Is it possible to watch TV on a PC?

Watching TV on a PC has never been easier. Not only is it possible, it is slowly becoming impossible not to do. You can opt to watch streaming TV through a stable Internet connection, or you can take the more creative route and use Windows Media Center. The media center is a more recent media platform created by Microsoft to bridge the gap between television and digital cable. With Windows Media Center, you can now watch your digital cable channels directly from your computer.

Streaming TV on the Internet

Websites have been created to bring TV to the Internet world so you don't have to miss a thing. Streaming TV has become more and more popular among Internet users within the past five years. Sites like YouTube, and Hulu house hundreds episodes and full seasons for some of the most popular sitcoms. Even movies can be watched on a PC. Fee-based movie websites, like NetFlix, are also available so you can watch movies on your PC through the Internet. Other sites that don't even require a fee to watch movies are also available. Although many computer users are unaware of this amenity, you can also watch full-length movies free of charge online. (See Resources.)

Use Windows Media Center to Watch Digital Cable

Windows Media Center is a little different from streaming TV, but nevertheless, it is a great resource that can enable you to watch digital cable on your PC. As long as you have the Windows Vista or Windows 7 operating system, Windows Media Center is installed on your computer. All you need to do to setup your Windows Media Center is reroute your cable from the television to the PC.

First, access Windows Media Center on your computer. The application is not usually displayed as a desktop icon, so you will need to access it from the Start menu. Click the Windows "Start" icon in the lower left corner of the screen on your computer's taskbar. Select the "All Program" tab at the bottom of the Start menu, then locate and select Windows Media Center. The application will open in full screen mode. Use the right arrow key in the bottom right corner of your keyboard to scroll to the TV setup. Choose the "Express" setup option and follow the Windows Media Center prompts and select all of the recommended settings to expedite the setup. Connect your computer to your digital cable outlet by removing the digital connection from the television putting it into the computer. (See Resources for more setup options and alternatives.)

Play Movies on Your PC

DVDs have always been an easy way to watch video on your PC. All you have to do is place the DVD into your CD-ROM drive, and the video will automatically open in Windows Media Player or your manufacturer's default media program. DVDs can also be played in Windows Media Center. Many have high quality sound and resolution.You can move around in the movie using the control keys at the bottom of the media player, just as you'd use any remote.

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Windows Media Center

Windows Media Center - First Time Setup