I have read several postings to this site about people having problems with this product. I hope that my experiences maybe of some help. I have tried the WINTV-PVR USB on several Laptop Computers using win 98 and win 2K. First some general comments.
The product does work but is very picky about the systems that will work well.
It does not like systems with small amounts of memory(128KB or less).
Needs large and fast HD drives.
Does not like Antivirus SW to be active.
If you have an IR port disable it.
Runs best on a CLEAN system. A system that has a minium of background tasks operating. (Run ADWARE or other such to remove those pesky logging programs)
You'll get NO help from Hauppauge.
Always try out the product on your computer FIRST.

My system is a DELL Latitude C600 WIN 2K 256 KB RAM and 60 gB HD.
I run stright out the USB port to the WINTV-PVR USB(no hub).
I read and followed the installation instructions to the letter.
I keep the most current BIOS, and video drivers, HD drivers loaded.
I use the most current released drivers from Hauppauge.
I keep my HD defraged.
With the latest drivers everything in the product works at all capture densities.

One thing that really helped is to increase the task prority to realtime.

If you are having problems I will be glad to help you get this working.
Most things are very simple to do.

I really am very pleased with the wintv-pvr usb.