TV Anywhere — Almost Always!
I originally bought the Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-950Q TV Tuner as an accessory for a new laptop computer that didn’t offer an integrated tv tuner at the time that I ordered it. The unit configured perfectly and easily and I received prompt assistance from a Hauppauge representative for the one question that I had. A short USB extension cable is provided which protects your laptop from the heat generated by almost any TV tuner and I strongly recommend its use.
Ultimately, the tuner turned out not to be as useful for the laptop as anticipated because of a lack of OTA channels in our area and the fact that if I am near a cable coaxial connection, I have no need to watch TV on a laptop.
Determined to get my money’s worth from my investment, I connected the USB Hauppauge to a desktop computer that was in a room with a cable connection and signed up for a free account at Orb.com. That was a good move. Now I have access to a TV anyplace where there is a computer with online access (providing, of course, that my home computer is on and connected to the internet) and the video and audio quality is excellent.
Because of the USB connection, this type of unit offers tremendous portability advantages over integrated TV tuners. You can always remove it from a desktop and pack it in your laptop case if you are likely to be in an area where there are OTA channels. If you buy a new computer, you need not buy another TV tuner as long as this works. And, having it plugged in a few inches away from the USB slot is also much healthier for your computer.
I’m thoroughly satisfied.
Not Stable
Performance is erratic. Slow response when changing channels and software locks up frequently on channel change. Display goes black when window frame touches a screen boundary for no reason.
