Global and regional digital leader LG Electronics has launched the world’s first DVD recorder with digital video recorder (DVR) functionality using new software technology from Microsoft Corporation. 

“The LG LRM-519 model raises the bar in the exploding DVD recorder market and is the world’s first combination DVD recorder,” an LG spokesman said. The 160-gigabyte hard-disc-drive (HDD) convergence product with an electronic programme guide (EPG) and PC connectivity uses technology from Microsoft Corporation. Microsoft chairman and chief software architect Bill Gates unveiled the product during his keynote address on the eve of the International Consumer Show 2005 in Las Vegas, USA. 
“As digital convergence becomes more commonplace, the powerful combination of Microsoft and LG technology will redefine recordable media for home entertainment,” said K H Kim, president, LG Electronics Middle East and Africa operations. “With support for wired or wireless in-home networking and innovative PC connectivity, the LG LRM-519 is a true digital convergence product.”
“The result of a strategic relationship between Microsoft and LG Electronics, a top-tier technology leader in DTV, telecommunications and digital convergence products, this product reflects LG’s commitment to achieving global consumer electronics leadership,” an LG statement said. The LRM-519 offers an array of options for digital entertainment on the DVR DVD recorder by enabling powerful multimedia experiences and seamless connectivity with Windows XP-based PCs and PCs running Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005.  
“Consumers want flexibility and choice in digital entertainment, and our partnership with LG is a successful example of just that,” said Rick Thompson, corporate vice president of the Windows Client Extended Platforms Division at Microsoft Corporation.
 “With this new DVD recorder, consumers will benefit from the combination of LG’s expertise and Microsoft’s technology and use innovative DVD and DVR solutions with access to digital photos, music and more on Windows XP-based PC and PCs running Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005.”  
This DVR DVD recorder also enables playback of music, pictures, and video with computers running Windows XP and Windows XP Media Center Edition over a home network.  The LG LRM-519 can play and display files including MPEG, WMA and WMV, MP3 and JPEG images on TV. Supported network connections include Ethernet or Wi-fi (802.11a/g).  This wireless connection is 4-5 times faster than that of 802.11b, enabling seamless data reception.