Support: WinTV-HVR-2250 and WinTV-HVR-2255

Complete WinTV-HVR-2250 software installer

Note: the operation of WinTV-HVR-2250 requires two pieces: a WinTV-HVR-2250 Windows driver and a TV application (either Windows Media Center or the Hauppauge WinTV v7 application). The WinTV application can only be installed if you have a WinTV CD-ROM (see below for more information). We recommend you update both the driver and the application at the same time.

Note: If you have run HCWCLEAR, you must reboot your PC and leave the WinTV-HVR-2250 installed. After a reboot you will see the Found New Hardware Wizard installation message, hit Cancel. then continue below.

WinTV v7 application and TV tuner driver download package

Note: A valid WinTV application CD-ROM (WinTV v6 or WinTV v7) will be needed to install this WinTV v7 version

Any WinTV 7 application CD can be used during the install. If you do not have your original WinTV CD-ROM but would like to update to WinTV v7 or WinTV v8, you can purchase a new CD on the Hauppauge webstore for $9.95

To install the WinTV v7 application update

  • Download the WinTV v7 installation package to your PC. After downloading this file, the file is normally saved in the Download directory on your PC
  • Insert your original valid WinTV CD in your CD-ROM drive
  • Run wintv7_cd from the Download directory on your PC

Download:

WinTV v7 installation package, version 3.9g
For Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista and XP

File name: wintv7_cd_3.9g.exe
File size: 151.4 MB
Date: 02/12/2015

This download is a complete installation package, including drivers for supported WinTV products plus the WinTV v7 application and utilities.

Installation notes:

A valid WinTV application CD-ROM will be needed to install this WinTV v7 version. Any WinTV v6 or WinTV 7 application CD can be used during the install. If you do not have your original WinTV CD-ROM but would like to update to WinTV v7, you can purchase a new CD on the Hauppauge webstore for $9.95

If you have a WinTV v7.2 CD-ROM with Extend, then the latest version of WinTV Extend will also be installed.

To install WinTV v7 on a PC or laptop without a CD-ROM drive

If your PC or laptop does not have a CD-ROM drive, do the following:

  • at the conclusion of the installation a dialog box will pop up saying "Activation required"
  • Click Enter Product Code
  • You will find the Product code on your WinTV v7 Installation CD
  • Enter the Product code including dashes and dots

Release notes for WinTV v7 version 3.9G:

  • Update to the WinTV-HVR-955Q driver to fix problems seen when switching channels quickly
  • Fixed an error "You do not have access to make the required system configuration modifications..."
  • Increased Pause Buffer bar size
  • Fixed TitanTV tvpi file association bug
  • New WinTV-NOVA-HD-USB 2 driver to fix issues in Turkey and other countries with low symbol rates
  • New WinTV-HVR-1975 driver to fix issues with 6875 Symbol rate
  • Fixed no Extend tab showing on upgrade installation

WinTV-HVR-22xx Windows driver

For all model WinTV-HVR-2255, WinTV-HVR-2250 and WinTV-HVR-2200 TV tuners

Name: Driver89_7_9_1_34216.exe
Size: 19.4 MB
Updated: 7/27/2016

To install the latest Windows driver only:

Leave your WinTV-HVR plugged into your PC. Follow the following steps:

  • Download the WinTV-HVR-2200 Windows driver above.
  • Double click the downloaded driver. This will install the WinTV-HVR-22xx Windows driver.
  • At the completion of the driver install, you should see a message which says Drivers have been updated successfully.
  • At this point, the Windows driver will be installed.

None at this time.

Setting up your TV tuner in Windows 7 Media Center

Windows Media Center remote control receiver/blaster configuration utility

Use this utility to enable or disable the built-in IR receiver/blaster hardware on the WinTV-HVR-1850 and WinTV-HVR-2250 for use with Windows Media Center. You would disable the built-in IR receiver/blaster if you are using an external USB attached Windows Media Center remote control.

To use this tool:

  • Download, unzip and install the Hcwcirconfig tool
  • After installing the Hcwcirconfig tool, run the program. The tool will be located in Start / All Programs / Hauppauge WinTV / HCWCIRConfig Tool
  • To configure as a Windows Media Center remote control, put a check in the box labeled Hauppauge Consumer Infrared Receiver click OK – Save Changes
  • Your computer must be restarted for the changes to take effect.

Name: hcw_circonfig_tool_1.2.28165.zip
Name: 322KB
Name: 6/16/2010

Bug fixes for the Windows Media Center "Low bit rate" error message

Microsoft has released Windows Media Center patches for the "Low bit rate" error message.

Click to view the information from Microsoft.

Remapping clear QAM channels in Windows 7 Media Center

Linux for the WinTV-HVR-22xx boards

Linux for the WinTV-HVR-2255 and WinTV-HVR-2205 (European model)

The WinTV-HVR-2255 and WinTV-HVR-2205 have open source Linux support.
See this link from LinuxTV.org

For customization of the Linux driver, please send an e-mail message to: davidz@hauppauge.com

Linux for the WinTV-HVR-2250

Available through LinuxTV.org

Accessory software for the WinTV-HVR-2250

WinTV Digital Signal Strength Indicator

The WinTV Digital Signal Strength indicator displays information about the quality of the digital TV channel you are watching. This application is used with the WinTV v10, 8 and v7 applications.

The WinTV Digital Signal Strength must be used with one of the Hauppauge WinTV applications. It cannot be used stand alone.

Click here for instructions on using this application.


WinTV Radio application for use with WinTV version 6

Notes:

  • this application runs with WinTV version 6 on WinTV boards equipped with FM radio
  • WinTV v7 has a built-in FM radio application

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.

Name: radio32_154_26154.exe
Version: 1.54
Size: 340 KB
Updated: June 3, 2008


WinTV-Scheduler update for WinTV version 6

This TV program scheduler for WinTV version 6 allows 'background recording' on dual tuner WinTV products.

Name: sched25_26071.exe
Size: 3.8 MB
Updated: March 11, 2008


IR Remote control application

Remote control applet for use with WinTV 7. After you run this applet, an icon will appear in your Windows device tray showing that the Hauppauge remote control is active.

Name: ir32_28015.exe
Name: 442KB
Name: 2/3/2010


IR Blaster Configuration program

This program configures the IR blaster for use with the WinTV application. Included is the selection of the set top box and the learn mode.

Name: irblast_28025.exe
Size: 414KB
Updated: 2/3/2010


Windows Media Center remote control receiver/blaster configuration utility

Use this utility to enable or disable the built-in IR receiver/blaster hardware on the WinTV-HVR-1850 and WinTV-HVR-2250 for use with Windows Media Center. You would disable the built-in IR receiver/blaster if you are using an external USB attached Windows Media Center remote control.

To use this tool:

  • Download, unzip and install the Hcwcirconfig tool
  • After installing the Hcwcirconfig tool, run the program. The tool will be located in Start / All Programs / Hauppauge WinTV / HCWCIRConfig Tool
  • To configure as a Windows Media Center remote control, put a check in the box labeled Hauppauge Consumer Infrared Receiver click OK – Save Changes
  • Your computer must be restarted for the changes to take effect.

Name: hcw_circonfig_tool_1.2.28165.zip
Name: 322KB
Name: 6/16/2010

IR Blaster installation and configuration

IR Blaster Configuration program

This program configures the IR blaster for use with the WinTV application. Included is the selection of the set top box and the learn mode.

Name: irblast_28025.exe
Size: 414KB
Updated: 2/3/2010

IR Remote control application

Remote control applet for use with WinTV 7. After you run this applet, an icon will appear in your Windows device tray showing that the Hauppauge remote control is active.

Name: ir32_28015.exe
Name: 442KB
Name: 2/3/2010

3rd Party Applications

NextPVR

Is a free Personal Video Recorder (PVR) and Media Centre application for Microsoft Windows.

SnapStream Beyond TV™ 4 : "Proving that a PC can rival TIVO" !

  • Supports the latest Hauppauge TV tuners.
  • Record more than one show at the same time or watch one while recording another with multi-tuner support
  • Record an entire TV series Record one show, every episodes, or only new episodes of your favorite show
  • Enjoy the full screen interface Choose shows and setup recordings from the comfort of your couch
  • Easily find shows using the integrated Electronic Program Guide (EPG)
  • Record and watch HDTV shows with over-the-air HD support on the WinTV-HVR-1250
  • Skip commercials with SmartSkip
  • Find shows faster with the new browse by category feature, or search by title or keyword
  • No subscription fees
  • Schedule recordings away from home via the Internet or a web-ready phone
  • Download FREE 21-day trial today

WinTV-HVR-2250 installation guides

WinTV v8 manuals

WinTV v7 manuals

Here is a chart which shows some of the things you need to know about each type of connection

Connecting to an over-the-air antenna

Cable or satellite TV set top box
using the RF output from the box

Cable or satellite TV set top box
using the A/V output from the box

Connecting to a cable TV wire from the wall (Digital QAM)

click to enlarge

click to enlarge

click to enlarge

click to enlarge
Which type of TV can this connection be used with? Over-the-air digital TV Cable or satellite TV
set top box
Cable or satellite TV
set top box
Cable TV direct connection
What types of video do I select when scanning for channels in the WinTV application (Device Setup Wizard)? Digital ATSC Analog TV (cable/antenna) External inputs
(S-Video or Composite video)
Digital QAM or
Analog TV (if available in your WinTV tuner)
What remote control do I use to change channels? WinTV remote control Remote control from your set top box Remote control from your
set top box
WinTV remote control
Notes You can use a roof top antenna for best reception.

Most set top boxes allow you to switch to Channel 3 or 4. When you scan with WinTV, it will pick up the TV signal on the correct channel.

Some satellite receivers use channels 60, 70 or 73. But when you scan for Analog TV channels, WinTV will pick up whatever channel is being used by your set top box.

Most set top boxes have A/V connections on the back, which can go into the WinTV's A/V input.

Some cable TV networks transmit analog TV channels, so we recommend scanning for both Clear QAM and analog TV.

Not all cable TV networks transmit clear QAM. Check with your local cable TV operator for the availability of clear QAM in your area.

What Operating Systems are supported by the WinTV-HVR-2250?

  • Microsoft® Windows® XP, XP Pro or Windows XP Media Center Edition, with Service Pack 2.
  • Windows Vista (all versions), 32-bit and 64-bit
  • Windows 7 and 8 (all versions), 32-bit and 64-bit

System Requirements

  • Processor Requirements (minimum):
  • 2.2 GHz Intel P4 or equivalent
  • Microsoft Windows Vista or Windows XP with Service Pack 2.
    WinTV-HVR-2250 is Windows Vista Premium certified*
  • Available PCI Express X1 or X16 slot
  • Graphics with 64MB memory (or greater)
  • Sound card

Can I use the WinTV-HVR-2250 with Media Center?

Yes, the WinTV-HVR-2250 can be used with Windows Media Center. Simply download and install the latest drivers from the Hauppauge website.

NOTE: You must set up an analog TV tuner in Media Center first before you can proceed to set up a digital tuner.

What type of channels will I receive with the WinTV-HVR-2250?

NTSC Analog CableTV or over-the-air analog TV: You can use your cable TV from the wall to connect to the WinTV-HVR-1600 and receive all of your basic Cable TV channels. You can also use a roof top antenna to receive "over-the-air" TV.

Note: After June 2009, most areas in the United States no longer broadcast over-the-air analog signals.

ATSC over-the-air digital TV: Supports all ATSC formats, up to the high definition 1080i format!
Note: For ATSC digital TV, a rooftop/out door antenna is recommended for optimal results/signal strength.

ClearQAM cable TV Channels: Clear QAM digital cable TV channels are unencrypted digital cable TV channels. Clear QAM allows users to watch unencrypted digital TV channels from their cable TV provider without a set-top box.


Note: WinTV v7, WinTV v6, Microsoft Windows 7 or Windows TV Pack 2008 for Vista are required for clear QAM reception
Note: Check your local cable TV provider for clear QAM reception over your cable TV network.

Can I get HD with the WinTV-HVR-2250 through my Cable or Satellite box?

No. The WinTV-HVR-2250 has a clear QAM and ATSC over-the-air digital TV tuner built-in and supports all ATSC formats, up to the high definition 1080i format . The WinTV-HVR-2250 will support ATSC broadcasts that are currently being transmitted over-the-air. It will not be able to decode HD broadcasts that come through your cable or satellite box.

If you have an HD cable TV or satellite box and want to record HD TV, you can use Hauppauge's HD PVR.

The WinTV-HVR-2250 also will support clear QAM cable TV channels through your direct cable TV line if available from your cable TV provider.

Note: for clear QAM digital TV channels, you will need to be using the WinTV v7 application, or Windows Media Center with TV Pack 2008 or Windows 7.

Note: not all cable operators broadcast clear QAM digital TV. Contact your local cable operator to check if they provide clear QAM digital channels.

What type of recordings can I make with the WinTV-HVR-2250?

Using the WinTV 7 application the WinTV-HVR-2250, will record in a transport stream (TS)
For ATSC and Clear QAM digital TV recordings, the recording format and bit rate is exactly the same as the broadcast format (i.e. ATSC 1080i is recorded at 1080i).
For NTSC analog cable TV recordings, our HardPVR is used to create Transport Stream files (TS)

Note: TS files can be converted to MPEG files using options in the WinTV 7 configuration menu.

Note: The WinTV 6 application recording are in MPEG format for both digital and analog.

Note: Not all recordings made with ATSC/QAM signals are DVD compliant.

Can I record one show while watching another with the WinTV-HVR-2250?

Yes. The WinTV-HVR-2250 has dual NTSC and ATSC/QAM tuners you may record one while viewing the other, or even record both simultaneously. While recording a digital TV channel, you can be watching an analog TV channel or visa versa.

You can also use Windows Media Center to record one program and watch (or record) another program.

Black video window or choppy video when watching a digital TV channel

If you are watching a digital TV channel and you see choppy video, no audio or a black screen, then it is possible your PC is not fast enough to decode and play the digital TV channel you are watching. Please verify that your system meets the minimum requirements for using the HVR-1950

Digital TV, especially ATSC high definition digital TV, is very CPU intensive. Many graphics cards have special built-in hardware to speed up decoding of high definition TV channels.

On graphics cards without special video decoding features, you can often improve the playback performance by using the Video Renderer settings located in the settings menu of WinTV 7. To open the setting menu click on the “gear” button located in the lower left of the WinTV 7 screen.

The default mode is EVR. The other modes are VMR9, VMR7 and Overlay. Each mode uses a different process to render video. Try each mode and use the one which gives you the best results. To use hardware acceleration put a check in the box “use hardware acceleration when possible. This will allow your graphics system to use hardware acceleration for video decode. Note: graphics hardware acceleration does not work on all systems. After making a change in video rendering settings Wintv must be restarted to take effect.

If you are using WinTV 6 then the render options are part of a separate program called Primary.  Changes in the Primary applet must be made with the WinTV application closed.  Open the Primary program by going to Start – All Programs – Hauppauge WinTV – Primary.  After making changes close the Primary applet and open the WinTV application.

Windows cannot verify the digital signature for the drivers required for this device error code 52?

This appears to be a bug in windows 64 bit OS. Our drivers are signed.

"Windows cannot verify the digital signature for the drivers required for this device. A recent hardware or software change might have installed a file that is signed incorrectly or damaged, or that might be malicious software from an unknown source. (Code 52)"

The following is probably the easiest fix to Error Code 52 on Windows 7 or Windows 8 64bit.

In device manager right click the Hauppauge product under Sound Video and Game Controllers with the exclamation mark and select Uninstall.

On the Confirm window please check the box for "Delete the driver software for this device" and click OK.

Once the drivers are gone on the top of Device Manager click on "Scan for Hardware Changes".

Windows should now look online automatically for drivers.

Take a look after a few minutes if the drivers are installed automatically properly under Sound Video and Game Controllers.

If they still come back as "unsigned" try the procedure again.

Can I use the WinTV-HVR-2250 with Linux?

Yes. The Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250 driver is in the latest Linux kernel. For more information, see https://www.linuxtv.org/wiki/index.php/Hauppauge_WinTV-HVR-2250

I’m receiving a flickering video image using my WinTV product installed on a Gigabyte GA-MA790X-UD4P motherboard?

To correct the flickering video issue, from the BIOS, disable the "C1E Support” option and restart the system.

How do I add an S-Video or Composite video source in the WinTV application?

You can bring video into the WinTV from an external audio/video source such as a cable TV or satellite set top box.
You will need to connect the A/V breakout cable included with your HVR-2250.

In the WinTV v7 application, click the Setup menu (Gear button in the lower left corner of WinTV v7).

Then click on the Devices tab.

In the Device Setup Wizard, select External Inputs (S-Video/composite) and click Next.

You will be presented with the option to add a Composite and an S-Video Input. Please select your country (if not correct) and click Next.

If you wish to connect a source not normally designed for operation in your country, you can configure the Video Format manually from the drop down list. Change the value from “AUTO”.

Note: Pal BGHIDK is the commonly used format in Europe. NTSC is the broadcast format used in North America.

I receive a "Low bit rate" error message when using Windows Media Center in Windows 7.

Microsoft has released Windows Media Center patches for the "Low bit rate" error message.
Click to view the information from Microsoft.

What file size will the recorded videos be?

Digital Broadcasts (ATSC or QAM)

The file size of a digital signal capture depends on the bitrate of the digital signal.  The bitrate is set by the broadcaster and cannot be user configured.  Bitrates for digital signals can range anywhere from about 1.2 Mbits/sec up to 19.3 Mbits/sec.  Most of the time these bitrates are variable and not constant.  Capture sizes for ATSC & QAM recordings are approximately 1.7 Gigabytes per hour up to 8.3 Gigabytes per hour.

Analog Broadcast.

The WinTV application has to convert analog signals to digital in order to record. There are four recording profiles. The following list shows recording file sizes for burning to 4.3Gb DVD:

Best - Approx 1 Hour+
Better - Approx 1 1/2 Hours
Good - Approx 2 Hours
Fair - Approx 3 Hours

Linux for the WinTV-HVR-22xx boards

Linux for the WinTV-HVR-2255 and WinTV-HVR-2205 (European model)

The WinTV-HVR-2255 and WinTV-HVR-2205 have open source Linux support.
See this link from LinuxTV.org

For customization of the Linux driver, please send an e-mail message to: davidz@hauppauge.com

Linux for the WinTV-HVR-2250

Available through LinuxTV.org