administrator password cannot be identical.
IR Control Setup IR Control Setup Slingbox attempts to communicate with your external device on this screen (the device connected using the co-axial/RF cable only) using the supplied IR control cable. The test is performed using a button that will communicate with your device. Click the button beneath the video window to test the IR connection. Click Next to continue to the next screen if your device responded properly.
Installing SlingPlayer Changing Channels There are a few fine-tuning features on this screen, so it’s important that you complete the ones that relate to your television source. It is possible, that Slingbox is sending the commands too fast or too slow. For example, if you want to change to channel ‘135’ and only ‘15’ is recognized. This page can rectify that error. Enter or select a channel beneath the video window and then click Change Channel to test your settings.
Remote Viewing Setup Remote Viewing Setup If you plan to watch your Slingbox outside of your home network, say from a hotel room in Beijing, check the box on this screen and continue to configure your router. See “Configuring your Router” on page 42. Otherwise, click Next to conclude setup. See “You’re Good To Go” on page 45.
Installing SlingPlayer Configuring your Router If you enabled remote viewing in the previous screen, you need to configure your router. To watch your Slingbox remotely, a “port” must be opened on your router. Opening a port is often called “port forwarding.” When opened, a port allows access to a device on your local network (Slingbox) from outside. There are three ways to set up your router from this screen. Choose the one that best fits your needs.
Remote Viewing Setup Port Forwarding Click “Help set up port forwarding on my router” to be taken to the Sling Media port forwarding setup process, which helps you configure your router by make and model. Follow the on-screen steps and then return to the setup process. Once you find your router's setup screen, you will need to enter the port number and IP address displayed under “Your Slingbox Information.
Installing SlingPlayer 4. Enter your Slingbox IP address in an available IP address field. To find the IP address, start SlingPlayer and move your mouse over the name of your Slingbox. 5. Enable TCP (required) and UDP (optional) on the router administration screen. 6. If you see an “Add Service” button within your router’s administration screens, click it and name the new service “Slingbox.
You’re Good To Go You’re Good To Go This is the final setup screen. Click Finish to complete the setup process. See Chapter 5: “Using SlingPlayer”.
Installing SlingPlayer Registering Your Slingbox Registering your Slingbox is important because it can improve your support experience. After registration, the support team at Sling Media can identify you faster. Sling Media also gives out freebies and goodies at times. To register your Slingbox: 1. In SlingPlayer, select Slingbox > Registration. The Sling Media registration page opens in your browser. If this does not happen, navigate to http://www.slingmedia.com/support/registration.php. 2.
4: Getting to Know SlingPlayer SlingPlayer is a simple application that lets you watch your TV on a PC. This chapter will help you get to know the application and the various UI components. SlingPlayer User Interface SlingPlayer can be customized using skins and so the screenshots shown here could differ from your application. We have used SlingPlayer 1.0 Classic skin for all examples. See “Skins” on page 75 for information on how to change skins. The figure below shows the basic layout of the SlingPlayer.
Getting to Know SlingPlayer Window Controls Slingbox Name Status Display Buffer Control Mode Indicator SlingPlayer Options Favourite Channels Streaming Bitrate Start/Stop Remote Control Volume Slider Mute/Unmute SlingPlayer Controls The table below describes the various controls and their function.
SlingPlayer User Interface Table 1: SlingPlayer Controls Control Function Slingbox Name The name of the Slingbox that you’re watching. See “Watching your TV using Slingbox” on page 57. Status Display This area provides information on the state of the SlingPlayer. “Starting stream” appears briefly while connecting to your Slingbox. There may be a connection problem if it remains visible for a long period. Refer to the SlingPlayer Help screens for more information.
Getting to Know SlingPlayer Table 1: SlingPlayer Controls Control Function Start/Stop Start and stop streaming from your Slingbox. If you have more than one Slingbox in your directory, you will be prompted to choose one. Remote Control Display or hide the SlingPlayer remote control. Window Controls Dock, minimize, close, or view the SlingPlayer full screen. See “SlingPlayer Window Controls” on page 51. Buffer The buffer shows the current streaming “health.
SlingPlayer User Interface SlingPlayer Window Controls SlingPlayer lets you watch your TV in a variety of ways. The table below describes the controls and their usage. Table 2: SlingPlayer Window Controls Window Control Dock Right Minimize Close Maximize Usage Dock Left Moves the SlingBar to the left side of your screen. Dock Right Moves the SlingBar to the right side of your screen. Minimize Minimizes SlingPlayer to a button on the Windows taskbar.
Getting to Know SlingPlayer Slingbox Directory The Slingbox Directory lists the available Slingbox connections in your network. The following table describes the various states and icons of the Slingbox Directory. Table 3: Slingbox Directory Icon Slingbox Name Icon Description A house on top of a Slingbox icon represents a local Slingbox. One that is on your home network. Type (Status) An arrow on top of a Slingbox icon represents a remote Slingbox. One that you access over the Internet.
SlingPlayer User Interface SlingRemote The SlingPlayer remote control displays the buttons for the device you connected to your Slingbox. If you connected a DVR, you can play your recorded programmes and control the action. You can even schedule recordings right from the SlingPlayer. Use the SlingRemote to control whatever you connect to Slingbox. See “Using SlingRemote” on page 58. The SlingRemote shown here is for a generic DVR. The one you use could differ. A. Menu and Guide Access.
Getting to Know SlingPlayer Control Mode The SlingStream Control Mode technology gives you rapid response when you are changing channels, controlling your cable/satellite box, or fast forwarding your DVR. It provides faster response time but may result in temporary jittery video. • Automatic (default): When you select any remote control button, Slingbox automatically toggles into and out of Control Mode to give you fast response.
SlingStream SlingStream SlingStream is the proprietary streaming technology of Sling Media. Slingbox uses SlingStream to stream content to the SlingPlayer. The SlingStream addresses varying network conditions in order to optimize your video playback experience. SlingStream automatically provides the best possible video experience at any given time, although you can also manually change the settings on the SlingPlayer options window and the Slingbox properties window.
Getting to Know SlingPlayer 56 Slingbox User Guide
5: Using SlingPlayer This section deals with the watching TV on your PC, on a home network as well as remotely. It will also discuss how to use your remote control and the different viewing options on your PC. Watching your TV using Slingbox Watching your Slingbox at home is as easy as starting SlingPlayer and pressing start. Starting SlingPlayer To start your SlingPlayer: 1. Double click the Launch SlingPlayer shortcut on your desktop. SlingPlayer starts. 2. If you have only one Slingbox, click Start.
Using SlingPlayer Using SlingRemote Use the SlingRemote as you would use your physical remote control for a particular device. The SlingRemote changes with the device currently in use. For example, if you are using your DVD player, the SlingRemote will look, and function like your DVD player’s remote. Or, if you are using your DVR, the SlingRemote will look and function like your DVR’s physical remote. There is no new learning required to use the SlingRemote. To use the SlingRemote: 1.
Viewing Options Viewing Options A convenient way to watch TV and work at the same time! As you use SlingPlayer, you may want to “dock” the video and SlingRemote on one side of your computer screen. For example, you’re surfing the Web or writing an e-mail and want to watch TV at the same time. The window icons in the upper right corner of SlingPlayer are designed with this in mind. Keyboard shortcuts are also available to quickly move SlingPlayer around the screen.
Using SlingPlayer Docked Mode If you have another application open and is displayed full-screen on your computer, click the Dock Left or Dock Right Window control icon to resize SlingPlayer. This is called the SlingBar. The video and all your controls are aligned for quick access. The width of the SlingBar is adjustable by clicking and dragging on the edge of the SlingBar window. See “SlingPlayer User Interface” on page 47. To dock left/dock right SlingPlayer: 1.
Viewing Options To resize SlingPlayer or the SlingRemote: 1. Click and drag from the right, corner, or bottom. 2. You can move the remote to anywhere on your computer screen or ‘snap’ it to either side of SlingPlayer. If you do this, you can move SlingPlayer along with the SlingRemote by clicking and dragging the top of SlingPlayer.
Using SlingPlayer Listening Options SlingPlayer PC supports bilingual audio streams. In a bilingual audio stream, the left audio channel streams one language and the right audio channel another. When you choose to listen to a bilingual stream, SlingPlayer PC plays one stream in both audio channels — left and right. The following table details the audio options.
Listening Options To listen in audio only mode: 1. Select Player > Audio >Audio Only. The main SlingPlayer screen is replaced by an image of a speaker and only the audio is streamed. Muting Audio If you only want to watch the video without the audio, then you must mute the audio. To mute audio: 1. Select Player > Audio > Mute Audio. The main SlingPlayer screen is replaced by an image of a speaker and only the audio is streamed. Alternatively, you can also click the speaker icon on SlingPlayer PC.
Using SlingPlayer Using Multiple Slingbox Audio/Video Inputs Your Slingbox can support a maximum of three A/V inputs: Antenna/Cable In, S-Video In, and A/V In. However, you can only set up one input during the initial installation of SlingPlayer. Once you have completed the Setup Wizard for the first time, you can connect additional A/V devices to the remaining Slingbox inputs.
Viewing Your Slingbox Remotely Viewing Your Slingbox Remotely Remote viewing enables your Slingbox to stream content over the Internet. You can then watch your Slingbox from any place where you can access the Internet. For this, you should have enabled remote viewing during the initial setup. If you have not, see “Network Settings” on page 77. Important SlingPlayer must be installed on the computer from which you remotely want to watch your Slingbox. To view Slingbox Remotely: 1.
Using SlingPlayer Slingbox Finder ID The Slingbox Finder ID is a number that uniquely identifies your Slingbox. This ID is presented when you first install SlingPlayer. If you install SlingPlayer on another computer, the Finder ID is what you use to access your home Slingbox remotely. See “Free Slingbox Finder service” on page 24. You can locate your Slingbox Finder ID within SlingPlayer if you did not write it down during the software installation.
Adding Another Slingbox to Your Directory Adding Another Slingbox to Your Directory Your home Slingbox and any other Slingbox on the local LAN are automatically added to your directory when you install SlingPlayer. You can add another Slingbox in two ways: • Using its Finder ID. See Adding a Slingbox Using its Finder ID on page 67 • Using a domain name or IP address.
Using SlingPlayer 68 Slingbox User Guide
6: Customizing SlingPlayer You can customize your SlingPlayer to suit your needs. You can use the futuristic Gamer’s delight skin or the vanilla classic skin. You can add favourites and create Favourite Bars so that you can access channels and controls faster. This section also deals with other settings to suit your tastes.
Customizing SlingPlayer 7. Select the input cable from the list. Click Next. 8. Adjust the audio and video to suit your needs. Click Next. 9. Select the device you have connected to your Slingbox. Click Next. Depending on the type of device, the steps to configure the same might vary. Click Next to progress to the next screen. 10. Click Next to save your configuration. 11. Click Finish. The wizard closes and updates the changes. Video Options SlingStream optimizes your viewing experience.
Audio/Video Settings • Original Settings. If you want to discard the current changes, click this button to return to the default settings. 3. Click OK to save the changes. Video Mixing Renderer (VMR9) VMR9 is a video technology that may improve video performance on computers that support this feature (typically available on PCs running Microsoft® Windows XP or later). SlingPlayer can use VMR9 only if your computer’s video card and drivers support it. By default, SlingPlayer attempts to use VMR9.
Customizing SlingPlayer Checking DirectX Version DirectX is a collection of APIs for easily handling tasks related to multimedia on Microsoft Windows. To check the DirectX version: 1. Select Run from the Windows Start menu. The Run window appears. 2. Type dxdiag and click OK. The DirextX Diagnostic Tool appears. 3. In the System tab, note the DirectX version. Tip Download the latest version of DirectX from http://www.microsoft.
Encoding Settings Encoding Settings You may never need to adjust the streaming characteristics of Slingbox. However, you can fine-tune the SlingStream based on the type of content you’re currently viewing. To change the encoding settings: 1. Select Player > SlingPlayer Options. The Options window opens. 2. Update the following settings in the Encoding tab to change the streaming options: • Automatic. Select Enable SlingStream optimization. See “Automatic Encoding” on page 73. • Manual.
Customizing SlingPlayer • Video smoothness. When video is “smoother,” action scenes appear more natural, but details are fuzzier. When video is sharper, action may be jumpier, but more details are preserved. To maximize smoothness, move the control all the way to the left. To maximize sharpness, move the control all the way to the right. • Video Resolution. This is the size of the picture that is being encoded. Higher resolutions result in improved picture quality and increased bandwidth usage.
Skins Skins Yes! SlingPlayer is skinnable. A skin is a custom graphical appearance that you can apply to SlingPlayer to suit your tastes. SlingPlayer comes with few skins. You can download more from http://www.slingmedia.com/slingcentral. Or, if you want to create and use your own, instructions are also provided. Get creative! Changing Skins Variety is the spice of life. Keep changing the skin to reflect your mood. To change a skin: 1. Select Player > SlingPlayer Options. The Options window opens. 2.
Customizing SlingPlayer Adding New Skins You need to add skins before you can use them on your SlingPlayer. To add a new skin: 1. Select Player > SlingPlayer Options. The Options window opens. 2. Click Sling Central in the Skins tab. Alternatively, you can navigate to http://www.slingmedia.com/slingcentral using your web browser. 3. Download the required skin to a convenient location on your PC. 4. In the Options window, click Add. The Import SlingPlayer Skins window opens. 5.
Connection Settings Connection Settings Some corporations use firewalls to prevent access to certain outside resources on the Internet. If you have trouble using your Slingbox from the office, this might be the reason. If you’re having trouble connecting to your Slingbox, try to connect to a Web site from which video is playable. If you can’t stream from this site, you may not be able to stream your in-home Slingbox from the office.
Customizing SlingPlayer 3. Select the Slingbox Configuration tab. 4. In the Network Settings section, click Change. The Slingbox Setup Wizard starts. Follow the on-screen instructions. 5. Click Next. 6. Select the check box if you want to enable remote viewing. Click Next. 7. Select the router configuration mode. Click Next. 8. If you selected Semi-Automatic or Manual: a. Enter the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway. Click Next. b. Enter the Port Number. Click Next. c.
Preferences Preferences The Preferences tab contains additional helpful Slingbox settings. 1. Select Player > SlingPlayer Options. The Options window opens. 2. Update the following settings in the Preferences tab. • Full Screen Warning. The full screen warning is displayed when you attempt to watch your Slingbox at higher resolutions than normal TV (this is 640 pixels wide by 480 pixels high). Clear this to stop seeing the warning. • SlingStream Control Mode.
Customizing SlingPlayer Favourites If you have certain channels that you frequently watch, you can easily add them as favourites, creating a shortcut to the channel with one click. There are several channels provided from which to choose. If you can’t find the right icon, use your own custom picture as a channel logo. You also can have control buttons such as Channel Up and Channel Down in your favourites list. SlingPlayer allows you to group your Favourite channels into Favourite Bars.
Favourites 4. Click OK. SlingPlayer updates the Favourite Bar. Deleting Favourite Bars To delete a Favourite Bar: 1. Click on your SlingPlayer. Select the Favourite Bar you want to delete from the list. The favourites bar shows all the icons of that group. 2. Click again on your SlingPlayer. Select Group > Delete. A confirmation appears. 3. Click OK to delete the Favourite Bar. Note When you delete a Favourite Bar, you also delete the channels belonging to that Favourite Bar.
Customizing SlingPlayer Tip You can also download predefined Favourite Bars from the Sling Media site. • Click Search Online in the Import Favourites Bar window. Download the required Favourites Bars to your local computer and then import it to SlingPlayer. • Visit http://www.slingmedia.com/slingcentral to download the required Favourites Bars to your local computer and then import it to SlingPlayer.
Favourites Adding Favourite Channels Favourite channels heightens your viewing pleasure. With this, you don’t have to remember channel numbers nor surf through ‘boring in-between’ channels. To add a favourite channel: 1. Select the Favourite Bar to which you want to add the channel. 2. Click on SlingPlayer. The Favourites window opens. 3. Select Channel. 4. Search and select for the name of the channel.
Customizing SlingPlayer Adding Favourite Controls A favourite control button allows you to control the connected device quickly. You don’t have to use the remote control. To add a favourite control: 1. Select the Favourite Bar to which you want to add the channel. 2. Click on SlingPlayer. The Favourites window opens. 3. Select Control. 4. Search and select for the name of the control. If you cannot find the icon: • Click Custom to browse and select an appropriate icon available on your system.
Favourites Modifying and Removing Favourite Channels/Controls • To remove a channel from your favourites, right-click the channel and select Remove channel. • To make changes to a channel's settings, right-click the channel, select Modify channel and then make your changes. • To remove all of your favourite channels, right-click any channel and select Remove all channels. Follow the same procedures for Controls.
Customizing SlingPlayer Slingbox Settings Select a unique password (user and administrator) for your Slingbox. This will also reduce the chances of someone using your Slingbox. Here are a few tips for creating and safeguarding your password: • Change your password periodically. • Don’t share your password with others. • Don’t write your password. Think of creative ways to remember it. • Avoid dictionary words, first names, pet’s names and so on. • Use a good mix of letters and numbers in CaMeL cASe.
7: Updating SlingPlayer and Slingbox New versions of SlingPlayer and Slingbox firmware are periodically released. These versions could include enhancements and/or bug-fixes. We constantly strive to improve your viewing experience. Updating SlingPlayer New software is available for your Slingbox from time to time. You will see a message when new software is available. You can also manually check the website for updates.
Updating SlingPlayer and Slingbox Updating Slingbox From time to time, there are new firmware updates available for your Slingbox. You will be automatically prompted. You can also check for updates manually. Updating Slingbox Firmware Automatically To update Slingbox firmware automatically: 1. When SlingPlayer informs you that a new version of firmware is available for your Slingbox, click Yes. The Slingbox Setup Wizard starts. 2. Click Next. 3.
Updating Slingbox Updating Slingbox Firmware Manually If you could not update your Slingbox when prompted, you can check for the updates manually. To update Slingbox firmware manually: 1. Select Slingbox > Properties. The Slingbox properties window appears. 2. In the Slingbox Configuration tab, click Change in the Update Slingbox Firmware section. The Slingbox Setup Wizard starts. 3. Follow the on-screen instructions. Refer “Updating Slingbox Firmware Automatically” on page 88 for more information.
Updating SlingPlayer and Slingbox 90 Slingbox User Guide
8: Setup and Installation Assistance This appendix provides additional setup and software installation information not covered in Chapters 1 and 2. Network Connections Follow the instructions in this appendix if the typical setup is not possible in your home, or if you want to use optional connections that may make setup simple for you. Also, if you have more than one router in your home, you may need to adjust your network setup to use Slingbox.
Setup and Installation Assistance Troubleshooting Remote Viewing Setup To view your Slingbox remotely (outside of your home network) you need to open a port on your router. During the Setup Wizard, if you selected “FullyAutomatic UPnP” mode, the software attempts to open a port on your router automatically. If you were unable to use Automatic mode or you selected Manual mode, you must open a port on your home router prior to activating remote viewing. Read below for troubleshooting tips.
Troubleshooting Remote Viewing Setup Note Remote viewing may fail even if Automatic UPnP was successful during the Setup Wizard. If the Network light on the front of the Slingbox is blinking, Slingbox does not have a valid IP address from your router. Remote and local viewing will not work in this case. Refer to the solutions below to fix the problem. Resolving Remote Viewing Failure There are a number of possible reasons why remote viewing fails.
Setup and Installation Assistance Solution: If you see such a warning, you need to grant or permit access for your Slingbox to work properly. If you accidentally block SlingPlayer, consult your firewall documentation or support Web site to grant access to SlingPlayer.
Troubleshooting Remote Viewing Setup No Open Port On Your Router A port must be open on your router to watch your Slingbox remotely. By opening a port on your router, your router allows access to your Slingbox when you attempt to watch your Slingbox from a remote computer. If the port is not open, your router does not allow outside access, as shown below. Solution: If the Setup Wizard did not automatically open a port on your router, go to http://www.slingmedia.com/portforward.
Setup and Installation Assistance Easiest and most reliable configuration for remote viewing. Solution: Follow these instructions if you connected Slingbox to your secondary router. 1. Complete the standard port forwarding setup for your Slingbox and your secondary router (the secondary router is the one connected to your Slingbox; the primary router is the one between your secondary router and the Internet, as shown below).
Troubleshooting Remote Viewing Setup Your Current Status: If you properly completed the network steps during the Setup Wizard, port-forwarding is now set up on your secondary router, as shown above.
Setup and Installation Assistance Your Desired Status: Now you need to open a port on your primary router. Follow the remaining steps below. 2. Important: In addition to configuring port forwarding (in the following steps), it is strongly recommended that you either: A. Set a static, or permanent, IP address for your secondary router. OR B. Limit the DHCP server range on the primary router so only one IP address is assigned (recommended for advanced users).
Troubleshooting Remote Viewing Setup • For example, if your secondary router’s IP address is 192.168.100.1, its public IP address might look like 192.168.1.2 and its gateway might be 192.168.1.1. • The first two segments of the numbers will probably be the same, and the second two segments will probably be different. • Important: Your secondary router’s gateway is your primary router’s IP address. 4. Now, open a Web browser window, and enter your secondary router’s gateway number into the address field.
Setup and Installation Assistance Correctly configured secondary router.
Troubleshooting Remote Viewing Setup This is how your setup will look once a port is open on your secondary router.
Setup and Installation Assistance Your primary router must ALSO have a port forwarding entry, which should look like this.
Troubleshooting Remote Viewing Setup This is how your setup will look once a port is open on both of your routers.
Setup and Installation Assistance Optional Networking Connections If your router is not within cable reach of Slingbox, you can: • Purchase a longer Ethernet cable. • Use wall plug bridges such as the Sling Media SlingLink, which use your existing in-home electrical outlets to connect devices to your network. These wall plug devices—also known as HomePlug or Powerline bridges—are easy to set up and use with Slingbox, requiring no new wires.
Optional Networking Connections Connecting Slingbox to a Wireless Network Slingbox cannot wirelessly connect to your home network by itself. However, you can connect Slingbox to an existing wireless network using an Ethernet-to-wireless bridge (or a wireless game adapter) and use your wireless laptop around the house. You must have a wireless home network for this setup. 1. Set up your bridge to work with your existing wireless home network before you connect Slingbox to your bridge.
Setup and Installation Assistance Restoring Slingbox to Factory Settings Certain situations may require you to restore your Slingbox to factory settings. For example: • If you replace the router to which you originally connected your Slingbox. In this case, Slingbox was set up to work with your original router and now needs a new IP address from your new router. • If you forgot your password. • If you move your Slingbox to another home or network.
9: FCC and Specifications FCC Statement Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Sling Media, Inc., could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
FCC and Specifications Product Specifications Slingbox Specifications Table 1: Slingbox Specifications Product Name Slingbox Model # SB150-110 Dimensions 10.6"(w) x 1.6"(h) x 4" (d) Weight ~0.7 kg Power Requirements 6V/1.
Product Specifications Table 1: Slingbox Specifications TV Tuner PAL and DVB-T (built-in) Power Adapter Specifications Table 2: Power Adapter Specifications Make Sunny Computer Technology Europe Model # SYS1298-1506-W2E Input Voltage Range 100VAC to 240VAC Input Frequency Range 50 Hz to 60 Hz Input Current 1.0A Max Output Voltage +6V Output Regulation 5.7~6.3V Output Load Range 0~2.
FCC and Specifications 110 Slingbox User Guide
