AVerMedia's DVB-T USB 2.0 HDTV tuner
By Donald Melanson 
posted February 1st 2005 4:32AM
posted February 1st 2005 4:32AM
AverMedia's just launched their first USB HDTV tuner (though it's definitely not
the first), the AVerTV DVB-T USB 2.0. The tuner
lets you watch so-called "free-to-air" DVB digital terrestrial television channels, assuming there are actually any in
your area (sorry, North America!). It also comes with other features you'd expect from a TV tuner, including time
shifting and an electronic program guide. And if you want to use it with your laptop to watch TV in the countryside it
also comes with TV aerial, just don't expect the best reception. Retail price is
£69.99.
[Via Bios]
AverMedia tend to release a lot of good cards, especially their PCMCIA TV Tuner/DVD Capture Cardbus - which works like a charm. Unfortunately, since their HDTV Tuners (and I dont think this is the first btw) need a lot of power/heat consumption,you're not going to get a lot out of this unless you use it with a PC and a good cooling system. As for the freeview channels, I was only able to get 4 (as compared to 15 with the Cardbus) recognised using the HDTV Tuner - go figure
1) the correct acronym is OTA (Over The Air)
2) What do u mean sorry North America? Plenty of major North American networks broadcast from towers for free, any1 with an antenna and HD tuner can receive the signal.
There appears to be a difference between OTA and DVB. Check this out: http://www.dvb.org/
Are there or will there be any HDTV broadcasts in the UK, or is it a waste of time getting a 'HDTV ready' capture card for use in the UK?
Matt, there will be HDTV DVB-T in the UK eventually, its just a matter of time.
High def is meant to be launching on satellite and cable soon in the UK :)