Question regarding VDR, linux V4L drivers, lirc, & Freebsd.

[VDR User]

Hi.  I've been think of putting something new on one of my test boxes
(for htpc use).  I've never used Freebsd before but a friend of mine
used to rave about it.  I'm wondering if anyone is successfully
running VDR along with the Linux V4L drivers for dvb devices?  Also,
if lirc is used for accessing serial or usb based remote controls?  If
so, is there any work on the user end to get this stuff running?  I'm
not in any need of a desktop or gui as the box is dedicated to testing
dvb/media replay.  For that matter, there's no keyboard, mouse, etc.
connected either.  I typically access the box only through SSH, with
the boxes audio/video output over HDMI.  Does Freebsd have support for
Nvidia VDPAU hardware decoding?  If so, how well does it work?  I
prefer to install OS + software onto sdhc cards or usb flash.

I appreciate any insight since I'm completely new to Freebsd, and
apologize if this is not the correct mailing list for such questions.

Cheers,
Derek