REALmagic for Linux FAQs

Updated March 13, 2001

OS-related questions:

What flavors of Linux does the NetStream 2000 work with ?

Drivers and supporting applications should work with all major Linux distributions.

Which kernel this software is compatible with ?

2.0.x is not supported by the current module.
2.2.x is supported up to 2.2.15 (2.2.16 is not ok).
Some 2.3.x versions are supported (those without dvd ioctls).

Since the modules come with source code, they can be modified for customized use and may work on yet unsupported kernel (up to the user to do that).

Can I use Netstream2000 on LinuxPPC or any other non-x86 Linux systems ?

No. Sigma Designs supports only x86-based CPU. There is no plan for ports to other architecture in a near-future.

Is FreeBSD or any other BSD flavor supported ?

No. There is no plan for a port to xBSD in a near future.

Are the any plans to develop Linux drivers for Hollywood Plus?

The Linux drivers are currently developed for the chip EM 8400 used in the NetStream 2000. There are no plans for earlier chips like the EM 8300 used on the Hollywood Plus.

Hardware-related questions:

Does this software works on other cards from Sigma Designs (Hollywood+, NetStream2...) ?

No. This software relies on capabilities provided by Sigma Designs newest chip, the EM8400. This chip is found only in the NetStream 2000 boards. There is an experimental Linux driver for the Hollywood+ by an independent programmer Henrik Johannson (see on http://www.freshmeat.net/). This driver has only bare bone capabilities (especially no DVD navigation features). Sigma Designs does not support a nonproprietary driver and will not answer questions towards its installation, use, and bugs.

Disclaimer: Sigma Designs provides links to third party websites for drivers and other information that support the use of our products without any implied endorsement. These are proprietary sites and offerings, and as such we make no representations of worthiness of their code, nor do we provide any technical support or related customization services.

What do I need to use the software ?

You need a NetStream 2000 board by Sigma Designs. For DVD playback, an IDE DVD-Drive is required. To use the sample player provided, you will need a REALmagic Remote Control, available for purchase at our secured online store: http://www.buyREALmagic.com. You may also find free third party players (check http://ns2k4linux.sourceforge.net/ for instance ).

Will my SCSI DVD-drive work ?

No, only IDE DVD drives are suported at this moment.

How do you handle RPC-2 DVD drives ? and RPC-1 DVD drives ?

To play a DVD title, the DVD disc itself and the NetStream 2000 need to be set to the same region code. When using an RPC-2 drive, it must be set to the same region too.

Capabilities-related questions:

What are the formats supported by this beta ?

This beta will allow you to play MPEG-1 and MPEG-2 files, DVD and SVCD titles, transport streams, etc... See the full documentation for further details.

Is analog overlay available ?

The NetStream 2000 board features analog overlay capabilities. Its support should be available soon.

Is OSD supported on the TV output ?

On-Screen Display allows you to display bitmaps on the TV, fullscreen or over parts of the playing video. The NetStream 2000 has such capability and software support for it is coming soon.

More help ?

Where can I get more help ?

This is beta software. Sigma Designs won't guarantee any support for it. Nevertheless, your input is very much appreciated. Feel free to send an email at linux@sdesigns.com or to post a message on news://news.sigmadesigns.com/.