Linux HTPC machine

[Shane]

Hello,

Im setting up an older pc to use as an HTPC....thing is i would like to use Linux....ubuntu because its reliable.

Now according to Avermedia who makes my TV tuner,Its Linux ready...however because i lack knowledge of how to use Linux i dont realy understand how to get it to work?

This is what ive come across so far on Avermedia,s website.

It seems ive got to install some "Kernel" or something and it makes it plug and play?

http://www.avermedia.eu/avertv/uk/Support/Download.aspx?Type=APDriver&tab=APDriver&id=39

Could anyone please help me out...i appreciate it alot

 

[schw32m]

Kernel refers to the core of the linux operating system. 2.6.28 refers to the version of the kernel. What the website is referring to is that the device is supported in kernel version 2.6.28 or higher. Much along the same lines as a hardware device requiring Windows XP or higher to operate.

Ubuntu, being rather bleeding edge and depending on the flavor (or distro version), should be using the latest kernel and and should support your hardware without additional drivers.

The operative word here is should.

Do a bit of research and understand what linux does and is. No matter how much it is made to look like it linux is not windows. Linux is a different style of operating system, so be prepared for a bit of a learning curve. Be sure to get an understanding of what is in the install of the distro package. A lot of the big distros have everything including the kitchen sink in them. It is best to understand what it is you really need to make that HTPC system work without all the unneeded bloat.

If you are going to use Ubuntu, be sure to look over their forum as you can save yourself a lot of time and headache that way..

 

[Shane]

I gave up on Ubuntu in the end lol.....just couldnt be bothred with all the hastle,Avermedia who makes the drivers for my TV card make lousy software anyway...Their older versions of Avermedia centre which runs on Xp didnt run very well..Vista drivers were even worser and their new BETA drivers for 7 are just as bad.

I contacted their live support accidently on the USA site....they said they cant help me because im not a US resident....i mean wtf,i purchased their products!...they couldnt just apare a few mins to help me.

so i try the UK site,the live support is never online and they dont reply to emails!

so annoying.

But thanks for your reply,I appreciate it