Top box for digital TV: Information on the tuner

Television confidently stepped forward and replaced the era of analog broadcasting the era of digital television. Their main difference - the best image quality. a new generation of TVs are already equipped with special devices that provide high performance TV signal. For owners of older models as a way out - a set-top box for digital TV, which can be easily connected to any receiver box. That is the subject and the subject of this article.

Digital set-top box for a TV, or a TV Tuner: What it is

Referring to a number of directories, you can formulate a fairly short and affordable concept, according to which digital tuner - it is a separate special device that is used for production, transmission and demodulation signal. Simply put, a TV tuner - is teleradiosignala receiver with subsequent relaying of the screen. It should be noted that the first digital TV receivers have appeared quite a long time - in the mid 90s. Then, these devices had limited opportunities and have a minimal set of features.

The cost of the predecessors of modern multimedia equipment was much higher, although the technical and quality characteristics they are no longer compare with the current counterparts. This is actually quite another device with a mass of features that allow you to turn the most simple TV to Progressive Audio Visual.

The main function of the tuner for digital TV - is to ensure viewing TV programs. At the same time you can watch TV in full screen mode or in parallel windows simultaneously with other programs. Moreover, almost all modern tuners make it possible to listen to FM radio. By the way, this advantage is quite popular among the users. It should also be noted that with the help of a TV tuner can record programs.

This feature allows you to record video and radio in the manual mode. In this case, just need to press the "record" as a conventional VCR. You can also use the scheduler - a mechanism that records the desired TV program on their own without human intervention.

What should I consider when choosing a set-top box to the TV

Before you choose a set-top box for digital TV, you should carefully consider the benefits and devices, based on a list of useful features, choose the most suitable option. Special software implements all features, which include:

• reception signal processing;
• removing pictures;
• sound reproduction;
• Record audio and video files.

Useful advice! If the recording function is important, it should be noted that the improved models of tuners greatly simplify the recording process of planning, and some allow you to record programs without the advertising. Some manufacturers, to this end, using a recording mechanism that creates application software to help enhance the ability of even the most simple tuner. For example, plain, situated at the entrance video surveillance camera connected to the tuner, allow to fix all of the processes that occur near the premises.

Before you purchase the device, it is necessary to deal with the question of what are the consoles. According to species differences tuners are divided into embedded and external. Thus, each of them has a variety of both advantages and disadvantages.

It should be noted that the recording function - it is the most vulnerable place TVs with built-in tuners. Not every embedded processor actually install another expansion card, moreover, they may simply not be compatible with the operating system. It should be mentioned that the majority of manufacturers focused on a Windows system, but there are those that are based on MacOS and Linux. In this case, it is the internal tuners are the most popular, due to the more affordable price of digital set-top boxes.

An external set-top box to view digital TV

External tuner as a separate set-top boxes are divided into categories. They can be stand-alone and hardware-dependent, usually referred to as the USB-tuners. Stand-alone set-top box - an independent external device with a separate video output, which connect directly to the monitor.

Such digital tuners for TV does not actually depend on the software installed on your TV. The television signal is received and processed resource component of the console. There was a time when the standalone tuners actively used to improve the picture quality by turning low-cost LCD monitor into a full LCD screen. This trick can save half the funds for the acquisition of the TV.

Now that the LCD TV dropped in price considerably, external tuners began to use to connect to the Plasma models and LCD panels with large diagonal measurement. Foreign prefix, in comparison with a built in the latest TV tuner, allows significantly better quality of signal reception, while enhancing the capabilities of a wide screen.

It should be noted another feature, which has an autonomous set-top box. This applies to the parallel use of the computer when external tuner connected between the screen and the video output. This connection method will make it possible to watch telekartinku in full screen mode or in a separate window. It should be noted that absolutely does not matter what operating system is installed on the computer or TV, and what application you need to run it at the moment.

Digital TV tuner for TV: important nuances

One of the main disadvantages of standalone tuner is functional limitations. This is primarily due to the fact that it can work only in the playback mode - recording function in the device is missing. This minus partially offset in the second type of external tuners that connect to your computer via USB-ports.

Useful advice! Before you select the tuner for digital TV, you should clearly define the type of device, taking into account both the pros and cons of each.

These consoles are still a number of additional features, as they have no constructive restrictions and can be connected not only to television, but to any PC, in particular to laptop. The only important condition for the successful operation of the device - compatible software installed on the tuner, a computer's operating system.

Particularly noteworthy digital receivers made in the ExpressCard or PCMCIA form factors that allow you to connect the device to the notebook. According to the structure, they are no different from the internal tuner, but made more compact. They are very easy to use with a laptop computer. Thus, giving preference to the type of external digital TV tuner, you should take into account not only the numerous advantages, but also listed nuances.

Built-in set-top box for digital TV

If we talk about the structure of the tuner, internal or external, they are composed of two main elements:

• RF unit;
• Decoder or chip set.

The high frequency unit is arranged to convert the signal coming from the antenna into a digital stream friendly television. It is made of metal and has a form of classical block-boxes or a small chip in the silicon block. According to consumers, the classic block provides a better quality signal reception, although experts believe that the quality of reception in the first place depends on the antenna characteristics. In the case of no low quality receiver unit does not provide a perfect image.

If the antenna is a high quality, even the silicone unit will provide a good picture. At the same time it is necessary to take into account certain nuances of when choosing a prefix, as the silicone block has certain disadvantages when operates in high-range frequencies, particularly in decimeter, where a large probability of additional noise and smear Pictures. Although much depends on the signal reception conditions.

Decoder for digital TV video stream turns from a high-frequency unit or audio and video input tuner into a digital signal to be converted subsequently in a video program.

What is the prefix for the reception of digital television better choice of the manufacturer

In modern models of tuners for digital TV decoders installed in the main two manufacturers - Philips and Conexant, which provide high quality chipsets.

Useful advice! In the absence of audio transmission function by PCI bus to broadcast audio signal will need to use sound card line input, which could then lead to a sound backlog of pictures, especially on older televisions.

Particular attention should be paid to specific models of chipsets, which define the basic functionality tuner capabilities. Now the production of TV tuners used three versions of Philips chipset. In receivers having a lower rate, typically using Philips SAA7130HL decoder. This entry level chipset, characterized by the more expensive models Philips SAA7134HL SAA7135HL only and not receiving television programs with stereo NICAM / A2. They also lack built-in audio effects, and the possibility of transmission through the PCI bus sound, which is particularly important for the quality of the broadcast.

Thus, these two elements in the form of high-frequency unit and chipset is sufficient for full use of all the basic functions of virtually any digital TV tuner for television. Some manufacturers equip model with additional elements that enhance the function of the device. For example, the company Beholder one of the first equipped the top models RDS-decoder that allows you to display text on the screen. This may be information about the weather forecast, exchange rates and so on. E., Is transmitted to the radio frequency.

Digital set-top box for TV equipped with hardware MPEG encoder

Modern models are often equipped with hardware encoder MPEG, performing video encoding function in the MPEG-format with the subsequent transfer to the screen. This capability helps to significantly reduce the burden on the TV set itself. It should be noted that the MPEG encoder - the most suitable option for consumers who want to record video in DVD-size, but poorly versed in the program settings.

It should also be noted that the hardware MPEG encoder must be present in the software Windows Media Center, It is a unique multimedia shell that allows you to transform your home PC into a multifunctional entertainment center. In this case, the main advantage of the Media Center is the ability to use of two tuners, it is possible to simultaneously watch and record TV programs on both channels. This feature spodvigla manufacturers to produce so-called dual-head tuners.

Related article:

Prefix DVB-T2: The latest possible digital broadcast

The possibilities of modern digital television. A variety of devices, selection rules, a review of the popular models of tuners.

In practical terms, basically all manufacturers offer advanced options. So, the company AverMedia, Compro and LifeView - it pioneers cutting-edge industries platforms for digital television receivers. Beholder produces more advanced tuners that come with an array of innovative technologies, particular computer power management program (ARPC), ADSS function, dividing the screen into analog and digital part. Beholder and now uses a base with a filling classical RF unit and the decoder Philips.

Useful advice! When choosing a set-top box to the TV should pay attention not only on functionality but also on the design features of the device. Simply put, you need to take into account whether the device design blends harmoniously with the interior.

An external set-top box for digital TV to MPEG encoder

External tuners are characterized by a similar circuit design, not counting some special chips, so choosing an external USB-tuner, it is necessary to pay attention to such nuances:

1. sound transmission. We need to take a model with sound transmission via USB. Best of all, if an external USB-tuner equipped with a hardware encoder MPEG, which allows you to send the finished DVD-stream. In this case, the tuner reduces the load on both the CPU, so to USB-bus.
2. The dimensions of the receiver for digital TV. This moment is less important, but the miniature models still look more attractive. They are much more compact, because they have the size of a simple stick.
3. Availability of audio and video inputs. This nuance is important for those who intend to digitize recordings from your VCR or camcorder.
4. The presence of FM- radio. Such a function is also provided in a number of models.

In addition, for those interested in acquiring a standalone tuner important such moments:

1. Support for high resolution, it is necessary for owners of large widescreen displays and panels over 20 inches.
2. Support different zoom modes that allow you to view terrestrial TV monitor with an aspect ratio of 4: 3 and 16: 9. Preferably, the tuner had panoramic mode. It should be noted that currently there is only one such receiver for digital TV - Behold TV SOLO.
3. Availability of audio and video inputs are also important for parallel connection of a game console or VCR.
4. Availability management and configuration. This nuance can be determined only after the acquisition of the tuner.

Standard parameters set-top box digital television

Choosing a TV tuner, you must pay attention to the HDTV standards that reflect the maximum resolution Image supported tuner, and the ability to receive the video signal in a format Full HD (1080p) Progressive scan.

The format of the displayed image indicates the ratio of width to height outputted image. The picture was correct, you need to select this feature based on the parameters of the TV screen.

It should also be said about the important digital TV standards - DVB-T. Modern versions of digital television set-top boxes:

• DVB-T2 - provides essential digital broadcasting;
• DVB-C - an advanced DVB-C2 for digital cable television;
• DVB-S - is updated DVB-S2 for satellite broadcasting digital television channels.

Should pay attention to video compression format, as modern digital TV channels can be compressed with different codecs, including MPEG-2 or MPEG-4. To select the most desirable complete channel list to select the tuners that support the required standards.

Useful advice! It is best to acquire the set-top box for digital TV with TimeShift function that via video recording allows you to put it on pause and watch TV or movies with a delay in time.

Additional functions of digital set-top boxes

Almost all consoles that are on the market today, have a number of additional features, among which are the following:

1. Electronic Program Guide - a TV menu in a convenient format that shows the schedule of television and radio programs with the function interactive content search by time, title, genre or channel, using only a standard remote management.
2. Teletext - is a service of television networks, through which you can track the weather, transport schedules, news and other information at any time, without moving away from the TV screen.
3. Recording video and audio to an external storage device - it's a good opportunity to store your favorite shows. It's enough to buy a TV tuner with TV recording function to an external USB-drive.
4. TimeShift function lets you pause the broadcast of supply, with the result that the viewer does not miss a single minutes perusing an exciting movie or interesting programs, if it is necessary to move away from the TV.
5. multimedia function includes different types of files, responsible for all video and audio formats that plays one specific device. The most common current models of digital audio - a MKV, MPEG, MPEG4, AVI and MP3.
6. JPG - this graphic format files that are standard in the modern digital photography.
7. information playback from external storage, which is enough to insert a USB flash drive or hard drive with fixed multimedia files and enjoy watching. This allows you to get rid of the old players on the disks that take up too much space.
8. Dolby Digital provides support playback of video files of various formats, it is important to view the video from USB-drives via the internal player.

Connectors and switching boxes for TV

Before choosing a digital set-top box to the TV, you should pay attention to the type of terminals from which tuner is connected. It is important to take into account certain parameters.

CI slot for expansion electronic modules that are built into modern television sets, as well as in digital television receivers and allow playback of encrypted TV and radio channels. This slot is used in digital broadcasting systems that provide protection of commercial media content.

Digital interfaces are used for connection of standard low-cost set-top boxes, although models with a higher value, there may be other additions. Basically receivers of digital terrestrial television has a standard connector, which is called the "tulip". This connector provides the signal in analog form that can be displayed on an image. It may not be entirely natural. Better coverage can be obtained via an HDMI cable, transmitting uncompensated image in digital form.

Useful advice! Before you buy the tuner should pay attention to Ethernet interfaces, USB and others. The main group consists of digital interfaces: e-SATA-port, Ethernet (RJ-45), HDMI, slot MicroSD card, mini USB, slot for conventional SD-card, SPDIF, SPDIF (coaxial), SPDIF (optical) USB interfaces.

Analog connectors for digital set-top boxes

The analog signal is betrayed by using a certain number of slots. First of all, mention should be made out for the conventional antenna. This is the same composite input (RCA) - in common "tulip". Through it can be connected not only to a VCR, a DVD-player or a game console, but also a video camera, a camera.

S-Video connector to connect video recorders, video cameras and other devices. Component input video signal includes all the components, among which two are responsible for the color, one - the luminance (transmitted on different channels). Converter denote as follows: Y PbPr. Component input is for connecting DVD- player, DTV-decoder, as well as other equipment.

SCART is a European standard for connecting a variety of devices. Through it is possible to transmit audio and video signals, both analog and digital. VGA - this connector to 15 pins, which is used to connect analog monitors and televisions. Besides standard stereo, audio outputs, a list of analogue includes such connectors: RS-232C, SCART, antenna input S-Video, composite AV (RCA), composite mini AV, Component YPbPr (RCA).

There is also a through antenna output, which serves for easy connection of the antenna to a different television or set-top box without additional separation signals (splitter).

How to choose a set-top box for digital television: more options

In search of the answer to the question as to which set-top box for digital TV is better, a number, it would seem necessary to consider unimportant, but at the same time, the essential characteristics. This material, which is made from a tuner, display availability, equipment and dimensions.

In general in the production of housings for the prefixes used plastic and metal. Plastic models are lighter and the metal, in turn, are more durable and resistant to external mechanical influences.

Display - this is optional, but is still an important element of the tuner, which will facilitate the use of the device. Packaging of goods, too, must not be ignored. When buying, check whether all the components are available.

Dimensions are important from the aesthetic side. The actual weight of the majority of set-top boxes for digital TV does not exceed 100 grams. At the same time, there are devices that can weigh more than a kilogram. Height digital television tuners may be from 20 to 150 mm. Consoles - it is usually compact devices that can be easily placed anywhere. In this case, they are not particularly affect the interior. Depth standard tuners ranges from 40 to 200 mm, and the width - from 70 to 300 mm.

Useful advice! The presence of additional functions - a huge plus for the device, especially if it's Internet set-top box to the TV, which provides viewing of programs and movies on the Internet. It should take into account the fact how much console as additional features suggest a higher price.

Thus, when choosing a set-top box for digital TV should be guided by a number of criteria both in technical terms and in view of size, manufacture and aesthetic material clearance. It is worth an interest in the performance of specialized sites. This will determine which console is best for digital television (customer reviews to help make the right choice).