A digital tuner is an important component, without which the reception of most modern channels is impossible. For the uninitiated, the choice of such a device becomes a big problem. Within the framework of this article, recommendations will be given regarding its selection, as well as connections and settings. There really are many nuances here that not everyone knows about, including the seller in the store.
Kinds
The digital tuner can be structurally presented in three versions:
- separate device;
- additional module installed in the television receiver;
- expansion board for computer or laptop.
The first option has received the greatest distribution so far. It allows you to set the broadcast standard DVB-T2, not only on new televisions, but also on older ones, which have connectors for connection of the type "SCART" or "tulip". In the second case, this is a module installed in a special expansion slot for the TV. By default, most new devices are already equipped with them. But in order to open the encoded channels, you need this module. Not quite a convenient solution that can be applied only on modern TV models. In the latter case, everything is clear - the channels can be watched on a stationary PC or laptop. So far, such a practice has not received wide distribution, and its prospects are rather vague. Therefore, the expression "digital tuner" today means a separate device for receiving an encoded signal, which is next to the TV.
How to choose?
Before visiting the store, you need to study in detail the interfaces for connecting the TV. Now the most commonly used for switching such devices is a “tulip” (aka RCA). Less common is SCART. Perhaps in the near future there will be models that will be equipped with "HDMI", but they are not yet available. Well, and since not every TV has the first type of jack, when choosing, you need to clarify what types of connections the digital tuner supports. It is important that its output and TV input are the same. The second important factor when choosing such a device is the equipment. It will be better if all the necessary wires are assembled. The next point to consider is the presence of an information indicator on the front panel. In some cases, the information on it is irreplaceable. Immediately buying is not recommended. It is better after a preliminary selection to study reviews about him. If positive, then you can buy. But in the opposite case, it is better to continue the search.
Connection and setup
All digital tuners are connected as follows. One wire - power. It connects a 220 volt outlet and a receiver jack. The second is needed to connect the TV and the tuner. It can be SCART or Tulip. A wire from the antenna is connected to a special socket. Next, you need to turn on the power toggle switch on the back of its case. After that, the remote control sends a command to turn on. After downloading, you need to find the “Auto Search” item in the menu and start it. In this case, the receiver will start searching for channels. If the version of its software is not the latest, then all the latest updates will be downloaded through the digital broadcasting network. After completing all the above procedures, the receiver will turn on the first channel found. Then, by switching the remote control channels, you can see everything that he found.
Conclusion
A digital TV tuner is an important component, without which it is impossible to imagine its work. These recommendations for selecting, connecting and configuring will greatly simplify the launch of the device.