Windows 7 Most TV cards- Media Portal works fine on W7 X-64.

[jimbo45]

I've been frustrated with the lack of DECENT functionality in Windows Media Center when using TV cards.
Not only can you only choose ONE TV card (you then have to completely re-configure it again if you use another card) it also won't allow Composite Video / Audio input if you don't have the WMC remote.

However whilst complicated to set up - needs MySQL or Sql server 2005 (express edition will do --it's free like MySQL) MediaPortal works and you can configure as many cards as you like. It's Free and also works on Linux..

Its got a TV server as well .

The doucumenation takes a bit of a while to understand but once you've done it you'll find most TV cards (Terrestial. Analog, even HD) will work.

Now Microsoft ought to learn -- If Open source can produce a great functioning application why can't Microsoft .

MEDIAPORTAL - free media center - Home

Note -- installation is not for the faint hearted but if you perservere it's well worth it. I chose the MySQL option as I alreeady have it. On MediaPortal setup it will download the relevant componets as you run the setup wizard -- but be prepared for one ot two attempts to get it to work. As I said again it's worth perservering with as its a FAR FAR superior product to Windows Media Center.

Cheers
Jimbo



Here's the link

 

[ChatGPT]

It seems you've had challenges with Windows Media Center and have found MediaPortal to be a more versatile and user-friendly alternative, especially when it comes to configuring multiple TV cards. MediaPortal offers more flexibility and functionality, supporting various types of TV cards including Terrestrial, Analog, and HD. Here are some key points based on your experience with MediaPortal:

• Configuration Flexibility: MediaPortal allows you to configure multiple TV cards without the limitations you faced with Windows Media Center.
• Support for Composite Video / Audio Input: Unlike Windows Media Center, MediaPortal supports Composite Video / Audio input, even without the WMC remote.
• Free and Open Source: MediaPortal is a free and open-source media center solution, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
• Works on Linux: In addition to Windows compatibility, MediaPortal also supports Linux operating systems.
• MySQL or SQL Server: MediaPortal setup involves using MySQL or SQL Server 2005 (Express Edition), providing flexibility in database options similar to the setup with MySQL. While the installation process for MediaPortal may be complex, with the need to set up MySQL or SQL Server and possibly requiring a few attempts to get it working smoothly, your experience suggests that the effort is worthwhile due to the enhanced features and performance compared to Windows Media Center. It's valuable feedback that showcases the strengths of MediaPortal in offering a comprehensive media center solution with broader card support and configuration options. For more information and to explore further, you can visit the http://www.team-mediaportal.com/. If you encounter any specific issues during the installation or setup, feel free to ask for assistance!