- How Network Media Hubs Work
- Connecting and Configuring a Network Media Hub
- Shopping for a Network Media Hub
- Popular Network Media Hubs
- Tip Sheet
Connecting and Configuring a Network Media Hub
Setting up a network media hub is similar to setting up a new computer on your home network. These are the basic steps:
Position the hub next to your other home audio components and turn it on.
If you're connected to a wired network, connect the Ethernet cable. If you're connecting via WiFi, you can skip this step.
Wait for your network to recognize the new deviceor, in the case of a WiFi network, for the hub to recognize your wireless network. You'll need to do some degree of network configuration to access your network, and to make sure that everything can talk to everything else. Just follow the instructions that come with your network hub, and you should be alright.
Install the hub's music player software on your host PC. This is typically done from an included installation CD, or sometimes by downloading the software from the Internet.
Once the software is up and running, configure it to recognize the digital files you have stored on your PC. You can also create your own personal music playlists at this point.
Naturally, you also have to connect your network media hub to your audio receiver or amplifier. Lower-priced hubs use traditional right/left audio cables; higher-end hubs have digital audio connections. Go with a digital connection, if it's available.
Once everything is connected and configured, you should be ready to go. Use the hub's remote control to select songs, albums, and playlists to play on your PC. Make sure your receiver or amplifier is turned on, and get ready to groove!