What type of dvd disc do I use to copy a movie from my TV via
satellite/direct tv, or from one dvd or movie via copied to the hard
drive of my computer. Do I use a dvd-r dvd-rw dvd-?

Hi, 

You can use whichever DVD writable format your DVD writer supports. 

Generally speaking DVD-R discs are more widely supported on consumer
DVD players.

For more information of the competing DVD formats, check out the
following website: http://www.dvdrhelp.com/dvd it outlines the details
of the formats and the advantages and disadvantages of each. The same
site also has guides for nearly everything you should need to know to
do what you want.

Of course, copying movies is generally an infringement of copyright.
It's a good idea to find out what is and is not allowed where you are.

Hope this helps.

Regards,
Sycophant-ga

very helpful, Thanks