Cable boxes and IR Blasters

[equalize]

I brought a Sage TV bundle last January consisting of the software, a PVR-500, and a Streamzap remote. Since Comcast has recently decided to increase their revenue by moving the Sci-Fi channel to their digital channel lineup in the Chicago area, I’m now forced to rent their cable box so I can receive the digital programming. While I’m waiting for Comcast to stop on by, I have a couple of questions.

When using a cable box, will the PVR-500 be only able to record one channel at a time?

How do others with multiple capture cards deal with cable boxes?

I’ll also need an IR blaster so I’m looking for recommendations. The SageTV 3.x manual mentions the Actisys IR-200L and not the USB-UIRT which many members are using. If costs aren’t a concern, which would you recommend and why?

[Opus4]

Originally Posted by equalize

When using a cable box, will the PVR-500 be only able to record one channel at a time?

One channel through the box & 1 channel via anlaog cable going to the coax-in, unless you use something like the Additional input connector for PVR-500 with another cable box. (It doesn't come with that by now, does it?) There's an order to configuring them, so maybe someone with a 500 can give those details...

I’ll also need an IR blaster so I’m looking for recommendations. The SageTV 3.x manual mentions the Actisys IR-200L and not the USB-UIRT which many members are using. If costs aren’t a concern, which would you recommend and why?

Where did you not see the USB-UIRT listed? If it was Appendix F, turn the page. The USB-UIRT is nice because it is a receiver & transmitter, and can be used to control more than 1 cable box.

- Andy

[oddjob]

I live in chicagoland area.. Comcast is expensive. Is satellite a option for you? Even Wowway is cheaper and yes they have the scifi channel.

[equalize]

You're right Andy, I didn't look far enough in the Appendix. Sorry bout that. I'll be buying the USB-UIRT blaster and since I do a lot of scripting at work, I check out Girder. Got one more question for you. If I buy that "Additional input connector", how would Sage know that one capture card can only record the analog channels?

[equalize]

Satellite can be an option, I'll watch for specials and see if the wife will go for it.

[Kanati]

how would Sage know that one capture card can only record the analog channels?

You'll tell it so while setting up the source.