How to Make a DVD from a Recorded DVR Movie With Your Computer

by Stacy Zogheib, Demand Media

You can record DVR content to DVDs.

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Digital video recorders (DVRs) have become popular with the transition to more digital media. Digital media is becoming more common while VHS tapes and DVD discs are less common. Instead of renting an expensive cable box with a DVR or purchasing a DVR service from a company like TiVo, you can set up a media center using a computer connected to your TV. With a little time and money, you can watch and record videos on your TV through your computer just like using a DVR. With some patience you can record a DVR show to a DVD that you can play in any DVD player.

Step 1

Connect your computer's TV tuner to your TV with the VGA/HDMI cable.

Step 2

Install the software that came with your tuner card on your PC.

Step 3

Run Microsoft Windows' update to check for newer software or driver updates.

Step 4

Scan for a cable or TV connection using your computer's TV tuner software. Follow the on-screen prompts to do this and also start your channel guide.

Step 5

Start your recording software. Search online for applications that can record from your TV tuner. Popular programs include Beyond TV and SageTV.

Step 6

Set the recording program to catalog shows you watch. This saves them to your computer's hard drive.

Step 7

Insert a blank DVD disc into your DVD burner. Windows will ask what you want to do with the blank disc.

Step 8

Burn your saved show or movie to your blank disc using the Windows prompts. If Windows prompts do not take you through the steps, you may need specialized software to do this. If so, search online for DVD burning software.

Tips & Warnings

  • TV tuner cards for computers are available at most computer supply stores. You can install it yourself or have the store do it for you.
  • Make sure you have hard drive space to store all the TV programming you record. File sizes and types vary depending on the recording software you choose.

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References

  • "PC World": Step-by-Step: Convert Your PC Into a Digital Video Recorder
  • "PC World": Apps Turn Your Computer Into a Powerful DVR

About the Author

Stacy Zogheib's writing has been published in various online publications. She is a teacher and educator with experience teaching first grade, special education and working with children ages 0 to 3. She has a Bachelor of Arts in elementary and special education from Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio.

Photo Credits

  • Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images