Help me understand media extenders and windows home servers?

I don't own any computer at the moment but nee to buy
something for typical Internet, word processing uses.

Having said that... I'm trying to wrap my head around
all the dizzying options now days.

One thing that does interest me is somehow using my C
as a TV "recorder".... so can watch programs at later
date.

I was reading abt this device.. an HP windows home
server but am not seeing what features it gives me. se
link

http://h71036.www7.hp.com/hho/cache/447351-0-0-225-121.html

Does this unit actually have TV tuners in it and can be
hooked up to a TV to watch the programming? Can it be
used as an "only" PC or must it be used in conjunction
with other PCs on a network?

and... what exactly do "media centers" connected to my
TV give me the ability to do?

Bottom line...can someone give me a laymen's education
on how to buying "system" vs just a "computer?
Something that gives me a "future"?
.

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