HDMI input into Sagetv

[dla202]

Summary: How do I get HDMI from Directv STB to SAGETV?

I just got Directv. The STB provided is an H21. I'm really confused here. Don't I want to use the HDMI output from the STB? Don't I want an HDMI input into the computer? I haven't yet found a listed compatible tuner card with an an HDMI input. What am I missing?

[gplasky]

You can't use a HDMI output from your box as an inout to any tuner because of HDCP. The HD-PVR is your only choice and that will take your component output to component input on the HD-PVR.

Gerry

[dla202]

Uh, thanks. Pardon my complete ignorance, but could you elborate on "HDCP"?

[Spectrum]

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=hdcp

It's the way the studios are protecting their "precious" HD content. Unfortunately it creates a bunch of headaches if you are dealing with any legacy hardware.

[dla202]

Thanks. I did my own Google right after my post. That was the wrong order. Should have Googled first.

So, the only way to get HD content is using an HD-PVR? If I use S-Video or component Video I don't get HD, correct?

What about using the "channel 3 or 4" output?

[darcilicious]

Originally Posted by dla202

So, the only way to get HD content is using an HD-PVR? If I use S-Video or component Video I don't get HD, correct?

You can record HD channels using S-Video or *composite* but it won't be in HD resolution (e.g 720p or 1080i). And if I recall correctly, most HD programs will playback with black bars (pillars) on all four sides.

Component with the HD-PVR gets you HD resolution.

[GKusnick]

Originally Posted by dla202

What about using the "channel 3 or 4" output?

That's for legacy SDTVs. The STB will downconvert the signal to analog SD before modulating it onto those channels. So no, you can't get HD that way, and the image quality will probably be significantly worse than S-Video capture.

[MattHelm]

Originally Posted by dla202

So, the only way to get HD content is using an HD-PVR?

Not 100% true. There is the R5000, but there are limits on the hardware it can use.

[sic0048]

Originally Posted by MattHelm

Not 100% true. There is the R5000, but there are limits on the hardware it can use.

OP has DirectTV. Since they changed broadcast methods a few years back, a R5000 mod won't work on any HD channels. So actually the HD-PVR is the only way to get HD quality recordings from DirectTV equipment at this time.

[stanger89]

And frankly, my R5000 isn't as reliable as my HD PVR (which is essentially perfect these days).

[dla202]

Thanks for all the help!