Problem with inaccurate TV listings and show batches

[GoodGuys]

Hello,

In Israel (where I live), it is common that the show listings are not 100% accurate and actual showing times may deviate by up to 5 minutes on some channels.

Couple this with the fact that once a show enters GBPVR's database (usually about a week ahead of its time) it will never be changed, even if the listing now has it more accurately listed.

What do you get? Nothing that show padding can't solve, right? Right. Except in the case of batches of shows (like showing 4 episodes in a row) or shows that are contiguous in the Guide. Usually, there is a commercial break between shows, but I have many so-called premium channels, that don't have commercials, and one show starts immediately after the end of another. This makes it very annoying to watch.

An example of this is BBC Prime's Doctors series, which airs 4-5 episodes in a row on weekends, which allows me to record them for my wife in a batch instead of their weekday slots. But having done that becomes a nuisance to watch the show.

I don't know how to solve this problem, but I might have a suggestion (maybe this should go to the wishlist?):
How difficult would it be to allow overlapping padding? I mean, if there are 2 shows on the same channel in contiguous slots, would it be possible to send the video stream of the overlapping periods to 2 files?

Thanks,
GGF

[sub]

if there are 2 shows on the same channel in contiguous slots, would it be possible to send the video stream of the overlapping periods to 2 files?

No that would not be possible. The MPEG2 data contains embedded timecodes relative to the start of the recording.

[GoodGuys]

So my only real solution is to use manual recording, or buy another capture card?
That's too bad.

How difficult would it be to add a simple filter that understand MPEG and changes those timecodes in the new stream? Surely even a really slow machine could handle this simple task, no?

GGF

[sub]

How difficult would it be to add a simple filter that understand MPEG and changes those timecodes in the new stream? Surely even a really slow machine could handle this simple task, no?

Sorry, but that is definitely not something I will be doing. I can tell you this, it wouldnt be simple.

[GoodGuys]

I'll take your word for it.
Thanks any way.
GGF

[HarR]

a 2nd TV card would do it......something to go on your wishlist

[GoodGuys]

True. It's not that expensive, but I can live without it which means it'll have to wait :-(
GGF