How to Record TV to your Computer?

If you want to record digital cable, you definitely need a cablecard from your provider. There are only three cablecard tuners manufacturers: Ceton, Hauppauge, and SiliconDust. The cablecard tuner is either external via usb or internal via pcie slot. The card is installed in the tuner. In order to watch while recording, you'll need a multi-stream tuner (but you'll still only need one cablecard).

I highly suggest you check out missingremote.com and the HTPC board at avsforum.com, because they are dedicated to HTPCs. Here's a link to get you started:

Guide CableCARD Tuner Essentials | Missing Remote

Be warned, however - the only software that you can use to watch and record digital cable when using a cablecard is Windows Media Center. So, if you are using XMBC or some other front-end for your HTPC, you'll have to switch to MCE when watching TV.

Again, check out the forums I recommended, because you'll find all the information you need, plus all the help you could ever want.

Pars said:

Thanks a lot for your suggestions.

I was not aware Warner Cable charged for a DVR. I have the Dish Network and it comes free when you sign up. You might check out the Dish and consider switching.