How to Optimize Windows for DVR Performance
Windows Vista and newer include advanced multimedia capabilities that makes them capable of full digital video recorder (DVR) functionality. Optimizing your Windows installation for DVR performance requires that you make the proper use of these capabilities. For the most part, this means choosing the proper settings for your system hardware, balancing hardware performance with quality. In some cases, it also means purchasing hardware specifically optimized for use in a Windows-based DVR system. Once you optimize the system though, you can see a marked improvement in system performance, from recording speed of video to playback quality.
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Instructions
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Change the power setting used for your system using the Power Options window. Access the Power Options window through the Control Panel. Open the control panel by clicking the "Start" button and then clicking Control Panel. Click on "Hardware and Sound," followed by "Power Options." Choose the "High Performance" option to prevent your computer from slowing down your CPU during low utilization operations, such as watching TV. When slowed, your CPU has to regain speed when you wish to change what you're doing, for example accessing a submenu, and causing lag while the CPU regains speed.
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Store saved video on a separate drive from your operating system drive. Keeping the video separate increases access speed. If possible, purchase and devote an entire drive to DVR service.
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Remove the indexing option from your video storage hard drive. Indexing creates a file-table listing all of your files on the hard-drive, which speeds up searching, but the size of stored files makes this unnecessary. Open the windows File Manager and right-click on the DVR drive. Select Properties to open the "Properties window and then make sure there is no check mark in the file index box. Uncheck the Compress drive box as well, as compressed files take slightly longer to save and load than uncompressed files and can cause a lag time when accessing your video.
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Change the color scheme for your system by disabling the Aero option. Aero is the graphical add-on for Vista and above, which makes windows see-thru, and adds fillip-thru capability to your open Windows, at the cost of CPU usage. Open the Control Panel and choose "Personalization." Pick a Windows theme that is not Aero enhanced.
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Purchase a video card with a TV tuner option installed that's compatible with your PC. Check the expansion slot availability with your PC manufacturer to determine compatible cards. The TV tuner is essential for using your PC as a DVR, as it receives the television signals used. Install the TV tuner card by turning off your computer and removing your PC case cover. Remove your current video card and replace it with the TV tuner card, using the same expansion slot. Replace the case cover and reboot your machine. Use the included tuner card CD to install the drivers needed for use.
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Connect a video source, such as an antenna or cable television cable, and start Windows Media Center. Follow the Media Center setup instructions to access video through Media Center, and to set your video and audio options for the best viewing experience.
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