Toshiba's Digital Products Division has introduced the Multimedia Center Audio/USB Hub that allows consumers to connect their notebook computers to their home entertainment systems.

The Multimedia Center Audio/USB Hub enables users of any notebook computer running Microsoft Windows XP Home, Microsoft Windows XP Pro, and the recently released Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 to play music, movies or games in 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround Sound from home entertainment systems or external PC speakers.

Gamers can also use the new Multimedia Center Audio/USB Hub to play games in full EAX Advanced HD Surround Sound.

The HUB comes with a connection to allow users to plug a SPDIF coaxial audio cable and listen to MP3 play lists on home stereo speakers. The device also provides an integrated Ethernet port to allow users to connect to a LAN or to the Internet.

"The notebook computer is being transformed from primarily a productivity tool into a personal entertainment hub where users can manage and enjoy multimedia content," said Taro Hiyama, vice president of marketing, Toshiba Digital Products Division. "The Multimedia Center Audio/USB Hub offers consumers a simple and inexpensive way to enhance their multimedia experience on their notebook computers."