Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Forget getting Netflix or Hulu Plus on TiVo-made cable DVRs

Forget getting Netflix or Hulu Plus on TiVo-made cable DVRs

Just in case you were thinking of upgrading your service to include a TiVo DVR from your cable provider, be aware that even though the devices are capable of streaming content from Netflix and/or Hulu Plus cable providers will prevent you from using their devices to do so. Read the Ars Technica article for more information.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Google TV Devices Delayed As Google Tweaks Software [REPORT]

Google TV Devices Delayed As Google Tweaks Software [REPORT]

The most promising technology that will change the way we watch television has met another hurdle. Companies that are planning to add Google TV to their television sets next year are holding as Google updates the software. Delays like this are not uncommon with new technology, but between the so-so reviews of the Google TV product and the fact that many major broadcast and cable networks are blocking access by Google TV the delays hurt rather help the image of Google TV.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

TiVo or not TiVo - that is the question

Some cable and satellite providers provide digital video recorders (DVRs) to subscribers for a fee. These allow you record your favorite shows as well as pause or rewind live TV. Right now you can pick up a DVR from TiVo for $20 a month with a two year commitment. If you absolutely have to have TiVo this looks like a great deal. What I haven't been able to sort out is what happens after the commitment is over. Can you still use the TiVo without the monthly fee? If not then TiVo does not look like such a great deal.

If you have a newer computer, you can leverage that as your DVR easily. You need a way to get the content into the computer, a video in or video capture card with an antenna/cable input. There are some video cards that have TV tuners on them so you can possibly watch one channel while recording another.

The build your own PVR forum is a good place to learn what it takes to do it yourself. The content on the home page is helpful but dated. The forums are where you'll find the greatest help.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

HDTV: A guide for the perplexed

Another excellent article about high-definition TV, HDTV: A guide for the perplexed. Some of the latest models come with widgets that will allow you to stream Netflix or other content to the TV, a few of those models will do this wirelessly. If you're in the market for a new TV, with the money you're saving on cable I hope, this article is a great place to start.