Article added 15th January, 2009.

What is TiVo?
TiVo is basically a set top box and recorder in one. The inbuilt hard disc drive (HDD) acts as the recorder and allows you to record two different channels and watch a third, pre-recorded channel at the same time. If you have set TiVo to record your favourite TV show and the broadcast time changes, TiVo will automatically update the start/end time. If you want TiVo to record every episode of your favourite program you just need to enter the programs name into TiVo and it will do the rest for you.

How Much Does It Cost and Where Can I Buy It?
TiVo costs $699 and is currently only available from these retailers:
· Harvey Norman
· JB HI-FI
· Dick Smith
· David Jones
· Clive Anthonys
· Domayne

What Channels Will I Receive?
TiVo allows you to receive all the currently available digital free-to-air (FTA) channels which are:
· ABC
· ABC2
· ABC HD
· SBS
· SBS World News
· SBS HD
· Seven
· Seven HD
· Nine
· Nine HD
· Ten
· Ten HD

Seven, Nine and Ten plan to release further standard definition channels in 2009. Ten has recently announced they will be providing a new channel dedicated to 24/7 sport.

Will It Work With My TV?
With TiVo, even if you have an older analogue television, you will be able to receive all of the above channels. Of course, to obtain the best picture quality, a high definition (HD) television is recommended. You must also have a digital ready antenna installed.

How Many Hours Can I Record?
The HDD that comes standard with TiVo has enough space to record up to 60hrs of standard definition (SD) television or up to 30 hours of high definition (HD) television. TiVo will soon be releasing a hard disc drive upgrade that will allow for longer recording times.

Can I Download Movies?
From 1st December 2008, TiVo owners can download a "movie of the week" free of charge. However, please note that obtaining this movie will use up some of your monthly broadband download quota. From March 2009, Blockbuster will be bringing TiVo owners video on demand (VOD). To start with there will be some 100+ movies and TV release films available. Movies will be pay-per-view and TV release films will be free. Again, these downloads will use up some of your monthly broadband download quota.

Do I Need An Internet Broadband Connection?
The biggest drawback of TiVo is the need for a broadband internet connection. Without this you will NOT be able to use TiVo. The TiVo box (which will be located near your television) needs to be connected to your broadband modem. It can be connected either via an ethernet (RJ45) cable or wirelessly.

Wired Connection:
Your modem must have a spare ethernet connection (USB is not supported). The cable that comes with TiVo is only about 1m long. So, if your modem is further than 1m away from your TiVo box, you will need to buy a longer cable to suit.

Wireless Connection:
If you already have a wireless modem/router or are planning on getting one then you will also need to buy the TiVo wireless adaptor for $59.95. This adaptor plugs directly into the TiVo box.