[mythtv-users] questions about direct connections to cable boxes

[Rob Smith]

On Thu, Mar 3, 2011 at 2:07 PM, Josh Rosenberg <mythtv at desh.info> wrote:
> 1.  I know that it's possible to change channels via the FireWire
> port.  But I've heard people say that you can record from there too?
> If that's true, how does it work?  Do I still need an HD-PVR?  Is
> there a particular tuner type I should choose in MythTV?
>
> 2.  My box has a USB port too.  Can that do everything the FireWire
> port can do?  If so, how?  I haven't been able to find documentation.
>
> 3.  I also have a "serial" port that looks like a 2.5mm or 3.5mm
> headphone jack.  What can I use this for, if anything?  Can it change
> channels, and if so, is there any reason to use it over FireWire or
> USB?
>
> 4.  What can the ethernet port be used for in a MythTV context, if anything?

1. You can, but it's typically (YMMV) just the broadcast channels
(Fox, ABC, NBC).

As for which capture device, if you're not one of the few extremely
lucky ones, a HDPVR is your only real choice.

2. No. It can be used to change channels sometimes. No capturing.

3. No idea

4. Typically nothing at all.

~Rob