MPEG-2 PCI Hardware Encoder for $117

[JHebert]

I found what looks like a good deal on a PCI capture card and I'd like to hear some opinions if anyone has experience with it.

Its called the "KWorld DVD Maker" and its listed for $117 at ComputerGeeks online store at http://www.compgeeks.com/details.asp?invtid=MP2PCI-TV

I never heard of the manufacturer before and couldn't find any reviews on the card but it sounds similar to WinTV PVR, Dazzle DVCII, Snazzi III, Navis Pro, Provideo 256T, etc. I couldn't find any info on what hardware encoder chip it uses such as StreamMachine, Kfir-2, C-Cube, etc but the Philips logo is visible on one of the chips.

Here is the info copied from the website:

Make VCD, SVCD, Watch TV on PC, Record in MPEG, this card does it all. The KWorld DVD Maker is a Real-Time Hardware MPEGII/I PCI encoder and decoder card that enables you to record files with DVD quality without delay. Users also have access to a program guide that allows them to view a schedule of television shows, then instantly tune into a show for viewing on the PC. This high-quality card supports S-Video/AV-in and S-Video/AV out and includes a remote control! Don't delay, get one today!

Features/Specifications
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* PCI Interface
* TV channel: 125 Channels
* TV system: NTSC System
*
* Video Encoder:
* Real time MPEG-1/MPEG-2 Video Encoding
* Support Constant Bit Rate(CBR)
* Support Variable Bit Rate(VBR)
*
* Video Decoder:
* Decode MPEG-1/MPEG-2
*
* Video Resolution:
* NTSC System:704x480, 480x480, 352x480,352x240
* PAL System (PAL/SECAM):704x576, 480x576, 352x576, 352x288
*
* Video Bit Rate:
* 10Mbps/sec or above (VariableBit Rate)
* 15Mbps/sec or above (IPBframes & Constant Bit Rate)

[easydvd]

related mfr link:

http://www.kworld.com.tw/products/pro2/kw-tv-version.htm

might be a good deal. If anyone buys this post a review.

[D_Knife]

I downloaded the drivers for the TV version
looking through the INF files
it uses a "Streammachine 2210" chipset
I don't know this chipset at all so I can't say much else

[BJ_M]

Stream Machine SM2210 MPEG-2 video CODEC which supports real-time video encoding and decoding using a single-pass variable bit rate MPEG-2 encoding technique, providing higher video quality than traditional constant bit rate MPEG-2 encoding.
Because the SM2210 is a true CODEC, doing both encode and decode functions, the total system cost and parts count is reduced compared to systems using separate MPEG-2 encoders and decoders. In addition, the SM2210 combines a high-degree of system integration with ease of design. It interfaces directly to popular NTSC/PAL video decoders, NTSC/PAL video encoders, microcontrollers for embedded applications and PCI interface chips for PC applications which eliminates costly glue logic. And it requires only 4 Mega bytes of SDRAM for full resolution NTSC 30 frames per second MPEG-2 encoding, further reducing parts count and system cost.
Reference Designs
Two reference designs are available: the SymphonyTM standalone personal video recorder reference design and the Insta-ReplayTM video capture and playback PCI board reference design for PC applications. Both reference designs are complete, including software/firmware, schematics, bill of materials (BOM), Gerber files, and user documentation to enable products based on these reference designs to be brought quickly to high volume manufacturing.
Availability
The SM 2210 single chip MPEG-2 video CODEC is in full production and available now. Pricing for SM 2210 is $49 in 4000 unit orders. The Symphony and Insta-Replay reference designs are both available too.
About Stream Machine Company
Stream Machine Company provides audio and video solutions for the Internet, consumer electronics and personal computer markets. Stream Machine uses proprietary technology and techniques to bring to market cost effective semiconductors that implement industry standard audio and video algorithms, such as MPEG-2. Please visit the Stream Machine website for additional information: www.streammachine.com

[SHS]

It similar to Provideo PV256T

[BJ_M]

Prolink Video Maker, Stream Machine 2210,MPEGII,TVtuner,RC $137
Datavideo VDR-3000 $499


are two products made w/ this chip ---- first developed in 1999 ... could really find a review ....

[ofbarea]

This card is a Provideo 256T. The Kworld DVD maker works better with the provideo Drivers than the ones that came with the card.

For Newer drivers go to: http://www.provideo.com.tw/PV256.htm

For a Review go to: http://www.iln.com.au/pv256t.html

I also got mine from Computers geeks.

*** Edit 14-DEC-2007 / Updated links ***