- Dell MediaDirect is a one-stop resource for viewing media files such as pictures, videos and music. You can use it just as you would with a stand-alone radio or television tuner, or you can access all of the features by opening the software application. The platform houses all of your media files, and you can organize your files in folders that you can identify with labels or tags, making it quicker to retrieve them when searching or navigating your file system. You can use the Media buttons on your computer to navigate the media files, such as viewing a PowerPoint Slide Show or playing music and adjusting the sound. Dell MediaDirect also provides access to a Windows address book and calendar, unlike other media platforms. As an added option, you may add a TV tuner and remote control that enhances the MediaDirect experience. It is not necessary to add the optional features because Dell installs the software and provides hardware buttons to use MediaDirect.
- Your computer may have other media platforms installed such as Windows Media Center, but it may not be your default program set by the factory settings on Dell computers. Check your Windows default programs and setting by accessing the control panel and changing those settings. This allows MediaDirect to open automatically when you insert a DVD or CD that contains video, music or graphic files. Because Dell MediaDirect has a hardware button for quick access, consider choosing MediaDirect for your default program for opening file types for music, video and pictures. By setting MediaDirect as your default program, Windows will not ask you each time you open a file type.
- Setup wizard optimizes MediaDirect to use with the settings on your computer, such as adjusting the screen aspect ratio using standard or wide-screen resolution. You can set the enhanced theater features that create a theater-type experience, with sound effects and visual enhancement such as color, brightness and saturation. Choose how your screen adjusts to different video files for comfortable viewing such as changing to letterbox or stretch format. The MediaDirect platform may drain computer resources if your choose settings that require higher or enhanced features.
- You can wake up your computer out of hibernation by pressing your Dell MediaDirect button on your keep board, and your computer does not need to have the power on in order to run the program. The saves time so you do not have to wait for a full Windows boot in order to play music or watch a video. This reduces the drain on your computer resources, and you can save electrical power as well. Because CyberLink customized this program for Dell, the features may change over time to offer customers more features and integration with other frequently accessed programs, such as Microsoft Office programs. MediaDirect could be a benchmark for developers creating software that uses less energy and resources.
- Dell MediaDirect works in collaboration with Dell Quick Set that regulates your computer power settings, such as hibernation, turning off hard disks and screen saver settings. MediaDirect does not require a password in order to use the software. However, if you have an administrator password or other user account limitations, you need to remove those passwords in order to use the quick access buttons on your computer. Otherwise, MediaDirect can wake up the computer from hibernation using the button located on the keyboard or video output, such as the monitor. The MediaDirect access button for each computer model may be different. Refer to your Dell computer manual to locate this feature on your computer or laptop.
