What first, MP install or TV cards and drivers

I think I am missing something obvious. What do I do first, install my TV cards or install MP with the TV server? I have a new computer (Vista Home Basic) and two new TV cards I unsuccessfully worked with on old computer (Dvico fusion HD and Hauppauge 150{actually the Hauppauge is brand new, I think my previous problem were related to not having hardware mpeg}). Earlier starts and stops have me wondering if driver and software supplied with the cards is the key to making this all work, or if those things get in the way of MediaPortal. I read through the install manual on the Wiki, but it isn't clear to me how far I should go with the TV cards before starting the actual MP install. I was just hoping to see something that clearly stated do x, then y, then z.

I have SQL Server installed and functioning as per manual. I just feel like they skip over much talk of what to do with your TV tuners. Do I get my tuners installed next, or do I go on to MP and come back to the tuners? As a follow-up question, I when I do install the cards do I just install the drivers, or should I go ahead and install their provided software to test with?

[Spragleknas]

Perhaps this is helpful, although being for XP:
GeneralUserGuides/Installation WinXP MediaPortal - MediaPortal Wiki Documentation