HP MediaSmart Server gets UK launch date

HP’s MediaSmart Server, a home server which runs Microsoft’s Windows Home Server operating system, is set for its UK launch on 1 December. The server allows people to store their personal documents and media files on one centralised box, which can then be accessed from any other PC in the home – and even remotely over the internet.

The idea of a home server is likely to be alien to many people, as servers are something we’re more used to seeing in a business environment. But with our PCs holding ever increasing amounts of information – digital photos, downloaded music and movies, and much more – it makes sense to invest in a device where these documents will be automatically backed up and easy to access from the PCs around the home.

At the London preview, held on 26 November, Mike Haigh, Windows Home Server Product Manager at Microsoft UK, said “The PC is the DNA of a person, and their history… where do you store all this information going forward?”

The answer, Microsoft is hoping, is a PC running Windows Home Server. The HP MediaSmart isn’t the only such device available, though. The Tranquil Harmony Home Server is available now, while other models are coming from companies including Medion, Maxdata, Iomega and Fujitsu Siemens.

The HP MediaSmart Server will be available in two flavours: the 500GB EX470 for £399 and the 1TB EX475 at £499.

There’s one on its way to the Windows Vista Magazine offices so we’ll bring you a hands-on write-up as soon as it arrives.