Channel surfing from your PC

One thing that I have noticed, is that the more that you learn about your PC, the more that you want it to do. Therefore, I guess that is only natural that you would eventually want to start combining the things that you like. One question that I am frequently asked is if it is possible to watch TV on your PC. The answer is yes. A way to do this is by digitizing analog video..

Remember a few articles back when I was extolling with glee the multitude of USB devices that would enhance your computing experience; well the Bungee DVD is one of those devices. The bungee DVD is a product of Pinnacle Systems. Pinnacle claims that their Bungee DVD will give you PVR (personal video recorder) capabilities similar to ReplayTV or TiVo all from the comfort of your computer. A major plus for the Bungee DVD is that it is an USB Plug and Play device that does not require you to install anything under your computers’ case. An added amenity offered by the Bungee DVD is that it is about 6.5 inches by 6.5 inches and 1.5 inches in height. This means that it is not too bulky of an object to cause significant clutter around your system or USB hub. In addition, Bungee has a utility that allows you to burn DVDs or SVCDs (super video CDs). This cool new toy will set you back about $300.

WinTV is another USB based PVR. Like the Bungee DVD, you can schedule shows that you want to watch or record. You also have the same ability to pause live shows and if you desire, to burn video CDs and play them on your computer or home DVD player. WinTV gives you the added feature of listening to FM radio. This is an option that Pinnacles’ product does not offer, but it is not too difficult to listen to music on your computer. The price for the WinTV is around $200.

I do not want you to think that I forgot all of the people who like to go under the hood and install hardware. This last product is for you. ATIs’ All in Wonder Radeon 7500 seems to be a must have. Although ATI recently released Radeon 8500DV, the Radeon 7500 is probably the better deal. For starters its’ about half the price of the deluxe model Radeon 8500DV. The Radeon 7500 has many of the same features as the Radeon 8500DV, Bungee DVD, and the WinTV. It does however lack the FM radio feature of WinTV but it has a more than adequate video editing tool. The All in Wonder Radeon 7500 is a true deal at around $200.

All of these PVR devices claim to have an easy install process. As with all hardware and software that you are interested in integrating into your home system, you should ensure that you have the proper system requirements necessary for it to operate.