Help with a DVR hardware

one of the people I built a PC for a while back wants to record Tv with his computer, I'm thinking the viable outputs would be component or HDMI but I'm not sure I'm going to check it out this weekend, I've never done this kind of thing before what kind of capture card will I need and where should I buy it (U.S.) and what kind of software will I need anybody with experience with this stuff?

Hava Platinum HD Tv Placeshifting Dvr Pvr


hauppauge hd pvr for component 720p or 1080i recording


Blackmagic Intensity Shuttle or Pro for HDMI recording 720p, 1080i, 1080p supported

(needs good amount of HDD speed and storage)


Avertv HD DVR

wow these things are expensive O_O I hope his Caviler Blue 500GB will suffice these HDD prices make me cry myself to sleep at night, I think the best option is the Averty HD DVR

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815100049

if he needs a new HDD I was thinking this looks relatively decent for the price, 1st TB single platter

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822148840

thoughts? suggestions?