NetRemote

Although certain media players have all sorts of smart features, they still need some human input, but you can't just sit in front of a computer, during a party, even if you are the designated DJ. NetRemote comes with a unique solution for this situation. It gives you the possibility of playing media files on your computer or other systems in your house from a Pocket PC, over a WiFi network. Basically, you can think of this application as a universal remote control for your computer or other devices.

Downloading and installing NetRemote does not take long, but you have to make a series of selections during the setup procedure. Besides NetRemote, the setup wizard will install NetRemote MediaBridge, which integrates with one of your media players.

The software can be used on traditional PCs, for playing media files on other machines, but it can make your life more comfortable if you install it on a Pocket PC. While MediaBridge is running on the host computer, you can use NetRemote interface as a remote control to play your media files. When launched, the application will display a main menu, with options for playing music, movies, watching TV or surfing the Web.

If you click or tap the music option, NetRemote will display a simple media player, with basic playback controls and song information. When you hit the play option, change the volume and so on, the actions will be executed on the host computer. As long as your Pocket PC is connected to a WiFi network, you can take it with you anywhere in the house and use it to play media files on your computer or other devices.

A few tabs, located on the left edge of the interface, will reveal options for selecting a different player, for movies or TV or different devices. You can switch to a receiver, DVD player or a TV. The options are laid out just like buttons on a remote control. You can find volume or mute buttons, menu navigation arrows and so on. Additionally, NetRemote places a few lighting and temperature controls at your disposal. If used in conjunction with Girder, one of the application's counterparts, NetRemote will allow you to control the lighting and temperature in your house.