How do I use the Roku player

Roku was formerly known for making audio streaming devices but has now switched its focus to video streaming devices. The latest line of players includes the Roku HD, Roku XD and Roku XDS. At $59.99 the Roku HD offers wired or wireless network capabilities, support for 720p and an HDMI output. At $79.99 the Roku XD has all that and supports 1080p, includes an enhanced remote and offers improved Wi-Fi capabilities. The top-of-the-line Roku XDS is $99.99 and boasts dual-band wireless technology, component video and optical audio, and a USB port in addition to the features of the XD model. Through our tutorials we'll be using the Roku XDS.

The Roku functions by allowing users to navigate channels with a remote, much as you would with your television. These channels can range from premium content like Netflix or the MLB network to third-party content as from TWiT or butterscotch. The Roku device itself is an unassuming little box that's fairly small in size and can easily be placed near the television. The front shows the Roku name and has a receiver for picking up signals from the remote. The right side of the XDS has a USB port and the rest of the ports (for power, Internet and audio/video output) are located on the back of the device. On the bottom, there is a sticker with device information and a serial number as well as a reset button for times when you need to reset your device.

The device also comes with a remote for controlling the Roku. This remote has several buttons including a directional pad with an OK button in the middle, and a back button and home button near the top. Below the directional pad are a replay button and an options button, and below that are basic playback controls for play/pause as well as rewind and fast forward.