tiggy, you can, but there will be some issues with unplugging it -- I think you have to leave it plugged in for 8 hours after the initial setup, or something like that. Also, are you going to hook the Tivo up to a network? If not, then you'll need to connect it to the phone jack once a week or so for updates.

The main problem I foresee with that, tiggy, is that you need the Tivo to be able to make outgoing calls on a regular basis (unless it's connected to your home network), in order to update its listings. So you'll probably want to install a phone jack in the room where the Tivo's going to go. (Or else just buy a really long phone cord and run it into the other room.)

Phone jack installation kits are dirt cheap, and the only technical skill required is the ability to use a pair of scissors.

It needs to be connected to a phone jack (or an ethernet cable if you have a home network) on a regular basis to download the listings.

t edit Tivo Users Unite!

you can get those wingdingies from Radio Shack that will turn an outlet into a phone jack. I heard such things aren't that expensive.

Yeah--if you don't have it connected, then the whole "guide" thing won't be updated.

hee!! thanks for all the responses. much appreciated.

A hundred foot phone cord could solve all your problems.

All this talk about Tivos is tempting me to break my vow not to buy any more toys until my debts are paid off. Granted, I could stop reading the talk, but... nah.

So, Comcast offers a DVD recorder. Is that basically the same thing? Anyone know anything about it?

not really. my room is a converted garage. so the closest phone jack is up three steps to the kitchen. there's not really a way for me to run it without it getting in the way.

I have the same issue as tiggy. My den is a former carport and the wall between it and the rest of the house is brick.

So, Comcast offers a DVD recorder. Is that basically the same thing? Anyone know anything about it?

I have the Comcast thing. I decided to try it to see whether it would be worth the money and effort it would take to either get a phone line in the den or set up a network. It updates itself over the cable, so that's not an issue. It's a lot more limited than Tivo. The memory isn't much--in practice, it seems to be about 12 hours. It also can only be set to record specific programs, not things like every movie with a specific actor. I am, however, already addicted to starting a show, wandering away for 15 minutes, then fast-forwarding through all the commercials.