The ProV is a product similar in nature to the Canopus ADVC-100 (page 44), but where the ADVC-100 is used for transcoding video streams with an eye on digital video work, the ProV is used to bring versatility to your computer monitor, or breathe life into any spare monitors youve got laying around.

The ProV is an external box with multiple video input types, and an RGB D-Sub output for your monitor. Its a handy converter box that lets you watch DVDs, television, consoles and more on your computer monitor, without the need to power on your PC at all. As well as the RGB D-Sub input, the back of the box also has S-Video, composite and RF (analog antenna) video inputs, plus RCA audio and a 3.5mm audio input jack. Audio output is limited to whatever you can plug a 3.5mm jack into, so normal PC speakers are fine. When you are using your PC, the ProV acts as a pass-through for both the video and audio.

As well as normal television aerial functionality, the ProV can also work with cable TV. On initial installation the unit scans for television channels, and stores them in a preset memory. The unit comes with a remote control, which can be used for toggling inputs, changing channels, adjusting the volume and accessing the OSD (on-screen display). Both the remote control and the ProV box feel flimsy, but the kit works, and works well.

Considering its price point, the ProV is a welcome alternative to installing a TV tuner card.