[mythtv-users] How does backend/frontend work with Directv?

[Tyler Drake]

> I haven't actually set up a MythTV system yet and am not quite clear
> what the separation is between the backend and frontend. I understand
> the backend encodes all the video and the frontend decodes and displays
> it. Has anyone done this separation using Directv or an external
> receiver? Can someone verify my idea of how this works?

This will work.

>
> - Put satellite receiver in the basement.
> - Hook up to backend box capture card.
> - Frontend is next to TV and hooked to backend with ethernet.
> - Remote control on frontend.
>

Yes, this will work, but see below about changing channels...

> OK, so when you want to watch TV, the backend changes to the right
> channel, starts up the ring buffer and fires encoded video to the
> frontend which then decodes and displays it?

Correct.  See below about changing channels...

>
> When you fire a remote command at the frontend, does it fire the command
> to the backend (if necessary, i.e. changing channels)? How does that work?

Yes.  You can set this up easily.  You can set the backend up to run a
change-channel script when it recieves the correct signal from the
frontend....See the installation/configuration instructions for an idea on
how. You will need an IR Blaster, and will have to configure LIRC for the
backend, to 'blast' the IR signal.....Instructions in the HOWTO guide...

>
> Thanks a lot

You are welcome =)

>
> Curtis

TD