How to Use Media Center Program Guide

By eHow Computers Editor

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The Program Guide of a Media Center PC allows you to check the listings of TV shows and enables you to record your favorite program using the advanced settings. If your Media Center PC has come with Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005, then you are most likely to receive this free Program Guide. This guide allows you to scroll through various programs, shows various channels and network information along with title, description and time of show broadcast.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Make sure that you have properly completed the setup process of adding the Media Center Guide to your initial setup. You can receive TV listings downloaded on your computer for up to 14 days using the Media Center Guide. Make sure you update this every week to receive new listings. Your first listings are created when you enter information about your TV service provider with all relevant information.

Step2

Verify the change and update your TV listings using the Media Center.

Step3

Switch on you Media Center PC and check the Program Guide listings. You can begin by pressing the start button on your remote and browse through the Start menu.

Step4

Select My TV option and then select Settings. On the settings page, select TV.

Step5

Select Guide to view the contents of Media center Program Guide. Select Set up guide listings. On selecting this option, the OS (Operating System) of your computer will open a wizard, which will be displayed to enable to you complete the setup process.

Step6

Answer the simple questions, Click Next and proceed to complete the setup. Enter your zip code and select the TV service provider in your area from the drop down menu. Be sure to select the TV signal Provider as per your service package.

Step7

Begin to download the TV listings. These should automatically update your old listings. Depending on the number of channels you receive, the process can take several minutes to update. Your internet download speed is also critical in estimating the time required to complete the update. Increase the connection speed when updating the listings.

Step8

Select Next and complete the setup process upon receiving the updated listings. Exit from the wizard.

Step9

Download the TV Program Guide Info page. Your setup is now complete. You are now ready to use the new listing to record your favorite upcoming programs and shows.

Step10

Press Guide button on your remote to access the TV listings and to proceed with other functions to record programs.

Tips & Warnings

Update the Guide every 2 to 3 days in case you record shows frequently.
Understand the limitations of the zip code entry while updating the listings. You may not find a TV signal Provider in your area in the Drop Down list. On such instances choose Zip codes of nearby areas to find a provider in the list. Review your monthly TV bill to find out about the exact name of your TV Signal/Service provider.
Keep a special watch on timings of your primetime shows. They often change on short notice.
Avoid conflicts. If you are using an older version of Media Center, then the Program Guide helps you to sort out the conflicts you may have over multiple recordings and the timings of broadcast clash.