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How to setup PVR for a TV?

ixelion

ixelion

Senior member
I want to set up a PVR for my TV, I was planning on getting a SFF computer, puting in a decent video card and a PVR card, but im not sure which one to get.

My question is can I setup a PVR for my TV and use it without having to use a keyboard and mouse? I want my computer-illeterate family members to use it without to much difficulty.

I was also wondering if is video playback on a PVR was as good as regulare TV?

Thanks!
 
I would recommend XP MCE 2005 and a supported hardware card(s) with the MCE remote if you want Family fiendly use on a new PVR build.

I use ATI eHome Wonder and Sapphire Theatrix hardware cards with the MCE remote, (which I can recommend highly, with the nod to the Sapphire based on ATI's new chip)

Hauppage (and others) also have some highly rated hardware cards, just make sure you get a card off Microsofts qualified hardware list, or ask in a thread about a specific card prior to purchase (MS's list gets dated with lots of new hardware coming to the market)

MCE 2005 is nice and stable, has a large user base and is the most family friendly GUI I've used, but it may not be the best value if you already have your OS. You'll probably want a mouse and keyboard for some setup and configuration, but the remote will take care of the vast majority of PVR duties after that.

PQ on the highest settings are very good, basically indistingishable from the source, its much better than live TV in that you can use the skip function to blow through commercials, and with dual tuners, you have great TIVO like functionality.

You might check TGB for more info on MCE. There are other good PVR softwares like SageTV, Meedio and others you might want to check out Anandtech's "multimedia" section on the main site, they looked at several of the softwares, worth the read.
 
Thanks for the Info, I think the Sapphire theatrix is good, i may get that one.

However, it seems MCE is available with only pre-built systems, It doesnt seem I can get it seperatly and install it on my custom machine.

I was also wondering if the computer needs an internet connection to view TV listings?

Lastly what would be the best PVR software for Sapphire Theatrix?

Again thanks for da help!
 
pcalchemy.com for all htpc needs (except normal comp parts, way fvckin over priced)
so i suppose its for mce, pvr software, remotes, keyboards/mice and tv tuner cards
 
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