

Don't proceed unless you can live without it.Īnd while the HDHomeRun PRIME technically works with DRM-encrypted premium channels like HBO or Showtime, at present no Mac app or service has been willing to pony up the steep fees cable companies demand for the keys to unscramble those channels. You won't have access to the On Demand content you could get through your cable box, including pay-per-view. Once you've established that, remember that your set-top box can do a few things your Mac can't. Before you beginįirst, call your cable company and make sure they offer CableCARDs.
#Eyetv hdhomerun tv
(Sweet revenge!)Ī CableCARD essentially lets you record digital TV channels on DVRs, PCs, and TVs using set-top boxes that aren't provided by the cable company. Some companies charge a nominal fee for a CableCARD others, like mine, may actually pay you a small amount monthly to use one. The tech never really took off outside a few TiVos and other devices, but most cable companies still offer it. This credit card-sized gadget was supposed to free us all from the tyranny of set-top boxes, plugging into TVs, DVRs, and more to unlock cable TV service.

#Eyetv hdhomerun software
Mac-friendly DVR software such as Plex, EyeTV, Channels, or HDHomeRun DVR.A spacious external hard drive for storing video.A couple of gigabit Ethernet cables (one from the PRIME to the router the other from your Mac to the router.).A wired or wireless router with Ethernet ports.A Mac mini or other Mac you can leave running 24/7, connected to your TV and close to….An HDHomeRun PRIME ($130) from SiliconDust.With a little up-front cash and the right equipment, you can enjoy nearly all the benefits of your current cable service - while saving $100 or more every year. But even if you can't snag a strong broadcast TV signal, or cable's your only option for fast internet, you don't have to pay extra every month to rent a locked-down cable box with a subpar DVR. No matter how much you loathe your cable company, cutting the cord isn't always an option.
