S-Video input for Windows Media Center?

Can I watch and capture s-video input using Windows Media Center in vista?

Yes, but Media Center will want to change the channels on your cable box with an IR Blaster.

When you first setup Media Center, the wizard will let you choose video input as an option. I suggest that you try using Media Center, then you will know if it works and then you will also know what you might need to do if it doesn't work.

Were you using the computer to change channels on the cable box in your prior setup or were you simply sending IR straight to the cable box?

Hi PC Cable guy,

Thank you for answering.  Previously, I was not using my computer to change channels.  I would just put the S-video from the output on the set top box to the inputs on the ATI-tv wonder, and watch through CMC.  I did not change channels using any computer-based remote.  Just from the tv comcast remote.

I will play with media center again, but the problem seems to be that even though I have an s-video cable connecting my box to the computer, WMC is asking for an IR sensor.  I don't really need to change channels via my computer for now-- I will be happy just putting the box in the other room on the channel I want.

Take care,

Russ

Thank you again.  I take it with an IR-Blaster, I would still need to run another cord from the cable box to my computer, which is what I'd like to avoid, if possible.

I will look into those two programs.  I do have ATI's Catalyst Media Center, which I wa using with great success with an ATI capture card, and might try using it with this new system, to save me some money.

I have heard of SageTV, and did e-mail the makers of SageTV to confirm that I would be able to do what I want, but it's been 1 week now and I've not heard back from them.  Will keep thinking this through.

I thank you for your time, and appreciate your input.

Take care,

Russ

... didn't answer your question r.e. Catalyst Media Center => it will NOT work with a non-ATI card;  but you could simply add an ATI capture card to your system (still have the 650?) and use Catalyst Media Center with it.   The simple selection of the video input with Catalyst Media Center does make it very easy to record from direct video inputs :-)       But before swapping out hardware, give the free Media Portal a try ... it may very well have the capability you need.  [If you asked this question 8-10 days from now, I'd already know the answer, as I have 3 new Hauppauge 2250's for my new system and will certainly be trying it :-) ]

Hi Gary,

Thanks for your help.  I did just download the Media Portal you suggested, and have to give it a thumbs down on first attempt.  First, it asked me to install SQL Server, which I did, reluctantly, then tried to install again.  Installation worked, but I found the program to be very slow, and I can't figure out how to change input to S-video.  So I wouldn't say it's that great.  Nothing against your suggestion, just my experience.

Thank you!

Russ

As I noted, I haven't tried it yet ... appreciate the feedback.   Sounds like it may not be ready for prime time -- just noticed that it was finally released ... and it does have the right price :-)

I suspect Sage is a lot better choice.

Thanks to both of you for the helpful information!

Hi Gary,

Yes-- I realize you hadn't tried it ;) Thanks for the help.  Much appreciated.