[mythtv-users] Building a system from scratch

[Buchanan, Paul]

Comments inline:

> I'm thinking some of my options here are:
> 
> 1.  Use a PVR-350 to encode one input, plus to decode output and
> display 
> to a tv (i.e. no video card needed).  If I want additional inputs
> (i.e. 
> a second sat/cable box), I can add PVR-250 cards that will encode and
> store programs, which I can then play back using the PVR-350.  Is
> there 
> any value to having multple PVR-350 cards (I'm assuming you can only
> decode and watch one thing at a time...)

You will need a video card to hook up to a monitor when first setting up the
box, and the PVR-350's output.  And, most motherboards require some sort of
video card present to boot up.  If you are planning on a mobo with onboard
video of some sort, then no problem.  Everything else here is correct, no
need for multiple 350's.
> 
> My end goal would be to put a large box with multiple encoders in a
> central location, connected to the hdtv, later creating smaller mythtv
> frontend boxes for around the house.
> 

One thing to consider when placing a box of this nature next to a TV is
noise.  Assuming you go with multiple tuners, you will need to consider
cooling issues as well as storage.  Both of these are noisy, generally
involving spinning hard drives and fans, and you may not want it sitting
next to your TV.  Many people with split frontend/backend set ups place
their backend machine in a closet or basement location, and place the more
quiet frontends near the TVs.
> 
> 
> Thanks for your patience if you got this far :)
>  - Jeff
> 

I'll let others respond to your HDTV questions.

Paul