You just need an Ethernet connection (Wi-Fi may work but it’s not recommended). Your tuner card, and your antenna, can be in any room in the house, provided they can access your network. It’s a flexible option, and devices like the HD Homerun are compatible with both Plex’s DVR functionality and Kodi.ĭon’t underestimate how nice it is to put your box in a different place than your HTPC-it’s priceless if you’re looking to improve your TV reception.
You can then watch TV on any device on your network: your HTPC, your phone, or your gaming console. This compact USB 3.0 network adapter is backward compatible with older USB 2.0/1.x computer systems (speed limited by USB bus), making it.
You can put them anywhere in your house, so long as they can connect to your network. The USB31000S USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter adds a single RJ45 Ethernet port to a USB-enabled computer system, with support for Gigabit network connections at full bandwidth, unlike USB 2.0 adapters. These sorts of tuners might be the best choice available right now. Network Connected Options: Stick It Anywhereįinally, there are network based tuners, like the HD Homerun. It really boils down to personal preference. In terms of performance you don’t really have to worry-USB 3 is more than fast enough to handle recording and streaming HD television. It’s a minor point, but one worth thinking about. You’ll have to manage those cables somehow. The downside: these cards stick out the back of your computer, adding to the mess of cables and boxes there.
You don’t have to take apart your PC, and you can even use this on a laptop or small PC if you want. Just plug the tuner card into your computer, plug the antenna into the tuner card, and you’re pretty much done. USB tuner cards like the Hauppauge WinTV-dualHD, above, couldn’t be simpler. For most users, however, a PCI tuner card works perfectly.