I see that there is a lot of correspondenc about a Media and File server Bundle for the Humax.

Can someone simply explain to me what installing this bundle will do for me,

So far I have always been very happy with my Foxsat, Am I missing something

Sandy

That is something I would also like to know ! Maybe we are missing out on something ?!

It lets you do the following (this is from the top of my head, so might of missed something):

Edit Channels - So you can add "Non-Freesat" channels to your EPG, for example I've added Al Jazzera Sports so I can schedule recordings.

Stream recorded programs to you PC, Laptop, Tablet, PS3 etc. I use this when the other half is watching something, I go upstairs and watch a recorded program on my pc.

Manage schedules and recordings.

Do you have a link? I remember looking a this a while back but there was still teething trouble with it. I assume the good chaps who have been developing this have ironed out most of the bugs now.

Here
http://myhumax.org/blog/?page_id=166
do some research before you install it so you know exactly what your doing, it is safe by the way.

Crikey,that all looks so complicated! Alright if you know what you're doing,as I don't, I think I'd be wise to leave it be!! Thanks very much anyway LongBallPlease!

Basically the HDR is a unix computer running one large application. The bundle simply adds other applications without touching the Humax settop application.

One of the applications not mentioned above is the ability to make available on your network the recordings on the HDR.

All the applications with the possible exception of the channel editor are easy to use.

It is easier then it looks, I'd give it a go as it gives your Humax a new lease of life, the channel editor comes with straight forward instructions as well.

Does it let you stream to more than one device at the same time?

afaik yes up to four reported using different recordings for each user before the cpu starts to get a bit stressed if it's recording two HD channels.

Assuming of course your network has the capability .

In that respect it's better than the Echostar then, except the Echostar can stream live TV which I presume the Humax can't?

Almost live (at least 30 seconds behind live TV) In a roundabout way , you can stream the 0.ts timeshift buffer file (which is not encrypted even for HD content). If you record HD using non-freesat you can also stream HD recordings.

I wouldn't say that. I'm pretty savvy with PC's and programs, but I found the channel editor extremely frustrating to use.
Manged to get a couple of channels tagged onto the end of the EPG, but trying to move and renumber them was a complete nightmare. Got quite fed up with it all and gave up in the end.

The first time I edited the channels I had it so all the HD channels replaced the SD ones, I also had Al Jazeera Sports at the end of entertainment (after Men & Movies), but I retuned for the channel 5 package and have never managed to get it like that again, I currently have the Al Jazeera Channels at the end of the channel listings.

I have limited know how when it comes to computers, but have found that with the generous help available on line I installed it OK. On a personal level I find the fact that I can now use it as a server, all the music and radio that I have on my PVR in MP3 form can now be listened to on my internet radios. All in all well worth the effort.

The thing I find most useful is being able to copy recordings over to my PC over the network so I can edit out the adverts and convert to MP4.

Install really is easy now.

It also allows you to schedule recordings from anywhere with Internet access.

Handy when away on holiday or on business.