what do I need to watch TV on my PC?

[MaxDSP]

I dont have room or a TV in my room so the next best thing would be to convert my PC into a $1000 17" TV. What are the minimum PC specs needed, what hardware do I need to buy, and what software do I need to buy (include approxiamate cost if you can)? My specs rite now are 1 Ghz Athlon, 256 MB PC133, RivaTNT , Toshiba 16x SD-M1502 (master), Philips 8x4x32 (slave), Soyo K7 VIA mobo, SB X-Gamer 5.1, USR 56K Gaming Modem, and a 17" KDS Avitron AV-7TF.

 

[dalnar]

Your system has more than enough power. All you need to get is a TV decoder like the ATI TV Wonder. Anand just did an article on various TV decorder cards ... you should check it out.

 

[NeoMadHatter]

you're Riva TNT1 needs updating. so you might as well get the ATI All In Wonder Radeon AGP 32mb DDR. it's $201 shipped from newegg.com. otherwise you need a TV tuner card and I recommend the ATI TV Wonder non VE version. the rest of your computer is fine. check mine out if you really need to compare.

 

[MaxDSP]

Im like extremely over budget with my PC since discovering the Hot Deals forum. I wouldnt pay more than 150 for a graphics card and I dont play all that many new games anymore. I can hold off on this idea for now I guess unless I find a good deal on a TV tuner. Thanks though