Can Laptops Replace TVs for Watching TV Shows?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of using laptops as replacements for traditional TVs for watching TV shows. Participants explore the necessary hardware and software requirements, as well as alternative methods for accessing television content.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about the possibility of watching TV on laptops and the software needed for this purpose.
  • Others suggest that a TV tuner is essential, with options for internal (PCI) and external (USB) versions, specifically mentioning brands like Hauppauge.
  • There are discussions about the availability of external tuners, with suggestions to check online retailers like Amazon, as well as local computer shops.
  • One participant expresses interest in a specific product, the MCE TV Tuner PCMCIA Card S-Video, and questions its value as a purchase.
  • Another participant mentions the use of BitTorrent for downloading TV shows, referencing a program that discussed this method.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the necessity of a TV tuner for watching TV on laptops, but there are varying opinions on the best products and methods for accessing TV shows. The discussion includes multiple viewpoints on hardware options and alternative content access methods.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the compatibility of hardware with specific laptop models are not addressed. The discussion does not resolve which TV tuner or method is superior, leaving the evaluation of options open-ended.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in using laptops for media consumption, particularly those without traditional TV setups, may find this discussion relevant.

ISU20CpreE
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This is a question to all who are interested in the media without having a TV. Is it possible to watch TV in our laptops? and if yes what software would be needed?
 
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The software would be rather inconsequential. You'd need a TV tuner, which are available in internal (PCI) and external (USB) versions. Try Hauppauge.
 
brewnog said:
The software would be rather inconsequential. You'd need a TV tuner, which are available in internal (PCI) and external (USB) versions. Try Hauppauge.

Can it be an external tuner. Where can it be bought.
 
I found a few external ones on amazon that are roughly ~$75
You might be able to buy them at radio shack or a local computer store.
 
ISU20CpreE said:
Can it be an external tuner. Where can it be bought.


It can indeed be an external tuner, like I mentioned.

It can be bought from a computer shop. Try http://www.ebuyer.com or http://www.microdirect.com or whatever your preferred computer shop is!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
brewnog said:
It can indeed be an external tuner, like I mentioned.
It can be bought from a computer shop. Try http://www.ebuyer.com or http://www.microdirect.com or whatever your preferred computer shop is!


what do you guys think about MCE TV Tuner PCMCIA Card S-Video found in the link http://www.aver.com/products/tvtuner_avertv_cardbusmce_retail.shtml#1
i think its ver cool, but would it be the best buy.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I remember seeing on "Attack of the Show" (quotes right?) on G4 (no TechTV anymore :( )TV, that you can BitTorrent download a bunch of television shows now. They called it TVtorrents. Its slightly different from just plain download the show.
 

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