Software differs from manufacturer to manufacturer, but for the most part, you’ll pop a CD in the CD ROM drive and follow the prompts. It’s important to install the software and the driver, if both exist. The most common problems with installing TV tuners are either the driver installation or the failure to install and configure the included software.
Note: If you're running a version of Vista that offers Media Center, you'll use that to watch TV. In this case, try only installing the driver and not the software. If the TV tuner doesn't work, install the software too.
If you find you are having problems after installing both, open Device Manager and verify that the TV Capture and TV Tuner entries are there and functioning correctly. If you see a yellow exclamation point or a red x, visit the manufacturer’s Web site for help, and most likely, an updated driver or software.
To open Device Manager in Windows XP (In Vista you can simply type Device Manager in the Start Search window):
1. Right-click My Computer and choose Properties.
2. Select the Hardware tab, and then click Device Manager.
3. Any hardware with a red x or yellow exclamation point is hardware that is not functioning properly.
4. Double-click any red x or yellow exclamation point to begin the troubleshooting process. Click Troubleshoot This Device from the available options.
When configuring the remote, you’ll need to plug in the remote control sensor to the TV card and verify it is a secure connection (if required). You’ll also need to put the batteries in the remote. These two issues are the most common problems found when remote controls fail. Some manufacturers also require you to install additional software for the remote, and some remote controls require you to press a “connect” button, as you would with a wireless keyboard or mouse, to initially make the wireless connection to the TV tuner card.
Beyond that, there should been a green IR (infrared) icon in the Notification area of the Taskbar, which often turns read when the remote is used. Problems can occur if the driver is not installed properly, if other IR signals are nearby. Microwaves are notorious problem causers. Although there’s a lot to it, you can install a TV tuner card, and it’s well worth it.