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Software for the WinTV-PVR-250 and
WinTV-PVR-350

Please note that all software listed on this page is for both the WinTV-PVR-250 and WinTV-PVR-350. The only difference between the 250 and 350 is that the WinTV-PVR-350 includes a hardware MPEG video decoder for outputing video recordings to a TV set or video monitor.
All references to the WinTV-PVR-250 apply to the WinTV-PVR-350.
Note: "updates" listed on this page are updates to the standard drivers which
are installed from your WinTV-PVR Installation CD-ROM. They are not complete driver sets.
Latest applications Latest drivers Beta software Software accessories for WinTV-PVR-pci boards Tips for installation and use of WinTV-PVR-pci boards Third party applications for use with WinTV-PVR-pci boards

Latest application and driver updates

Note: the operation of WinTV-PVR-250/350 requires two pieces: a WinTV driver and a WinTV application. We recommend you update both the driver and the application at the same time.

WinTV-PVR-250/350 driver update
WinTV-PVR-250 driver version 1.7

This driver version works better with Intervideo WinDVD players which might be installed on your PC. To improve compatibility with WinDVD, you need to install the latest Hauppauge Video decoder (hcwsmd04.exe) and this driver.

To install:

  • Download three files to your computer:
    HCWCLEAR
    PVR_INF files: pvr250_inf.zip
    WinTV-PVR Update: PVR250_17_21288.exe
  • Run HCWCLEAR. This will remove the current WinTV-PVR drivers and applications.
  • Unzip the pvr250_inf.zip file to a temporary directory.
  • Then reboot your computer.
  • When your system restarts, the "Add New Hardware wizard" will run.
    In the Add Hardware Wizard first screen, select "Advanced". Then click "Next".
    In the next menu, select "Include this location in the search" and enter the location of your temporary directory where you unzipped the pvr250_inf.zip file to install the base driver. Then click "Next".
  • After Windows has loaded the base driver, run the pvr250_17_21288.exe driver updater.

This will complete the driver installation for the PVR250/350. You will also need to install the latest WinTV2000 Application and Hauppauge Video decoders".

Name: PVR250_17_21288.exe
size=2600K
Updated October 13, 2003

WinTV2000 application update
download WinTV2000 application version 4.2_21342

To install, copy this file to a temporary directory on your local disk. Then run wintv2k42_21342.exe, which will install the new WinTV2000 application.
New feature: This version now has on-screen display of fast forward, play and rewind.
New feature: Recording controls disappear in "no'title" mode, until you move your cursor to the TV window.
New feature: Instant Jump while playing back a file While playing a file, hit the numeric keys on the IR; the WinTV2000 player will jump to a position in the file equal to total length of the file times the number hit. For example, if you hit the "5" key, you will jump to 50% of the file length. This feature is handy when playing back large files. This feature requires a new version of the IR remote control (see below).
New feature: Command-line support for record quality via -q"profilename. For example, when setting a command line, adding -q "DVDstandardplay" will record using the DVD Standard play profile.

ULead DVD MovieFactory application update
The latest updates to MovieFactory can be found at: http://www.ulead.com/tech/dmf/dmf_ftp.htm
A fix for a hang when burning VCD's is now available.

Accessory software for the WinTV-PVR-250/350
download Hauppauge Video Decoder version 4 release 21154

This is the latest Hauppauge Video decoder. It has better compatibility with the Intervideo WinDVD player, which many computers have preinstalled. This version also supports some graphics cards in Primary mode (use Primary.exe, found in the WinTV directory, to set Primary mode). For performance reasons, it is always preferable to use "Allow VMR" or "Allow Overlay" in the Primary.exe program.

To install this new decoder, first remove the old Hauppauge decoder by going into Control Panel and then Add/Remove Programs. Remove Intervideo Filter SDK
Then run hcwsmd04_21154.exe

Name: hcwsmd04_21154.exe
Size=2156K
Updated June 3, 2003

download MPEG Editor for the WinTV-PVR version 2.2.0
New version features:
  • Fast editing: uses a new technique to speed up the editing process.
  • Standard support for large files: this version was developed under WindowsXP, and can edit unlimited size MPEG files.
  • Separate functions to remultiplex VCD and SVCD files: new menu options are available to create "burnable" VCD and SVCD files from "raw" files created by the WinTV-PVR.
  • A button has been added to play the file which has just been edited.
This is a "cuts only" editor for use with WinTV-PVR. You can remove commercials, rearrange video sequences or trim the ends of your video files. The WinTV MPEG Editor preserves the quality of the original recording by not requiring a re-encoding after editing, so you get "first generation" quality video. It does this by cutting only on the MPEG I frames.

The WinTV-PVR Editor works with the MPEG formats (MPEG1 and MPEG2) created with the PVR. If you are editing MPEG-1 (or VCD) files, the output created by the WinTV-Editor is in a recordable VCD format. For more information on this, see below under "Here's another way to make Video CD (VCD) burnable files".

How to use the MPEG editor: Click here for instructions on using the MPEG editor.

New! beta version of the WinTV Editor is now available, version 2.3.1. Click here to download this new version. This beta version has smoother cuts and fixed a bug where the "Remux" option doesn't appear in WinME or Win98.

Name: wintv_editor220.exe
Vesion: 2.2.0
Updated: August 23, 2002

download TV Scheduler version sched107_21034.exe
Schedule your TV recordings.
This version now supports the new enhanced TitanTV, the web based schedule of TV programs. To use TitanTV to schedule your TV recordings, click on the "TitanTV" icon on your Windows desktop. You need an internet connection to use TitanTV.com

Name: sched107_21034.exe
Size=3500K
Updated: March 2, 2003

download VCD Convert program
Converts VCD compliant MPEG-1 files into recordable VCD files. Also includes "Burn VCD" button, which is compatible with many CD burners.
Note: if you are using the WinTV-Editor, you do not need to use the VCD Convert program, since the WinTV-Editor automatically converts MPEG-1 files into recordable VCD files.
To install, copy this file to a temporary directory on your local disk. Then run vcdconvertsetup_19228.exe

Name: vcdconvertsetup_19228.exe
Version: 1.8
Size=2647K
Updated August 15, 2001

download IR Remote control version 2.35
Latest version the IR remote control software. Now supports Pause, Replay and Skip buttons on the remote control.
Also, now runs under Windows2000.
File name: ir32_235_2105.exe
Vesion: 2.35 release 21052
Updated: Feb. 21, 2003
download WinTV Radio32 application version 1.52
To install, download to a temporary directory and run RADIO32.EXE
New features include 30 presets and local/distance reception. Also, name radio stations by creating a preset and then clicking on the freq display and typing in the string you want.
Click here to see instructions on using the new WinTV Radio32 application.
File name: radio32ver152_20311.exe
Version 1.52
size=324K
Updated Nov. 7, 2002

Beta test versions

WinTV2000 application update
download WinTV2000 application version 4.3_22033

To install, copy this file to a temporary directory on your local disk. Then run wintv2k43_22033.exe, which will install the new WinTV2000 application.
New feature: This version now has on-screen display of fast forward, play and rewind.
New feature: Recording controls disappear in "no'title" mode, until you move your cursor to the TV window.
New feature: Instant Jump while playing back a file While playing a file, hit the numeric keys on the IR; the WinTV2000 player will jump to a position in the file equal to total length of the file times the number hit. For example, if you hit the "5" key, you will jump to 50% of the file length. This feature is handy when playing back large files. This feature requires a new version of the IR remote control (see below).
New feature: Command-line support for record quality via -q"profilename. For example, when setting a command line, adding -q "DVDstandardplay" will record using the DVD Standard play profile.

WinTV-PVR driver update
WinTV-PVR-250 driver version 1.8

This driver version works better with Intervideo WinDVD players which might be installed on your PC. To improve compatibility with WinDVD, you need to install the latest Hauppauge Video decoder (hcwsmd04.exe) and this driver.

To install:

  • Download three files to your computer:
    HCWCLEAR
    PVR_INF files: pvr250_18_inf.zip
    WinTV-PVR Update: PVR250_18_22037.exe
  • Run HCWCLEAR. This will remove the current WinTV-PVR drivers and applications.
  • Unzip the pvr250_18_inf.zip file to a temporary directory.
  • Then reboot your computer.
  • When your system restarts, the "Add New Hardware wizard" will run.
    In the Add Hardware Wizard first screen, select "Advanced". Then click "Next".
    In the next menu, select "Include this location in the search" and enter the location of your temporary directory where you unzipped the pvr250_inf.zip file to install the base driver. Then click "Next". Click "Continue anyway". Click "Finish".
  • After Windows has loaded the base driver, run the PVR250_18_22037.exe driver updater.

This will complete the driver installation for the PVR250/350.
You will also need to install the latest WinTV2000 Application, the WinTV Scheduler and Hauppauge Video decoders.

Name: PVR250_18_22037.exe
Size: 2600K
Updated: Feb. 4, 2004

IR remote control update
download IR remote control application version 2.35_21315

To install, copy this file to a temporary directory on your local disk. Then run ir32_235_21315.exe, which will install the new IR32 application.
New feature: Now supports the "instant jump" feature in Slip/Play modes using the new WinTV2000 application (above).

WinTV Scheduler update
download TV Scheduler version 1.08_22019.exe
Schedule your TV recordings.
This version now supports the new enhanced TitanTV, the web based schedule of TV programs. To use TitanTV to schedule your TV recordings, click on the "TitanTV" icon on your Windows desktop. You need an internet connection to use TitanTV.com

Name: sched108_22019.exe
Size: 3500K
Updated: Jan. 19, 2004

3rd Party Applications

SnapStream Personal Video Station 3

Download a free trial copy of SnapStream's Personal Video Station 3 software. SnapStreams' Personal Video Station 3 uses the WinTV-PVR-250 or WinTV-PVR-350, and will transform your PC into a dazzling entertainment center. Use Personal Video Station to pause, rewind, and fast-forward live television, to record all of your favorite TV shows, and to stream TV shows to any device on your home network. The trial software includes an integrated program guide with no monthly subscription fees.

SageTV: Intelligent PVR Software

 SageTV is a personal video recording software package with an integrated EPG for use with your WinTV-PVR-250 or WinTV-PVR-350. With SageTV, you can pause live TV, rewind and fast forward, and conveniently record your shows. SageTV also provides an Integrated Programming Guide with no subscription fees listing all upcoming programs for the next 14 days based on your cable or satellite provider. SageTV is the only PVR application for the PC that introduces Intelligent Recording and Scheduling based on your past viewing habits. SageTV interacts with your WinTV-PVR to provide you with the ultimate 24/7 PVR application for your PC. SageTV also support the use of multiple WinTV-PVR's, recording multiple channels at once!

KnoppMyth: an easy to use installer for MythTV

 KnoppMyth makes Linux and MythTV easy to install. In addition to PVR features, KnoppMyth includes all software necessary for a HTPC (Home Theater PC). KnoppMyth offers "out the box" support for the WinTV-PVR-250 and WinTV-PVR-350.

Technical notes

Product Support page

Click here for our Product Support page which contains all of our FAQ's and general information.
Click here the DVD MovieFactory support page.

Command line options for launching WinTV

Click here to see documentation on command line options for WinTV2000 and the WinTV-PVR. With command line options, you can run WinTV tuned to your favorite channel, you can automatically start a record, or launch in the "no-toolbar" mode.

Want to make an SVCD (Super Video CD) from movies created with WinTV-PVR-250? Here's how:

It's pretty simple to make an S-VCD from recordings you've made with the WinTV-PVR-250. You will need to have a CD burner and software for authoring your SVCD. Hauppauge includes Ulead's DVD MovieFactory to author and burn SVCD's. MovieFactory will take SVCD movies recorded with WinTV-PVR-250 and then remultiplexed and edited with the WinTV MPEG Editor, and allow you to author and burn your SVCDs.

The first step is to use one of the SVCD recording formats in the MPEG setup menu in WinTV. The WinTV-PVR-250, when using one of the SVCD record formats, makes SVCD compatible MPEG files. SVCD uses MPEG-2 video compression with a datarate of 2.2Mbits/sec, 44.1KHz audio and 480x480 image sizes (for NTSC video sources). Then, you remultiplex the movie with the WinTV MPEG Editor, then author your S-VCD.

Here's what you need to do:

  1. When recording your videos with WinTV-PVR-250, chose one of the SVCD formats. You can chose between SVCD SP (standard play), SVCD LP (long play) or SVCD EP (extra long play). With SVCD SP you get the best video quality, and can record about 30 minutes of video onto a CD-ROM.
  2. remultiplex your original file into the SVCD format. To do this, in the WinTV Editor, click on Options, then click Remultiplex file for SVCD. Then give the name of your original recording, then name your "output" recording. When this step is complete (this may take many minutes), your file is ready to either edit (using the WinTV Editor), or to directly burn using DVD MovieFactory.
  3. Edit your videos using the WinTV editor. When finished, click the Generate output button to create the SVCD complaint video file.
  4. Author your SVCD video using ULead MovieFactory. Use the file called nanoEdit.mpg as the source of your SVCD MPEG file. Then burn the SVCD.

You can also use Nero5 to burn SVCD's. Click here to see what the Nero burner will look like after loading an SVCD movie, just before the burn step.

Here's another way to make Video CD (VCD) burnable files

The WinTV-PVR-250, when you chose the VCD record format, makes MPEG files which have the correct characteristics for Video CD. These characteristics are: MPEG-1 video at 1.1Mbits per second (the VCD specification calls for a maximum video datarate of 1.151Mbits/sec), 352x240 format (NTSC), 29.92 frames per second (for NTSC) and 44.1KHz audio. But the MPEG files themselves need to have the audio and video remultiplexed before a Video CD can be recorded onto CD-ROM. One way to do the remultiplexing is to use a "freeware" package such as TMPGencode.

But many people would like to use the MPEG Editor for the WinTV-PVR to edit their Video CD's before burning them onto a CD-ROM. If you open a MPEG file created with the WinTV-PVR-250 using the VCD MPEG format, the WinTV MPEG Editor will correctly remultiplex into a format which can be "burnt" into a Video CD. So you simply create a VCD format file with WinTV-PVR-250, open that file with the WinTV MPEG Editor, edit it (or simply select the entire file if you do not want to edit the file) and then click on Add interval and then Generate output. The WinTV Editor will create a correctly multiplexed Video CD file on your hard disk!

So, if you want to burn Video CD's, you can edit your VCD's with the WinTV MPEG Editor, and then bring the edited files into DVD MovieFactory, chosing the VCD format.

Want to extract the audio track from your WinTV-PVR recordings? Here are two ways to do this:

Here are two ways to extract the audio track from an MPEG file created by the WinTV-PVR. The first method creates a WAV file, which is an industry standard audio file. WAV files can later on be converted to MP3's or used in many audio editing applications. The second method creates a compressed MPEG audio file. This file is smaller (about 10x smaller!) than the WAV file, but it may not be readable by other audio applications.

To create a WAV file, you need a tool called "Flask MPEG XiS 3.0e" (right now, this tool only works on Windows2000 or WindowsXP). This is a "freeware" tool developed by Alberto Vigata and can be downloaded at http://go.to/flaskmpeg Goto to "Downloads" and download the FlasKMPEG 0.6 Preview. Install FlasK 0.6 Preview and run it. The version displayed on your screen should be FlaskMPEG XiS 3.0e. Then:

  1. With the WinTV-PVR, record your MPEG file in any MPEG format. We use 2Mbits/sec when we want to extract the audio since we will be throwing the video track away.
  2. Open FlasK and click File / Open Media and locate your MPEG file.
  3. Then click Run / Extract audio to .wav
  4. When finished, you'll have a WAV file in the same directory as your original MPEG file!

To create a MPEG compressed audio file, we use a tool called PVAStrumento, which was developed by Wiljo Heinen. You can download a PVAStrumento from http://www.offeryn.de/download/pvas2014.zip Install PVAStrumento, then:

  1. With the WinTV-PVR, record your MPEG file in any MPEG format. We use 2Mbits/sec when we want to extract the audio since we will be throwing the video track away.
  2. Open PVAStrumento and open up your MPEG file (enter the complete path and file name or click the little dots next to the file name space to browse for your file).
  3. Then click Demux. In the General tab, UNCLICK the Fix startup delays and Syncronize complete streams buttons (here is what it should look like). If you do not unclick these settings, the resulting audio file might have "dropouts". Then click Start.
  4. When finished, you'll have a MPA file in the same directory as your original MPEG file!

Chirpy audio, bad audio sync when playing back your MPEG videos? Do you have a VIA based motherboard?

These problems are due to the MPEG file being corrupt before data packets are written to the hard disk. You might need to download the VIA latency patch: http://download.viahardware.com/vlatency_v019.zip

VIA 4-in-1 driver update will often fix compatibility problems with the WinTV.

This driver is suitable for all VIA chipsets using Windows 95, 98, 98SE, NT, 2000, XP
This driver will install the VIA: - IDE Busmaster (2.1.41 or higher) - VIA AGP 3.55 - IRQ Routing Driver (1.3a or higher) - VIA Registry (ACPI). Also included is the VIA DMA Tool which facilitates the adjustment of DMA settings. The 4-in-1 Driver will automatically detect which versions of drivers you are currently using as well as determine the necessity to upgrade.

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