A modern person feels as comfortable as possible only surrounded by the necessary electrical appliances and equipment. If we know a lot about the usual TVs, personal computers, laptops, tablets or smartphones, then many people are poorly guided by what it takes to receive a TV receiver, what constitutes what functions this specialized device performs.
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Features and functions of the set-top box for digital TV
Receiver for the TV. What it is? Analog television is gradually being superseded by more progressive digital. The advantages of the latter are in a better picture, improved sound and an impressive amount of received channels. If the new generation TVs support the digital broadcast standard, then for older models you need to purchase a special receiver for the TV. This device is a kind of receiver, fixing, converting, transmitting audio and video signals coming either through a cable or from a satellite dish.
Unlike analog receivers that receive signals separately, digital television channels are combined in one package, from where everything is transmitted together to the receiver for subsequent decryption and breakdown. This method is called multiplex. If in the first case the broadcast result of different channels could differ, then in the second all channels without exception go in first-class quality. As a rule, to receive a signal, an ordinary antenna that comes with the TV is enough.
Currently, digital broadcasting is carried out in the DVB T2 format, which replaced the outdated DVB T. This standard is not the only one, although it is considered the most common. Most modern TVs initially have a built-in receiver, respectively, there is no need to purchase such equipment. If you plan to make a purchase of a new TV, we recommend that you carefully study the instructions. Perhaps you have a model that does not require the purchase of a console.
The advantages of the receiver:
- improves broadcast quality and clarity;
- improves saturation and purity of sound;
- all kinds of interference disappear;
- ease of connection;
- simplicity of operation;
- lack of payment for using the device.
The simplest digital TV receiver, in addition to receiving a package of certain programs, can pause the air for some time. Also, lovers of movies, all kinds of music and video files, viewing photos on the big screen can use a USB flash drive by connecting this device through a special connector. Connecting the set-top box to the TV will make available functions such as pause, rewind, teletext, TV program, TV guide and subtitles.
Many models via cable or wi-fi support access to the Internet, which allows you to view more channels. There are also options with a built-in hard drive that turns an ordinary device into a full-fledged media center. The most advanced technology supports 3D and 4K resolution. Each set-top box has a specific set of outputs necessary for connecting various external devices.
Varieties of broadcasting
There are three signal transmission options:
- satellite (DVB-S2, DVB-S);
- cable (DVB-C);
- broadcast (DVB-T2).
A satellite receiver is an integral part of the satellite television “team”. A device connected to the plate picks up the signal and displays it on the screen. Such consoles are conditionally divided into three groups. The first group is considered the most popular. It is designed for the widest masses of viewers, used to view open channels. The second group includes receivers with a built-in decoder.They work with special access cards. In addition, this includes equipment created to work with a particular provider. The third group is multimedia terminals, which, in addition to broadcasting, perform a huge number of additional functions.
A cable receiver is a device that supports a signal and broadcasts a regional provider’s software package. To become a cable network subscriber, it is important to be in the operator’s coverage area, in addition to the receiver, have an antenna, a converter, a power supply and an RF cable.
The third version of the set-top boxes works with digital broadcasting. The signal is received by a conventional compact indoor antenna. Such receivers are oriented to SD, and also support HD-resolution.
Naturally, the highest quality picture of satellite broadcasting, in second place cable television, closes the top three most common broadcast TV.
How to choose a TV box
So, it seems, with the question of what the receiver is for, we figured it out. How to choose such a device, what you need to know, and also what nuances should you pay attention to when buying?
The choice of tuner is affected by:
- type of broadcasting in a given area;
- supported standard;
- resolution;
- the ability of the console (in addition to receiving a digital signal) to read flash cards, to perform the functions of a player;
- the more audio and video formats the device supports, the better;
- simple, clear menu;
- convenient control requires a remote control and the required number of buttons directly on the case;
- the presence of the necessary connectors, in particular, USB and HDMI;
- additional functions - at the request of the buyer;
- manufacturer;
- availability of a warranty period.
Depending on the functionality, four types of receivers are distinguished:
- Budget - this is a prefix for infrequent views (for example, in the country). It has the most standard set of connectors, digital format, affordable price.
- Economy option - designed for TVs with screen sizes up to 42 inches. Such a receiver will allow you to view the channels of various satellite TV operators, as it is equipped with a special card reader. In this group there are models that write files to a USB flash drive.
- The middle class is a model that can give an excellent picture in high quality. Such receivers are currently considered the most common.
- Premium - multifunctional devices that allow you to view cable and digital channels, all kinds of files from external drives, and in various formats.
The need for a prefix
The question of whether a receiver is needed for modern TVs is of concern to many consumers. The answer to it depends on various factors. Firstly, how often programs are viewed, and secondly, what is the characteristic of existing technology.
If you want to watch programs in excellent quality, and the TV does not support these formats, buying a receiver will save you from such problems. The purchase of a special modulator will allow you to connect the set-top box simultaneously to two television receivers.
Modern sophisticated TVs boast built-in satellite, cable or terrestrial receivers. When buying a TV to watch satellite digital broadcasts, it is important that the integrated device supports the same format.
Undoubtedly, the future is with digital television. So why not join it today, especially since it’s not even necessary to purchase a new TV. A modern high-quality receiver will save you from big expenses for buying expensive TV, and at the same time it will give you pleasure when watching TV shows in excellent quality.
