While the AIW 8500 128MB hardware specifications and accompanying accessories are very impressive, it's the software that makes the card so successful in my book. The general software has been given a face lift and looks really good, although it is a bit too icon-reliant.

These options are visible if you choose to right click in the viewing area at any time.

A really awesome feature the TV software can do is blend the television feed into the background of the monitor - allowing you to work and watch TV at the same time. This is very handy when you're working and your favorite TV show is on, but to be realistic I couldn't get much work done like this. I had to really try and exercise a little more self control since I found myself more often then not just watching the background rather then working.

You can also set the TV to become your background so you don't overwrite icons.

Another cool feature the AIW video card sports is the "TV Listings option." All you have to do is enter your Postal Code (Zip Code in the US) and it will automatically download the next seven days worth of TV so you can plan your viewing schedule. My god if this card was in my computer when I was in university I never would have gotten out!!

If you can't catch something, "Guide Plus" can be used to record your favorite program so you won't miss an episode.