[chrisb1]

I am in the planning stages for my HTPC, my main purpose will be PVR functions and Im curious what the most popular Hardware/ Software combo is. Right now I am leaning toward a Haup. 250 card with SageTV 2.0(when released). I know there are several other options out there and would appreciate any opinions since I haven't used any of these products.


Note-My video source will be a digital cable box, and then I will output via component to an HD direct view 36" tv

 

[zipper]

What are you using as your output from your Settop Box to the Pauppauge.


-Zipper

 

[chrisb1]

Probably S video, that is the best connection on my Mot. Box.

 

[stanger89]

SageTV is great. There's no real reason to wait for 2.0, it's great as it is now, and the upgrade will be free.


I've been a loyal Sage user for about 9mo and wouldn't want to be without it.

 

[Scotty L]

Can Sage control the cable box? I thought PVR would only work if the tuner was on the PCI card.


PS- With Sage is there just a one time fee, no monthly charges like Tivo?

 

[chrisb1]

Sage can either control the cable box with an ir tool or some of them can be controlled with serial ports if they have been enabled in the box. I haven't tried but I have read that the cable companies can enable the ports remotely sometimes.



Sage is a one time purchase fee.

 

[Scotty L]

Interesting! Just looked at the back of my cable box and it has an IR jack, as well as a USB port and card reader slot up front. If I purchase the PVR250 + Sage bundle do I need any other hardware to control the cable box?

 

[pawn]

Quote:

Originally posted by Scotty L Interesting! Just looked at the back of my cable box and it has an IR jack, as well as a USB port and card reader slot up front. If I purchase the PVR250 + Sage bundle do I need any other hardware to control the cable box?

There are only specific receivers that can currently be controlled with SageTV via serial. You might be lucky, but I would guess you'll need an Actisys IR200L IR blaster and not a serial cable. Fry sells the IR200L too.