Microsoft MCE is VERY sensitive to the type of hardware that it is installed on. The OEM puts together components that are guaranteed to work, for an end user to do this it takes some research. Among other things, MCE requires a DirectX 9 hardware compatible video card. This is different then just the DirectX 9c drivers. Many 'shared memory' configurations you find on laptops are also incompatible. If you plan to use a TV tuner, it absolutely has to be MCE compatible. This means it has to have a hardware MPEG encoder and appropriate WDM drivers. You will also need some kind of software DVD decoder. This is sometimes available from the video or tuner manufacturer or came pre-installed, or you can purchase a DVD app such as by CyberLink or InterVideo.
To be honest, you are probably better off just purchasing a Home Theatre/PVR application, and installing it on your existing OS. Most of your retail packages like those by SnapStream or ShowShifter have identical features to MCE at half the price. They also support a larger varity of video/tuner/sound options. They also have 15 day trial versions you can download, so you have zero risk.
Most of these applications support a variety of HTPC remotes and IR emmiters.
