[mythtv-users] Connecting a Myth Box to a set-top box

[Alastair Kerr]

Joshua Lippiner wrote:
> Is anyone using a MythBox connected to their set-top box to allow the  
> set-top box to handle the satellite or cable decoding?  If so, does  
> anyone have it set up where the set-top box can change the channel?
>
> If so, how are you passing the current station ident info to the  
> MythBox?
>
> -JL
>   
You need an eternal channel changing script that controls a device:  
specified in mythtv-setup under inputs.
Mythtv then assumes that it has changed channel (even if the device failed)

3 ways to do this
RS232 port (serial) on your set top box, though not all are activated 
(mine wasn't and could not be).
then use the channel program. This is probably the cheapest and most 
reliable option

IR-blaster (attaches to your infrared port and sends signals to it)

More info here:
https://help.ubuntu.com/community/MythTV_External_Channel_Changer


I use a different approach - change channel via the RF-out socket. Note 
that this is probably Sky and FoxTel specific but I found it to be 
reliable if I use a high quality cable
http://www.dusky-control.com/

-Alastair