Record TV to handheld without a PC

Today's theme is devices you can hold in your hand (see next item).

Doghouse Electronics this week launched its RoverTv device, a portable media recorder and player that records directly from a TV without the need for a PC middleman. The device comes in two models – a $299 version with a 3.5-inch display or the $349 4-inch "widescreen" model.

The device doesn't have a hard drive – it uses Flash memory technology and has a Secure Digital slot for storing content (it comes with a 1GB and 2GB SD card). The system lets users record directly from a TV, DVD player, CD player, FM radio or a computer, and supports MP3, MP4, WAV files, among others. The device includes software that allows for the transfer of video and music to and from a Mac or PC, supports the TiVo To Go system and can also download content from iTunes, BurnLounge and other providers, Doghouse says. The RoverTv can also store JPEG, BMP and GIF images. No recording fees or monthly fees are charged by the company.

Other devices features include a USB port, audio/video input/output, and an FM radio receiver. The built-in lithium ion battery supports up to 12 hours of audio or up to 6 hours of video playback. Video stored on the device can be viewed on a TV up to 42-inches in size via the AV ports.

More details are available at the Doghouse Electronics Web site.

• Wireless / Mobile
• gadgets
• TiVo
• TV