Tivo?

TiVo connected to PC?

• I have a TV tuner card that I watch charter cable on, however I can only view the analog channels (obviously) because the digital ones are scrambled. Charter advised I would need another digital box to do this, however I am not satisfied with how that would work because I would be limited to only having the output (current channel) from the digital box and would not be able to change channels, setup recording on my pc-from my pc. Is there a way I can accomplish this with a TiVo? I am not familiar with TiVo at all. What abilities do I have with a TiVo connected to my pc? Can I watch and manipulate the cable TV from my pc with a TiVo? Can I copy recorded programs from the TiVo to the pc? Also, do I have to purchase or rent a TiVo unit from charter to use a TiVo, or can I purchase one from another retailer and have it fully function with charter? In other words are TiVo's branded like cell phones to only work with certain carriers, or do I have to purchase something else from charter?

• Answer:

  Tivo is a stand alone device. It records to its own internal hard drive and plays back using its own hardware and interface software it plugs into your TV. Tivo Series 2 and 3 have a CableCARD system that allows for digital cable tuning and recording. These must be from your cable provider to allow you to decode the digital signal. Dual-tuner Tivos allow you to record 1 channel while you watch another. Tivo Series 2 and 3 also have the ability to use a high speed internet connection for updates and to allow you to setup recordings over the web. The high speed connection also allows you to have 2 or more Tivos share their video library throughout your house. It is possible to connect them to a PC and make DVDs but due to Digital Rights Management some shows will not be allowed for transfer. This is setup by the broadcaster not Tivo. Most cable providers have a Tivo-like system for a monthly fee but it is branded for only their network and you must return it if the provider demands it. If you buy a Tivo it is yours. You own it. You only need to pay for either montly service $12.99, yearly service $99 or lifetime subscription as long as your Tivo works $399. $99 Series 2 with Dual-Tuner (internal cable decoder) + $399 Lifetime subscription = $498. This option is not HD but allows you to record 1 channel and watch another. You must get the CableCARDs from your provider to use on their network.