[mythtv-users] Tips to make my MythTV box feel less like a computer?

[Ross Campbell]

On 7/3/06, Ben Lancaster <lists at benlancaster.co.uk> wrote:
> I have an FC5 based Myth box using RatPoison for the WM (can
> thoroughly recommend it), but I was wondering whether there were any
> more "bare bones"-esque settings I can change?

My recommendations for making mythtv feel less like a computer are:

0) have video displayed through your living room TV
1) get a nice case that doesn't look like a computer
2) soundproof your frontend
3) hide your frontend
4) have a single learning remote that can work the TV power as well as
all mythtv functions
5) Get a wireless keyboard with a built-in trackpoint/pointer device
and stow it under the couch - for emergencies.
5) remap keys in xine and mplayer to be consistent with MythTV
keybindings and your remote
6) change the exit key for mythtv from "Escape" to somthing like "Alt-Esc"
7) implement something that restarts the frontend process
automatically if it dies
8) start a vnc session as part of boot and use vnc from a laptop or
computer  to do any regular admin work without disrupting "the TV"
9) tie up the computer cable rats' nest. Neatly bundle cables together
with velcro straps and keep them out of sight.
10) keep any other computer paraphanelia out of the living room
11) when things are working, don't mess with it (that's the hardest one...)