How to Buy a TV Tuner Card

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Look for important features before buying.

   Find out if there is a single-chip video decoder and an MPEG-encoder solution that delivers high-quality TV and DVD image quality.
   
   Also look for FM radio, number of ports, A/V connections and the facility of remote control.
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   Step 2: Consider the brand

   If you are also seeking the video or editing function, look at the Video Card Interface type. , In case of a Windows XP Media Center PC, you would not need additional software.
   
   However, in such a case you would have to check the card’s compatibility with the Media Center PC. , Browse through reviews and compare pricing.
   
   Some popular buyers’ guides are NexTag, Windows Marketplace, MySimon, BizRate and Epinions. , These are good avenues for gathering more information on features, trends and other insights on TV tuner cards. , Select the best TV tuner card that suits your requirements and budget. , Search for online vendors using search engines like Google or Yahoo!.
   
   Browse through popular online stores such as CompUSA, Best Buy and Circuit City
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   Step 3: connectors and operating system compatibility before buying the TV tuner card.

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   Step 4: Check if relevant video-recording software is provided along with the card.

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   Step 5: Learn more about the features and prices of various TV tuner cards by referring to online buyers’ guides.

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   Step 6: Browse through blogs and tech-discussion forums.

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   Step 7: Plan your budget.

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   Step 8: Buy a TV tuner card after comparing prices in different stores online and offline.

Detailed Guide

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