Hi, I've recently figured out how to get my PC to my TV and everything's great, but now I'm curious about how to view and capture my TV to my PC. What programs would I need?
All you need is a good video card on your computer and a good video capture and editing software. There are many to choose from. Opinions vary widely as to what's the best and you could find yourself in a lengthy argument about the subject. Take a look at http://www.gocyberlink.com They've got great stuff. You might take a look at Nero as well. Both have awesome suites. Personally, I'm a fan of cyberlink products. You could also check out http://www.hauppage.com as well. I have it on my computer. It's the WinTV series. As I stated before though, there are many to choose from. Advice: Don't just go with what someone tells you regarding the video capture card or software. Research before buying. Go to a place like Fry's Electronics or CompUSA where you can get a free look at what it looks like and how it works. Don't talk to a salesperson. They speak well on hardware/software but they don't "know" sh!t. Talk to an actual technician. Remember what you want you pc to do and keep it at the forefront at all times. Don't get talked into buying unnecessary additions unless you want to go overboard. Most of us like our computers the way we like our cars, a little bit of flash and the ability to blow your doors off in the quarter! Good luck!!!
Is any of that software available as freeware? If not, do you know if any trial versions are available? Also, with that kind of software, does it burn DVDs or can the result be burned to DVD with DeCrypter/Shrink/Rebuilder etc.?
Grab a Hauppauge PVR-150 retail version (comes with a remote and IR blaster). Download and install GB-PVR software (it's free). Total PVR on the PC, for less than $100. All files captured by the PVR-150 are DVD spec, and ready to author and burn, and the retail version comes with all the software you need to edit commercials, and create chapters and menus on your DVD's.
Thanks YOBUZZB, but I'm with TomBrookl. Are there trial versions out there for those programs? I mean I use Cyberlink PowerDVD and I love it but I'm a little hesitant to purchasing something for that much money despite being familar with the company.
