Recording TV shows

   I have a basic (probably not digital, since it's only $10/month ) cable service and would like to record some network (ABC, NBC and CBS) TV shows for watching at a later time.  I'd like to avoid additional cable TV  monthly service charges, but I'd be willing to pay a small one time charge for a download (such as beyond tv, if its easier to use than Windows Media Center) or purchase additional hardware (such as a DVR, if it has advantages over using my PC)

 

   Can I connect my Windows PC to my television using a HDMI cord or do I need additional hardware (such as a DVR)? Is beyondtv or another download easier to use than Windows Media Center?

 

   Thanks!