How does the TiVo work?

Answer 1

It works really well.

Think of it as a computer. It has software in it that knows what shows are on each channel, like a database. You tell it that you like a show - say Smallville - and it finds it. Then it records it to the hard drive just like a video from any other source.

That's the basics of it.

Answer 2

Basically, a TiVo has a TV tuner that receives TV signals. The received program is then digitized and stored on an internal hard drive. Playback is accomplished by reading the information off of the hard drive, changing it back to an analog signal (unless you have a digital TV) and them displaying on the TV. A TiVo unit can record and playback simultaneously. The unit also downloads a schedule (by phone or in some cases over the internet) and records programs that you have selected.

Answer 3

Hi Tiffymarie,

A TiVo is a Digital Video Recorder but so much more. I prefer TiVO over a basic DVR because of simplicity of use. The schedule is always correct because it is updated every day. I can program TiVO to record from out of town over the Internet. TiVO learns what you like and recommends shows that you might like. Often times we never would have known they were on. You can program an entire season of a given series with a single click and TiVO never forgets. You can tell TiVO you like someone or something and it will locate shows for you. For example if you tell it you like John Wayne it will watch for and record anything he is on.

I could go on and on about TiVO. There is one downside and that is the monthly (you can pay yearly if you want) fee.

To learn all about TiVO check their web site here - https://www3.tivo.com

Check the TiVO user forum here - http://www.tivocommunity.com

Norm

Answer 4

Bascially, it digitally records shows. You're connected by a phone line, and it downloads/uploads information on a daily basis.

Here's a basic summary of features; you can go to the website for further descriptions:

Features that automatically record your favorite shows-whenever they're on
A search engine to find and automatically record the shows that match your interests (by title, actor, director, category, even keyword)
Easy home networking features that enable online services like Podcasts, Yahoo! Weather & Traffic, and local movie listings & tickets from Fandango
Easy-to-use to-go features that let you transfer shows to your laptop or portable device, or easily burn them to DVD
Scheduling last-minute shows from the Web