WALNUT, CALIF: The ViewSonic VMP70 media player made headlines this week for a price point. The box connects computers directly to TV sets via HDMI or component cables to play video in 1080p, for less than $100. It also has composite cable connections for lower-resolution content. It can play media from either a hard drive or a USB thumb drive. The device is typically around $130, but on sale in a holiday promotion at $98.99.