Watch HDTV Free Right from Your Computer with a USB HDTV Adapter

Alton Brown of the Food Channel insists for a tool to be in his kitchen it must perform multi-tasks. Van dwellers are limited in space and often limited in funds. Two very good reasons to avoid buying or having two separate expensive electronic devices when one can easily handle two functions.

Now that the majority of the country has gone to digital TV the signal being transmitted is something your computer can understand. By plugging in a USB HDTV adapter your computer can receive television signals. The WinTV-HVR usb adapter comes complete with a small antenna, a plug in tuner, and software.

If your computer has Windows Media Center already included you don't even need to install the software package as the TV tuner works just fine from that program. Installation is easy, just plug the tuner into a usb port and follow the automatic instructions. It takes a while to load, but it's all very easy to set up.

There are a few things you need to know before you order your WinTV-HVR though:

1. There are processor speed concerns, your system needs to be running at 2.8 GHZ or better to avoid the dreaded pixel lockup problems. Slower systems will experience partial pictures, or frozen pictures.

2. The included antenna is the "Minimum" requirement. With digital it's an all or nothing reception so if you are not within range you can expect poor or no reception.

There are some other nice features included with the WinTV-HVR that you will enjoy as well:

1. You can record live TV to view later. Create your own DVD collection right over the air.

2. If you have access to cable, it can also provide a full range of channels through the adapter.

3. You are also supplied with a usb extension cable because some desk top computers have the usb port recessed making it difficult to plug in the adapter.

4. This means FREE High Definition Digital TV for much of your programming because HD is becoming more and more prevalent every day.

Do read the package carefully because the adapter does have certain requirements that must be met for it to function properly. Older, slower laptops will have problems and poor performance will lead to a dissatisfied customer.

If your computer is able to keep up this package is small, cost effective, and works well. It will even perform better if you make use of an outdoor antenna. The standard crank up RV antenna will work just fine, you don't have to purchase a special "digital" antenna.

With a goal of expanding your entertainment options the WinTV-HVR can provide true high quality HD TV through your computer at a fraction of the cost of purchasing a new TV.