Analogue television is being replaced by higher quality digital television. Connecting it is no more difficult than the usual analog, to which we are all accustomed. To do this, first of all, you will need to purchase a special DVB-T2 digital set-top box or a TV with an already built-in digital tuner. In addition to the receiver (set-top box), you may need an additional cable and a CAM module. The latter is needed if you plan to view an extended list of broadcast channels. You can connect the set-top box to the TV yourself without involving a specialist (although when buying additional equipment, employees of the selling company will most likely insist that you invite a master). To save on calling a specialist, let's take a closer look at what equipment is needed to install the receiver.
Console
As already mentioned, to watch live TV in digital quality, you will need a special DVB-T2 set-top box, which is also called a receiver or external tuner. Today, the stores offer a fairly large selection of such devices. Most often they are identical, so it is worth choose a set-top box for digital television based on the functionality and options that you will need. For example, if the set-top box will be used as a media player, you need to pay attention to the playback formats, as well as the presence of additional ports (for a flash drive or other drives).
The most expensive are digital set-top boxes with TimeShift and Scheduler functions. They allow you to record a TV show at any time, while you do not even have to be at home, you can simply set the start and end time of the recording.
Cable
In order for the set-top box to work, you will need two types of cables. One conventional television (coaxial), the second special (HDMI), designed to transmit a digital signal. Although the second type of cable is now also common. The coaxial cable is designed to connect the antenna to the set-top box, HDMI - to connect the set-top box to the TV.
Advice! Television (coaxial) cable is best purchased with a copper screen. Unlike cables with an aluminum shield, copper provides better signal transmission quality.
Antenna
And most importantly, do not forget to purchase an antenna. A digital television signal, like an analog one, is broadcast in the decimeter range at frequencies of 470-860 MHz, and therefore a conventional decimeter antenna is suitable for receiving it. It can be of two types: indoor or outdoor. The type of device is selected based on the remoteness of the TV tower. Home (room) devices will work well if the repeater is located no further than 15 km from the house. If the TV tower is more than 15 km away, only an external antenna is suitable.
Advice! If you live outside the city, where the nearest TV tower is clearly more than 15 km, talk first with your neighbors and find out which antenna, with which amplifier they use, and what is the quality of signal reception on their TV.
It is worth noting that some antennas are not equipped with a built-in amplifier, in which case it will have to be purchased separately. To check whether an amplifier is needed at all, and whether it is worth spending extra money on it, you can use an already purchased prefix. To do this, connect the antenna to the set-top box with cables, and the set-top box to the TV, go to the device settings and find the signal level scale. If the antenna without an amplifier will provide reliable reception (filling the scale level at least 75%), then you do not need to purchase an amplifier. Otherwise, we can assume that the signal is weak. The image with such a signal will constantly disappear.
Additional ways to connect the set-top box to the TV
As mentioned earlier, you can connect the set-top box to the TV using an HDMI cable. But this connection method is only suitable if the TV is no more than 5-7 years old. Older TVs do not have these inputs. Consider additional connection methods.
Connecting via RCA cable
TVs were equipped with RCA jacks to work in tandem with video set-top boxes, VCRs and video players.
Before starting work, you must turn off the power of the TV and set-top box. After that, alternately insert the wires into the sockets located on the back of the receiver. Each wire has its own color marking, so at this stage there should be no difficulties. White and red wires are responsible for the left and right channels of the audio signal, yellow (for video signal) is also connected to the corresponding color socket.
At the next stage, turn on the power and set up TV channels. To do this, select "AV-input" in the TV menu.
Connection via antenna (coaxial) cable
This type of connection is more suitable for very old TV models that do not have a video input. In this case, the set-top box is connected via a standard antenna cable. To do this, turn off the power and connect the antenna to the console. After that, you can set up channels.
Important! Not all set-top boxes have the required antenna output, so consider this point when buying a receiver.
It is worth noting that this method is not the best, since when connected through a simple antenna, you will not get the desired image and sound quality.
Channel setup
To watch a standard free TV program package included in the first and second multiplexes (each with 10 channels), you can configure immediately after installing and connecting the set-top box. If you plan to view an extended list of channels that are broadcast in encoded form, you will need additional equipment to decode them. You will have to buy a CAM module and a special decoding card. In addition, a fee for the selected channel package should be paid to the card balance.
If 20 channels of free digital broadcasting are enough for you, then after connecting the receiver and cable, you need to scan them. Most models of TVs and set-top boxes perform this function automatically, in some it needs to be done manually. In any case, there should be no difficulties here. In the TV menu, select manual scan and run it, at the end you will see all the channels included in both multiplexes.
If you decide to use an extended list of channels, for example, from NTV + or any other provider, you will first have to purchase a CAM module and a card. It must be placed in the conditional access module and then in the CAM device, which is inserted into the TV itself. After that, you can turn on the TV and scan channels manually or automatically.
The cost of additional equipment depends on the selected service provider. Some providers provide an exclusively complete package of equipment, which means that you will not be able to buy only a CAM module and an additional access card. The standard set includes a prefix module and a card, the cost of which can range from 4,000 to 9,000 rubles. Some providers provide equipment for rent, in which case the cost will be much less.
Advice! For the best video reproduction, it is better to set the frequency to 114,000 kHz.
Connection without set-top box
If your TV is equipped with a built-in DVB-T2 tuner, then there is no need to buy a set-top box. To connect such a TV, only a decimeter antenna will be enough, which can be immediately connected to the antenna input and start scanning digital channels. In addition, control in this case will be carried out from one remote control, which is much more convenient.
If we compare the quality of modern digital television and analog, then the latter noticeably loses. The use of digital channels and special signal coding allows you to transmit images and sound in excellent quality. It is precisely because of the good picture characteristics and stable signal transmission that more and more users prefer digital television.
Plus, now each user has the opportunity to create a list of channels available for viewing. No more uninteresting channels "into the load". Only the essentials. It is impossible not to mention that it is digital television that supports high-definition signal transmission. Now HDTV content has become even more accessible. We will analyze in detail how to connect digital television to a TV and what is needed for this?
Separately, I would like to dwell on the equipment. First of all, you need to understand that there are several ways to connect. The equipment you need depends on the specific method.
The easiest way to enjoy "digital" on your TV is to use digital terrestrial television. From the equipment you will need a UHF antenna (UHF antenna, external or internal), the TV itself and possibly a set-top box. One of the frequently asked questions is what kind of TV is suitable for digital TV, and are there any specific requirements for technical specifications? Your TV must support the DVB-T2 / MPEG-4 broadcasting standard, that is, have a built-in digital tuner.
If your model does not meet these requirements, do not be discouraged. There are digital set-top boxes that connect to the TV using functional connectors and allow you to work with the DVB-T2 standard. It is worth noting that at the moment there is a large selection of digital set-top boxes on the market at different prices and with different characteristics. Therefore, you can choose both a budget model and a device with additional features.
If your TV has a built-in digital tuner, simply connect a UHF antenna to it. After this procedure, start the channel search procedure. If you don't have a tuner, use a digital set-top box. Please note that it is best to connect the set-top box to the TV using HDMI or DVI connectors. Otherwise, you will not receive a signal in Full HD resolution. Using the appropriate cable, connect the TV and set-top box connectors. After that, connect the decimeter antenna to the console. The procedure is over.
If you have the opportunity, you can connect digital cable TV. To do this, you will need a cable receiver as well as a specific access module. If the TV has a built-in digital cable receiver and a PCMCIA slot, then in order to use digital TV, it is enough to connect a special access module. Perform all operations with the equipment turned off. Insert the CAM access module into the TV's PCMCIA slot. After that, insert the smart card into the CAM access module according to the instructions. It is a purchased smart card that provides full access to paid channels in digital quality.
Digital satellite TV
Perhaps this is one of the most time-consuming ways to connect digital television to a TV. To connect, you will need a satellite dish (in the common people - a dish), a special bracket (we will use it to mount the antenna), a converter (it will irradiate the antenna), a satellite receiver, as well as a cable to connect the TV to the receiver and the satellite dish to the TV. Such a solid set of equipment can cost more than cable digital television.
The whole complexity of the connection lies in the fact that it is necessary to correctly select the diameter of the antenna and direct it to the satellite. All procedures for installing and configuring the antenna are provided by the service provider, however, if you wish, you can consult and perform all the manipulations yourself. The specific type of connection will be prompted by the operator from whom you will order services for connecting digital satellite television.
conclusions
We have analyzed the technical aspects of connection. Do not forget that all manipulations must be carried out with the equipment turned off to avoid damage and short circuits. Recall that it is very easy to find out if the TV supports digital TV. To do this, you need to study the instruction manual and the technical characteristics of your model in detail. There are special designations that characterize the ability of the TV to work with certain broadcast standards. So the designation DVB-T2 means that the TV can receive digital terrestrial television, DVB-C - cable, DVB-S - satellite. We really hope that this article helped you to understand in detail the question of how to connect digital television to a TV? Good luck with your connections.
Digital terrestrial television is slowly but surely replacing analog television. Here in Ukraine, from the fall of 2018 to the spring of 2019, they plan to completely turn off analog television. As far as I know, in Russia they also plan to turn off analog TV at the beginning of 2019. And despite the fact that many watch satellite TV, cable, or IPTV, many residents will have to look for alternative options. Otherwise, the TV at one moment will simply stop working and receive a signal. And instead of your favorite TV channel, we will see the hiss of the TV.
Of course, instead of analog television, digital terrestrial television has been working well for a long time, which everyone can watch absolutely free of charge. (in Russia it seems like there is a separate paid package). All popular channels that we watched before are available for free viewing. Moreover, there are more channels, and the picture and sound quality is much better. In connection with the transition to T2, many people have a question about what is needed to receive digital terrestrial television. How to receive a T2 signal and what devices are needed for this? What should be the TV? Is it necessary to buy a T2 prefix (tuner)? Which antenna is right for you? There are a lot of such questions. In this article I will try to answer the most popular of them.
Digital terrestrial television - what is it, what are the advantages and what is the difference?
I will try to explain everything in simple words. Terrestrial television is television that is transmitted using a signal that is broadcast using television towers.
Terrestrial television can be divided into:
- Analog. The old format, which is now actively turned off in many countries. Including in Ukraine and Russia.
- Digital. A new format that allows you to receive and watch channels in the best quality. The digital format is less sensitive to interference. Can broadcast more channels.
Until recently, our TVs received analog TV using a conventional antenna. (possibly still accepted if it has not yet been disabled in your country). As technology advances, analog television is simply obsolete. Therefore, a smooth transition to digital television in the DVB-T2 format has long begun.
DVB is a set of digital television standards. DVB-T is an outdated format. DVB-T2 is a new format.
Digital TV has many advantages over analog TV. The first and very big plus is signal compression. Due to this, the maximum number of on-air channels that can be broadcast has increased. Along with this, the quality of the image and sound has improved, which is simply necessary for modern, large TVs. It also became possible to transmit information about a TV show, information about the following programs, etc.
Depending on the country, channel broadcasts are divided into packages. In Ukraine, for example, you can watch 32 channels in digital quality for free. These are 4 packages (multiplex) of 8 channels. For example, due to a bad signal, I only catch 2 packets (16 channels). There are two free packages in Russia. Each broadcasts 10 channels.
No matter how many options. If we want to watch terrestrial television, then we will have to switch to T2. Or install a satellite dish, connect IPTV, or cable TV. In villages and small towns, most likely there are only two options left: satellite TV, or terrestrial T2. Which is better is up to you. Maybe later I will write an article on this topic.
What do you need to receive a DVB-T2 signal?
We return to the topic of the article - the equipment that is necessary for receiving digital terrestrial television.
- Or a TV with DVB-T2 support.
- Or a special T2 prefix (tuner).
- Antenna.
Everything is simple here. If we have an old TV that does not have a built-in tuner that supports the DVB-T2 format, then we need to buy a separate set-top box that will receive the T2 signal, process it and transfer the finished picture to the TV. The set-top box itself can be connected to almost any TV. Even to "pot-bellied".
TV with DVB-T2 support
Your TV may be able to receive a T2 signal. In this case, you do not need to buy a separate prefix. And you can connect the antenna directly to the TV, start searching for digital channels and enjoy watching.
In our countries, TVs with DVB-T2 support began to appear somewhere around 2012. Therefore, if your TV was bought before 2012, then it is unlikely to have T2 support. You need to look at the specifications and check. Information about the availability of DVB-T2 support can be indicated on the box, or in the documentation. If you didn’t find anything there, then just type your TV model in the search engine, open some popular online store (or rather the official website of the manufacturer) and see what digital standards your TV tuner supports.
It looks something like this:
We look at the characteristics of the LG TV on the official website (broadcasting system):
Or go to your TV settings and select channel setup (search) from the menu. It should ask you which channels to look for: digital, or digital and analog. Before that, you will most likely need to select the type of antenna: Cable (DVB-C), or Antenna (DVB-T).
Now, if there is something in the settings about searching for digital channels, then most likely there is support for T2.
It seems to me that a variant is possible when the TV only supports DVB-T, but DVB-T2 does not. Therefore, it is better to look at the characteristics of a particular model.
T2 set-top box for viewing digital terrestrial television
If the TV cannot directly receive the T2 signal, then you will have to buy a special set-top box. Many call her a receiver. This is such a small box that connects to the TV. An antenna is connected to the console. Then we perform a simple setup (search for channels) and watch digital TV.
There are a lot of such attachments. There are even separate online stores that sell only equipment for receiving a T2 signal. Even sets for receiving digital television are sold. (prefix + antenna). The choice is very large, as well as the difference in price. And here you probably have a question: what is the difference between these prefixes? Difference in functionality, size, design, operating system, performance, etc.
- All these consoles are able to receive a T2 signal. It seems to be their main task.
- In most receivers (even the cheapest ones) There is a USB port where you can plug in a USB drive and watch videos, photos, or listen to music.
- TV recording function.
- There are many models that can be connected to the internet (over LAN or Wi-Fi, usually with a separate USB adapter). This makes it possible to watch videos on YouTube, or other services. Watch IPTV, use a browser, etc.
- There are T2 set-top boxes that run on Android. All the functionality of this operating system is already available there. With this device, you can turn your regular TV into a Smart TV.
There are a lot of differences. You should always carefully look and study the characteristics of a particular receiver. When I bought the T2 receiver, I did not understand all the nuances. Then when I bought it, it turned out that the TV has a built-in T2 receiver. Well, nothing, later I connected it to another TV. By the way, I have a Strong SRT 8204. It seems like one of the most budget ones. But nothing, it works.
This set-top box can be connected to almost any TV. If you have an old TV, then the set-top box can be connected using a triple tulip cable. If your TV has HDMI, then of course you need to use an HDMI cable to connect. The image quality will be much better. An HDMI cable usually needs to be purchased separately.
Antenna for DVB-T2 reception
You can receive digital terrestrial television with almost any antenna. No special antenna is needed for this. You can easily use the antenna that you have installed, through which you have watched analog television until now. Any decimeter antenna will work without problems. The so-called "Polish antenna" for T2 is also suitable.
Of course, it all depends on how far the tower is from you and what kind of terrain is in your area. If you live in a city where a tower is installed, then most likely everything will work even without an antenna. But a piece of wire, I think, will be needed. In this case, you can use an indoor antenna without an amplifier.
If the tower is far away, then you need an antenna with an amplifier. Or you will have to install an external decimeter antenna to receive digital terrestrial television. They also come without amplifiers, or with amplifiers. In case of poor reception, you may need to raise the antenna to the mast.
Note that if the antenna is amplified, then a power supply may not be needed, as most T2 receivers can supply power to the antenna. Usually, this feature is enabled in the receiver settings. You need to look at the specifications, or instructions. Your receiver may not have this feature.
The antenna must be properly connected and pointed straight towards the tower. You can easily find information on the location of DVB-T2 signal transmitters in your country and region on the Internet.
conclusions
To start watching T2, you usually only need a receiver. Since you most likely already have an antenna. If your TV is not very old (especially if it has Smart TV) then you probably don't need to buy anything at all. Check if your TV supports DVB-T2. How to do this, I have already told.
If the TV does not have a T2 receiver, then you will have to buy a set-top box. The choice is large, I think you will pick something. Well, then we connect the antenna and TV to the set-top box, and in the settings we start searching for channels. If the channels are not found, then check all the contacts on the antenna, point the antenna towards the tower (after looking at the location of the tower before this). You may need a more powerful antenna or amplifier.
Be sure to leave comments. Share your experience and ask questions!
Russia is actively moving from analog to digital TV. In principle, this is a completely natural process, since the improved signal transmission format allows you to broadcast the highest quality image. All users are concerned about how to connect digital television.
To begin with, this is an accessible standard, not some privileged feature. Note that today each user has access to about 20, depending on the region.
You need to set up digital TV broadcasting at least because you can watch your favorite channels with clear sound and high-quality images. However, first you have to purchase special equipment.
Channels in digital format are broadcast in packages, which are commonly called multiplexes. At this stage, Russian subscribers are offered 2 free multiplexes, each of which has 10 TV channels.
Benefits of Digital TV
Digital TV is a new signal transmission technology that delivers high quality pictures and clear sound. Connecting digital television opens up completely new opportunities for each user, for example, you can watch broadcasts in HD quality. Naturally, analog TV cannot boast of this.
The concept of the technology under consideration is as simple and clear as possible. Picture and sound are transmitted on radio waves as separate streams. In general, this process resembles the connection between a computer and the Internet. Therefore, digital TV can be compared to watching YouTube from a computer.
In addition, it is due to this algorithm that providers will be able to send much more television and radio programs. A large number of channels is far from the only advantage. The functionality, in principle, has noticeably expanded, interactive TV has appeared. You can pause your favorite show or record to your hard drive.
The main advantages of the new television signal transmission technology:
- high image quality;
- clear and rich sound;
- broadcasting of medical content in HD format;
- available different language versions of one program;
- blocking pre-selected TV channels.
Connecting a digital TV antenna is worth at least because all modern TV models are designed to play content in HD format. Ordinary analog air is simply not capable of transmitting such data. At a minimum, there are enough free multiplexes. Therefore, you do not have to pay to watch your favorite channels.
What you need to connect digital TV
In order to connect the "digit" to your TV and fully use the main advantages of this format, you first need to spend a certain amount of money on the purchase of appropriate equipment.
The situation will be noticeably simplified if you use a TV with a built-in T2 adapter. As a rule, only modern models are equipped with them. In other cases, you have to additionally buy a receiver, and sometimes change the antenna. In order for all elements to work correctly, they must be connected with a cable.
How is digital television connected through a TV? Where to begin? If you live in a multi-storey building and are connected to a collective television antenna, then you first need to find out if it is adapted to receive a digital signal.
Ask your neighbors - it is likely that they are already enjoying all the main advantages of the “numbers”. In this case, the collective antenna is suitable, and you do not have to change it. It remains only to purchase a set-top box and set up a home television network.
What is needed to connect the "digit"? We list in detail the necessary equipment.
Antenna
If you live near a television tower, then you can receive a signal using the most ordinary indoor decimeter antenna. Otherwise, you will have to change the wave receiver, give preference to a simple directional model. In addition, it is very important to correctly position the antenna on the tower for high-quality DVB-T2 reception.
Amplifier
In the process of choosing an antenna, questions will arise regarding the appropriateness of signal amplification. If you have previously used amplifiers, then you should not refuse such a practice even if you connect the “numbers”. A good amplifier will provide high-quality signal reception even in places that are extremely far from television towers.
Broadband antennas amplify not only the power of the T2 band, but also all radio waves with similar frequencies - sometimes this prevents the desired signal from being decoded. Therefore, if the reception is good, then the amplifier should not be used. Sometimes his connection is harmful, not beneficial.
When connecting digital channels, many people buy amplifiers with a 12 V power supply. However, in accordance with T2 standards, the latest receiver models produce a voltage of 5 V. Therefore, in active antennas that are designed for the DVB-T2 format, amplifiers operate from a voltage of 5 V with a direct connection to the attachment. This is a budget and practical solution. First of all, an additional power source is eliminated.
Tuner
The set of equipment for digital TV must necessarily include a receiver. This device performs the functions of a decoder. Tuners are characterized by maximum practicality and ease of operation. Basic buttons are located on the front panel, but the main tool for controlling the device is a remote control.
The decoder functions correctly together with the TV. In order to qualitatively set up the broadcasting of channels and connect the device, it is necessary that the decoder be equipped with an HDMI interface and support the HD format. Otherwise, even HD channels will be no different from standard analog quality.
Cables
Connecting equipment for viewing digital TV is carried out using a cable, so it is also an integral element of the whole structure. To old TVs via RCA-tulip or Scart input, and to modern TVs via HDMI interface. Therefore, in any case, you will need a cord with the appropriate connectors.
To get a high-quality image with high resolution, you need to connect the TV to the set-top box via HDMI. RCA and Scart connectors do not support HD format, therefore, the picture will be the same as with analog TV. In some situations, an HDMI cable is included in the basic package of the tuner, but still more often you have to buy it separately.
The antenna is connected to the receiver using a coaxial cable, again, you can find it in absolutely any store. We connect the coaxial cable through one of the available connectors: RFIN, RF-In, RF imput. Fasten the plug well at the end of the wire, the quality of the broadcast image depends on it.
Connecting digital terrestrial television
If you use an old TV, then you will need a special receiver to connect the "numbers". The new models are equipped with T2 adapters, we have already talked about this earlier, therefore, you do not need to buy additional equipment for them. Be sure to check if the built-in module works according to the MPEG-4 standard, which is valid in Russia.
To learn how to connect digital terrestrial television, you first need to select a signal reception method.
- Connecting the "numbers" through the most common common antenna, which is installed on the roof of your house or in the entrance.
- You can also watch TsETV by connecting cable TV. This service is provided by many providers.
We will first consider the first option, since it is more practical and less expensive. If you do not have a common antenna, proceed to the next step in choosing and buying an antenna.
Digital terrestrial television allows you to set up about 20 free channels - 2 multiplexes. Of course, the cable TV provider will offer much more, but you will have to pay for it.
It is likely that a third multiplex will appear soon, which will also be free, but for now this question is up in the air. Firstly, the Russian infrastructure is not designed for a very large broadcast range. Secondly, there are certain problems associated with the lack of frequencies. Experts believe that 2018 will be a turning point in the issue of abandoning analog television. Accordingly, the number of free channels will be finally fixed.
Now consider the intricacies of the transition from analog to digital television. Conventionally, the process can be divided into 5 stages, consider each of them.
Antenna selection and installation
If you plan to independently set up a connection to digital television, then you need to start with. First, remember that there is no single universal solution, so the model should be bought based on the individual characteristics of the house / apartment. Secondly, you can always install an antenna that can receive a signal even in remote regions.
The most attractive option is an ordinary indoor antenna, but as practice shows, its power is not enough. Predominantly, interference occurs, which will appear every time trucks pass near the house.
Even if a powerful integrated amplifier is used, it will be extremely difficult to achieve high-quality reception, since obstacles dampen the waves. Indoor antennas can only be used if you are in an ideal location - near the tower, and the window is directed to the repeater.
External signal reception is a more efficient solution, especially compared to an indoor antenna. The wave range passes through the walls of the house, but the signal quality suffers significantly because of this. An external antenna will provide a strong signal.
Which antenna is better to choose: active or passive? To answer this question, it is necessary to take into account how far it is located from the DVB-T2 tuner. Practice shows that a passive model is often enough. It is not equipped with an auxiliary amplifier, although the cable length is very short. Active antennas are equipped with a built-in signal amplifier.
Determination of the location of the television tower
To find the nearest tower, you need to study the map of digital TV in Russia. Add the name of your locality through the search menu, and then estimate the distance and direction to the nearest signal transmitter. Naturally, you also need to take into account the parameters of broadcasting.
Setting the equipment according to signal reception quality
Reception zone - maintaining a high quality of signal transmission, regardless of third-party factors:
- weather;
- solar Activity;
- season;
- temperature;
- air humidity level;
- Times of Day.
If the transmitter is in the line of sight, then reliable signal reception is guaranteed. The main thing is to direct the antenna correctly.
As for the remote zone from the TV tower, there are often problems with signal transmission. Outside the sure zone, radio waves are obscured by the earth's surface, so it is difficult to tune in to a TV broadcast.
According to official data, the problem is solved by the correct placement of transmitters, in other words, new towers are being built. In any case, in an area far from the transmitter, the quality of the signal will depend on the weather conditions. Therefore, it is so important to fix the antenna in the right direction and fix it securely.
To receive signals over a long distance with minimal loss of quality, use large antennas that differ from analogues in a more complicated design. Subscribers located in a remote area must select the optimal equipment design, guided by the maximum gain. At the same time, the dimensions of the structure should remain minimal. Usually the problem is solved by using directed models.
Setting up antenna and television equipment
To complete the digital connection, you first need to connect the equipment with a special cable. After that, you can connect the TV and receiver to the mains. Position the antenna away from the nearest transmitter.
The process of setting up the decoder is simplified as much as possible, so there will absolutely no problems with connection or control. On average, all work takes about half an hour, for a correct connection, follow the recommendations prescribed in the instructions.
After the first launch, the “Autoinstall” assistant menu will open, here the most important parameters that determine the operation of the receiver are set. The labeled buttons on the remote control will guide you through the equipment setup step by step.
Once the antenna is pointed and connected, and the receiver is set up, you need to make sure that all cables have been connected correctly. Then turn on the TV.
Channel search (automatic or manual)
Most users prefer to tune channels automatically. To do this, open the menu and go to the "Auto Search" section. Do not turn on the equipment until the scan is complete. If channels are not found, then the receiver is not receiving a signal from the antenna.
Try moving the antenna, and then start the auto scan process again. Check the signal quality by changing the position of the antenna. Do this until you have tuned the TV channels of the desired multiplex.
As for alternatives, it's worth returning to the main menu, and then going to the "manual search" section. On some models of equipment, this function may be called a little differently. A list will be displayed on the TV screen, in which you need to manually enter data on television broadcasting, frequency, then you must confirm the search. Properly performed manual tuning - the presence of 20 free channels in excellent quality.
Digital cable TV connection
To connect cable TV in the "figure", you should use a universal receiver. In some situations, users buy a digital cable box. Such devices are equipped with an additional PCMCIA connector for connecting the CAM module, which contains a pay TV access card. Naturally, you will first have to choose one of the tariff plans offered by the provider.
Many modern smart TVs are already equipped with a built-in PCMCIA slot, so there is no need to purchase additional equipment.
To correctly read the CAM board, it is desirable to use a high-quality card reader, however, devices of this type are used much less often, since users often prefer hybrid digital receivers.
To connect digital TV to your TV, just follow the instructions from the provider. As for channel settings, you can use the recommendations given earlier. Mostly receivers work on a similar principle, problems should not arise. The only difference is that when connecting digital cable TV, it is not the RF wire that is used, but the provider's cord.
Connecting two or more TVs to one set-top box
The ideal option is to connect one TV to one set-top box. Therefore, the best solution would be to purchase separate receivers for TV devices. Naturally, this will not be the most budgetary way to solve the problem. The user connects a cable to a splitter, and then from each input it goes to separate receivers. The connection scheme is as simple and clear as possible.
If you wish, you can connect a second TV to one set-top box, for this you just need to use all available interfaces. For example, through HDMI we connect the first device, and with the help of "tulips" the second.
Connecting digital TV in this way is not the best option, since both TVs will receive an identical signal. In other words, the picture is synchronized, you cannot watch different TV channels at the same time.
An additional solution to the problem is to purchase an RF modulator that will feed individual decoded signals to the TVs. However, the cost of such a device is much higher than the price of a conventional receiver.
In most apartments and even private houses within any even a small city, there are almost no problems with the quality of television signal reception, since cable television is almost everywhere. In most multi-apartment buildings in cities with a population of over a million, there may be several cable TV operators, which gives residents a pretty good choice.
But as you move away from the city center, the availability of high-quality cable TV is gradually "reduced to nothing". And outside the city, as a rule, cable TV completely missing.
Therefore, summer residents, for the most part, are content with the fact that they watch from the strength of several channels of on-air television, which they manage to catch on. And image quality often leaves much to be desired. Especially if the summer cottage is located far from the radiating terrestrial television station, then on the TV screen you can see a lot of interference from "snow" to "streaks" and black and white instead of color.
In most of Russia, terrestrial television is still transmitted in analog format. This method of signal transmission has one significant drawback: the signal-to-noise ratio drops sharply with distance from the emitter.
Noise (interference) with the distance from the television center begins to more and more prevail over the main signal. This just manifests itself in the appearance of "snow" on the screen. If the cottage or village is very far from the transmitting station, then the noise will eventually interrupt the signal completely, and it becomes impossible to watch TV channel at all.
Now the country is introducing digital TV signal transmission, and over time it is planned to completely abandon the transmission of television programs in analog format.
What are the advantages of digital TV over analog TV?
The transmission of a signal "coded in digital" compared to the direct transmission in analog format gives several advantages:
- Improving the noise immunity of the transmission and recording paths of television signals.
- Reducing the power of transmitters.
- Significant increase in the number of TV programs transmitted in the same frequency range.
- Improving the quality of image and sound in TV receivers.
- Creation of TV systems with new standards of image decomposition (high-definition television).
- Creation of interactive TV systems, when using which the viewer gets the opportunity to influence the transmitted program (for example, video on demand).
- "Start of Transfer" function.
- Archive of TV programs and recording of TV programs.
- Transmission in the TV signal of various additional information.
- Choice of language (more than usual two) and subtitles.
- Expanding the functionality of studio equipment.
- Possibility of adding to radio multiplexes
But there are also some flaws:
- Fading and scattering of the picture into “squares” with an insufficient level of the received signal, the data is either received with 100% quality or is restored, or is received poorly with the impossibility of recovery.
- Almost complete fading of the signal in a thunderstorm.
- Even a transmitter with a power of 10 kW and a height of a transmitting antenna of 350 m provides reliable reception at a distance of 50 km, and as a result, the need for a larger number of transmitting centers than with analog TV (more frequent location of transmitting antennas).
Since we are discussing from the point of view of an ordinary user, basically only image quality, then we can single out only one main feature of digital terrestrial TV in front of outdated analog:
Digital TV is very resistant to interference. To do this, the signal is encoded with some redundancy. The digital tuner will produce a perfect picture even in the presence of a large amount of interference. And he will do this until the signal-to-noise ratio drops to a minimum, when the signal comes already completely on the verge of the capabilities of the equipment.
That is, in analog broadcasting, as the signal level drops, you will see the picture worse and worse. In digital broadcasting, you won't notice a drop in signal until the tuner is no longer able to recover the lost pieces of the image, and it "splits into squares" and then completely disappears.
Types of digital television
According to the transmission channel, digital TV can be divided into four types:
- Cable (DVB-C)
- Terrestrial (DVB-T2)
- Satellite (DVB-S)
- Internet TV (IP TV)
We will not consider cable TV and IP television in the country because of their great rarity. But satellite and terrestrial digital television broadcasting in the country is relevant.
Moreover, satellite DTV has been used by consumers for quite a long time, and in especially remote areas there are no alternatives to it at all. We will consider it in our separate article.
But terrestrial DTV began to enter the life of gardeners and summer residents relatively recently. Let's talk about it in more detail today.
Terrestrial digital television in the country
The terrestrial digital television broadcasting network in the Russian Federation is still in the process of being built and available so far mostly near major cities. But it already covers a significant part of the suburban areas. Therefore, the issue of connectivity has become very relevant in recent times.
How to connect to the terrestrial DTV?
If you want to try connecting digital television in the country, first you need to determine does your site fall within the coverage area of one of the DTV transmitting antennas. The location of the site will determine how your TV receiver will catch the digital signal.The most reliable way to find out is to interview your neighbors in your summer cottage, perhaps some of them already watch TV channels in digital form. Then you can be completely sure that "the signal reaches you."
If no one in the area has heard of digital TV yet, then you need to try to find out if your site falls within the boundaries broadcasting radius of the local radiating DTV station.
Coverage
The broadcasting radius of a DTV station usually lies within 20-50 km, depending on the terrain and building density. On average, about 30 km is reception area.
Each region has its own local organization - on-air DTV operator, which is responsible for building and maintaining the network. On their website you can usually see the locations of broadcast stations and even coverage maps. Or you can get information from them by phone or in writing.
The DTV network in the Russian Federation is being built by the Federal State Unitary Enterprise Russian Television and Radio Broadcasting Network.
Each region has a division of this organization.
You can call and find out everything by phone numbers in your region from the page.
If you are lucky and you found out that your dacha is located in the "numbers" broadcasting zone, then it's time to decide on necessary equipment to receive DTV.
Equipment
So, you already have a TV in the country, a plot in the DTV broadcasting area. We proceed to the installation of digital television in the country. What else is needed to receive a signal? At least you need an antenna.
Antenna for receiving digital television
Universal MV / UHF antenna for digital TV reception
If a digital TV tower is nearby, then it is enough and indoor antenna. I will say even more, I personally confidently caught the DTV signal in the city of Ufa on a meter-long piece of wire.
If not everything is so perfect with the signal level, then you will need to install an antenna in the country to receive digital channels. Now most antennas on the market are well suited for this, as they support reception of signals in the decimeter range (UHF / UHF).
For example, you can put the antenna "GAL", "Locus", "Zenith", "Meridian", "Ether", etc. I bought my antenna in Auchan for 1000 rubles.
If you know the exact location of the DTV tower, then everything is simple: direct the antenna on her and everything. Usually this is enough to catch the signal and watch digital TV without any problems.
If the exact direction is not known, then you need to gradually turn the antenna until you find the best position. Most digital set-top boxes have signal level and quality indicator, which is displayed on the TV screen, and by which you can find the best position of the antenna. They usually do this together: one person turns the antenna, the second monitors the signal level.
When you have found the maximum possible signal level and the antenna is installed in the right direction, you need to search for channels on the set-top box.
Setting up digital television in the country
The easiest way is to find the “Auto search for channels” item in the set-top box menu, and then the set-top box will do everything itself: it will find all available digital channels and number them in order.
List of digital terrestrial television channels
Now the fun part: what channels does digital tv show for free?
Since my dacha is in the suburbs of Ufa, and I am writing from my own experience, it means that I am considering digital terrestrial television in Ufa. But as far as I understand list of channels throughout Russia will be the same with rare exceptions, so the information will be useful to everyone, and not just the residents of Bashkortostan.
At our dacha, TsTV shows 20 channels: 10 on each multiplex.
List of digital television channels
Here full list of channels in Ufa:
| 1 | "First channel" |
| 2 | "Russia 1" |
| 3 | "Match TV" |
| 4 | "NTV" |
| 5 | "Petersburg-5 channel" |
| 6 | "Russia K" |
| 7 | "Russia 24" |
| 8 | "Carousel" |
| 9 | "Public Television of Russia" |
| 10 | "TV Center - Moscow" |
| 11 | REN TV |
| 12 | "SAVED" |
| 13 | "The first entertainment STS" |
| 14 | "Home" |
| 15 | "TV-3" |
| 16 | Friday |
| 17 | "STAR" |
| 18 | "WORLD" |
| 19 | "TNT" |
| 20 | "Muz TV" |
I hope I helped you understand all the nuances of digital TV. If you have any questions, write, I will definitely try to help you.
