[mythtv-users] HIPER HMC-2K53A as MythTv Frontend?

[Dale]

Hi,

Having issues with component out is a killer for me. My HDTV is pre-DVI.
Too bad about them not supporting Linux. I wonder why the attitude on their
part? You would think any business is good business.

If this box is being ditched, are there any suggestions for something
comparable to the HIPER? 

I've been having trouble coming up with a box that meets my needs in order
of importance:

* Reasonably wife friendly.
* At least as quiet as my TiVo (which I'm replacing).
* Frontend MythTV configuration.
* Plays HDTV on component out.
* Optical SPDIF digital audio output.
* Plays DVDs (then I get rid of my DVD player as well).
* IR Remote.
* MPEG4 decode assist (I guess  with a good enough CPU 
  this wouldn't be needed).

This seem like the sort of thing most people needing a MythTV frontend
would want.

I already have my backend running pretty well (except for pixelation issues
with the Airstar HD5000).

Dale

>> Has anybody tried this machine for a MythTv frontend? It looks just like
>> what the doctor ordered!
>> 
>> http://www.hipergroup.com/English/products/hmc-2k53a.html
>
>I have one and my friend has one. It is a nice box, but not much support for
>linux on the VFD / Buttons. My friend is returning his. We both left
>negative reviews as far as using it for Linux. There is a usb port 3 error
>that is constantly flooding the syslog and console to the point where it is
>not very usable. There is no support for the VFD, hipergroup responded to my
>email asking for some chip details so *I* could write a driver. They
>responded saying there is no linux support and don't plan on any. Kind of a
>turn off. The component output works, but has a lot of overscan and is not
>currently correctable using the Nvidia drivers. DVI and VGA to Component
>work ok. Nice box overall. You might want to wait some more before getting
>one.