What is a receiver for TV and why do you need it?

In the age of digital technology, analog television has become obsolete, and the TV sets from the previous era have significantly lost their versatility. They lack the ability to read flash drives and do not have the capability to connect to the internet via a cable. Additionally, they are unable to detect certain video signals. While the ideal solution would be to invest in new and updated equipment, there is a more straightforward option available – a TV receiver.

1. What is a receiver
2. Additional features
3. How to connect a receiver: types of connections
4. RCA cable

What is a receiver

A home TV receiver serves the purpose of converting signals. By receiving a digital video signal, it effectively and immediately converts it into an analog format, devoid of any delays or disruptions, which can then be displayed on traditional television sets. As we approach a future where all television channels are projected to be broadcasted solely in digital format, the acquisition of such a converter becomes increasingly essential. However, there are certain categories of users who may not require this set-top box:

• Individuals who have chosen to completely abstain from watching television;
• Those who opt to utilize the services provided by cable operators;
• Owners of modern television sets equipped with built-in converters;
• Those who solely rely on the internet to access all the desired channels.

The receiver itself has compact dimensions, occupies minimal space, and is easy to connect and configure. During further operation, no adjustments are required, except when connecting additional equipment.

What other functions does the receiver have? It can be linked to two separate televisions for simultaneous broadcast of different programs. Additionally, you can connect two separate videos on a single screen and utilize the "split screen" feature to simultaneously broadcast multiple programs. Having a hard disk allows for storing and later viewing a vast amount of diverse information in various formats. Moreover, recording to both a hard disk and a flash drive can be performed simultaneously from several channels (typically up to 3, though the number of channels can be adjusted depending on the specific model).

Digital channels consolidate all incoming signals into a single packet and then transmit them to the receiving device, where they undergo processing and decoding. This ensures the reception of top-notch quality information, regardless of the antenna’s power and capabilities. Even a basic indoor antenna can provide excellent results, and in some cases, no antenna is even required. Utilizing the receiver offers the following advantages:

• Crystal clear, robust, and seamless audio.
• High-quality visuals.
• Absence of interference, disruptions, and noise.
• No subscription fees, unlike cable TV subscriptions.

Additional features

Every television set-top box provides the opportunity to connect numerous programs and customize them according to your preferences. The simplicity and ease of use of the receiver is often praised by its users. Furthermore, depending on the specific model you choose, you can also benefit from other features offered by the receiver:

1. Record video. If your favorite TV show has already started but you have to go to the doctor, pick up your child from daycare, or urgently take your mother-in-law to the countryside, you can simply schedule the recording to start at a later time. This way, you can confidently go about your tasks and watch the video when you come back;
2. Airplane delay. This feature is beneficial for those who often miss live broadcasts due to time zone differences with countries like the USA, China, or Australia. It is also helpful when your favorite show airs during your working hours. To activate the broadcast delay, you just need to specify the time difference for the selected channels to play.
3. Child Control feature allows you to prevent the access to certain programs and also enables you to set limitations on the viewing duration.

How to connect a receiver: types of connections

Setting up a set-top box is a quick and foolproof process, regardless of the device being used. It’s important to remember which devices need to be connected and what type of connection is required for each specific case.

RCA cable

Also known as the "tulip" connection, this cable is used to connect a set-top box to a standard television. It delivers a crisp and precise image, although some slight distortion may be visible when the picture is displayed on larger TVs. However, for all other cases, the discrepancies compared to using an HDMI cable are entirely unnoticeable.

To establish a connection using the RCA cable, follow these steps:

1. Ensure that both the receiver and the TV set are switched off;
2. Connect the cable to the set-top box, ensuring that each plug is inserted into the corresponding socket according to their respective colors. The yellow-marked channel carries the video signal, while the white and red channels transmit the audio. It is important to note that these plugs are not interchangeable;
3. Once the cable is securely connected, proceed to connect the antenna. Finally, plug in and power on both the receiver and the TV set, and proceed to set up the equipment.