Digital set-top box to TV: how it works, selection criteria, best models

After the transition of over-the-air broadcasting from analog to digital, it became necessary to purchase special devices for old TVs. All modern TV receiver models are equipped with a corresponding tuner. However, not everyone is ready to change their TV because of this. Knowing how a digital set-top box works and the features of choosing a device, you can buy an inexpensive and effective device.

Purpose of the device

Thanks to the digital set-top box to the TV, you can not only watch broadcasting in the new standard, but also significantly expand the capabilities of the TV receiver. There are a large number of models on sale that differ in cost and functionality. Among the main functions performed by the set-top box, you can note:

• Plays multimedia files from a USB flash drive.
• Recording of TV broadcasts in ts format to an external drive.
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• Ability to stop live view.
• Thanks to the TimeShift function, the broadcast of the TV program can be postponed.

Some budget modern TV models have significantly less functionality, although they are equipped with a DVB-T2 tuner. In such a situation, the console will be able to significantly expand its capabilities.

It should also be said about one more type of tuners - Smart TV set-top boxes. They provide users with even more options.

These devices can work in one of two ways:

• All files are stored on the built-in media; to run the necessary software, you must first install it.
• Cloud services are used to store working information, and the device can only function when connected to the Internet.

The main advantage of Smart Set-Top boxes is the ability to access various resources on the Internet and display information on the TV screen.

Such tuners can be equipped with several slots for connecting memory cards at once, they support a large number of multimedia formats.

Criterias of choice

It should be admitted that a digital TV set-top box is not the most complex consumer electronic device.

But even considering the relatively low cost of these devices, it is necessary to make the right choice. There are several criteria that must be kept in mind when going to the store.

Broadcast standards

This question is the most important when choosing a device. Since Russia uses the DVB-T2 digital television standard, TV set-top box must support it. This is a universal solution that suits users of all regions of the country. In addition, the picture quality of DVB-T2 is better than that of DVB-T1.

Also, two more standards should be noted - DVB-S and DVB-S2. They are used to broadcast satellite TV. If the set-top box supports them, then the user can connect it to a satellite dish and broadcast the received signal directly to the TV without using a receiver.

Many cable TV providers today use the DVB-C standard. This gives them the ability to encode the signal. To gain access to it, special modules are required. If the device will be used to receive cable television, then it must support this standard as well.

Connection methods

If the tuner is purchased to work with an old TV, then it must contain three cinch or RCA connectors. One of them is used to output video signal, and the other two transmit audio in stereo. Most of the models of set-top boxes today are equipped with an HDMI connector. It is a modern standard used for the simultaneous transmission of video and audio signals.

The presence of USB ports means that the device can be used as a multimedia player. In addition, an external drive is connected to them for recording TV programs, if this function is supported by the set-top box.

It is also worth paying attention to the through antenna output, thanks to which two TV receivers can be connected to the set-top box at once without the use of splitters.

Functionality

Since digital tuners are not only capable of receiving a signal of the required standard, it is worth getting to know their useful functions. One of them is TimeShift (deferred view). Thanks to her, the broadcast of a TV program can be paused and not to miss an interesting moment.

Also pay attention to the Personal Video Recorder (PVR) option. With its help, you can record programs if it is not possible to watch them live. It is quite obvious that for this external storage required. Many modern STB models can be used as a multimedia player due to the support of popular formats. The TV Guide function allows you to check the weekly program schedule for all available channels.

Popular consoles

You can find a large number of consoles in retail chains, but it is sometimes quite difficult to give preference to one model or another, even if you know the selection criteria. Having got acquainted with an overview of popular consoles, it will be easier to make a decision.

Supra SDT-94

The device looks stylish and has a low cost.

The set-top box provides the ability to record programs on a flash drive, as well as view multimedia content.

The device is connected to the TV using tulips or an HDMI cable. It should be noted that it is worth using the second option, since the picture quality will be much better.

Among the advantages of the model are:

• Low cost.
• Confident signal reception.
• Ease of customization.
• The presence of the HDMI connector.
• Parental control function.

If we talk about the shortcomings, then most often users note that the IR receiver does not work very well.

To control the console, you literally have to aim at it with the remote control. It is also worth noting the jumps in the image when connected to a TV using RCA connectors.

Oriel 963 device

A distinctive feature of the model is its ease of adjustment. The prefix will be quickly sorted out by people who know nothing about electronic household appliances. It is also worth noting that the set-top box has an aluminum body. Thanks to this, it not only looks stylish, but also does not overheat during operation.

You can connect not only a flash drive to the USB connector, but also an external HDD. The device has a built-in media player that copes well with all popular formats. Do not forget about the deferred viewing function, which is sometimes extremely necessary.

The model has the following advantages:

• High sensitivity of IR receiver.
• Control buttons are located on the front panel.
• Allows you to record the desired TV programs.
• Has many connectors.

The device has only one drawback - not the most convenient menu. Otherwise, there are no complaints about the Oriel 963.

B-Color DC1302 device

The device is easy to use and does an excellent job of receiving a DVB-T2 signal. AC3 audio format support makes this model a real media player. The fact is that in large video files, sound is recorded using this codec. The control buttons located on the front panel will make the work with the attachment even more convenient.

It should be noted that the B-Color DC 1302 has support for HD channels. The metal case is an excellent heatsink and prevents the console from overheating during operation. Among the shortcomings, only a relatively small length of the power cord can be noted, as well as a slightly slower channel switching.

The choice of a device for watching digital TV largely depends on the individual needs of the user. Not every person will overpay for additional functions, since he is ready to limit himself only to the main one. Before going to the store, you should immediately decide for what purposes you plan to use the tuner, not counting the main purpose.