View Full Version : Difference between DVR and Firewire HDD?
Ken73
11-30-2005, 04:15 PM
Is there one? Seems that the Symbio/etc. are just firewire hard drives - what's the real difference? (Or is there one?) My new Toshiba has two 1394 ports on the back; I've seen the article on how to plug that port into the PC and record HD channels but I'd like to use a HDD so I can pause live TV/record programs/etc.
Any thoughts?
It all depends on how you define DVR. Many DVRs are "integrated", meaning that they have an internal tuner, work with an IPG supplied by a service provider (cable or SAT), making the entire process extremely simple.
Anyone wishing to set up an external HDD or an HTPC has to do a lot more work, find an IPG, etc and the "average person" is not capable.
See the HDTV FAQ "Recording HD".
mjones73
11-30-2005, 04:46 PM
The Symbio is an add on for new Toshiba based DLP's that gives the TV DVR functionality. It intergrates with the guide info present on the TV for setting up recordings and uses the TV's tuners and inputs as sources to record. It just happens to use firewire to interface with the TV. It's basically like having a DVR built into the set.
You can also use your firewire ports on the TV to output to other devices like a HTPC if you'd like to attempt to build your own PC based DVR device.
Ken73
11-30-2005, 06:02 PM
I have the 57H94 Toshiba RP set, and it has the two firewire ports on the back and came with a piece of paper talking about using the Symbio with it. Just seemed like the Symbio was just an external firewire drive, which can be picked up for under $150 at most local electronics stores these days.
I did see the article about using your HTPC to record - if the external firewire HDD won't work, I'll probably go this route as I have P4/2.4 with 1gb RAM and 160gb HDD. I have WinXP on it and read up on most of it. I only need to pick up a firewire card ($20 at Fry's) and a cable ($15 for a 15-footer.)
