[mythtv-users] PVR500 Tuning

[Brad DerManouelian]

Conrad wrote:
> Just one bit of clarification, my STB is a dual-tuner HD-PVR.  So based 
> on the explanations that I've received so far, is it fair to assume the 
> following:
> 
>    1. I can use the main PVR500 board to receive signal from either the
>       composite or the svideo output from the STB 

yes.

>    2. I can use the breakout board for the other ouput mentioned in 1
>       above (not in use)

You mentioned another output?

>    3. I should be able to receive two signal sources into the combined
>       PVR500/breakout_board  from my STB.

I wouldn't assume that. Your STB has 2 tuners in it, but it probably 
does not have 2 outputs (I've certainly never seen one that has a 
separate output for each tuner). It's meant to be hooked to a single 
device - your TV. Two inputs, 1 output. Unless you can get it to output 
two different things to two different outputs, you're limited to a 
single signal from your STB going to a single input on your PVR-500.

> 
> I also own a ATSC/QAM tuner which I have not yet brought into the mix.

You mean a PCI card tuner (or some other thing that plugs into your 
computer)?

> And again, based on your explanations and my , so far faulty, reasoning 
> I should be able to use a (cheap) splitter and receive non-encrypted 
> digital channels on it.

You cannot receive QAM signals from your Dish box. Again, you need the 
signal to be processed by your dish box to receive Dish content. You can 
receive over the air digital signals on your ATSC/QAM tuner. That's what 
I do.

I have 2 pvr cards, one each hooked to one each of my DirecTV boxes via 
s-video. All my satellite is recorded on those. I have serial cables to 
each DirecTV box to change the channels. I also have 3 HD tuners - all 
receiving over the air signals (antenna into ATSC tuner). I'm not using 
QAM because I don't have cable.

-Brad