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The trouble with typical internet terminals that have tried to capture the consumer market was that they were only internet terminals. While the limited functionality kept the cost low it also didn't provide enough features to attract customers. Well, icebox is trying another path to meet the consumer tastes. They have integrated standard entertainment features into their FlipScreen internet terminal, or should I say entertainment center.

The FlipScreen provides networking features like most internet terminals for users to surf the web or get web email. On top of this, the FlipScreen allows users to watch TV, play DVD videos, listen to FM radio or MP3 CDs, and even provide some home control functionality. To provide these features icebox had to make consessions with pricing. For built-in multimedia support with a decent viewable flat panel display the cost of the device has to rise.

The display is a 12.1-inch flat panel touchscreen LCD with backlighting with up to 800 x 600 resolution. It provides a 300:1 contrast ratio for viewing video. icebox also has upgraded audio features with two detachable speakers with a subwoofer and channel control of base, mid-range and treble.

The FlipScreen connects to home networks through a 10/100 RJ45 Ethernet port or to ISPs through a modem connection. Along with network connections the FlipScreen can be connected to entertainment equipment and connections to play video and audio. It has CATV and coaxial connections for cable TV, FM antennas, audio input/outputs and video inputs.

icebox designed the FlipScreen device using National Semiconductor's Geode processor and Microsoft Windows CE.NET operating system. Along with the multimedia connections the device provides an RS232 port and infrared ports to recieve user data from the wireless keypad or a remote control. The keypad is not your normal keypad, it's built for messy kitchen environments and is even washable. Along with the remote control and keyboard, the FlipScreen has a touchscreen display to allow users to navigate through screens and enter data.

One other feature that icebox has thrown into the FlipScreen is the ability to interact with home control software to monitor or control appliances throughout the home. While this feature will be seamless in future client end products (due to the fact that most home control devices will have browser based configuration screens), for now the FlipScreen has integrated software from proprietary home control software manfacturers to turn on/off appliances or adjust settings.

Pricing and Availability

The icebox FlipScreen can be bought through resellers (see web site) for a high end price of $2,299.

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