LinuxMCE
Core
The Core is the heart and brain of the LinuxMCE system. The Core is a single PC acting as a dedicated server and interface for all the sub-components. The Core includes a plug-and-play back-end, so it listens for and auto configures all sorts of devices, like network audio players (e.g. Squeeze Box), IP phones and cameras. The Core automatically provides a network boot for any other PC's or thin clients you use as Media Directors. Media Directors are hooked up to your TV/Stereo's to use as set top boxes, with integrated media player, PVR, video conferencing, intercom, and GUI to control everything in the home. All Media Directors work together seamlessly as a total whole-house solution.
Orbiters
Orbiters are high-tech remote controls. LinuxMCE provides for multiple orbiter options such as a generic PC, wireless tablet PC, PDAs, mobile phones running Symbian or Microsoft Mobile, or through a web interface that can be accessed by any computer inside your network or through the Internet. (The web interface requires user authentication, but currently not with SSL.)
Media Directors
Media Directors or MD's can also be generic PC's, but are better when they have an output for a television set such as S-video or RCA jacks. Having a good sound card is also a good idea. The MD's play all your streaming music and video from the core, NAS-device, or any other MD in your home. Output to a TV and speakers for an awesome multimedia experience.
Network Attached Storage
You can extend your core's storage with a NAS-device. LinuxMCE can recognize this and use the NAS for saving your files or reading from them, including your music and video collection.
Security
Security is a big part of LinuxMCE, these functions can control and monitor sensors, video cameras. It can send you alerts to your mobile phone, it can also set your alarm based on different schedules and scenarios. It can even lock the door when you leave your home.
Telecom
Telecom brings your family and friends closer, with LinuxMCE it's just gets better. LinuxMCE offers videocalls/conferencing, personal voicemailboxes for your whole family, it will also track and see if you're home and route incoming calls to the nearest phone or even your mobile phone if you're not at home.
Home Automation
Home Automation features of LinuxMCE are really neat. It can control lights, climate, and where music or video is played in your house. Mobile phones can be turned into remote controls that can also control your whole house.
Multimedia
Multimedia in LinuxMCE is always available to you and your family. If you have several homes, you can even you can tie the systems in each house together to act as one. Your media will follow you everywhere you go. It will even show your video files on the device closest to you, even if you walk to another room.
Personal Computing
Personal Computing can often also be done in LinuxMCE. After all, it's an ordinary PC with Linux running in the background, complete with Office-suites and all the programs you need for everyday use.
