thelinuxlink.net

I currently have DishNetwork HD. I am looking to downgrade to possibly just go to OTA HD service. We're trying to save some money because I'm currently looking for a job.

Here is what I have. I have a HTPC with PVR 250 (SD only) and GeForce 8300GS (VDPAU enabled). Video compnents: Samsung HD tv, Yamaha A/V receiver, Blu-ray player.

I was wondering if I could setup a decent OTA setup with this system. Of course I won't get the HD functionality with the PVR 250. I will be saving about $100 per month by getting rid of the dish service. With that savings I guess I could get an HD capable capture device. What are your suggestions?

The HDhomerun has been going for $99 lately (single tuner versions). Does a great job as an OTA tuner. Gives you dual tuners too for $150 version. Works great with MythTV also.

Newegg and bestbuy have it for $99.

The regular dual tuner version is going for $120 right now:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0010Y ... B0010Y414Q

I paid $145 for it a few months back. It works great and have had 0 problems with it. Highly recommended.

The HDHomerun works with network connectivity, correct? My network router isn't near my HTPC or TV. I have a network connection coming to the HTPC from the router. If I were to get a HDHomerun I would have to get another network card. 1 for the HDHomerun and the existing would be used for my home network. Am I understanding this correctly?

larrydag wrote:If I were to get a HDHomerun I would have to get another network card. 1 for the HDHomerun and the existing would be used for my home network. Am I understanding this correctly?

The HDHomerun already has a built in network connection. Connect your HTPC to your router. Connect your HDHomerun to your router. Done. Once configured in Myth the HDHomerun will push the incoming stream to your Myth box. It works great.

Ok I undestand. That is my problem. I only have one network cable coming from my router to my TV area which has the antenna cable. I would probably have to move my router to my TV area i suppose. If I do that I'll have to move where my internet comes from too. Wish this wasn't the winter. Easier to rewire in warmer times.

It seems like my best bet would be to get a HD capture device. Which would you recommend

Haupauge HVR-1600
http://www.amazon.com/Hauppauge-1178-Wi ... B000MGGTY8

AverMedia?
DVico?

Or just buy a cheap little switch and connect it to the line coming from your router to where the TV is, and then connect the hdhomerun and PC to the switch also.

Something like this for $10

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... 6833156066