Watch cable TV from PC.

Hey all. Don't know if it's possible or not but I'm totally new to HTPCs and what can or can't be done. My question is, if there is a way to watch cable TV on your PC without cable services. I'm more interested in internet and maybe phone services from my provider and in a move to cut down on bills, I'm removing my cable services.

I'm planning on getting a Roku or such before years end but wondered if there is something else out there.

Get an antenna and an ATSC PC tuner for OTA HD TV; will only be the major networks (PBS, CBS, ABC, FOX, CW, etc) and any local network stations in your area. You can then watch and record the TV with WMC or a variety of other HTPC software. Netflix, Hulu, iTunes and Amazon Prime to fill in the rest. Anything else isn't going to be legal, which is not allowed to be talked about here.

Getting cable TV without paying for it is theft of services, so no.

10-4 thanks.

Are Roku ok to talk about or no? Are those legit pieces of equipment?

Perfectly fine.

Cool man. Greatly appreciate the response. It's exactly what I was looking for.



Edit.

Can you recommend a nice tuner that won't break the wallet?

For ATSC OTA HD?

HD HomeRun Dual if you want a network connected dual tuner: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815345007

AVerMedia AVerTVHD Duet for an internal PCIe dual Tuner: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815100044

Hauppauge WinTV 2250 for an internal PCIe Dual that also has a FM tuner built-in: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815116036

I personally own the Hauppage, and people love the HDHomeRun for it's network capability (means you have it hooked into your router and any computer on the network can watch TV).

I can HIGHLY recommend the HDHomeRun. Love it! Pair it up with windows media center and you have a nice DVR setup too. XBOX Media Center may be able to as well, but I've never used it.