C-1501

[swannyno1]

Hi only just found this section of the site

Im currently building a htpc and was going to use my eurovox to watch tv channels ut after reading on here i might opt to buy a C-1501.

Couple of questions

if i buy a C-1501 is there anything else i have to buy to get it up and running ?

Can i record tv with it ?

and finally weres best to buy them from ?

Thanks in advance

[Confused Stu]

To quickly answer your questions:

- All you need to watch cable with a C-1501 is a PC, a cable connection and some software. This will let you use any number of watching software (Dvbdream ang Progdvb are the easiest to set up thanks to the download section). You'll need to use software to watch the encrypted ones (aka softcam method). Vplug is a good softcam. If you want to use MS media centre, then you'll also need Technotrend's add-on CI slot, a CAM and a card (aka hardcam method). The's an add-on CI card going cheap on ebay until tomorrow afternoon (mine!).

- Yes, you can record TV in any Dvb viewing software or MS Media Centre.

- I bought my C-1501 from dvbshop in Germany. Quick delivery, good price.

One thing I would say is that the C-1501 is quite complex to set up for MS Media Centre (IMHO) - several different software's working together. If you can afford it, the Floppydtv from Digital-Everywhere is a much easier card to use (install & play) and seems to have better driver support (again, IMHO)

Hope that helps dude, and good luck.

[swannyno1]

Thanks for the reply mate. What is the c 1501 like when using media portal will i still need the add on? Also the floppydtv does that require a hard cam ? Or can you just use and soft cam like c 1501 ? And will it work with media portal

[Confused Stu]

Don't use Mediaportal, I'm afraid so can't tell you if it works with a softcam or if you'd need to go the hardcam route. Interestingly Mediaportal's website lists only one recommended hardware - the floppy/firedtv h**p://www.team-mediaportal.com/recommended_tv_cards/dvb_cards/firedtv/floppydtv.html but if that works the C-1501 should work just as well.

You can use the floppydtv without a CAM/card just fine, but you'll only receive unencrypted channels or have to use a softcam.

For all practical purposes, the C-1501 and floppydtv do the same job. One has the CI slot built in, one has it on an extension card; one uses firewire, one PCI; ones easier to set up, the other's cheaper. Beyond that, a cable goes in one end and the PC sees cable TV coming out the other on both!

Now we just need a Mediaportal expert to give their opinions....