How to Pick Up a TV Signal with a Computer

WinTVHVR 4000

The advancement in computer technology and low pricing has made today's PCs more than strictly business. They are the entertainment center of the modern household. This tutorial will show you how to pick up a TV signal with your computer to watch programs on your PC or for use as a DVR.

Things You'll Need

• TV signal source (antenna or cable)
• Monitor (computer monitor or flat-panel TV)
• TV tuner card
• Graphics card (optional)
• Cables (coax, composite, component, DVI, VGA or HDMI)

Instructions

1. Taking a quick overview of the components you are connecting will help in deciding which types of upgrades you need to watch TV through your computer. What operating system you use, what type of card slots your PC has, what type of TV signal you are trying to pick up and what type of monitor you will be using will help in purchasing new parts and cables.

2. 

   Select a TV tuner card. There are five basic card slot types: USB, PCMCIA, ExpressCard (for laptop) PCI and PCI Express (for desktop). Your TV signal type also plays a factor in which card to choose. For best results choose a TV tuner card that supports a digital HD, QAM and a Clear QAM signal. (See Resources for help.)

3. 

   Install the included software and drivers either from the disc provided or downloaded from the manufacturer's website. When complete, install the tuner card. If you are using a laptop, inserting the tuner card is a snap. Simply put the card into an available USB, PCMCIA or ExpressCard slot.

4. 

   If you are installing a TV tuner card into a desktop PC, make sure that your computer is off and unplugged. Open the computer case and insert the card into the proper slot. Turn on your computer and see if the card is working properly. It is much easier to reconfigure the card with the case open. After it is operational, replace the side window or lid to your case.

5. 

   Connect your monitor via the VGA, DVI or HDMI outputs on your motherboard or graphics card. Connecting a computer to a standard definition television will make images blurry and distorted. Make sure you have a HDTV or computer monitor to watch TV from your computer.

6. 

   Connect your antenna or cable to the correct input on your TV tuner. Run the TV tuner card software to configure channels and DVR settings. Many TV tuner cards also work with other programs such as Windows Media Center. When configuration is complete, you can enjoy the benefits of watching and recording TV on your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Older processors and on-board graphics cards may not handle HD signals very well. Decide if a new graphics card, more memory, a CPU upgrade or even a new computer is right for you.

• Make sure all safety precautions are taken when working on a desktop PC. Never work on a computer with the power on or plugged in. A static electricity wristband should always be worn when working on a PC to ensure your components remain unaffected by static discharge. If you are unsure about installing an internal TV tuner card, contact your local PC technician.

Resources

• For help choosing the right TV tuner card or building a TV PC