Sony LF-X5 LocationFree 7" LCD TV

Rating:
Summary: Fabulous functionality with some rough edges...
Review: I absolutely LOVE this thing. I've long wanted a wireless TV I could carry throughout the house. I'd toyed around with analog 2.4ghz wireless monitors but the range was very short and other devices (WiFi and cordless phones) interfered. The microwave absolutely wiped the thing out as well. Such interference is NOT an issue with the LF-X5. Run the microwave, browse the net, talk on the phone and you can still have the TV going without skipping a beat.

Note that there's NO difference in functionality between this unit and the larger LF-X1. The X1 has a few more connections and a larger screen but they operate identically.

The picture quality is very good and for what it's doing it's absolutely exceptional and setup for use around the house is very easy. Plug the base into the wall, connect up the cable, turn the display on and you're done! No configuration or networking expertise needed at all. Using it with satellite or a cable box will require some configuration which can be a bit daunting. Reading the manual thoroughly will get you through though.

My only problem with it when it's used around the house is that the range is noticably shorter than when using a standard WiFi access point. I'm not sure if it's using lower power or if it's a matter of a lack of antennae but the range is somewhat lacking.

Outside the house it's another matter. This unit will likely NOT work with a standard broadband connection. It needs at least a solid 384k upstream to achieve decent quality and even 1.5Mbps isn't enough to use the highest bitrates. If your ISP offers high upstream rates this unit will work WONDERFULLY for you.

It's truly novel to be relaxing in a hotel in Sao Paulo after a long day catching up on Nip/Tuck.... being able to do so makes this oddity worth it's weight in gold.