Do video cards decode mpeg-2 DSS boradcasts? (1 Viewer)

[Charles Bober]

I was under the assumption that no video cards decode mpeg-2 DSS broadcasts. I'm planning on building a new monster multimedia pc and want to be able to watch DirecTv on my computer. If this is possible, which cards are recommended? I'm looking to pay up to $350 for a video card.
Thanks in advance.
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DTS Laser Disc. Size Does Matter

 

[Jesse Leonard]

There aren't any video cards that can decode a DSS broadcast. But if you have a video card with video in, you can run the video out of your DSS box into the video in on your computer.

 

[Jeff Kleist]

While DBS do indeed use MPEG encoding, it's encrypted. You'd have to have an official DirecTV card to do this
Jeff Kleist

 

[Charles Bober]

Jesse,
quote: But if you have a video card with video in, you can run the video out of your DSS box into the video in on your computer.[/quote]
If I read this right, I can run coax from the DSS receiver out to a video card that has a video (coax lead) in, correct?
Jeff,
quote: While DBS do indeed use MPEG encoding, it's encrypted. You'd have to have an official DirecTV card to do this[/quote]
Excuse my ignorance, but can you explain this? I'm confused by this statement. Can I or can't I watch DirecTv if I follow Jesse's instructions above? Maybe I used the wrong terminology with "decoding." All I want to do is watch programs on my computer, nothing else at this point.
Also, some of these new video cards offer a Tivo like free service called Digital VCR where you can record right to your hard drive. Would I be able to do this with DirecTv?
If I can do any of this stuff, which cards do you guys recommend? Right now I was looking at maybe an ATI All-In-Wonder Radeon or ASUS 7100 Deluxe Combo. These seem to be the best choices but I'm definitely open to any suggestions. Remember, I'm willing to go up to $350 for a video card that gives me the DirecTv option and has excellent DVD playback capability.
Thanks for all your help.
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DTS Laser Disc. Size Does Matter
[Edited last by Charles Bober on October 31, 2001 at 03:11 PM]
[Edited last by Charles Bober on October 31, 2001 at 03:15 PM]

 

[Jesse Leonard]

Charles,
Yes you can just take the composite (or S-Video or coax) out from your DSS reciever and into the VIDEO-IN on your video card. This will allow you to watch DirecTV on your computer.
I personally like the ATI-All-In-Wonder Radeon. It will also allow you to record DirecTV to your harddrive. Plus you can get one for about $150.

 

[Charles Bober]

Thanks to both you guys for clearing this issue up. You've been a tremendous help.
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DTS Laser Disc. Size Does Matter