FAQ:442
From The Neuros Technology Wiki
[edit] Pre Sale Questions
[edit] What is the Neuros 442?
The Neuros 442 is a versatile, handheld multimedia device that can display downloaded video content on its built-in 3.6� LCD screen or output it to any TV. In addition, it can play back digital audio files through headphones or a connected stereo. Finally, the device can record high resolution video from any analog source, including cable / satellite TV tuners, DVD players, camcorders, and video game consoles.
[edit] How does the Neuros 442 work?
The Neuros 442 is easy to use. As a portable media player, you can transfer digital media files from your computer via the high speed USB 2.0 port onto its 40 Gb hard drive and then enjoy your downloads on the 442’s brilliant built-in 3.6� LCD display and stereo headphones. For an even bigger multimedia experience, you can connect the 442 to any TV, stereo, or home theater system. When using the device as a video recorder, simply plug it into any existing home theatre component via simple RCA cables. It records from any analog video source, including cable or satellite TV, DVD players, camcorders, VCRs and PVRs such as Tivo. Since the Neuros 442 can use Secure Digital (SD) or Multimedia Card (MMC) memory cards instead of the hard drive, the resulting video files can then be played back on your television or easily transferred to the digital devices you already have, such as laptops, PDAs and SmartPhones for playback.
[edit] Why should I use the Neuros 442?
With the Neuros 442 you can:
- View / listen to downloaded media right on the device
- Record TV, movies, and music to digital MP3 and MPEG-4 files
- Archive home movies
- View stored movies, TV shows, or photos on your television
- Play MP3 audio files through your home stereo
- Watch movies or TV shows on your laptop or PDA
-all without worrying about complicated set-up, additional equipment, or file format compatibility
[edit] What are the key features of the Neuros 442?
- Brilliant 3.6� TFT transreflective LCD displays crystal clear imagery
- Records in real-time from any analog video source, including cable and satellite TV, DVD players, camcorders, VCRs, and Tivo(TM)
- 40GB hard drive stores 10,000 songs, 20,000 high resolution images or 150 hours of video
- Plays back DVD quality video on your TV or digital audio through your stereo
- Variable resolution/compression settings
- Simple RCA cable Setup - works without a PC and operates just like a VCR
- Uses standard Secure Digital (SD) or Multimedia Card (MMC) memory cards
- USB 2.0 Connection allows fast file transfers to and from PC
- Upgradeable firmware allows for expanded functionality in the future
[edit] What are the dimensions and weight of the Neuros 442?
The Neuros 442 measures (WxHxD) 5.35 x 3.07 x 1.04 inches and weighs 11.4 ounces (136.1 x 78 x 26.5 mm; 325g).
[edit] What is included with the Neuros 442 System?
The Neuros 442 comes complete with:
- Stereo headphones
- Carrying case
- USB 2.0 Cable
- AC/DC Power Supply
- AV cables
- User's Manual / warranty card
- Installation CD
- Standard SD or MMC memory storage cards are not included
[edit] What additional equipment and system requirements are needed for the Neuros 442?
None. The Neuros 442 is a stand-alone device. Since the 442 can use standard SD or MMC flash memory cards as a storage medium, but are not included in the package, they must be purchased separately. A PC or Laptop is needed for additional file conversion and editing functions, but is not necessary for the creation and playback of MPEG-4 video files.
[edit] What kind of video quality will I get with the Neuros 442?
The video quality is dependant upon the quality of the original content and signal, but the Neuros 442 can display up to 320x240 at 30 frames per second on its built-in screen and up to 720x480 at 30 frames per second (4 MB bit rate) when outputting the video signal to a TV. In recorder mode, the unit can capture up to 704x240 (HVGA) video at 30 frames per second.
[edit] Does the resolution set automatically based on the amount of storage space and program length or do I select the resolution?
The resolution/compression is a user-controlled option.
[edit] What are the specifications and file compatibility for recording?
The Neuros 442 features real-time MPEG-4 movie recording with standard MPEG-4 SP encoding with G.726 or MP3; 30 fps at 704x240 resolution Microsoft ASF file format
[edit] What is the file compatibility for video playback?
The Neuros 442 features an MPEG-4 AVI movie player compatible with MPEG-4 SP with b-frames (ASF format), DivX, 3.11/4.0/5.0 and v9 WMV.
[edit] What are the specifications and file compatibility for viewing photos?
The Neuros 442 features a photo viewer for displaying JPGs (6M pixels), BMPs (max. 1600 x 1200 pixels) and GIFs (max. 1023 x 1600 pixels). The device also features a slideshow mode during which music can also be played.
[edit] What is the file compatibility for audio playback?
The Neuros 442 features an music player with the ability to play MP3, ADPCM, WMA and AAC-LC formats.
[edit] What types of digital devices are compatible with the Neuros 442?
Since the Neuros 442 uses a standard MPEG-4 video and MP3 audio file formats along with standard SD/MMC memory storage, it is compatible with most digital devices such as PCs, and laptops, and select PDAs, SmartPhones and other digital media players
[edit] Is the firmware on the 442 open source?
Not yet. We are currently working on a Linux Port for the 442. For more information see open.neurostechnology.com. For more information on Neuros and open source see Neuros and Open Source
[edit] Will there be an upgrade program for Neuros 442?
Like all Neuros products, the 442 is intended to be an evolving product, developed in as open an environment as possible. The firmware is upgradeable to allow for future functionality and will be supported on Neuros website. Further, all Gamma purchasors of the 442 have a 6 month no-questions-asked return policy. This ensures you not only will be happy with the product but are guaranteed to be included in any changes as the product evolves, even if those changes are hardware changes or new models!
The Gamma program is now over for the 442, but if you purchase today there is still an upgrade and discount program available: See Here
(woot buyers: there is also a special one available for you)
[edit] I read about an upgrade program ($99 for upgrade to the upcoming new model or $249 discount for getting the new one keeping the old one): is this good only if I buy from Neuros website?
Yes. Our upgrades and Discounts program is available for all new units regardless of where you buy. It is not available for refurbished or used units.
[edit] What versions of DivX are supported?
The recorder supports playback of DivX versions 3.11, 4.0, 5.0 or above.
[edit] Is the Neuros 442 compatible with all kinds of SD and MMC cards?
The Neuros works with all speeds of SD and MMC cards. However, there is a known incompatibility with the Kingmax SD cards which prevents them from operating properly with the recorder.
[edit] How do I play 442 Audio/Video (AV) files on my Pocket PC (PPC)?
You can play them directly with Beta Player for PPC, which can be downloaded for FREE at http://www.pdagold.com/software/detail.asp?s=498
[edit] How do I play 442 AV files on my Palm handheld?
You can play them directly with The Core Pocket Media Player (TCPMP), which can be downloaded for FREE at http://tcpmp.corecodec.org/download
[edit] How are similar, comparably priced devices like the Creative Labs Zen PMC and the Archos AV420 different from the Neuros 442?
Unlike the 442 in its ability to not only play back a wide variety of media formats but also record digital audio and video, the Creative Labs Zen PMC is purely a portable AV player with video formats limited to WMV, ASF, and AVI. It has just 20GB of storage space, half the capacity of the 442’s 40GB hard drive.
The Archos AV420 features AV playback and recording like the 442, but has only half its drive capacity (20GB compared to 40GB), less battery life for video playback (3.5 hours compared to 5 hours), and a complex video conversion process.
[edit] Battery Questions
[edit] What is the battery lifespan on the 442?
Approximately 2 years.
[edit] Is the battery affected by memory? (I know the neuros is not)
The 442 battery is Li Ion, the same technology as the original Neuros and does not have memory effect.
[edit] Approx. how much will a replacement battery be?
$12.00
[edit] Video recording Questions
(see also the 442 Tips and Tricks Section )
[edit] How do I get started?
Enter PVR mode and press the menu button.
[edit] What features are available?
You are now in control of the resolution, video quality, audio quality and maximum record time(just press the menu button to see and change the recording option). You can also preview video to be recorded in PVR mode, there will be a PVR banner until you press record, then the banner will disappear.
[edit] How do I record from the cable box?
Insert the 442 composite cables in the corresponding colored ports, but make sure that the cables are inserted into the OUT ports, then insert the smaller jack into the line in on the 442.
[edit] Where are the recorded video files stored?
Go into Video>PVR>ASF.
[edit] What devices can I record from?
You can record from anything that has a video out. Cable box, Camcorders, VCR's, TiVo's, DVD players, Satellite receiver boxes, Game Consoles(PS2, X-Box, Gamecube and etc...)
[edit] Can I record directly from the TV?
Not with most TV. The TV is just a video/Audio receiver.
[edit] TV's with video out?
A TV with a video output is the exception rather than the rule, most ordinary TVs only have video inputs. If your TV has Video Out RCA jacks you can record from your TV.
[edit] How do I record from a TiVo or cable box to the 442 while still viewing it on my TV?
You have to get 3 single male RCA cables that split into two female couplers. Insert the male RCA cable with the two female ends into the video out of your output device, then connect the yellow 442 video cable into one female split, then connect the other female split into your video cable that goes into the video in on your TV. Follow the same steps for the red and white audio cables.
[edit] Troubleshooting
[edit] My 442 won't turn on and the power button has a solid light?
If you press and hold the TV/LOCK button, you will get no 442 screen image or TV output. You will have to press and hold TV/LOCK again to unlock the device. If you have a solid light from the power button and no screen image, then your 442 is locked.
[edit] Why don’t I hear anything when I play my recorded videos on my PC?
If you selected G.726 for audio, you’ll need to download and install the G.726 codec using this link
[edit] My 442 got in a state where I can't seem to browse normally, how do I get it out of this state?
A1. When browsing, hit the menu button and make sure the "Repeat" Selection shows folder and not "all" or "fav." and your unit should browse normally.
A2. Insert a paperclip in the reset hole on the bottom of the 442 for 3 seconds, the unit will power off and reset. Restart the unit and start using the 442.
[edit] Developer Questions
[edit] Where can I find more information about Hacking the 442?
We are adding information about hacking the 442 in a variety of places on this wiki. The 442 Hacker's Manual, The Developer Boards and a 442 view of OdNT are all good places to start looking.
[edit] I am very very interested in buying the developer board for the next generation products. I read you are mastering some for developers. Is this opportunity avaliable to me from Europe?
Yes, AmericanTechpushers.com will have the developer boards available for sale to Europe as soon as they are ready.
[edit] Misc Questions
[edit] What is the Difference between Random and Shuffle
Random means playback randomly, maybe some songs play one or two or three or more times and some songs do not play even once.
Shuffle means playback randomly, but every song will playback one time in a cycle.
