:ETPT 5550

In recent weeks I have built a new home computer to work on.  This means I now have enough spare parts for a second computer.  I was thinking of ideas of what to do with it.  The possibilities were file server, Linux box (so I can learn Linux), or just another computer.  This week I came up with another idea.  Every Monday I have class until 10p.m.  This of course means that I miss the best new show this year…Heroes.  So I said to myself what if I can build a DVR or TiVo type system out of my old computer.  After doing some research I discovered MythTV.  It is a free software packages that allows you to capture video very similar to a TiVo.  After reviewing the requirements I found that I am missing a few pieces.  On this blog I will hopefully show the steps in converting old computer equipment into a home made DVR system.

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It may have taken five years, but January 31 finally arrived. On Tuesday Microsoft released their newest operating system, Windows Vista. It boasts a myriad of new features such as instantaneous searches, an innovative Aero Glass interface, PC Backup and Restore, and media features to make your computer a major piece to any home entertainment system. I am very interested to see how the Ultimate Edition will hook up to TV’s and record television.

The only downsides that I see as a consumer are the seven different versions and the requirements. It may be difficult for some people to choose which is the best version of the OS. Also the top end version (Ultimate) is $400 from retail stores. The system requirements also pose a problem for many home users. The $300-$600 machines that sell so well from Wal Mart and Best Buy will not be able to run Vista and utilize many of the new features. This makes my recent home computer upgrade a well timed investment. I can’t wait to get my hands on Microsoft’s latest offering and see if it is worth the wait.

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