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HDHomeRun Installation

The most interesting aspects of the HDHomeRun is that it works over Ethernet, so you don’t need to open your MythTV server case, have an available PCI slot, or even directly attach it.

Since the HDHomeRun plugs into an Ethernet network, you can place the devices anywhere you have a network connection. It does not need to be in close proximity to your MythTV backend. This opens up interesting possibilities, such as an attic installation with two antennas pointed in different directions.

There are only four ports on the back of the unit, which don’t need much explanation.

HDHomeRun Ports:

  • 2 coax ports for video signal input
  • 1 Ethernet port
  • 1 Power plug

It is unfortunate that the coax ports are not labeled for which is tuner is first or second. A small nuisance, although a strong indication that this is a device designed by engineers for technical geeks.

You can have antennas in the attic with just about any HDTV tuner, but you’d have to run the coax directly to the computer the card is installed in. Do you have a network switch upstairs, but your MythTV backend in the basement? Run Ethernet up through the ceiling, find a place to plug in the power, and you’re set. No need to run additional lines all the way to the basement.

You can also use the two tuners to connect to two different video sources, such as over the air broadcast on one tuner and your cable TV signal on the second tuner.

One thing I find lacking when it comes to the physical installation of the HDHomeRun. Screw slots to enable mounting the device to a wall. This device looks like it would be perfect to mount on the wall where the cable TV enters the house, or to a rafter in the attic, but that ability is not designed into it.

If you’re handy, I’m sure you can figure something out to mount this to a wall, although I would really have liked to see mounting holes on the back of the unit.

If you plan on using the IR receiver that is part of the unit, you will of course need to place the HDHomeRun where it will receive the IR signal. The generally means you will need to have it close to your TV, or use a IR signal relay device to receive and re-transmit the remote control IR signal to the HDHomeRun.

Learn more about the HDHomeRun