DVICO Fusion 5 HDTV tuner

[Billyfat]

same here.. although I can't really blam copperbox - its not their fault that customs held it up - although their communication could have been better. Should be shipped today hopefully..


I talked to Copperbox yesterday to get some kind of status, and they said that they now expect to receive the cards on Monday or Tuesday of next week.

Billy

[NightCrawler1234]

I talked to Copperbox yesterday to get some kind of status, and they said that they now expect to receive the cards on Monday or Tuesday of next week.

Billy
Digital Connection is now showing ETA 6/24/2005. :eek: I hope CopperBox will ship theirs before that date.

I want to try out the QAM capabilities of the Fusion 5 Gold...

[NightCrawler1234]

Try using Dscaler. It can interact with the BT8x8 chipset without using DVICO's drivers. The S-Video may be able to work with it.

Make sure to download Dscaler 4 and NOT Dscaler 5.

Come back here if you have any problems.


Have you tried DScalre with Fusion 5 Gold? I am curious. DScaler is great for analog television.

[revgen]

Have you tried DScalre with Fusion 5 Gold? I am curious. DScaler is great for analog television.

It works with my Fusion 5 Gold.

I use the latest beta version.

[ChrisW6ATV]

I am NEVER getting a non-Intel chipset motherboard EVER again!
If you want to stay with AMD CPUs, though, get one with an Nvidia chip set... mine are basically unbreakable, and I have certainly tried to... :)

(One is Asus, one is ECS.)

[justlnluck]

BIG FAVOR......pretty please?? :o

Those with a Fusion5.....could you take a look at your s-video/composite input?

I have a Fusion 3 card and I am having trouble with interference bars that tend to roll up and down my screen. The bars are annoying to say the least. I made sure it is the card and not my computer. I tested the card in multiple computer systems at different locations, and all of them produced the same results. I also tested an ATI 550pro capture card the same setups and it produces a solid, clean picture. The interference bars are very easy to see when the vcr or dvd player is on its blue screen menu.

Here is an example:

http://www.videohelp.com/forum/images/guides/p1311383/snapshotj2nj.jpg

So what does your blue screen look like when you attach a vcr or dvd player to the input dongle??

Thanks so much!

[justlnluck]

Anyone? :confused:

[aljohnso]

I have a F3Q and an F5. I see no bars on a blue screen from VCR input via Svideo to composite or F5 dongle.

Allen

[justlnluck]

But you can see them in the pic I posted, right?

I'm glad to hear your cards don't produce the bars. I very well could have a defective card. I took the card and put it into a different computer in a different house and the problem remained. Again, the 550pro does not show these bars. So I'm pretty convinced it has something to do with my card. I am just curious how common it is among Fusion 3 and 5 owners.

[Shape]

Are you sure it isn't your video card to TV connection?

[e vey]

--get one with an Nvidia chip set--

If you say so. I just tried my first Nvidia chipset. I had to "downgrade" from APIC to Standard PC to get the Fusion 2 to stop chopping/stuttering, just as I have had to do for VIA chipsets.

I couldn't see much advantage in them except that they are cheap. I dunno what the raving is all about. The usual Nvidiotic rah-rah as usual.

[justlnluck]

Hi Shape,

No, I see these bars on the display window of the Fusion software with my monitor. I also see them in the other capture software I have tried. So you don't see any of these bars either?

[revgen]

Those bars are the result of a bad source and/or bad cable.

If the cable your using is a CATV cable wired through your house, try running a direct cable line to your HTPC without splitters. If it's an S-VHS or Composite cable then you need to upgrade it.

If you have a cheap source like a DVD player or VCR then you should look to buy one better than what you have.

[justlnluck]

No, unfortunately, it's not that easy. :( The bars seen in the cable are the same as the ones seen with the vcr and the dvd. I have a $350 JVC S-VHS player hooked up with Monster Cables, so quality is definitely not the issue. $200 dvd player shows the same thing. Again, these problems are not present with the ATI 550pro.

But thank you everyone for your comments so far. Anyone else? Do you have a solid blue picture with no rolling bars?

[justlnluck]

Hey guys,

I just got a reply from DVICO.

Hi. Sorry about all your inconveniences. You may exchange your card to the place you bought it. Please contact them is possible. We experienced this similar phenomenon occasionally, but it is not that. This is not normal case. Thanks.

Too bad I'm a couple months past Copperbox's 14-day return policy!!! :-/

[gameboy]

As promised, here is my feedback so far after using Fusion 5 Lite for about a week with MCE.

It has worked just about perfect. No real issues, especially when using it just with MCE and not the FusionHDTV software (that means no QAM for now, but oh, well).

I have recorded many programs, especially US Open coverage on NBC (which are about 6 hours each), and all of them have recorded as they should. They worked just fine coming out of suspend hibernation.

The signal strength is DEFINITELY superior to my old ATI HDTV card. During the mid day, the NBC signals used to drop out about 10% to 20% of the time, now it is only about 2 to 3% (totally unscientific, but definitely noticeable).

As long as you can install it and get it going, this seems like a very good choice for your MCE.

[GarthVH]

I have been using my fusion 5 with QAM, but my Terk HDTVi arrived today, and I am hoping to pull in the local stations with an antenna so I can use MCE. QAM is buggy right now and I hate the fusion software not working with my remote.

Is there anything special about getting things set up in MCE or do I just close the fusion apps and run the TV setup in MCE?

Garth

[gameboy]

Nothing special. Just run the Digital TV setup.

I got too frustrated with Fusion app as well. Just goes to show the beauty of MCE...

[kny3twalker]

well Cliff
the Fusion Gold Lite runs fine in my setup
I did have to change one thing though
I was running dual monitors in extended mode and now I am running single monitor with a hot key switch

as MCE would lose its UI when displaying HDTV in dual monitor mode

playback was fine, I just had no MCE GUI

I figure this is driver issue
so hopefully it will get resolved

and my specs are for anyone reading

2.4 GHz, 768 PC800, 6800 NU, MCE 2005

[mynym]

How do you switch between analog and OTA HD? I only see 1 coaxial input? Does this require some sort of external switch?

Also, what's the best antenna for these HDTV tuners?

Thanks for your help.

[GarthVH]

I bought a Terk HDTVi antenna and it worked flawlessly for me. I am in the city, at the top of a hill surrounded by taller buildings. All I did was install the fusion MCE driver and reboot, and when I went into digital tv setup in MCE I had a strong signal for all the stations I should get.

I have not had any other HD cards, so I don't know if my Fusion 5 is better than before.

So happy to have HDTV in MCE.

Garth

[jfbar1]

I seem to have it working somewhat. Does NOT have the indicated signal strength compared to the 2 or 3, seems to actually work better under MCE. I do have one last issue however. It seems that when I powerdown the PC, opon restart it loses the card in bios, indicated by an update esd success message after post. When XP starts it "finds new hardware" and i need to reload the drivers. This is a new Intel 630HT w/915p MB and X800XL PCIe. have already updated bios to latest and went through all of the related bios settings, I guess I will next determine if it is the MB or the card by replacing the 5 with either the 2 or 3

[jim tressler]

just an fyi - copperbox expects their shipment in tomorrow or friday - so standing orders should be filled soon

jim

[frviana]

Sorry everyone for the lamme question but I couldn't find a clear answer anywhere else.

Can I capture terrestrial Analog and Digital Cable with DVICO Fusion 5 HDTV tuner?

I live in Canada (Vancouver) and OTA is not available yet so I am looking for a card that allows me to at least watch Digital Terrestrial Cable and in the future capture OTA. Have anyone tried to use this or any other card that does Digital Tuner with SHAW?

Thanks for any answer.

[NightCrawler1234]

just an fyi - copperbox expects their shipment in tomorrow or friday - so standing orders should be filled soon

jim

I hope so.... Close to a month since I placed my order. I am not a very patient person... :D

[divnguy]

Ordered my 5 lite today from Digital Connection based on the pretty good reviews here. This is going to replace my AccessDTV that I have fought with for the last 5 years.

Turning point for me was when my Samsung DLP had to go to the shop last week for lamp and ballast replacement and I got a loaner Sharp Aquos with built in tuner that flawlessly tunes in OTA HD that Access struggled with. If the Fusion 5 is as good as the built in Sharp tuner, I will be a happy camper.

[frviana]

I live in Canada (Vancouver) and OTA is not available yet so I am looking for a card that allows me to at least watch Digital Terrestrial Cable and in the future capture OTA. Have anyone tried to use DVICO Fusion 5 HDTV tuner or any other card that does Digital (not HDTV) with SHAW?

[MI_CT]

just an fyi - copperbox expects their shipment in tomorrow or friday - so standing orders should be filled soon

jim


Hi did you actually call and comfirm this with them? Im still waiting myself on my order.

MI

[jim tressler]

mi - yep - I recieved an email from patrick on the issue.

jim

[MI_CT]

jim- thanks for the update. I heard what happened last time i called. I just hope to get the card soon.

MI

[revgen]

Sorry everyone for the lamme question but I couldn't find a clear answer anywhere else.

Can I capture terrestrial Analog and Digital Cable with DVICO Fusion 5 HDTV tuner?

I live in Canada (Vancouver) and OTA is not available yet so I am looking for a card that allows me to at least watch Digital Terrestrial Cable and in the future capture OTA. Have anyone tried to use this or any other card that does Digital Tuner with SHAW?

Thanks for any answer.

The Fusion 5 can capture digital cable and analog cable in NTSC format.

It can also capture High Def ATSC digital cable signals through unencrypted QAM.

I don't know what SHAW is. Can you give a better explanation?

[TPeterson]

The Fusion 5 can capture digital cable and analog cable in NTSC format.

It can also capture High Def ATSC digital cable signals through unencrypted QAM.

I don't know what SHAW is. Can you give a better explanation?Shaw is a cableco up north, eh?? :)

[Requieme]

Another FYI, this time for Digital Connection orders.

I got an email from them a couple of days ago saying the shipment is actually on its way and they are expecting it to arrive Monday. This is the first actual update I've gotten from them, so I'm guessing its accurate.

Probably accurate for Copperbox too...

Ben

[Munkeung]

I've playing with the Fusion5lite and the $9.99 remote since last week. I'm using it in a Sempron 3100 box with Radeon 9600 card, G memory and a 250G hd.

This is my first HDTV card. I have a Samsung sir-t151 and a sir-t351. All UHF HD channels come in fine in all three. The problem is with a low VHF channel. Since I'm more than 30 miles from the tower, the low VHF (WBBM-DT chicago) breaks up a lot with the t151 but is watchable most of the time. The sir-t351 is less sensitive and would freeze and require a hard power down. The fusion picks up the low VHF but also stumbles. Instead of breaking up, the picture would freeze and then catch up. I have no problem with that. I have not tried QAM sinc e it does not even carry WBBM and all other OTA channels come in fine.

For $99 the card is a bargin in my book. The $9.99 remote works well too.

The only problem I have is that I can't seem to be able to integrate TitanTV with the EPG like they show it in the manual. Also, the description in Digitalconnection's website is misleading as it does not support conversion of .tp files to DVD files.

[Cliff Watson]

"Also, the description in Digitalconnection's website is misleading as it does not support conversion of .tp files to DVD files."

Actually it does convert TS to Program Stream (File.mpg) on the fly during a recording. The standalone Fusion Converter has been disabled as part of the "Lite" version and they don't include the DVD editing and burning software as they do for the full version.

[TomCat]

...

The big question for me is how much better is the new LG tuner for multipath and weak signal problems? DVICO says...

Is it true?

There was a particular group TV stations owner that raised a ruckus about 8VSB and went on a campaign to get it replaced with COFDM (well after the ATSC recommendations of 8VSB) because they were convinced that 8VSB would never allow multipath performance that was acceptable. It was considered by some to be a serious challenge, and caused a lot of furor in the broadcasting industry for some time. They had a point. Early tuners sucked pretty bad at rejecting multipath inteference.

Now, even THESE guys are endorsing the LG gen5 8VSB tuner, so it must be true.

[Neil L]

Still the question of "how much better is the new LG tuner", has not been addressed fully. It would be nice if someone who has the ability to actually measure the difference would publish their findings. Lab measurements may not tell the whole story, but they would clearly show the differences in tuner sensitivity, and multipath rejection. Actually the test Cliff Watson posted here are a good first step in that direction.

Anyway, so far, the results from users would indicate to me that the 5th gen LG tuner is only slightly better, if any, than other current tuner models. No major breakthrough it appears. But let's see some numbers that prove it!

[Shape]

For $99 the card is a bargin in my book. The $9.99 remote works well too.


Where do you get the remote for $9.99?

[Munkeung]

Where do you get the remote for $9.99?

Digitalconnection. It's the old style remote but it works with Fusion 5 lite.

[Munkeung]

Still the question of "how much better is the new LG tuner", has not been addressed fully. It would be nice if someone who has the ability to actually measure the difference would publish their findings. Lab measurements may not tell the whole story, but they would clearly show the differences in tuner sensitivity, and multipath rejection. Actually the test Cliff Watson posted here are a good first step in that direction.

Anyway, so far, the results from users would indicate to me that the 5th gen LG tuner is only slightly better, if any, than other current tuner models. No major breakthrough it appears. But let's see some numbers that prove it!

I think the Fusion 5 lite performs at least on par with my Samsung sir-t151. The samsung is a 3-4 year old model and I don't know the generation designation for it. My Samsung sir-t351 is 2 year old model and worked ok before the Dolby 5.1 firmware fix and now is really finicky. In my case, I believe low signal quality of the low vhf channel is more of a problem than multipath. I can't tell if the Fusion has actual improvement over the sir-t151 at this point since reception of the low vhf channel has been decent last week. There are times even the sir-t151 picture breaks up really bad, I will report if the Fusion works better.

[mynym]

In the pictures the Fusion 5 cards only have 1 coaxial input. How do you feed both an OTA antenna and an analog cable into it?

[Pakman]

In the pictures the Fusion 5 cards only have 1 coaxial input. How do you feed both an OTA antenna and an analog cable into it?

Not at the same time....the old cards had two inputs, but now there is only one.

which is a bummer....now I need two cards...one for HD and for regular analog.

dpak

[Peter Nagy]

Or you can get remote control A/B switch from Radio Shack. See http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&category%5Fname=CTLG%5F003%5F010%5F011%5F000&product%5Fid=15%2D1968

[dlandrum]

My FusionHDTV5 Lite arrived on Friday; I am really frustrated.

It will only recognize a single digital channel: PBS ... that channel comes-in at 85%-90%. When I manually add digital channels, they all show 0%. I am using an amplified winegard antenna. I am using V2.99.10 of the Fusion program.

When I plug-in a Sony SAT-HD100, it recognizes 28 digital OTA channels ... using the exact same cable.

what am I doing wrong?

[Cliff Watson]

David,

Are you using the software that shipped on the CD? There was a bug in that version and Digital Connection has posted an update on their webpage. I would link to the page but DC server is down at the moment.

[Karyk]

My FusionHDTV5 Lite arrived on Friday; I am really frustrated.

It will only recognize a single digital channel: PBS ... that channel comes-in at 85%-90%. When I manually add digital channels, they all show 0%. I am using an amplified winegard antenna. I am using V2.99.10 of the Fusion program.

When I plug-in a Sony SAT-HD100, it recognizes 28 digital OTA channels ... using the exact same cable.

what am I doing wrong?

In addition to trying the updated software, sometimes it does require more than one scan (without deleting the information from the prior scan).

[cdcooker]

Actually it does convert TS to Program Stream (File.mpg) on the fly during a recording.

Can you tell me the difference between TS (.tp) and prog stream (file.mpg)? I have Fusion3 and i have the option to choose either .tp or .mpg. I don't know which one is better, or are they the same? Also, Windows Media Player 10 cannot play either .tp or .mpg files recorded from the Fusion3. For the .mpg file, no sound. So, right now, I can only play the fusion file within the htpc, not on other computers.

[cdcooker]

Digitalconnection. It's the old style remote but it works with Fusion 5 lite.

Yes, the remote is on sale for $9. However, the S&H is $9.45.

[etk29321]

cdcooker,
ts files are transport streams. Basically its a shell around the mpeg file (or files if there are multiple subchannels) that stores extra info like what channel your watching, etc. The Mpegs will play fine with media player if you have ac3filter or similar installed to deal with DD 5.1 decoding (and nothing else wacky is going on).

On a related note, has anyone out there been able to get mpeg editing software to work with DD 5.1 from a fusion? I've tried TMPGenc Mpeg editor, Videoredo, and Mpeg video wizard. So far either they won't open the file or they screw up the ac3 track on output (input sounded fine). All I'm looking to do is strip out commercials.

[TPeterson]

On a related note, has anyone out there been able to get mpeg editing software to work with DD 5.1 from a fusion? I've tried TMPGenc Mpeg editor, Videoredo, and Mpeg video wizard. So far either they won't open the file or they screw up the ac3 track on output (input sounded fine). All I'm looking to do is strip out commercials.You don't mention HDTVtoMPEG2. It won't edit the MPEG from Fusion, but it will edit the TS files.

[cdcooker]

etk29321, is ac3filter free for download?

Also, I used HDTV2MPEG to strip out commercials. I don't know if it will preserve the DD5.1, as I only have a 2.1 set up right now.

[dr_midnite]

Divco just got the shipment in as I was on the phone with them, and Copperbox shows on thier Web site as having them in stock.

WOOWOO!!

[gameboy]

Troubling...

I am beginning to experience some random crashes while viewing through MCE (5Lite).

It crashed on me once on Sat ("couldn't find tv tuner" error, required reboot). Then another hard crash on Sun - this time I had to reinstall the driver as the PC did not recognize the device.

I pray it will run better this week. Anyone else having similar problems?

Gameboy

[etk29321]

Thanks, I guess I need to switch back to recording TS files instead of "capture native mpeg" and try out HDTV2MPEG again.

Cdcooker, ac3filter is open source: http://ac3filter.sourceforge.net/ (one note, I have one machine that this doesnt work for me on.. infact nothing will play DD 5.1 on that system other than the fusion hdtv app. I think it just needs a ground-up reinstall... )

[Ksult1]

Divco just got the shipment in as I was on the phone with them, and Copperbox shows on thier Web site as having them in stock.

WOOWOO!!

Thanks for the update. Mine has shipped!

[jim tressler]

same here.. ordered from copperbox on may 27 - mine has shipped as well..

now that I will have the card soon (knock on wood) anyone using it with media portal?

[NightCrawler1234]

etk29321, is ac3filter free for download?

Yes, it is free. Google "ac3filter" it should take you to a site for download.

[DaveRochNY]

The Fusion 5 can capture digital cable and analog cable in NTSC format.


Nope, no card can do Digital Cable. Fusion 5 can do unencrypted QAM, ATSC (VSB) and analog (NTSC).

If you have a Digital Cable box, you need to capture via the same signal you send to your TV - NTSC or S-Video or Composite.

I also understand that some cable box's have component output, however the cost of a component capture card for your PC is sky high.

[Shape]

Nope, no card can do Digital Cable. Fusion 5 can do unencrypted QAM, ATSC (VSB) and analog (NTSC).


Unencrypted QAM is digital cable.

[Steve Schauer]

Kind of a semantics thing. You're right, it is all QAM, but the cable card decrypts the premium channels in the same manner that a set top box does. That way a QAM-capable tuner like the Fusion or the MyHD can get the encrypted channels from the coax input instead of being limited to the down-rezzed S-Video.

[aljohnso]

I have a F5 and I am using it for cable and OTA. I have had no problems with OTA, but I am feeding my cable to several VCRs (3) and the fusion 5. I have been using Monster Cable 2GHz splitters (1->3 followed by a 1->2) and I have found that I am just at the threshold for locking into some of the QAM channels.

I have tried replacing some of the splitters with lower grade splitters and run into problems - this note is to suggest that kind of solution if one is having problems. I would like to find an inline amplifier that would be appropriate, but the two amps I have tried were worse than no amps at all. Does anyone have good success with an inline amp for cable reception?

Allen

[macrosoft]

Anyone recommend a decent radio frequency remote and antenna for Fusion5Lite?

[e vey]

--but the two amps--

When I tried an amp for my OTA, the signals strength went down on the previously strong stations and up on the weak one. My amp had a built-in attentuator which helped.

[weren1]

Well my fusion card just arrived and I noticed that the CD is labled version 3.0 RC2 A. Well once i installed the software it is saying i have version 2.99.09 which is great, but my i checked fusions website and they say the most recent version is Version 3.0 RC1 2.99.08 hehe so my question is is my CD a newer version or is the website? Or am i doing this wrong please let me know thanks!

[Cliff Watson]

Well my fusion card just arrived and I noticed that the CD is labled version 3.0 RC2 A. Well once i installed the software it is saying i have version 2.99.09 which is great, but my i checked fusions website and they say the most recent version is Version 3.0 RC1 2.99.08 hehe so my question is is my CD a newer version or is the website? Or am i doing this wrong please let me know thanks!

The currect version is 2.99.10

[technofiend]

Cliff, 2.99.08 is the latest available on http://www.fusionhdtv.co.kr/Eng/Download/Software.aspx.
Can it be found elsewhere? Didn't see it on digitalconnection.com.

[Cliff Watson]

Cliff, 2.99.08 is the latest available on http://www.fusionhdtv.co.kr/Eng/Download/Software.aspx.
Can it be found elsewhere? Didn't see it on digitalconnection.com.

Here is a link to the download at Digital Connection. DVIco has not posted it on their webpage.

It is listed as FusionLite on the upper right, but will install on any Fusion card.

http://www.digitalconnection.com/Products/Video/fusion5lt.asp

[jarjarbinks]

Question-

When time shifting with the Fusion 5 and Windows Media Center Edition (i.e., pausing, rewinding live HDTV or recording HDTV and watching it later), does it capture the HD stream at full resolution, or does it remux it to a lower resolution?

I ask because the Avermedia A180 has a max capture resolution of 720x480...even if you're watching a 1080i broadcast. Lame! (I emailed their support and that's what I was told--because of "piracy and legal issues.")

I just want to make sure that the Fusion 5 will let me capture HD at full HD resolution. Some product literature makes me think that it dumps the raw stream to disk (perfect!), but I'd like a clear answer from someone with the card.

Thanks!

[Cliff Watson]

I ask because the Avermedia A180 has a max capture resolution of 720x480...even if you're watching a 1080i broadcast. Lame! (I emailed their support and that's what I was told--because of "piracy and legal issues.")

Are you kidding?

Fusion will capture the native rate transport stream.

[jarjarbinks]

Are you kidding?
Nope. Copy-and-paste:
My question:
The product page for the AVerMedia AVerTVHD MCE A180 has me confused. It states the following:

-Support free over-the-air ATSC signal 480p, 720p and 1080i (with wide screen support)
-Video capture resolution up to 720 X 480 (NTSC)

Does that mean that all video capture, including HD, is limited to 720x480? Or is only NTSC/Standard-def capture limited to that resolution? Can the A180 capture the whole HD stream in full-resolution? In other words, if I'm using the PVR features of Windows MCE and watching a channel in 1080i, can I pause, rewind, etc, all in that 1080i resolution, or am I limited by that resolution?

Their reply:
No. That is only only capture resolution supported. Because of legal issue with piracy and such, true HD resolution is not allow to be captured.
Fusion will capture the native rate transport stream.
w00t. Now I know which HD card I'm buying. Thanks, Cliff! (Sorry this is a little off topic.)

[kny3twalker]

Video capture resolution up to 720 X 480 (NTSC)

thats just for NTSC
as thats the native resolution of NTSC

most email tech support is clueless

HDTV in MCE is always capturing the digital broadcast untouched

you cannot adjust the capture quality nor does the card compress the broadcast

[jim tressler]

finally received mine last night.. had it set up and running in about 10 minutes- fired right up!! - found all my locals (digital and ota) The signal / tuning was just as good as my hughes htl-hd - so I can't really comment on if the 5th gen is better - all I can say is it works.. the pq was fantastic - every bit as good as the hughes... Thats all for now as I only has abouy 45 minutes to play last night.. but so far so good.. now I need to concentrate on getting it work with media portal

jim

edit - the software on my cd was 2.99.09

[MKANET]

I read in older posts that the driver supports dual Fusion cards in one PC. However, I'm curious if the latest software that comes with these cards (meant for standard Windows XP) is dual card friendly. For example, can I schedule to record two different shows at the same time; or watch one show, and record with the other.

If not, is there any HDTV card that has software that works in standard Windows XP that supports two of the SAME HDTV cards?

Thanks,
Michael

[comp1040]

Help, is there a way to tune to the 100 plus channel numbers.

I can't seem to punch three digits with the remote or keyboard.

Most of the usable qam channels are 105 thru 123 and pressing D and then channel 83 and then going up channel one at a time to get to 105 and up is not
the way to go.

Just recd and installed last night. I am still trying to figure out the remote and I see that there is new version dated 6-30-05 on Fusion web site but do not think that is going to change things please help!

I could make them favorites I guess but there still has to be a better way.

Thanks in advance

Ron

[jim tressler]

FYI - Dvico has just posted the 3.0 Official software on their website

http://www.fusionhdtv.co.kr/ENG/Download/Software.aspx

as always your milage may vary with it!

jim

[re1ex]

I just got my card today, played around with it with my trek indoor antenna, the one that comes with the ati one

i'm getting No signal what so ever. i'm 10-15 miles away, its a pretty clear view and the antenna is pointing out of my window.

the antenna i got was "opened" already before i bought it, so it could be DOA.

i tried some old analog antenna but still no signal for analog

is my card doa or my choice for antennas crap?

help please!

[glenngreen]

I just returned the Ati HDTV Wonder I bought, because after 4 days I still could not get the software to work. I'm leaing towards the Fusion 5 now, but I have a question I cannot find an answer to so far. Does it work with a HT-enabled CPU? I looked at the MyHd 130, but they say you have to disable the HT in the system BIOS, and I really don't want to do that. So if Fusion will work with hyperthreading, I'm gonna give it a try.

[TPeterson]

I just returned the Ati HDTV Wonder I bought, because after 4 days I still could not get the software to work. I'm leaing towards the Fusion 5 now, but I have a question I cannot find an answer to so far. Does it work with a HT-enabled CPU? I looked at the MyHd 130, but they say you have to disable the HT in the system BIOS, and I really don't want to do that. So if Fusion will work with hyperthreading, I'm gonna give it a try."They" are (mostly) wrong. Both Fusion and MyHD cards work with HT enabled for the vast majority of people. With HT enabled, MyHD won't play DVD (which the Fusion won't do in any case), files over a LAN, or D-VHS tapes. I haven't heard of any D-VHS limitations on the Fusion cards with HT, but I also haven't tried to use a tape with Fusion.

[mynym]

What's this Dvico FusionHDTV5 Gold Plus card I am seeing?

Whats the diff between that card and the regular Gold?


BTW, add Shop4tech to the list of vendors:


http://www.shop4tech.com/user.htm?go=view_item&id=2877&cata=&s_cata=

[MKANET]

After looking at the Q&A's on DVICO's website, I saw something pretty interesting... It looks like they are aiming for a software upgrade by the end of July which will take advantage of at least two cards. Well, at least PIP support. I'm guessing they are refering to their own software.

Does it support PIP (Picture-In-Picture) when using multiple cards?

Yes, It will be achieved by the end of July ,2005 through software upgrade.



I read in older posts that the driver supports dual Fusion cards in one PC. However, I'm curious if the latest software that comes with these cards (meant for standard Windows XP) is dual card friendly. For example, can I schedule to record two different shows at the same time; or watch one show, and record with the other.

If not, is there any HDTV card that has software that works in standard Windows XP that supports two of the SAME HDTV cards?

Thanks,
Michael

[divnguy]

Got my Fusion 5 Lite this week and pulled out the AccessDTV and plopped it in. OTA reception is much improved. No breakup on the local signals that were previously giving me fits. Software is a little buggy but not too bad, only had a couple of crashes, mostly due to my own fiddling around. So far its a winner. Will try it with cable, hopefully this weekend to see what it picks up.

dg

[vincetvo]

I ordered my first PC TV card, the Fusion5 Gold from DC on Tue and got it in the next day. I guess thanks to living the same southern CA. The card comes with CD version 3.0 RC2. At first, I checked Dvico website for latest software, and it showed RC1 so I assumed the CD was newer. Following the manual I installed the software and the card with my old rabit ears antenna. Everything went through smoothly, except it can only detect two very weak signal analog chanels, no OTA digital at all. I also tried scanning cable (Charter, Riverside) and it did not detect anything at all - none. And the scan was terribly slow. I spent the night removed and reinstalled the card/software several times with no luck. I thought either the card was defective because my 10-year old TV set can tune analog chanels just fine with that indoor antenna or cable.
Next day, I came back here and checked this thread to see if anyone's having the same issue, then found that Dvico just released final software 3.0. To my total surprise, the new softwate really did make a difference. Using the same rabit ears antenna, it now can detect a handful of analog and digital chanels and subchanels. The analog pictures are not so impressed as expected, but wow, the OTA HD chanels are amazing clear pictures on the 19" LCD (I have not tried it on my 50"TV). All the digital chanels it detected, the signal strengths are from 62% to 98% - not so bad at all - and I did not know that that VHF/UHF antenna can tune HD contents. I am waiting for the ZHDTV1 antenna to arrive soon and hope to get better signals, since I see a lot of good review about it. Now, I need to play more with cable tuning this weekend.
For your reference, I am converting my old Dell 8200 to HTPC as an experiment for the first time. The system is not so impressive with P4 2.0Ghz 512K cache socket N, 512MB RDRAM, Nvidia FX5200 128MB, WD 80GB 7200RPM IDE HD, and 5.1 SBLive. So far with this inital results I am quite pleased with the Fusion5.

[Neuner]

Try using Dscaler (http://www.dscaler.org). It can interact with the BT8x8 chipset without using DVICO's drivers. The S-Video may be able to work with it.

Make sure to download Dscaler 4 and NOT Dscaler 5.

Come back here if you have any problems.

Sorry, back with this again. Finally got a chance to try out the s-video connection with Dscaler on my Lite version. I don't have a dongle, so I broke off the tiny plastic pin on a s-video cable and plugged it into the back of the Fusion card. I got an image , but it was all distorted and twisted. Colors were way off also. At least a signal was trying to get through, the pins on the Fusion must not be aligned with a s-video connection.

Man, I wish I could get this to work. WinXP won't let me install my PCTV pro b/c I guess it uses the same Conxenant(sp?) chip. Any help?

[revgen]

Sorry, back with this again. Finally got a chance to try out the s-video connection with Dscaler on my Lite version. I don't have a dongle, so I broke off the tiny plastic pin on a s-video cable and plugged it into the back of the Fusion card. I got an image , but it was all distorted and twisted. Colors were way off also. At least a signal was trying to get through, the pins on the Fusion must not be aligned with a s-video connection.

Man, I wish I could get this to work. WinXP won't let me install my PCTV pro b/c I guess it uses the same Conxenant(sp?) chip. Any help?

You will need the dongle that comes with Fusion 5 Gold cards. I mentioned this earlier, but if you go to www.dvico.com you may want to tell them that you have a Fusion 5 Gold, and that you lost the dongle that came with it. Maybe they'll ship you one, or you can buy a replacement.

Have you tried this yet?

[TPeterson]

...you may want to tell them that you have a Fusion 5 Gold, and that you lost the dongle that came with it....Or he may be an honest man and not want to do that. I guess my earlier remark really did go over your head. :(

[jarjarbinks]

So those of you with the Fusion 5 working... Are you using it standalone for ATSC and NTSC in one, or do you have a separate NTSC tuner? Media Center Edition or Regular XP?

[revgen]

Or he may be an honest man and not want to do that. I guess my earlier remark really did go over your head. :(

I would have recommended that he return this card and buy a Fusion 5 Gold. Unfortunately he has already voided his warranty and can't return it. He would have to pay $150 extra for what he is looking for.

I also think that it's rather dubious for DVICO to charge $50 extra for a proprietary dongle.

If he needs to pay $50 to DVICO for the Dongle and the S&H, then so be it. I don't think it's dishonest at all.

But, unfortunately some manufacturers don't charge for replacement parts, and can't, because they are not set up to work that way. If he tells DVICO that he has screwed with his Fusion Lite card, they may not be willing to help him, even if he's willing to pay for the dongle. If he can pay for the dongle, then thats great. He won't have to feel guilty or empty 150 bucks out of his wallet. It may not turn out that way.

[buzzly]

Sorry if this has been asked.

I have SAPPHIRE Theatrix Theatre 550Pro TV Tuner Card, with a MCE 2005 compatible remote. Can this remote be used to control Fusion 5?

I am trying not to have multiple remotes. TIA.

[Neuner]

Man, I wish I could get this to work. WinXP won't let me install my PCTV pro b/c I guess it uses the same Conxenant(sp?) chip. Any help?

I could skip all the dongle stuff if I could get my PCTV Pro to work simultaneously, but I'm not that tech savy to figure out why except for someone mentioning that they might use the same chip.

[Ad-Rok]

OK,

So I received my DVico FusionHDTV 5 Gold Plus package from DC. I'm using XP Pro on an AthlonXP2400+/Nforce2/512Ram/ATIRadeon9800 with MyHD-120 in there as well.

-Downloaded latest driver app from Dvico, installed.
-Downloaded what I thought was latest remote software, installed
-Put in PCI card
-Hooked up, scanned and found a few of the local QAM channels and analog cable channels as well.
-started tuning them
-got error message
-realized I must have installed old remote SW over new install, thought I would try to correct this
-deleted all installs using add/remove progs as instructed by DVico in manual and on web site
-reinstalled main driver
-got "Access Violation" error after error after error (at one time got over 30 error dialogs during a new channel auto-scan)
-tuner now will not tune in channels despite numerous uninstall/reinstalls of drivers with card inserted and not inserted, and pops up "Access Violation at Adress XXXXXX" all the time

Someone please help or convince me quick or this card is getting boxed up and shipped back to DigitalConnection promptly. Any recommendations?

Thanks,
Adam

[Billyfat]

OK,

So I received my DVico FusionHDTV 5 Gold Plus package from DC. I'm using XP Pro on an AthlonXP2400+/Nforce2/512Ram/ATIRadeon9800 with MyHD-120 in there as well.

-Downloaded latest driver app from Dvico, installed.
-Downloaded what I thought was latest remote software, installed
-Put in PCI card
-Hooked up, scanned and found a few of the local QAM channels and analog cable channels as well.
-started tuning them
-got error message
-realized I must have installed old remote SW over new install, thought I would try to correct this
-deleted all installs using add/remove progs as instructed by DVico in manual and on web site
-reinstalled main driver
-got "Access Violation" error after error after error (at one time got over 30 error dialogs during a new channel auto-scan)
-tuner now will not tune in channels despite numerous uninstall/reinstalls of drivers with card inserted and not inserted, and pops up "Access Violation at Adress XXXXXX" all the time

Someone please help or convince me quick or this card is getting boxed up and shipped back to DigitalConnection promptly. Any recommendations?

Thanks,
Adam

That's eerie. I received my Fusion 5 Gold two days ago and am having the exact same "access violation" errors when tuning QAM channels. My set up is like yours as well: AthlonXP 3000+/Nforce2/1.5GB Ram/ATI RADEON 9800. I installed the brand new RC3 software from the DVICO website on a clean system. Since then I have tried all sorts of uninstalling and reinstalling to solve the problem.

I am pretty much decided on returning the card, but if anyone has any ideas about what might be going wrong I would be grateful.

Billy

[thatdude90210]

Try unchecking the box for the particular channels that cause the access violation errors during scanning. The Dvico software was doing that to me on only one QAM channel on my Fusion 3T. Getting rid of that channel got mine working.

And if currently using the latest 3.0 driver, try going back one driver release (the one on the CD).

[etcarroll]

After spending 4 hours trying to upgrade to the 3.0 software release, I rolled back to 2.99.10, access violations gone.

[videobruce]

Ad-Rok; ad-remove programs rarely removes ALL the drivers and 'stuff' a/the program installs!

When I have a trouble install that I can't fix (hardware) that is a important item, I will wipe and reinstall the O/S or use a image of the system before I loaded any programs and try again giving priority to just this program/driver.

[Karyk]

Other than being an annoyance during a channel scan, I'm not sure the access violation notices create any problem. I had them when I installed 3.0

[Ad-Rok]

After spending 4 hours trying to upgrade to the 3.0 software release, I rolled back to 2.99.10, access violations gone.

Thanks all for ideas, I think I'll give etcarroll's suggestion a shot. I'm not going to wipe my entire HTPC XP installation and start from scratch because of this card unless it shows evidence of damaging my other software components and drivers in its wake. If the software is that buggy, then this is not worth my everyday use and it gets returned.

Also, played a DVD and watched OTA HDTV via my MyHD 120 as normal last night and it still works like a charm, which is good to see.

Will report results after uninstalling 3.0 driver and installing driver shipped in box. Wish me luck.

Thanks,
Adam

[revgen]

The DVICO manual suggests installing the software before installing the card and drivers.

Maybe you should take your card out of your slot and do that.

[Ad-Rok]

Will report results after uninstalling 3.0 driver and installing driver shipped in box. Wish me luck.


OK, so I uninstalled drivers, ran CCleaner to make sure all loose registry items were taken care of, and loaded up the 2.99 software/driver version on the CD that came with the unit. Had only one "Access Violation in Code" error so far on a non-tunable DTV station. Seems like I'm up and running OK for now. PQ is OK though seems inferior to my hardware-decoded MyHD-120 output.

I'm still not convinced I want to keep such a sporadically reliable device despite the fact that it only crashes occasionally now. Am disappointed that the supposedly beta-tested newer driver gives me so many errors. DVico indicates on their web site that a new feature of the revised software is "faster channel tuning" and honestly I wonder if they made it too fast for the hardware (or my hardware's) own good. Perhaps the slower lock-on time with the 2.99 drivers helps avoid the constant access violation errors, just a guess.

I also noticed that DVIco lists compatibility with the open source MCE-like software project MediaPortal (http://mediaportal.sourceforge.net). Tinkering with this interface now for kicks since I don't want to gut WinXP for WinMCE. Anyone have success using the BDA drivers to get their DVIco Fusion 5 to play nice with other software than MCE?

The guinea pigging continues, I'll keep all posted if interested.

Thanks,
Adam

[jim tressler]

adam - i am in the same boat as you with the media portal software - the dvico stuff works fine, but I am having a hell of a time getting it to run on media portal.. very choppy and 100% cpu under the mp interface.. check out http://nolanparty.com/mediaportal.sourceforge.net/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=7981&start=0&postdays=0&postorder=asc&highlight=&sid=f5098df4ef2b14dadcef012811e5ea55
where we have a thread going.. some have it working, others like me do not.. lets see if we can compare notes as we test to see what works best

jim

[jarjarbinks]

Am disappointed that the supposedly beta-tested newer driver gives me so many errors.

Beta means that it's pre-release, as in, it hasn't been fully tested and it is likely buggy.

[Ad-Rok]

Beta means that it's pre-release, as in, it hasn't been fully tested and it is likely buggy.

Per DVico's trumpeting advertisement, this 3.0 version is "Official Release" software, not Beta software. They said this software was beta-*tested* (as in done, finito, past tense). Clearly they have some major flaws to work through in their latest "release" version, and I was expressing disappointment that they did not at least advertise it properly. I think my HTPC config is a fairly common one as well, so it's doubly disappointing that it doesn't work.

Oh well, onward we go.

And Jim -- thanks much for the pointer, I'll watch that thread with interest and will post if I discover anything. The autotune feature appears to be clunky indeed so far with MediaPortal, and not sure I understand those XML tweaks but I'll keep watching and tinkering.

-Adam

[Ad-Rok]

Very interesting quick note: I see that just this morning DVico's web site lists version "3.00.01" on their software download page. Does anyone know what change was made in this .01 revision? Dare I install this update and hope to avoid errors?

http://www.fusionhdtv.co.kr/ENG/Download/Software.aspx

[EDIT:] I see changes listed as follows:

<< Changes in Rev 3.00.01 >>
---------------------------------------------------------------
1. Enhanced the channel scan of free-to-air.
2. user interface (UI) is more brightened.
3. Fixed the problem which the cut edit does not work.
4. Fixed the minor bugs.

I guess I'll give this a shot and report results again.

Thanks,
Adam

[Larry Parker]

I had just upgraded a few days ago to the 3.00.00 when I saw your post, Ad-Rok. I just installed the 3.00.01 on my FusionHDTV 3 Gold, and their idea of "enhanced the channel scan of free to air" means they slowed it down to the speed it was before 3.00.00. I did not get any more stations in. And the "user interface" is NOT "more brightened". It looks the exact same as in the 3.00.00.

[SiR-ROUND]

I'd like to know if the Fusion is free of playback bugs such as chroma error and ICP.

I got a MyHD120 and it's horrible. The only good thing is that it plays fairly everything and stutterfree, but with each fast movement field scene you get terrible macroblocks. I crosschecked with TT and it's not the sterams played.

I was oh so happy to get a MyHD from ebay, but now I found out that the Januschipset just isn't any good.

So much for HW decoding.

Strange though that I couldn't find much info on the errors on AVS.

Thanks.

[pmn929]

I've got a Hauppauge WinTV-PVR USB2 and the Fusion 5 Gold. These two don't seem to get along at all and my computer becomes somewhat unstable. The problem looks to be with the two and NTSC. Has anybody found a way to disable the NTSC drivers for the Fusion card and still have the card work at all? Of course I wouldn't have this problem if MCE didn't require a primary NTSC tuner before you could use a digital one (even though the digital can handle NTSC).

[TPeterson]

I'd like to know if the Fusion is free of playback bugs such as chroma error and ICP.

I got a MyHD120 and it's horrible....

Strange though that I couldn't find much info on the errors on AVS.Did you consider the possibility that the reason that there are no such reports is that most of us don't have bad MyHD cards, as you apparently got from eBay? :(

I expect that you'd find the Fusion's playback to be essentially the same as you see with TT, since it would be using the same hardware and video driver.

[SiR-ROUND]

What do you mean bad cards from Ebay? The card works, but the Terralogic Janus chip has errors.

The Fusion has it's own HDTV decoder software, TT uses Nvidia or are they the same?

Thanks.

[TPeterson]

What do you mean bad cards from Ebay? The card works, but the Terralogic Janus chip has errors.

The Fusion has it's own HDTV decoder software, TT uses Nvidia or are they the same?Isn't a card with a bad chip a "bad card"? ;) I see none of the macroblocking that you describe on any of the three MDP-1xx that I've tested. If you can return it, I would.

Yes, Fusion adds decoding sw, but AIUI the color mapping, etc., is handled by the same overlay/VMR sw and hw as TT would be using. That's why I say you should see the same sort of result.

[allanmac]

I've got a Hauppauge WinTV-PVR USB2 and the Fusion 5 Gold. These two don't seem to get along at all and my computer becomes somewhat unstable. The problem looks to be with the two and NTSC. Has anybody found a way to disable the NTSC drivers for the Fusion card and still have the card work at all? Of course I wouldn't have this problem if MCE didn't require a primary NTSC tuner before you could use a digital one (even though the digital can handle NTSC).

I have the same setup and am seeing the same result. I have two Fusion 5's though.

Have you tried disabling the crossbar as describe here:
http://www.fusionhdtv.co.kr/ENG/Support/FAQMCE2005.aspx?act=RD&id=166&pg=0&CATID=9&SCATID=42

I haven't tried this yet but will try tonight.

-ASM

[pmn929]

I have the same setup and am seeing the same result. I have two Fusion 5's though.

Have you tried disabling the crossbar as describe here:
http://www.fusionhdtv.co.kr/ENG/Support/FAQMCE2005.aspx?act=RD&id=166&pg=0&CATID=9&SCATID=42

I haven't tried this yet but will try tonight.

-ASM

I'm glad to know I'm not the only one. Let me know how it works. The problem is definitely caused by the multiple tuners.

[allanmac]

I'm glad to know I'm not the only one. Let me know how it works. The problem is definitely caused by the multiple tuners.

Just to be clear I *also* have the WinTV-PVR USB2 + 2 Fusion HDTV5's.

I totally do not want the WinTV in my setup but I would like to use WinMCE.

Some more information: I'm running this on a ASUS Pundit-R barebones. The integrated Radeon 9100 (amazingly) seems to have no problem decoding a 1080i HD stream. I'm seeing between 45% and 65% CPU usage on a Celeron-D 2.2GHz (I might want to get a faster CPU in the future). I guess the Radeon's DXVA implementation really does work! I recorded about 60GB last night w/o any problems. But this was all with the FusionHDTV software. MCE just dies.

I *did* get MCE to work when I changed the preferred codec to something other than than DXVA Zulu FusionHDTV codec but it was running so slowly it was unbearable.

-ASM

[vincetvo]

Ok, I give up on QAM (Charter). I have tried these Fusion software 2.99.09, 2.99.10, 3.0, and 3.01, but neither of them can detect any channel at all, and no crashes. I dont know much about cable signal, but if my TV can scan channels, why not the Fusion card? Any ideas?

[NightCrawler1234]

Ok, I give up on QAM (Charter). I have tried these Fusion software 2.99.09, 2.99.10, 3.0, and 3.01, but neither of them can detect any channel at all, and no crashes. I dont know much about cable signal, but if my TV can scan channels, why not the Fusion card? Any ideas?

If you know which channels are in the "clear" for your cable service, then you can manually tune to those channel in the software and look at the signal level. In my experience, you need greater than 90% signal strength.

I have been using QAM with the 3.0.1 software and it works fine. The only problem is the encrypted channels crashs the HDTV software, but you can disable them if the auto scanning picks them up.

I hope that helps.

[davidfeinzeig]

I've been playing with OTA reception, and figured today, what the heck, and tried plugging in my cable. I chose cable, digital, autoscan. It detected several channels, but the only one that actually tunes is Fox HD. The others have 100% signal strength but just show a black screen. If a channel is in fact encrypted, how would I be able to tell? Any idea what the 100% strength but just a black screen indicates? Also, anyone have any luck with receiving anything other than ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX (like HBO, discovery, etc.)?

Thanks!
Dave

[boardmanDJ]

Access violation...access violation...access violation....

Grrr. I just isntalled this cool fusion HDTV Gold card. Worked great the first time. Now it keeps giving me access violations. Any clue on what causes this?

I'm running an AMD 2800+ (2.07ghz) with an ati all in wonder 9800. Has worked like a charm outside of this problem.

[TPeterson]

boardmanDJ--

Most folks see those access violations only when trying to view encrypted QAM channels, which is fruitless anyway, and can avoid them by not putting such in their favorites list. Are you getting them when viewing otherwise?

[TheGreatOne]

Ok, I have a Sasem Co., Ltd. USB HDTV device since last November when I purchased from copperbox.com (AKA - Advance Logic Inc.), and the experience has been terrible to infrequent software updates, buggy software, and their application development staff uses tools to develop that are at least three years out of date. Thus, one can forget about HT and SP2 support, signed drives, along with standard compliant MSI 3.X installation/updates. Moreover, about BDA support, they have no idea. . . They (OnAir Solution, Co. Ltd.) are just as “clueless” as Sasem Co., Ltd. that they purchased in February.

It worked “so-so” with many “blow-out” when switching from digital to analog; but both the analog and digital (QAM256) reception was of great quality. Attempted to upgrade device to the just released 255 driver (not signed either) along with the 290 application, which “trashed” with no reception, and no ability to revert to former drivers/applications since I believe it flashed or damaged the firmware of the device. I spent more than twelve hours yesterday (09JUL05) trying to revert back to my working 254 driver and 2.88FINAL application, scrubbing the registry each time, and more, all with no luck.

I need QAM256 support to handle my cable company (Cablevision, Bethpage, NY) for the unencrypted HDTV stations, along with very good analog reception. I rarely time-shift or use any PVR functions. Supporting drivers and applications must be to current Microsoft stands and follow Microsoft guideline for application development, as I use a fairly high-end system with SP2 and HT. I use a DVD-I interconnect between video controller, and a large Samsung LCD panel.

So, below are my options, I believe:

- Purchase a Dvico FusionHDTV 5 GOLD PLUS
- Purchase a Macro Image Technology, Inc. MDP-130/MDP-130DVI Combination
- Purchase a Sharp’s LC-26D5U AQUOS Television
- Wait Till August For A Possible CableCard HTPC Tuner Solution

Does the Dvico FusionHDTV 5 GOLD PLUS provide the same reception quality as the Macro Image Technology, Inc. MDP-130/MDP-130DVI Combination? What about drivers and application software, are they “equal”, are they “buggy”, and other issues? How is the support and frequency of updates?

What would you do, buy the Dvico FusionHDTV 5 GOLD PLUS or the Macro Image Technology, Inc. MDP-130/MDP-130DVI Combination, and why? On the other hand, would you go the television route or wait?

I would like your comments please!

Thanks,


Tim

[Karyk]

Access violation...access violation...access violation....

Grrr. I just isntalled this cool fusion HDTV Gold card. Worked great the first time. Now it keeps giving me access violations. Any clue on what causes this?

Really bad software writers?

[boardmanDJ]

I wonder if I hit a QAM channel that's scrambled. It was working fine while scanning for channels, and tuning around a bit...then boom. It goes nuts. Stays that way when I open, perhaps because I'm still on a QAM. Weeee!

Thanks for the tip!

[Axlrod]

Just to add my two cents...

I can get ABC, CBS FOX, TNT, DISCOVERY, but i can't get NBC or WB, not that i expected to get anything, so...

Time warner, Dayton Ohio

I can't wait for MCE2005 to support QAM, (Nascar on TNT in HD, I can't wait) .

Dennis

[GarthVH]

TNT and Discovery will go away at some point.

I had all sorts of QAM channels for a while, now I just have the locals.

Garth

[Waters_10]

MyHD user here with some basic questions that might have been asked before, but just couldn't find the answers with the search button ...

- Can the fusion5 timeshift analog channels?

- I've read about how fusion5 is somewhat supported under Sagetv, with the HDNE encoder. Is it Possible to timeshift HDTV and analog under Sage, with this card?

[e vey]

--Can the fusion5 timeshift analog channels?--

It can't using it's included software.

[jim tressler]

SageTv forums about hd - not sure about analog though

http://forums.sagetv.com/forums/showthread.php?t=11147&page=1&pp=20


MyHD user here with some basic questions that might have been asked before, but just couldn't find the answers with the search button ...

- Can the fusion5 timeshift analog channels?

- I've read about how fusion5 is somewhat supported under Sagetv, with the HDNE encoder. Is it Possible to timeshift HDTV and analog under Sage, with this card?

[trbarry]

On Comcast here in Jax Discovery and ESPN already vanished a few months back on my F3Q. Then last week I canceled their Digital Silver package and dropped back to limited basic. They charged me $10 for the privilidge of having a tech drive by and add some new filters to my line and now I've also lost INHD and CBS, due probably to the lower signal strength caused by the filters. I think each filter on the line causes something like a 3 dB drop and the F3Q is very sensitive that way for QAM.

So basically with the F3Q (or other?) cards you may not get a good QAM signal unless you are subscribing to enough premium channels to have minimal filters on your line.

- Tom

[Karyk]

I haven't had any issues with Comcast limited basic and QAM on my Fusion 3.

[Pakman]

I haven't had any issues with Comcast limited basic and QAM on my Fusion 3.

Where are you at?
(what city and state).

dp

[Pakman]

Hello All,

I am thinking about getting one of these cards, and have been following the details for a long time now.

I might do OTA, as it is supposed to be ok in my area, but am about to get cable (might get basic) and wanted to know if anyone had any input on what QAM channels they have been able to get in the DFW area in Texas (usa).

I think both charter and comcast service my area.

thanks

Dp

[gleemer77]

I can get ABC, CBS FOX, TNT, DISCOVERY, but i can't get NBC or WB, not that i expected to get anything, so...
Dennis
For me, autoscan will not find all subchannels, so FOX and NBC will be missing. If you skip autoscan after install and just insert the channels you know, everything will show up. You have to make sure you have never autoscanned or else the only way to get them is reinstalling or deleting the registry key (as described in a previous post). Anyone having problems getting the free network channels over QAM should probably try this.

[Karyk]

Where are you at?
(what city and state).

dp

Look to the left! :D

Edit: State is Washington, but I think there's only one Seattle.

[bullgates]

Help needed.

Got my Dvico 5 Lite the other day and I am experiencing "stuttering."


I have tried 2 programs and get the same level of stuttering which leads me to believe that it is a hardware issue. I have used the Dvico software as well as WatchHDTV 1.6.

I also have a A180 installed that exhibits flawless playback. Also I have had MYHD and HiPix installed with no problems during playback. Reception very strong.

The system never goes above 50% during playback so the cpu usage is not an issue.

AMD 2500+ XP, Radeon 9600 np, 1gb pc 3200, Abit Nforce2 board, Windows XP



I thought it might be an IRQ issue but I am not sure.

Radeon on IRQ 19
A180 on IRQ 17
Dvico on IRQ 18



Any help is greatly appreciated.

thanks,

[Peter Nagy]

Help needed.

Got my Dvico 5 Lite the other day and I am experiencing "stuttering."


I have tried 2 programs and get the same level of stuttering which leads me to believe that it is a hardware issue. I have used the Dvico software as well as WatchHDTV 1.6.

I also have a A180 installed that exhibits flawless playback. Also I have had MYHD and HiPix installed with no problems during playback. Reception very strong.

The system never goes above 50% during playback so the cpu usage is not an issue.

AMD 2500+ XP, Radeon 9600 np, 1gb pc 3200, Abit Nforce2 board, Windows XP



I thought it might be an IRQ issue but I am not sure.

Radeon on IRQ 19
A180 on IRQ 17
Dvico on IRQ 18



Any help is greatly appreciated.

thanks,

What PVR software are you using with A180 if you are not using Windows MCE 2005?

[bullgates]

WatchHDTV 1.6 and or Sage

[Neuner]

Help needed.
I have tried 2 programs and get the same level of stuttering which leads me to believe that it is a hardware issue. I have used the Dvico software as well as WatchHDTV 1.6.
,

I had the same problem and I switched PCI slots which fixed the probem. I have a very slow computer and I get smoother results from WatchHDTV.

[kelly7000]

I read all 13 pages of this thread so far, and I am leaning towards buying the FusionHDTV 5. I have a couple (perhaps obvious) questions about the FusionHDTV 5.

I currently own a MyHD MDP-120/DVI with serial IR dongle and remote. Assuming I get the FusionHDTV 5 lite, can I use this remote to control the FusionHDTV?

If I get a FusionHDTV 5 Gold with remote and USB IR dongle, will that mess up the MyHD serial IR dongle/remote?

Will the MyHD MDP-120 cohabitate with the FusionHDTV 5?

I'm hoping the FusionHDTV will work almost as well as the MyHD MDP-120 which works almost flawlessly. MyHD MDP-120 has only messed up a handful of times since I've owned it, which is pretty good. I'm just hoping it won't crash while I watch/record a transport stream.

I don't have MCE so I will be using the 1st party software that comes with the FusionHDTV card. Unless there is some other free 3rd party program available that works better.

The reason I am looking at the FusionHDTV is because it is software decoded. Apparently the MyHD cards can not drive a widescreen 1920x1200 2405FPW through DVI, so I want to drive this display through software and my graphics card. I'm pretty sure my computer is beefy enough to do this, so I'm hoping the deinterlacing is ok. At least I hope the bob deinterlacing doesn't shake the picture too much. Can anyone comments on the deinterlacing exhibited by the default FusionHDTV decoder? I have a DXVA graphics card, and my CPU is hyperthreaded.

I'm leaning towards the lite because I don't need the redundant NTSC decoding. I would like to use a remote though, and I can purchase the spare FusionHDTV 3 remote for $9. Any reason why I should choose the gold over the lite? It almost seems to me the FusionConverter is almost useless to me ... anyone use/like that program?

PS ... I hope you can disable that PC off button on the remote because under no circumstances do I want to accidently hit that button.

Thanks.

[chorline]

All,

Having issues getting my Fusion HDTV 5 Gold card working with MCE 2005. By itself (using the Fusion software version 3.0.0) I can get digital and analog channels to come in fine (no HD however) by just plugging in the coax from Comcast (New Hampshire) into the Fusion card. Then, when I go over to MCE it sees the card as a Digital OTA tuner but when it scans for the channels none of them have signal, where with the Fusion software most all have 90-100% signal strength. Is there something stupid I'm missing / didn't configure or will this not work? Thanks!

[Rack]

All,

Having issues getting my Fusion HDTV 5 Gold card working with MCE 2005. By itself (using the Fusion software version 3.0.0) I can get digital and analog channels to come in fine (no HD however) by just plugging in the coax from Comcast (New Hampshire) into the Fusion card. Then, when I go over to MCE it sees the card as a Digital OTA tuner but when it scans for the channels none of them have signal, where with the Fusion software most all have 90-100% signal strength. Is there something stupid I'm missing / didn't configure or will this not work? Thanks!
What antenna are you using for Digital Over The Air (OTA)?

[Karyk]

If I get a FusionHDTV 5 Gold with remote and USB IR dongle, will that mess up the MyHD serial IR dongle/remote?

Will the MyHD MDP-120 cohabitate with the FusionHDTV 5?

I'm hoping the FusionHDTV will work almost as well as the MyHD MDP-120 which works almost flawlessly.

I have the MyHD 120 and the Fusion 3. I don't have any remote functions set up for the Fusion because all I use it for is recording, and those recordings are set up via a mouse.

The two cards should cohabitate fine, but don't be surprised if the Fusion isn't nearly as reliable as the MyHD. As I mentioned elsewhere, I currently have a fairly stable Fusion setup, but other versions of the software have varied a lot. It's sort of like ATI drivers--if you have a version that works with your setup, don't mess with it.

[chorline]

What antenna are you using for Digital Over The Air (OTA)?

Thanks for the reply. I'm not using any antenna for OTA tuning. I was under the impression that I could pull digital channels directly from Comcast by just plugging in coax to the back of the Fusion 5 card. Is this not the case?

[TPeterson]

Thanks for the reply. I'm not using any antenna for OTA tuning. I was under the impression that I could pull digital channels directly from Comcast by just plugging in coax to the back of the Fusion 5 card. Is this not the case?Not exactly. When you're connected to a cable input you need to tell Fusion that it's a "cable", not "air", input. Even though you may receive the local "OTA" stations on your cable, the cableco sends them in 256QAM rather than the usual OTA 8VSB modulation.

[jimwhite]

"Not exactly. When you're connected to a cable input you need to tell Fusion that it's a "cable", not "air", input. Even though you may receive the local "OTA" stations on your cable, the cableco sends them in 256QAM rather than the usual OTA 8VSB modulation"

he said it worked for him with the fusion app, but his problem is that MCE is apparently not making that setting... he gets many channels under fusion, but none under MCE...

:cool:

[TPeterson]

"Not exactly. When you're connected to a cable input you need to tell Fusion that it's a "cable", not "air", input. Even though you may receive the local "OTA" stations on your cable, the cableco sends them in 256QAM rather than the usual OTA 8VSB modulation"

he said it worked for him with the fusion app, but his problem is that MCE is apparently not making that setting... he gets many channels under fusion, but none under MCE...

:cool:That's because MCE doesn't "do" QAM.

[dw102800]

I am also having problems installing my fusion 5 lite in mce 2005. Is there a faq or install guide on avs? I have had zero problems with ati hdtv wonder/ ati home wonder elite combo. First try worked great. I have spent hours on replacing hdtv wonder with the fusion 5 Lite, and get serial error messages.

[russwong]

I am also having problems installing my fusion 5 lite in mce 2005. Is there a faq or install guide on avs? I have had zero problems with ati hdtv wonder/ ati home wonder elite combo. First try worked great. I have spent hours on replacing hdtv wonder with the fusion 5 Lite, and get serial error messages.

Take a look at the thread abou the fusion software, I wrote a whole testing situation that I did to get the Fusion 5 to work.

Start around here:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=554911&page=4

[daphatty]

I have the same setup and am seeing the same result. I have two Fusion 5's though.

Have you tried disabling the crossbar as describe here:
**URL Removed because of AVS Forums' anti spam rule... :mad: **

I haven't tried this yet but will try tonight.

-ASM

Has anyone tried this yet? I'm also using a Hauppauge PVR-USB2 with the Fusion5 lite. Watching OTA channels works fine but I'm getting some serious BSODs when trying to record.

[danxmanly]

Ok, first post here so be kind! :o

First of all, I have pretty much read every post on this thread and the MYHD thread, but am posting on here as I am leaning toward the Fusion card. I'm just looking for a litte confirmation from those who have had direct experience with the card in an HTPC realm. Although I have built several PC's, I haven't built one dedicated to HTPC.. but here is the basis of my system:

Silverstonetek Case LCM14.. w/ display, IR receiver, remote and IMON Media Software ( remote is MCE compatible )

Processor and Mobo will be min. P4 HT 3gig+, 800 FSB, 1gig ram.

Video card will be upper end as I will do some gaming on the HTPC. Card will have output of DVI, RGB, with Component options as well with adapter cables.

My Display is a 50" Panasonic DLP with inputs of HDMI, Component, RGB, S Video.

So, what I determined is... if I'm gonna have a bad arse Processor and Mobo anyway, that Fusion may be the way to go.. especially if I use MCE. Although I do think the MYHD card looks pretty good, I'd be paying quite a bit more due to the Hardware MPEG decoding.. and even more so if I wanted the HDMI daughter board. Doesn't look like MYHD handles the MCE at all either.

Am I correct in my thinking here? And just curious.. is MCE really all that? The IMON media software looks pretty good, and would function in an XP OS I presume. But I will probably go MCE anyway.. maybe?? LOL

Appreciate your help!

[Karyk]

Ok, first post here so be kind! :o

. . .

So, what I determined is... if I'm gonna have a bad arse Processor and Mobo anyway, that Fusion may be the way to go.. especially if I use MCE. Although I do think the MYHD card looks pretty good, I'd be paying quite a bit more due to the Hardware MPEG decoding.. and even more so if I wanted the HDMI daughter board. Doesn't look like MYHD handles the MCE at all either.

Am I correct in my thinking here? !

You idiot! (Just kidding--good first post!).

I think you're thinking correctly. I own both cards, and the main problem with the Fusion card is its software, which you can largely avoid with something like MCE (or apparently SageTV very shortly). Note, however, that no one system has an every advantage over the other (e.g. MCE can't do QAM at all, and Fusion's software cannot do QAM as well as MyHD).

Also, I wouldn't necessarily assume you'd need to use DVI with the MyHD--even some DLP owners have reported preferring component.

[kny3twalker]

I do not know if I should have posted in here first
rather than starting a new topic but I cannot get my Fusion 5 to tune FOX 4.1 in Dallas for recordings in MCE
all my other HD channels come in fine and work fine for recordings
even ABC which is UHF and my antenna is VHF (although it is choppy)

I can tune in FOX by switching channels a few times in MCE but this does not help for recordings

and I know I should not have any issues with tuning FOX as my TV's ATSC tuner gets FOX fine
furthermore once FOX is tuned in, in MCE by changing channels a few times
it never has any drop outs

the card is only about 2 months old and is only sharing an IRQ with itself

I am totally clueless why I am having this issue
and have tried adjusting my antenna and have tried the CD drivers, the Drivers posted on digitalconnection.com and the new 3.002 drivers

and I do not have the Fusion software installed

[micmel2]

I thought I would add in another data point to those sitting on the fence on whether or not to get the new Fusion 5 HDTV tuner.

I have the Fusion Gold 3 card, and am fairly happy with it. I'm strictly OTA; I don't do cable. I'm about 27 miles from the one main tower that is in the SF Bay Area. There is this one channel that I cannot get eminating from this tower, yet I can receive all the other 15 channels well. This troublesome channel would go from 70+ strength down to zero every few seconds, rendering watching this station impossible. I decided to take a leap of faith and purchased the Fusion 5 Lite. I installed in on Saturday along with the 3.00.02 software, and for the first time, I am able to watch this station's programming throughout without dropouts! I don't know for sure whether I was having multipath problems (and why only this station), but whatever it is, changing the tuner from the Fusion Gold 3 to the Fusion 5 Lite cured the problem. I went from a fairly happy camper to a very happy camper.

Just my 2 cents.

[daphatty]

I'm not running MCE so I really am not familiar with your configuration capabilities however, have you tried to manually map the channel? You can find the necessary channel info on the antennaweb website. (These stupid forums wont allow me to use a hyperlink in my posts yet so just add a org at the end of antenna web.) Just input that (assuming you can) and see if it works.

I've been able to get my OTA ATSC channels to work this way in another program that I am beta testing at the moment. Hope this helps.

[kny3twalker]

well it seems I am not the only one having trouble with MCE and the Fusions
on the HTPCnews forum
another member reported he lost the ability to tune UPN as of recently
this is both with his Fusion 5 and Fusion 3 Gold in MCE



http://htpcnews.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=15278&st=15

There's some problem with Media Center... I've just had my first "major" Fusion & MCE related problem. I used to be able to tune EVERY HDTV channel thru Media Center. I've just lost the UPN channel here. The Fusion software tunes it just fine and I get 90-100% signal strength but Media Center just gives me Blue Screen & "No TV signal detected..." It happens with both the HTPCs here. So it doesn't matter - F3 or F5. The Mits will tune it too, it's just Media Center. Wonder what the heck is going on...

[Peter Nagy]

well it seems I am not the only one having trouble with MCE and the Fusions
on the HTPCnews forum
another member reported he lost the ability to tune UPN as of recently
this is both with his Fusion 5 and Fusion 3 Gold in MCE



http://htpcnews.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=15278&st=15

Sounds like UPN station screwed up sending bad PSIP information required for MCE 2005. Try manually add station with correct RF frequency.

[kny3twalker]

but my problem is FOX!!
how would I do that for FOX in MCE?

[Peter Nagy]

but my problem is FOX!!
how would I do that for FOX in MCE?

The problem is not MCE 2005 or Fusion card or software. It's your local broadcast stations not providing correct PSIP inormation to your computer via automatic daily internet download of TV guide. PSIP provides channel numbers and their associated RF Frequency numbers. Your broadcast stations are most likely providing correct channel numbers, but not associated RF Frequency numbers. In my city of Reno, out of seven local digital stations, only two are providing correct PSIP information. For example, our local CBS station is providing correct channel 2-1 but incorrect RF Frequency of 2 instead of 13.

So, how did I fix it? There is only one way I know of and it's very simple but not so great. Here is an example of how I fixed the CBS settings:

1) Go to Setup->TV->Guide->Add Missing Channels->Add DTV Channel
2) Enter 1-1 (not 2-2 because it won't let you enter correct RF Frequency number)
3) Enter "13" for Assigned Frequency (Yours may be different)
4) Enter "cbs" or your preference name
5) Exit Setup
6) Go to Guide and tune to 1011 (1-1). Wait till it displays NO TV Signal.
7) Go back to Guide. Tune to 1021 (2-1). Viola and you should see the picture.

When you re-scan, you should see full signal strength of the DUMMY channel (e.g. 1011 or 1-1) and no signal strength of the pre-assigned channel (1021 or 2-1). The major drawback is that it's a two step process to tune a channel: tune to dummy channel then pre-assigned channel.

You need to contact your broadcast stations and find out what are their RF Frequency numbers. Or visit their web site.

The reason Fusion software can find the channels is because it scans for RF Frequency numbers. MCE 2005 relies on PSIP information.

The major drawback is that I have to tune to dummy channel first before preassigned channel in order to record. Which means I cannot schedule to record channels with incorrect PSIP information. Which is why I said it's not so great.

Hope this fixes your problem.

Peter

[kny3twalker]

that makes sense

but I can tune in FOX if I tune another station first
ex if I open MCE and tune CBS
then change to FOX
it works

but if I tune immediately to FOX
I get no signal

this happens each time after I close MCE

on a different note:
unless it is a requirement to install the Fusion decoder
I cannot get the Fusion app to work at all
just access violations and crashes

[Peter Nagy]

that makes sense

but I can tune in FOX if I tune another station first
ex if I open MCE and tune CBS
then change to FOX
it works

but if I tune immediately to FOX
I get no signal

this happens each time after I close MCE

on a different note:
unless it is a requirement to install the Fusion decoder
I cannot get the Fusion app to work at all
just access violations and crashes

That's interesting. I had the exact same problem with ATI HDTV Wonder and their P.O.S. MMC software (before switching to MCE 2005). I would have to go to one station (e.g. FOX) than another station (e.g. CBS) in order to watch the second station.

I don't use Fusion software because of instabilty and frequent crashes.

Peter

[kny3twalker]

That's interesting. I had the exact same problem with ATI HDTV Wonder and their P.O.S. MMC software (before switching to MCE 2005). I would have to go to one station (e.g. FOX) than another station (e.g. CBS) in order to watch the second station.

so do you think this would be a driver issue, hardware issue,
or MCE issue?

[Peter Nagy]

so do you think this would be a driver issue, hardware issue,
or MCE issue?

Good question. I don't know. Try to follow my procedure and see if that works. Tune to dummy channel, then pre-assigned channel. If that works, then I think it's broadcast stations problem. There is no harm and you can always delete channels you added.

There is a hidden html file in EPG folder you can view. It contains a list of channel numbers and their associated RF Frequency numbers. I am at work right now and I don't use MCE 2005 at work so I don't know exactly where the file is. I will check it later when I get home tonite and let you know. I have tried changing the contents of the file by changing the RF Frequency numbers and it worked but the file gets updated every day when connected to internet to download latest TV guide. I even made the file read-only and it still did not work properly.

FYI, I no longer use Fusion 3 card. I now use ATI HDTV Wonder and AverMedia A180 with MCE 2005. I used to have ATI and Fusion before replacing Fusion with A180. I never really had problems with Fusion, I just felt more comfortable with ATI and A180 because they were less problematic than Fusion. I keep Fusion for backup in case other HDTV card(s) fail.

Peter

[kny3twalker]

the major and physical appeared to both be correct
4 and 35 for FOX in Dallas in the atscpref file in the EPG folder


and setting up the "dummy" channel did not work
I still would get no signal after changing to FOX following tuning the dummy channel

[Peter Nagy]

the major and physical appeared to both be correct
4 and 35 for FOX in Dallas in the atscpref file in the EPG folder


and setting up the "dummy" channel did not work
I still would get no signal after changing to FOX following tuning the dummy channel

atscprefs.xml is created after manually adding channels.

Check atscchannels.xml. This file is created after internet download of TV guide. "physical" is RF frequency number and "major" is channel number.

Strange problem you are having. I wonder if the bug is from Fusion driver since I do not use Fusion.

Peter

[DisabledTrucker]

Hello i was wondering how you guys use the fusion when you have multiple sources you want to input. Such as an OTA antenna and cable since the fusion has only 1 input do you use a switch a-b box? i just purchased this card and was wondering my best choices for multiple inputs.


I use an RCA ANT401 antenna which has a switch in the back of it to switch between the two and then switch the program from ANT to CABLE when I want to watch the other. It's a powered set of rabbit ears with an input for cable from an external cable. It also has a rheostat on the back which seems to improve the signals somewhat. As I live ~25 miles from the nearest towers I have no problem at all in pulling in all but maybe 1-2 channels which I can care less about anyways. As far as analog OTA channels goes, I couldn't reach them with less than a 30ft outdoor antenna anyways so I don't even try those.

[kny3twalker]

sorry peter
I meant atscchannels

and the info was correct
I am attempting to contact Dvico currently

[Peter Nagy]

sorry peter
I meant atscchannels

and the info was correct
I am attempting to contact Dvico currently

If you have another brand HDTV tuner like ATI or A180, try pulling out Fusion and use other brand and see if you have the same problem. If the problem persists, then it may not be Fusion drivers.

Peter

[DisabledTrucker]

Ok, I know most of you probably aren't up to doing this, but as I see a lot of you are having some of the same problems I did with the installation of my F3Q, I'm going to explain how I installed it to get rid of the problems with errors as much as possible. This isn't 100% effective, but it does help as I complained many times to DVico about, especially if your using the cable setting and scanning for QAM channels. They still have yet to fix this bug where when scanning it finds an encrypted channel it pops up an error which is almost impossible to get past, though if your installation goes 100% correctly, it shouldn't produce this error.

Instructions:

1. Goto unattended.msfn.org to learn what an unattended cd is and how to make one.
2. To make your cd, just copy over the Win XP disk, slipstream the latest service pack, then add-in RyanVM's cab pack via his instructions. (This cab pack adds most of the updates from M$ and includes some fixes for tv tuners including the HDTV ones.)
3. Add your drivers as per the intructions from M$ website or msfn.org including the drivers from DVico's site.
4. Burn your new CD/DVD.
5. Make a back up of all your important files.
6. Wipe your HDD, reinstall Windows.
7. When you reinstall Windows, it should also install your drivers for your HDTV card as well. Once your installation is done, do all updates for drivers that you didn't install previously, install all your software, including, (if needed,) the HDTV viewer software, do a Windows Update for the rest of the updates that aren't included in RyanVM's pack at the moment, then readd all your backed up info.
8. Open up the Tuners software and run through the settings, if it's a DVico, you'll want to tell it to cancel the initial scanning of channels then open the settings. Make your settings changes first, close the software, restart the software then try to scan the channels, it should work properly without any crashes. Once you have the channels scanned in close the app again and restart it again to assure that the channels are locked in.
9. Go through them one at a time to make sure that you can flip through all the sub-channels and open the settings and remove the channels you can't get or produce errors.
10. Open up the favorites list and add all the channels that you can get to it, it should also show the sub-channels for each channel there.


IF everything went right, then you shouldn't have any errors or problems. I have an NF2 Ultra mobo with 1GB PC3200, XP3200+, several HDD's, Audigy2 pre-zs, DVD+-RW, GF6600GTAGP, F3Q, & among other things and I have no problems out of my F3Q, when I install it this way. Though I have seen all the same problems as everyone else here, I have found that installing it this way works best for me. Sometimes Windows is a p-i-a and it doesn't take correctly, can tell if your drivers aren't installed correctly in the device manager, just rewipe and reinstall again, of course check your UXPCD/DVD prior to doing this to make sure it's not something you did wrong there before doing it again, it may be something as simple as a typo that caused the problem to begin with.

HTH - DT

[ConanTroutman]

A friend of mine has been on here for a few years and said I oughtta lurk around and see if it might answer my questions. I read this whole 14 pager and felt you guys might offer some suggestions specific to my situation.

I have

Media Center 2005
Abit IC7G Motherboard
512MB DDR
Intel P4 2.4GHz
ATI Radeon 9600SE 128MB
160GB SATA HDD and 80GB SATA HDD
Samsung 50" DLP


Planning on buying
-Logitech Harmony 680
-FusionHDTV5 Lite
-Hauppauge WinTV PVR150-MCE
-HDTV Antenna

I am leaning toward the FusionHDTV5 for OTA signal. I have cancelled my subscription to dishnetwork and I am not planning on subscribing to Charter Cable (only thing available here). According to TitanTV with a Winegard PR7015A I should be able to get "good" 9 DT channels and 6 "excellent" analog channels if I mount it in my attic. For roof mount it suggests the Winegard GS-2000.
I also understand that MCE2005 Requires a hardware based MPEG2 decoder like the Hauppauge PVR-150MCE.

Here are my questions-
1.) Why is it better to mount it in my attic than on my roof?
2.) Anyone have experience with these 2 antennas? (50 miles away)
3.) Is the Fusion gold a necessary extra $50 in my situation?
3a.) -With the gold do I need the Hauppauge?
4.) If I can get both analog and digital, can I use a splitter/combiner to send the analog signal to either the Fusion gold/PVR150 and to the HDTV tuner at the same time?
4a.) -Or am I making this too difficult and not realizing these PCI cards are smarter than I think and can send the right signal to the right place without splitters?
5.) If I buy the Harmony remote I hear that I need to also buy the Microsoft MCE Remote simply for the IR receiver (beanbag?) and toss the remote.
5a.) -If I get the Fusion gold w/remote will that IR receiver do the trick?
6.) Is there a cheaper or out of the box solution that would be better for me?
6a.) -Like, is there a Tuner card that MCE likes that does both analog and HDTV?
7.) will my current hardware do OK for these tasks?

I am sorry for so many questions. I am a hands on type learner without the hands on type budget.
My main goal is to pull in OTA analog and HDTV signal and see it on my 50" HDTV ready TV. PVR and Time shift is all a very cool bonus. Along with the slick Media Center interface and Harmony Remote.

Also- are there any other Dallas, OR people on here and can you get HDTV OTA OK?

[kny3twalker]

3 no
3a yes
4 yes
4a no
5 yes you will need the mce remote
the harmony does not have stand by programmed
so you can use the mce remote to do this
5a most probably but if you ever decide to use the PVR 150 with digital cable or satellite
you will need the mce remote's ir emitter(s)
6 the avermedia hardware encoder card is cheaper but quality is very poor
6a the ATI HDTV Wonder with cracked drivers, KRAM drivers, can do both
but the Fusion is probably the better card for reception
7 your video card will not meet MCE specs for HDTV playback
you will need something more like a 6600 standard/GT or maybe 9600 XT
and a 2.4 is bare minimum for HDTV playback
playback could be smoother at points with my 2.4 Ghz P4 and my 6800 standard

I am in Dallas

you will also need a DVD decoder for MCE
I suggest the nvidia decoders

[TPeterson]

Here are my questions-
1.) Why is it better to mount it in my attic than on my roof?It isn't, unless you're afraid of heights and can't get somebody else to put up the antenna. ;)

[Karyk]

For reception alone, inside the attic isn't near as good as outside. But it can be possible to get a decent signal.

If you have weather issues (strong winds mainly, although I suppose snow and ice might be issues some places), then inside might be the thing to try. I went that route because the wife didn't want an antenna on top of the house. I don't receive the weaker HD stations, but they probably aren't at full power yet, and now that Star Trek is cancelled I really don't care about UPN anyway.

[ConanTroutman]

Thanks for the info.

I don't mind putting an antenna on the roof. I just thought it was odd that TitanTv said I can get a better signal in the attic. Here are my TitanTV results-

ANALOG
Roof - Amplified Sensar Antenna GS-2000 - 36 Excellent rest good
Attic - Prostar 88" 31 Element Antenna w/ Preamp 7015A - 36,22 excellent rest good
Indoor - Fuggetta boudit - Ant Races

DIGITAL
Roof - Amplified Sensar Antenna GS-2000 - 4 excellent rest good
Attic - Prostar 40" 15 Element Antenna w/ Preamp 7005A - 4 excellent rest good
Indoor - Prostar 88" 31 Element Antenna w/ Preamp 7015A - All Good


Analog
K61CC - 61
KORS-LP - 36
KPDX - 50
KOAC - 7
KWVT-LP - 52
KPXG - 22

Digital
KPDX-DT - 48
KPTV-DT - 30
KATU-DT - 43
KPXG-DT - 4
KWBP-DT - 33
KOIN-DT - 40
KGW-DT - 46
KOPB-DT - 27
KOAC-DT - 39

It seems odd that I can use a tiny little antenna like the sensar GS-2000 when I am 50 miles away from the important stations.


As far as my video card goes kny3twalker, the difference between the 9600SE and the 9600XT makes the difference? Tried to put the comparison chart url here but I haven't made 5 posts yet. Oh and it's Dallas, Oregon.

[TPeterson]

Conan--

TTV doesn't know enough about your attic to make such fine distinctions, so the tabulation is a meaningless fluke of their calculations.

[kny3twalker]

As far as my video card goes kny3twalker, the difference between the 9600SE and the 9600XT makes the difference? Tried to put the comparison chart url here but I haven't made 5 posts yet. Oh and it's Dallas, Oregon.

well here's the requirements for MCE
for video cards
9600 SE is just underpowered

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/mce/expert/hdtv.mspx

•Video adapter with 128-MB DDR video memory with 128-bit interface; an AGP8x interface or PCI express; video memory bandwidth of 10 GB per second or greater; support for MPEG-2 iDCT acceleration. You might not find all of this information included in the hardware specification for the video adapter. If that is the case, try calling the manufacturer directly to inquire or contact your PC hardware manufacturer for video adapter recommendations.


a 9600 XT maybe a little slow as well looking at the specs
probably something like an x700standard/Pro

[Karyk]

Conan--

TTV doesn't know enough about your attic to make such fine distinctions, so the tabulation is a meaningless fluke of their calculations.

And I don't believe they take topography into account either, which is probably important in Oregon.

Try the local forum here on AVS. Someone there may be able to help you with your reception possibilities.

[ConanTroutman]

I went ahead and ordered the amplified GS-2000 it was $44 from A1components If it doesn't work good enough my friend says he can buy it from me so I can get the bigger PR7015A. He lives 15 miles from all the good stations.

Also ordered the Fusion5 Lite and am picking up the WinTV PVR-150MCE and MCE Remote today. I am going to at least try the 9600SE first since I have to wait for shipping on antenna and fusion anyway, that will give me another paycheck under my belt before getting the other video card.

Any troubles using the Nvidia PureVideo decoder with ATI? Nvidia site only mentions their own products.

[Peter Nagy]

I went ahead and ordered the amplified GS-2000 it was $44 from A1components If it doesn't work good enough my friend says he can buy it from me so I can get the bigger PR7015A. He lives 15 miles from all the good stations.

Also ordered the Fusion5 Lite and am picking up the WinTV PVR-150MCE and MCE Remote today. I am going to at least try the 9600SE first since I have to wait for shipping on antenna and fusion anyway, that will give me another paycheck under my belt before getting the other video card.

Any troubles using the Nvidia PureVideo decoder with ATI? Nvidia site only mentions their own products.

9600SE will probably be okay for 1280 x 720p, but most likely it will stutter pretty bad at 1920 x 1080i. 1280 x 720p already looks as good as 1920 x 1080i.

I had a cheap NVIDIA FX5200 graphics card ($80) and it worked great at 1280 x 720p but stuttered pretty bad at 1920 x 1080i. I later upgraded the card to 6600GT and it works flawlessly at 1920 x 1080i.

Peter

[aljohnso]

The 9600SE, to my understanding, has a narrower interface to memory than the 9600XT.

I run with the 9600XT, and it goes well enough - but I am surprised that other folks find that 720p is less demanding than 1080i - my results are that 720p takes much more cpu and bits than 1080i, which is after all interlaced. My CPU (AMD 2500 barton, 1GB memory, NIVIDIA nforce 2 board) just barely keeps its' head above water with 720p source via the Fusion, whereas it is running 50%ish at 1080i.

Allen