Connecting TiVo to network via NIC card in PC?

[paragon]

I currently have a wireless network in my house and want to hook my TiVo up to it without springing any money on a wireless adapter card. Since I am using a Wireless PCI card in my desktop (in the same room as the TiVo) I have a spare NIC card in the back of the PC. Does anybody know how to set up the computer to share the internet connection from the wireless card to the spare NIC card to hook up to my TiVo. I do have a spare wired router than I can use in the hardware setup if need be. I'd ideally like a solution that doesn't require me to purchase anything else. Any input would be appreciated, I've been poking around for a little while and I can't seem to figure it out. Thanks!

[JimSpence]

I'd use the router because the TiVo can then be connected without having the PC turned on.

[paragon]

Unfortunately, I can't use the router standalone because the wired portion of the network is two floors away from the room with the TiVo. Running cat5 cable the entire length is not possible.

[pdhenry]

Yes, you should be able to do that.

In Network Connections from the Control Panel, select the wireless connection and the NIC, right click and select "Bridge Connections." Not sure what other complications arise...

You will need to buy a USB-Ethernet adapter for the TiVo and a crossover Ethernet cable. Probably less hassle and more reliable to bite the bullet for the wireless adapter for the TiVo and be done with it.

[paragon]

I have a USB-Ethernet adapter for the TiVo already. Wouldn't using the router and two regular ethernet cables work just as well as a crossover cable? I'm only using this TiVo because they gave me 4 months of free service (I was going to give it away until they offered me that at cancellation) so I have zero interest in purchasing any type of hardware.

[spankspank]

I have a USB-Ethernet adapter for the TiVo already. Wouldn't using the router and two regular ethernet cables work just as well as a crossover cable?

Yes. In fact you will need the router for it's DHCP server so that Tivo gets issued an IP address and gateway. The gateway will be the PC's wired NIC and might need to be connected to the routers WAN port. Define the PC NIC with a static IP. You may need to use seperate IP networks for each side of the router.

Once that is done, do as pdhenry said and bridge connections on the wireless NIC. Assuming this is a WinXP PC.