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jschristian44

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How Do I Watch TV Using Windows XP and MediaPortal?

I was going to get Windows 7 just to use Media Center, but then I found out that there is a free program called MediaPortal that can be used with Windows XP Home 32-bit which is what I have now on my laptop.  I have a USB TV Tuner called "AverTV Volar Max".  I know where to get the drivers for it and everything.  I had it all set up, but when I tried to search for TV channels in MediaPortal, it only showed foreign countries and not the USA.  I search and scanned all of them and they didn't find anything.  My real question is, how do I set up MediaPortal to watch my Analog/HD Channels using my TV Tuner.  I looked on the MediaPortal site and it had basic configuration information but it didn't help.   I need a step by step written detailed guide or either a video that shows you EXACTLY what to do.  Thanks!
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saastech
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I am not familiar with MediaPortal.

Have you tried XBMC?

I like it; it is easy to use imo.

Good Luck!
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jschristian44

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boo, is there any other free open source media programs that will allow watching tv?  i looked at xmpvr or something like that.  i am getting this:

http://www.artificialworlds.net/freeguide/Main/HomePage

as my guide source, i dont want to pay for schedules direct.  can any one help further?
From some newegg reviews it looks like people are using beyondtv with that tuner, however beyondtv is not free. They do offer a demo if i remember correctly, so you can make sure it works before you buy.

http://www.snapstream.com/products/beyondtv/

Hope that helps.
XBMC is free.
xbmc is what i got now, how do i setup it.
To watch via TV Tuner, try:

1. Goto Videos
2. Browse
3. Look for your TV Tuner device.

It is a good product. You may want to review the documentation on their site too.

Good Luck!
whoops forgot a step

1. Goto Videos > Add Source
2. Browse
3. Look for your TV Tuner device.

yeah i tried that and windows wont install the drivers right or something for my tv tuner.  my tuner came with software that should allow it to watch tv.  i plugged my moms windows 7 laptop into the tuner and it lit up blue and i watched channels in media center.  could this card just not work with xp at all?
That may be the case :(
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Lordy123
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I found out you need some sort of media center windows in order to run it.