What is an essential step when adding a TV tuner card for viewing and recording live TV shows?

When adding a TV tuner card for viewing and recording live TV shows, one of the most essential steps is to ensure that the card supports ATSC (Advanced Television Systems Committee) standards. ATSC is a key standard for broadcasting digital television in North America, which means that a tuner card with ATSC support will be able to receive and decode over-the-air digital signals. This capability is crucial for accessing HD channels and enjoying the best quality viewing experience.

While it may be relevant to ensure that the card is compatible with the system's hardware specifications (like PCI compatibility) and to have the right software for viewing and recording (such as a TV application), the primary concern lies in the card's ability to receive the broadcast formats available in the user's region. Ensuring ATSC support directly affects the functionality of the TV tuner card in providing live TV and recording options. Additionally, while connecting to the internet may be beneficial for downloading updates or accessing streaming services, it is not a prerequisite for the core functionality of the TV tuner for live broadcast use.