Need a list of specifications to look for in a tuner

[sofasurfer]

I want a tv tuner card but I don't know what to look for. I currently
have a TV-PCIRC, watch I think is a generic cheapy. $35. The tv image
on the pc screen is a little fuzzy. Is this because of the differance
between a tv and a monitor? Will the image be better on a tv, using the
s-video? It also has a couple of other problems that I don't like.

So, I want to upgrade to a better (not nessessarily more expensive)
tuner. What I would like is a list of the important specs and what
those specs should be for a poor, good and better setup. For instance,
mine supports YUV data format. I can't say if thats good cause I don't
know what it means.
I have video capture up to 30 fps. Should I look for better or is this
good?

So, if I had a guide to lead me in the right direction it would help a
lot.

I currently have an adequete video card... Nvidia geforce 4 MX 440 but
I may upgrade later.
I run WindowsME (Don't say it. It work fine for me) and Linux Debian.
I will be willing to spend no more than about $50 for now.

I will admit, the WindowsME gives me a lot less options but...

So, any advice would be welcome.

 

[Brian Mills]

Most tuners get a little fuzzy because the TV picture is sent in alternalte
lines (known as Interlacing) so the transmitter sends line 1,3,5,7 etc etc

Then it sends 2,4,6,8 etc

If motion happens quickly the alternate lines can be offset from one
another.

This can be fixed by running a program to correct the problem. Try
http://deinterlace.sourceforge.net/

Millsey

 

[Andy]

Get a card that can receive digital broadcasts.