One alternative to the Windows Media Centre when building an HTPC is to go with a flavour of Linux and MythTV.  The set up may be a little daunting to those who have never used or installed Linux, but the rewards are worth the time invested.  MythTV does have an Achilles Heel, which is its inability to deal with streaming video from the net.  Many have tried to integrate that capability into the program, with mixed results.  There is a new plug in in the works that may solve this dilemma, MythNetVision which consists of a search screen and a site/RSS browser screen.  Drop by Hack a Day for more information.

“Another group of developers has stepped up to the plate in the never-ending attempt to integrate online streaming video with MythTV. The new plugin is called MythNetVision and aims to bring streaming and downloading video functionality both easily and legally. That means without violating the terms of service of the providing website.”

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