Ok so I built a HTPC with ATI 650 pcie, plenty of horse power, how do i get hd content to run thru the htpc and onto the tv????  i currently have comcast set up the IR remote it changes the channels but the quality is not as good as hd??? how should i configure this?

If you are using Vista Media Center: you need an antenna to receive OTA HD on that card.

If you are using ATI Catalyst Media Center: make sure you are connected to the HD side of the card and you should be able to tune the unencrypted QAM channels.

That card does not tune HD (unencrypted QAM) through Vista Media Center at this time.

 

so that means that the signal the set top puts out is HD? do i just need a different card to capture it.

You are receiving SD if you have the cable box in the mix... Your cable box most likely outputs HD through component, DVI or HDMI - coax is typically converted to SD out of a cable box.  

The ATI card you have does not have any of those HD inputs and there are currently no available cards that will accept HD from a cable box through those inputs.  Hauppauge stated at CES they plan to offer a card called the HD PVR that will accept component from cable or satellite - $250 per card available sometime before April (if they hold the schedule).

For the card you have you have two options:

1) connect an antenna - you can use VMC or most any other PVR program to record HD

2) connect the coax from your wall outlet directly to the ATI card and record unencrypted HD (your local channels) using ATI's program.

Quick answer.

Can't ben done. Media Center does not support (there might be a hack someplace, not sure) HD though a cable box. So with your cable box, you will only get SD programming. If you want to get all your HD cable channels, you need to get a NEW computer that supports cable cards.

If you want to get some HD programming, You can get locals via an antenna (OTA), or cable "QAM" channels with a box called the HDHomerun.

QAM will work right now, OUT SIDE OF MEDIA CENTER with your HDTV card software, Media center can't use it.

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-Dave

MCP, MCSA, MCSE 2003
Windows Vista Connected Exp:Home Theater for Technologists
Windows Vista Connected Exp:Home Theater for Sales professionals

Home theater specialist (10+ years)