MSI produces Mega 865 multimedia barebone PC system

The Mega 865 multimedia barebone PC system from digital entertainment innovator Micro-Star Int'l Co., Ltd. has been nominated for a Taiwan Symbol of Excellence Award. The MSI Mega 865 can be a full-functioning multimedia PC that combines information and entertainment to offer high-fidelity stereo, DVD/VCD, MP3, TV and high-performing computer functions. The Mega stands for MSI Entertainment Gaming Appliance. The Mega 865 incorporates a cube form factor that targets consumers specifically looking to build a Home Theater PC (HTPC).

The Mega 865 is based on Intel's 865G chipset, which supports an 800 MHz Front Side Bus (FSB). An advanced dual-channel DDR400 memory configuration is designed to optimize support for the Intel Pentium 4 Processor with Hyper-Threading Technology. 

The top portion of the Mega 865 is a home to all the features that can be accessed without having to boot the PC. Using the top power button to activate the Mega 865 into "HiFi Mode," users can play audio CDs, MP3s stored on CD, and can activate the AM/FM radio. The top portion also includes many user buttons, much like other audio devices, which allow users to skip, go back, and pause tracks. The Shuttle Dial is used by rotating it in either direction, or it can be pressed to access certain functions. Below the Mode button is the eject button for the optical drive. Next to this button is a front-colored, backlit LCD display.

When users pop in a music or MP3 CD, the LCD display lights up to show an EQ mode, track and time information, and some bars which dance to the music. The Mega 865 has three differet Equalizer modes of play: Classic, Jazz, and Pop. The system also comes with a 6-in-1 card reader, which supports Memory Stick, CF/SD, and MMC flash memory cards. Upon a fresh install, each stick is assigned a unique lettered drive.

The bottom of the front panel comes with an assortment of ports, including optical S/PDIF in, microphone, headphone, two USB1.1/2.0 ports, and two IEEE 1394 (Firewire) ports. These ports allow users to connect DV camcorders, plug in a karaoke microphone, listen to music collections through headphones, or plug in a USB game controller (or two) and turn the Mega 865 into a console style gaming system.

The Mega 865 comes with an IR receiver and remote control. Optional accessories specifically designed for the HTPC barebone system include a wireless mouse, a wireless foldable keyboard, a pair of Mega 2.0 speakers, and an AM/FM antenna.

Find more information from Micro-Star Int'l Co., Ltd. at Computex in Hall 2, Booth E149, 150, 151, 152, 149E, 150E, 151E, 152E, 155, 156, 157, 158, 175, 176, 177, 178.