So, I want to build my first HTPC. I have read a lot here and at HTPCNews and have so many [s]stupid[/s] really basic questions. For now, mostly verification of my understanding of what I have read. Please help if you can. Thanks in advance.
1. Windows Media Center OS is one way to do an HTPC. Another way is to load third party S/W like Beyond TV onto a PC running Window 2000. Is this correct?
2. When recording a program for later viewing, the CATV signal is processed by the [b]tuner card[/b] into MPEG2 data stored on the hard disk (assuming a tuner card with hardware processing). When I want to watch this recorded file, it is processed by the [b]video card[/b] and the signal from the video card (composit / s-video / etc.) is what goes to my HT Receiver for display on my TV. Additionally, it is the [b]sound card[/b] that processes the audio portion of the file and the SPDIF output from the sound card is connected to my HT Receiver to provide the sound. How am I doing so far?
3. A good standalone DVD player these days typically has capabilities such as “progressive scan” and “up-conversion to 1080i”. Does this capability have any meaning in an HTPC? Does it require additional / more capable hardware to attain the equivalent capability?
4. Right now, I have a basic “old style” TV (SDTV). If I build an HTPC with 2 tuner cards, is my understanding correct that I could be recording 2 different shows while watching a third show all at the same time? (Note that I currently have basic cable service with no cable box – just a coax cable directly into the TV.)
5. How does the answer to #4 change if I upgrade my cable service and get a cable box?
In the interest of time, I’ll stop here. More to come if you will allow me.
Again, thanks in advance.
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