Maximum PC

Hey guys,

Currently my PC that's been my PVR for almost 10 years now is running ATI 8500DV where I set it to record Svideo input on the ATI software-based scheduled recordings, then I use my HDTV cable box to program what channel will be active at certain time.

I just need your inputs and recommendations. I need 2 PVR ( 1 is PCIE-1x for me, and 1 is USB version for my dad's mini PC).

1) I want to replace my PC and get an HDTV tuner PCIe card that can work on either Linux or Windows.

2) I also want an HDTV tuner (usb version) that can also work on either Linux or Windows.

And hopefully it both comes with software for scheduled recordings.

Please advise and Thanks

I don't know about running them on Linux but you can't go wrong with the Hauppauge 2250 PCIe and the Hauppauge WinTV 850 USB tuners.

As far as software for these I'd recommend using Windows Media Center.


I'm currrently using two of the USB tuners and Hauppauge's 1600 PCI tuner with Media Center and it just works the way that you'd want it to work.

I'll second the 2250. Can't go wrong there.

I use Window 7 Media Center for DVR purposes as well.

PS: I can't stand the use of the term PVR; technically a VHS VCR can be called a Personal Video Recorder.

n0b0dykn0ws

Thank you both for your comments and replies

I think I'll be getting that USB version first, then the PCIe (I have to upgrade my mobo first cuz the one I'm using for this right now , is so old it only got AGP and no pci-e or sata)

Quick question about the setup though..

1) do I just install a splitter @ the main cable.. so one end will connect to my existing HDTV tuner, and one end will connect to this usb device ? I won't be using the over-the-air digital channel.

2) I have win7 but never use the Media Center functionality (cuz I use linux most of the time, I only use Win7 for PC gaming). So the Media Center has the built-in capability to detect this USB device and set it as PVR ?

3) Does the software filter out the commercials during recording ? or is there such thing ?


Thanks again

Yes, but I wouldn't recommend scrimping on a splitter. You don't have to go overboard either. In fact, I would call your cable company and ask what splitter they use/recommend. That way if you run into issues they can't try and pin it on your splitter.



Yes. You'll have to run through a setup wizard the first time around, but it should all be crystal clear and easy to follow. If you end up having questions, just ask. Usually CUP or I can answer.



Media Center has no native way splice out the commercials, but there is software that can. I have never personally used it though, so you might have to experiment on your own.

n0b0dykn0ws

Hi dear brother,

Thank you very very much for your help

I'll pick one out from Amazon sometime before Christmas