newbie question

[bushfilm]

Hi all, just signed up and need a little help. I decided to build my own PVR since I have a pretty good Windows XP desktop lying around, but don't know which capture card is best. I would like to capture in at least 1080i resolution (I am currently on Direct TV) using the HDMI output from the satelite box, but don't want to be tied to computer. Can I use an HDMI splitter box to split HDMI from sat box into two feeds, one to TV and one to computer capture card? I will be installing new 1.5 tb Hard Drive so space shouldn't be a problem. Anyone have any suggestions about how I should proceed? Thanks for your help!

[dark_half]

The only capture device that I know of for capturing HD from a STB is the Hauppauge HD-PVR.

[sub]

The Hauppauge HDPVR is often used in this type of setup. It captures up to 1080i over component video connection.

The Hauppauge Colossus is another device able to capture up to 1080i over component video. It also has an HDMI input, but this is only able to capture non-HDCP video, ie video without the content protection flag set. Unfortunate the video coming from your DirectTV box with be HDCP protected, so you wont be able to capture via HDMI and will need to stick to component video.