Can someone explain to me what a " TV Tuner " is all about ?

Question

I want to watch tv shows on my laptop, just like the way you can watch tv stations on a television.

I've been told that a TV tuner will do just this ? Now from what I understand, all you have to do is plug it into your laptop via USB and then your good to go ! Are there any service fees, associated with a TV tuner ? Will I be able to get all channels, just like I would on satellite or digital cable ?

Thanks

Answer 1

A TV tuner is what lets you watch a channel, usually one that is broadcast free over the air.  With a TV tuner card in your computer you will be able to watch any free over the air channel you can receive.  You will need an antenna to receive these channels and most TV antennas are not small.  Think rabbit ears.  They are a TV antenna.  Without an antenna the tuner won't be able to get enough signal to display anything but noise or snow on your computer.  You won't be able to receive cable or satellite channels without the cable or satellite box connected to the tuner and, of course, a subscription to one or the other.  You won't be able to receive digital or HD TV unless the tuner is digital or HD capable.