STB or fanless PC with Linux distro and DVB-S tuner?

[Etaoin Shrdlu Jr.]

I've got an old OpenBox DVB-S STB I'd like to replace. I'm looking at a few suitable STB's, but it occurred to me that I might also be able to use a small "real" computer running a full Linux, a DVB-S tuner, and ... some apps TBD.

An all-in-one STB is sure to provide a better out-of-the-box experience, but I'm an experienced Linux user/hacker and would be comfortable building my own system. But is that even practical?
Can anyone recommend...

• A suitable DVB-S* USB dongle or PCI card, ideally using a standard Linux device driver, that's capable of driving a USALS motor?
• Open source Linux applications compatible with DVB-S/S2/S2X USB tuners that provide a good user experience?

Thanks very much for your advice.

 

[Comptech]

Although I am a windows use, my TBS tuners are my go to over my STB's. So much more can be done with them.

 

[Etaoin Shrdlu Jr.]

Although I am a windows use, my TBS tuners are my go to over my STB's. So much more can be done with them.

Thanks for your reply. What Windows app(s) do you use with your TBS tuners? Can you say more about PC advantages over a STB?

If you've posted elsewhere about your setup, I'd love to read about it.

 

[Comptech]

EBS pro is my go to for scanning sats. Gives all the info you nedd plus you can tune a TP and peak it. You can also play the channels direct from the program. DVB Dream is my main viewer.

 

[cyberham]

...If you've posted elsewhere about your setup, I'd love to read about it.

You might find more here: Free to Air PC Tuner Discussion Forum

 

[Etaoin Shrdlu Jr.]

Thank you both.

 

[TRG]

Thank you both.

Etaoin, I have a USB FTA tuner that you can have. You just pay for shipping. I bought it years ago and never really used it. If you are interested I'll see if I can find it. I'm pretty sure it's packed away in my closet.