How to Equip a Windows PC to Play Back TiVo Files

By eHow Computers Editor

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With the TiVoToGo home media feature, you can transfer your audio or video files to a Windows PC and play them back. This can make it more convenient to view the programs you want to see later, perhaps on the move with your laptop. You might just like the control features on your computer better than your regular television setup. If so, here is how to equip your Windows PC system to replay the TiVo files.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

PC
MPEG-2 codec
Network router
Internet connection
Modem
TiVoToGo DVR
Network connection

Step1

Ensure that your TiVo DVR has the TiVoToGo feature. It is activated only in the Series2 or Series2 DT DVRs.

Step2

Confirm whether the PC runs Windows XP (or Windows 2000) with 233 MHz processor, 128 MB RAM and 25 MB space available on the hard disk. The PC should also have DirectX 9.0 or higher driver.

Step3

Make sure that your modem, router and PC have an appropriate communication with the Internet service.

Step4

Connect the DVR to the PC then install TiVo Desktop 2.0 or higher for Windows, which allows you to playback TiVo files.

Step5

Locate your Media Access Key, a 10 digit figure which is mandatory for TiVoToGo transfers. Get it from your TiVo software or online.

Step6

Install Windows Media Player 10 (or higher) for Windows XP and Windows Media Player 9 (or higher) for Windows 2000.

Step7

Ensure that you have a supporting MPEG-2 codec and a video card of the finest quality for the clearest picture detail.

Step8

Verify whether all the transfers are facilitated in the online TiVo account manager.

Tips & Warnings

Newer versions of DVRs with built-in DVDs will require the TiVo Plus service to be activated for transfer and playback.
Run the Disk Defragmenter to get a continuous free space on the disk.
Switch off all memory and disk space consuming security systems and auto-on programs.
A slightest variation in the Media Access Key and Playback Password will render the transfer and playback unsuccessful, so enter all the details carefully.