Ceton's going outside the box.

The family-run Kirkland hardware company today announced an external, plug-in version of its TV tuner for Windows PCs.

Called the InifiniTV 4 USB, the $299 gadget has four tuners that can simultaneously stream four live high-definition channels at once.

It's designed to work with Windows 7 PCs that include Media Center. It also accepts CableCard devices provided by cable companies.

The setup lets you replace cable company set-top boxes with a PC, which can stream the live and recorded TV around the home using "extender" devices such as an Xbox 360 console.

Pre-orders for the device begin Aug. 19 from a few online retailers. Broader available is expected in September, and shipping is planned to begin Sept. 19.

It looks like a cool device but buyers may think about waiting until shipping begins. Ceton's tuners are much appreciaed by Media Center enthusiasts but the company's initial production last year took than expected.

The company also announced today that the price of its internal quad tuners is now $299, down from $399 when they debuted in May 2010.