[Octavean]

I’m not really sure what you mean with respect to software.

There are PVR applications such as GB-PVR and MediaPortal that will work well with Theater 550 Pro cards. There are also applications that can burn files such as the Microsoft proprietary DVR-MS files from MCE to DVD such as MakeDVD (it will play these files too).

And so on,….

Buying an official MCE remote is best especially if you’r MCE setup uses a set-top-box for cable / satellite. Just be sure that the remote comes with a “IR Blaster”. If, however, you do not need a set-top-box then there are many remotes that will work in windows that will suffice,…possibly even one that came with the Theater 550 Pro card.

***edit***

The latest version of ATI’s MMC MultiMedia Center 9.15 will work with the Theater 550 Pro and has (officially) since version 9.09 (I think). ATI’s new CMC Catalyst Media Center will work as well but there is no word on how to acquire it.

***edit again***

Gemstar Guide Plus+ can be downloaded from ATI and will integrate with ATI’s PowerCinema.