A Smart-TV set-top box is a device that allows you to connect a regular TV to the Internet. With its help, the user will be able not only to view a wide variety of video content and television programs in real time, but also to communicate on social networks. However, in order to fully use the capabilities of a SMART set-top box for a TV, the potential owner needs to understand what it is, what it provides, what its parameters are, and how to use this device in general. The answers to all these questions are further in our material.
Main functions
Smart receivers are comparable in power and capabilities to desktop computers. Despite the great capabilities, their main task remains the same - to provide the user with modern high-definition television in HDTV, Full-HD and 4K formats.
In this direction, the Smart set-top box replaces two devices:
- Decoder. Decoding the digital signal into its usual form before sending the image to the TV.
- The carrier of physical channels. All programs are configured and run on the receiver itself, and the TV is only needed to display the image.
Some models of Smart receivers have a built-in monitor. In this case, the equipment can be used to watch Smart TV without a TV.
Exploitation
A smart TV set-top box is not an ordinary tuner that just turns on and has channels already installed. You need to install special applications on it for further viewing.
To better understand and be able to understand the work faster, pay your attention to every inscription and button.
The main screen of the console, which opens after startup, is called its desktop or shell, which you can modify and customize to your taste.
At the bottom of the shell, the most popular applications are usually listed for quick launch, so as not to have to look for them in the general list.
Shell
If you don’t know what to install first, then we recommend three main programs :
torrent stream controller
Designed for viewing television channels, of which there are more than 600.
In order to open any of them, you need to launch the program, select a category, as well as the required channel.
But this program does not have a built-in player to launch it, so you need to download a separate application.
The most optimal is MX Player, which must be downloaded from the Play Store if it is not already installed.
And then, after installing the program and starting the channel, click Open with and select this application.
Playing with MX Player
If during playback the picture is not displayed on the entire screen and its edges are cut off, then you need to press the mouse button (in some cases it is enough to simply move it down) and point it at the panel at the bottom of the screen.
There are rewind and pause buttons, as well as a button for controlling the screen proportions, where you can scale and stretch the picture to the desired appearance.
VIDEO: How to install Torrent Stream Controller
How to install Torrent Stream Controller
Video instruction
LOL TV
After installing and opening the application, a list of 200 channels will be visible on the screen, which may differ from the content of the previous program.
The first time you click on the selected channel it will be activated, the second time it will start.
If the channel produces poor quality upon startup, do not rush to switch it.
Since the quality of the output image depends on the speed of the Internet, in a few minutes it will be completely loaded and improve the quality of the transmission.
lol tv
HD Video Box
On the left side of this program, categories of genres are displayed: films, TV series, cartoons, etc. , your favorite tasks, search history, and settings are also visible.
Movies are immediately opened in the center, and at the top you can filter the search depending on the requirement: by year of release, genres, popularity, etc.
HD Video Box
It is worth noting that this program is just a platform with selections of films from various sources.
When we go to search for a film of interest and enter its name into the search, the program offers options for this film from various sources.
They may differ in quality and the presence of different voiceovers.
Choose to watch movies that have a resolution of 720, or even 1080; it will be better if HD is also written next to them. And among voiceovers, the preferred option is the so-called “dubbing”.
There is no built-in player here either, but you can configure automatic selection of MX Player by clicking Remember me.
Remember MX Player selection
If you play a movie and it starts to slow down, then either your Internet speed is low, which is not enough to watch online, or there are problems with the server itself on which the movie is located.
In this case, try choosing a movie from another source.
VIDEO: ⚠️ Setting up Android TV Box | Android TV Box setup for beginners
What are there
Today, a large number of models of set-top boxes with Smart TV are produced. Up to a dozen manufacturers are working in this direction, each of which presents several models to users. Also, one company can produce several product lines, and the variety of consoles can reach dozens.
Despite their individual characteristics, all Smart receivers differ according to several criteria:
- Design. There are compact and large devices on the market with different capabilities. Their sizes are determined by hardware capabilities. Large receivers have several built-in tuners for decoding, a CAM connector for an operator card, and a large number of inputs for different wires. Small models are simpler, but they are also in great demand due to their compactness and low cost.
- System capabilities. For smart set-top boxes, such characteristics as the capacity of the video adapter and the amount of RAM, processor performance and maximum resolution are important. These criteria determine the overall power of the receiver and determine its cost.
- Program operating mode. All smart receivers have add-ons such as Smart-TV and Social-TV, access to remote services from the set-top box manufacturer and other developers. Depending on the software and functionality of the device, all applications can be hosted on media and used offline (similar to desktop versions of computer utilities), or hosted on a remote cloud server. In the latter case, the set-top box is not loaded with programs; it is simpler and cheaper, but using basic utilities without access to the Internet will become impossible.
Appearance
The consoles, moreover, differ in their appearance - in the form of a flash drive and a box.
But in terms of performance, they are no different; the whole question is ease of use. Appearance
The box type is larger and connects using cables, while flash drives are inserted directly into the TV connector.
Types of consoles
What it should be and how to use it
A smart set-top box is a device that must meet the requirements of modern and interactive television, as well as provide access to remote communication services, television, communications, etc. Therefore, a Smart TV set-top box should have the following features that distinguish it from a regular digital set-top box:
- Internet access. As already discussed, the set-top box must have a wired or wireless Internet connection. If it is absent, the receiver can only decrypt the digital signal and play multimedia files.
- Powerful video adapter. Smart set-top boxes are designed for full use as a video player, therefore, they must support all known formats.
- Synchronization. This applies to both third-party devices and remote services. A full-fledged Smart set-top box usually includes several synchronization tools at once: via the Internet for updating software and making custom settings (weather forecast, exact time), as well as using a network cable or Bluetooth connection to interact with other devices.
The latest models of simple digital receivers are also not far behind in their capabilities.
However, there are two nuances that clearly separate them from Smart devices:
- lack of its own video adapter (they are designed to work only with display via TV)
- full Internet access (IPTV connection is not possible).
Attention! If the set-top box has a separate interface with entertainment and other useful programs, this does not mean that the device supports SMART TV. Regular receivers of the latest releases (up to 2013) may include a set of utilities, separated into a separate interface from system settings, which is reminiscent of the Smart-TV service.
Hardware requirements
When choosing a set-top box for Smart TV, you need to be guided by the same requirements as for a video player and a computer at the same time.
Important characteristics to consider include:
- Processor (CPU). Modern models are available with 4- and 8-core processors. However, their cost is high, and such power does not always have to be fully utilized. If a Smart set-top box is considered only for interactive television and viewing files, and a regular computer will be used for basic tasks, it is recommended to consider models with a 2-core processor.
- Random access memory (RAM). Its capacity is used for the functioning of the applications used. For television and playing files, 1 GB of memory is enough. And for constant use of the utilities of Smart-TV and Social-TV services, it is recommended to choose a device with 2 - 4 GB of RAM.
- Built-in memory (HDD or ROM). Today there are models with internal memory from 1 to 16 GB. The best option would be to choose a set-top box with a capacity of 4 GB. This is quite enough to download and save any movie without using an external drive.
- Video adapter. If the Smart receiver is selected for widespread use, incl. computer games and graphics processors, it is important to have a powerful video card. It is significantly more expensive compared to other device components, so you should not consider powerful options.
There are also less significant criteria, but their consideration is individual for each case, depending on the requirements for a set-top box with a Smart TV option for a TV. These may include the presence of a monitor or card reader, the choice of operating system, etc.
Data playback speed
When we talk about the speed of data reproduction in a computer, we mean its processing power. A smart receiver is designed for television, therefore, it requires extensive graphics capabilities.
Communication bandwidth is responsible for receiving high-quality television and viewing multimedia files:
- Digital TV. High-quality viewing in the highest resolution 4K (4096p) can only be provided by a set-top box with a powerful processor and connection via a coaxial cable. The first is responsible for the speed of decoding incoming information, the volume of which is determined by the resolution. Each wire has its own information transfer limit and only the HDMI cable has the highest bandwidth.
- Interactive TV. In this format, information is transmitted directly from the source to the user in its original form, without compression or encoding. Therefore, the user requires high internet speed. The most reliable will be a wired connection via a LAN network connector. The Wi-Fi connection also has high data transfer speeds. However, a wireless network is characterized by periodic decreases in speed, which leads to the loss of some packet data.
It is worth mentioning that if the data playback speed is insufficient, each TV format has different defects.
When using digital TV, the set-top box automatically reduces the clarity of the picture to a value at which a stable display is possible (cable TV) or the image is completely absent due to the loss of part of the data (satellite, terrestrial TV).
Interactive broadcasting does not provide encryption, transmits the image in the usual form, and if the device’s bandwidth is insufficient, the user continues to receive a stable image of the same clarity, but with long delays.
Connection method to TV
Modern Smart receivers have a large number of inputs and connectors on their bodies, used for television, access to remote services, and synchronization with other devices.
Video inputs
They include a group of ports that are necessary to connect digital television. All devices have an RF IN connector for connecting an antenna cable. The remaining wires are necessary to output the image to the TV. Depending on the generation, each Smart TV set-top box has cable inputs with different bandwidths:
- HDMI. A coaxial cable is connected to this connector, the bandwidth of which can accept high-definition digital broadcasts.
- RCA (“tulip”). The most common way to connect a set-top box to a TV to display images. The cable has three plugs and provides output in mpeg-2/4 format (HDTV, Full-HD).
- AV (twisted pair). Audio-video port for connecting a wire with two plugs, yellow and white. In older models, in addition to the input for the signal receiver, there is only this connector. Its low bandwidth cannot guarantee picture clarity above HD (720p).
- VGA. Analogue of a computer port for connecting a monitor. This connector is used for devices with a powerful video adapter. This is what you need to connect to when using video games.
If your TV set-top box has all 3 connectors, it is recommended to use the most powerful cable that will provide high-quality television.
Wireless connection
Smart receivers can also display images on a TV and interact with other devices using Bluetooth technology. However, it is worth considering that wireless communication has a lower data transfer rate and its quality is determined by the distance between the set-top box and the TV.
Important! When relaying broadcasts from a set-top box to a device more than 10 meters away, delays of up to several seconds are possible.
Supported File Formats
Modern smart set-top boxes support all known video and audio file formats: mp3, acc, mkv, m3u, wma, mpeg, jpeg. The difference between models may only be in the initial list of supported formats, but it can be successfully expanded by updating the software or downloading codecs for the built-in player.
At the same time, all receivers reproduce all video formats; difficulties with support may arise only when playing files from media
.
Internet connection method
Currently, receivers offer two Internet connection options:
- Network connection. The connection is provided using a LAN connector to which an RJ LAN cable is connected. Such devices have a regular network adapter and in case of failure, it can be replaced with a computer network card.
- Wireless connection. Internet access via Wi-Fi technology. Wireless communication is available to all residents of sparsely populated areas, but its data transmission speed is lower, and the quality of the image depends on the distance.
Most set-top boxes can be connected in both ways.
Additional functions
In addition to the main function, television, any Smart set-top box gives the user a number of broad opportunities:
- Home cinema. The receiver can be used as a full-fledged video player by additionally connecting speakers.
- User Internet. Using the set-top box, the user can access any Internet resource and view it, download and upload any files, as well as make online purchases.
- Social-TV. Includes popular social networks and other communication services. You can broadcast digital television online to other users.
- Video games. The receiver supports most computer games.
Each set-top box model has an individual set of additional functions, but in each case they provide the same capabilities as a computer or laptop.
Connection interface
It is important to pay attention to it when choosing a receiver, because... The device's capabilities depend on the technical limitations of the TV.
For example, if there is an old TV from the 00s, it does not have an HDMI connector. Therefore, there is no point in purchasing an expensive set-top box that supports 4K format, because... other cables do not have high bandwidth.
How to use a Smart TV set-top box for a TV: how to connect the Internet and set up Smart
To start the device, you need to connect it to the mains and select the Smart function on the TV (on some TVs this technology turns on automatically when you turn on the set-top box).
After launch, a working panel will open in front of you, on which you will see many icons with which programs are launched. For convenience, icons are usually grouped into thematic blocks.
You can select and launch certain programs using the console’s remote control (the main buttons are the arrows and the “OK” key). If you have a USB port on your set-top box, it is recommended to connect a wireless keyboard with a touchpad or scroll wheel to it - using wireless technology you can control the set-top box remotely, and using a touchpad or scroll wheel will make selecting programs and scrolling through pages much easier. To run a program, select it using the arrows and click the run button.
If you are tired of the program, select the “Close” function, or press the return key (this key is implemented differently on different remotes, but in most cases it looks like an arrow that is directed from right to left).
Also, using the work panel, you can configure some settings of the set-top box (for example, language). To do this, you need to find and launch the special “Settings” icon. Another useful program is the Google Play service - with its help you can buy and download third-party applications to the console.
How to connect and configure a Smart TV set-top box after purchase:
Criterias of choice
As discussed above, the Smart receiver has a number of key characteristics. However, it is not necessary to consider them all.
The following features are of great importance:
- Hardware specifications. Regardless of the purpose of using the set-top box, the minimum processor architecture must be 2 cores. For everyday use of the device instead of a computer, you will need large RAM - from 2 GB. And those who like to download files from the Internet should consider a large amount of built-in memory (from 8 GB).
- Internet connection method. All cities have wired Internet, which is recommended to be used due to reliable connections and high data transfer speeds. A wireless connection should only be considered if there is no wired network.
- Permission. The clarity of the transmitted image cannot be higher than the resolution of the TV, so the choice of model must be made taking into account the pixel resolution of its screen.
Network connection
Again, be sure to purchase a mouse or keyboard with a touchpad! Believe me, even if you don’t do this initially, you will soon see for yourself that there is a need. You can make your life much easier.
Keyboard with touchpad for TV control
To connect to the Internet, select the method you need in the settings, depending on the type of connection: Ethernet or WiFi. Find your network and enter its password (if necessary, remember it initially).
It’s very easy to do everything using a router; you just need to enter the password for your network and you’ll be connected right away.
If you connect using an Internet cable that goes directly to your home, you will need to inform your provider that a new device has appeared to supply the network.
Sometimes you need to manually enter the IP address data and some other parameters.
But we believe that if you bought a smart TV set-top box, you probably have a desktop computer at home and use the Internet on smartphones, tablets and other gadgets.
If you do not want to connect and disconnect the cable from the TV to the computer and vice versa, then we recommend purchasing a Wi-Fi router.
Overview of consoles
We offer for consideration popular Smart receivers that are already available on the domestic market and have received positive ratings from users.
Nexon MXQ 4k
An inexpensive and fairly powerful set-top box that will allow you to watch digital television, download and play any multimedia files. It has little RAM, which is why stable operation of Social-TV without freezes is not guaranteed.
Advantages: affordable price, universal controls (remote control, mouse, keyboard, gamepad, etc.). Disadvantages: small amount of RAM and built-in memory. However, the last minus is not critical thanks to 4 USB ports for connecting external drives.
Apple TV Gen 4 32Gb
Receiver from a well-known developer of smartphones and tablets. The device runs iOS and therefore supports most of the developer's products.
Advantages: large amount of built-in memory 32/64 GB, synchronization with all company products via Google account. Disadvantages: 4K video is not supported (however, playback is possible with lower definition), mandatory registration and identification in the Apple-TV system. High cost for a device without 4K support.
Minix Neo Z64a
This set-top box is positioned by the manufacturer as a mini computer, and its power is comparable to an average laptop. There is full support for Smart-TV and Social-TV. In terms of hardware characteristics, the device is close to the Apple TV Gen 4 32Gb model, but is slightly cheaper.
Advantages: large amount of built-in memory 32 GB, Android operating system with support for any applications from Google Play. Disadvantages: lack of support for the 4K format, software updates are only available at the service center (however, it is possible to download codecs of new formats for the current firmware version through online services).
IconBit XDS94K
Budget set-top box with a full range of Smart-TV functions. Supports recording, saving and playback of TV shows. Supports any video and audio formats.
Advantages: low price of the device, compactness. Disadvantages: low performance of memory devices (RAM and HDD) with a powerful processor. This leads to a delay before starting high-definition video, as well as problems with downloading large files.
Xiaomi Mi Box 4K
This receiver does not have powerful hardware characteristics. What makes it different is the arsenal of options for connecting peripherals: bluetooth and Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi) connection, USB and SSD connectors, voice control of external devices.
Advantages: small size, support for Android TV, HDR and Google Cast technologies. Disadvantages: few user utilities, lack of wired Internet connection.
Nvidia Shield TV
An excellent set-top box with Smart TV for fans of computer games. The device is suitable for broadcasting video games on large TV screens. This model supports all known high-definition video formats at speeds up to 60 frames per second.
Advantages: good power at the level of an average gaming PC, support and playback of torrents. Disadvantages: lack of 3D-TV, high cost of the device, comparable to the price of a budget Smart TV.
Amibox x96 mini
A budget device for Smart TV with the ability to connect any manipulators. The set-top box has above-average hardware characteristics (4-core processor, 2 GB RAM, 8 GB ROM). It is equipped with a large number of connectors and inputs, but remains a compact device compared to other multifunctional models.
Advantages: small size, affordable price, high performance. Disadvantages: lack of 4K support, unfinished “native” software, which often requires a quick flashing.
Authorization and installation of applications
Having connected to the TV and configured the purchased SMART set-top box, you should install the necessary applications into it. In this case, first the user will need to log in.
Authorization
It is best for the user to start the authorization process by updating the system. To do this, in the “Settings” menu you need to find the “System Update” icon. In a number of models, this can be implemented as an application, and then from the desktop you will need to go to the “Applications” section and find the Update or OTA icon there. By selecting and pressing the “System Update” button, the user will find out whether the latest firmware version (latest) is installed in the set-top box or whether it requires updating.
Attention! Some of the cheapest set-top boxes do not provide firmware updates.
Next, you need to log in or register a Google account. To do this, go to the “Applications” › Play Market folder and follow the instructions that will appear on the TV screen. A Google account is an email ending in @gmail.com. If the user already has such a mailbox, then you can safely enter it into the set-top box - this will allow you to synchronize all bookmarks in the browser, mail, etc.
Advice! If you can’t register an account for any reason, you can do it through a computer, and simply enter a ready-made address into the set-top box.
Installing applications
After registration, the Play Market application store will open on the TV screen. Experts recommend installing the Google Chrome browser, through which Google Play Services is updated (needed for most applications to work). To do this, enter “Google Play Services” into the search bar of your browser. As a result of searching among many icons, you need to select and activate the one you are looking for.
Important! If, when you launch a program, a message appears indicating that a new version is available, then the specified update should be downloaded. This has nothing to do with the firmware and is required for stable operation of applications.
In addition to the Google Play Market, you can also install an alternative store called Aptoide. It works on a similar principle, but has a more extensive selection of programs.
When downloading applications, you should know that for Windows OS the installation files must have the .EXE extension, and for Android OS you will need the .APK extension. And to install an application previously saved on a flash drive, you need to:
- insert the flash drive into the USB port of the SMART set-top box;
- open the “Explorer” folder on the desktop (FileBrowser) - a list of internal files of the set-top box and a flash drive with applications are activated;
- open the flash drive, find the required application and click on its icon with the mouse, thus starting the installation process of the required utility, which will complete in a few seconds.
