[mythtv-users] Output to h.264

[Mike Perkins]

mike at grounded.net wrote:
> 
> I would not need HD over PC's. HD would only be to an HD TV so probably via a
>  set top box.
> 
In the context of Mythtv "Set Top Box" (or STB) refers to a box provided by the
supplier of your program content: Cable, satellite, Internet, or in some parts 
of the world Digital over-the air broadcasts.

We do not usually use the term STB for the device which takes programming from 
the network and displays it on your TV.  That would be a "Front End". This could 
drive a TV or projector. It can be a standard uPnP client but it would more 
usually be a small PC running Mythtv software. It doesn't have to be a big box, 
as others here have tried to explain to you.

Mythtv works as a "pull" system. The back end (or back ends) contain tuners and 
other interfaces capable of receiving video and other inputs from many sources, 
the data from which is *always* stored on disc. Each front end then accesses the 
data files through a menu system simple enough for most members of any household 
to use.

What you seem to be describing is a "push" system, where *all* data streams are 
put on the wire at once and the client chooses which stream to read. This is the 
way Cable works, thinking about it. This is inefficient, especially in network 
terms. Why broadcast streams if no-one is receiving them? The Mythtv way is much 
more manageable.

-- 

Mike Perkins