PC TV Tuner
What Is A PC TV Tuner?
A PC TV tuner is an electronic device which lets the user watch TV on their PC
by transmitting signals from their TV to their computer. There are two main types of PC TV tuner, external
and internal. The external type is called a USB TV tuner, while the internal type is called a PCI tuner card.
Differences Between The 2 Types Of PC TV Tuner
The USB TV tuner is simpler to install, as it plugs into a free USB port. The PCI tuner card, in
contrast, requires removing the case cover from the computer and installing the tuner card in a free PCI slot.
However, the PCI tuner card often has superior capabilities compared with the USB TV tuner, such as using less
processor time. Furthermore, the USB TV tuner may be a liability for the gadget enthusiast if a spare USB port is
in short supply (e.g. if there are already a lot of USB peripherals on the computer). Note that most USB TV tuners
do not work with USB hubs. However, USB TV tuner models are more widely compatible with different hardware and
operating systems. In general, the PCI tuner card may be the best choice for the computer enthusiast, whereas the
USB TV tuner is more convenient for the novice.
The PC TV tuner is more commonly used for recording (and subsequently viewing) TV, rather than
purely for watching live television. Furthermore, most models of computer TV tuner are capable of doing additional
things other than view and record, such as pick up FM radio or hook up to the user's set-top box to route cable or
satellite TV to the computer.
PC TV Tuner Offers Viewing Experience With
Convenience
A PC TV tuner can therefore be used to turn the computer into a DVR. However, for those who are
purchasing a TV tuner for this sole reason, it is important to consider resolution, ability to change set-top box
channel (in the case of cable or satellite TV), and the computer's memory capabilities. Resolution of both the
computer monitor, and of the images streamed into and out of the computer TV tuner, are important. In general, the
average computer monitor is not as good as the average TV monitor for watching shows. However, both are perfectly
adequate - just that the true tech or entertainment buff might spot the difference.
It is also important to realize that the PC TV tuner simply delivers the TV signals to the
computer - the resolution of those signals will depend on how good the TV reception is at the location. Ability to
change the channel of a set-top box is also important in the case where recording of cable or satellite TV is
desired.
Lastly, the PC needs to have enough memory to deal with the detail and speed at which the TV
tuner delivers the images, otherwise jerkiness or stalling may occur (if this problem occurs, it is usually because
other processor-intensive applications are being run at the same time). However, by picking the most appropriate PC
TV tuner for your situation and for your computer, a great viewing experience can be offered with a world of
convenience. Imagine being able to record entire seasons of each of your favorite shows onto your computer!
Factors To Consider When Selecting PC TV Tuner
The PC USB TV tuner is a convenient tool for watching and recording TV on the
computer. However, it is important to pick the model of tuner appropriately to ensure the best possible viewing
experience. There is no single model that is 'best'. The best model of computer TV tuner for you will depend on
2 factors: your reason(s) for getting the TV tuner and therefore the features it has, and the specifications of
your computer. A good PC TV tuner will satisfy both the user's requirements for different features and
have specifications which are safely within the computer's capability.
Computer TV Tuner
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