Wi-Fi receiver for TV how it works

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Router as a Wi-Fi receiver (adapter). For your computer, TV and other devices

A modern router is usually not just a router, it combines several devices. It can perform a variety of tasks, one of which we will talk about in this article. There is such a device as a Wi-Fi receiver, or adapter. Its task is to receive the Wi-Fi signal, simply to connect a certain device to the Wi-Fi network. Such adapters are built into laptops, tablets, smart phones, TVs, etc.

There are also external adapters, for example for desktop computers (I wrote about them in the article how to connect a normal computer (PC) to Wi-Fi network), or for TVs. But what if we need to connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi the same stationary computer or TV, which has no built-in Wi-Fi receiver. And we don't have an external one either. We do not want to buy it, or simply do not have such an opportunity.

In this situation, an ordinary router can help us out; it can act as a Wi-Fi network receiver. That is, it will receive the Internet via Wi-Fi from our wireless network and transmit it to the device (TV, computer) via a network cable.

It should be noted right away that there are routers that have a separate mode "Adapter". But in most devices, you will need to configure the repeater, bridge (WDS), client, or wireless connection to the provider.

Now we will take a closer look at these modes on routers from different manufacturers and find out how to use the router as a wireless network receiver. Let's look at the most popular manufacturers: TP-LINK, ASUS, ZyXEL, D-Link, Netis. Look below for a header with information on your device.

Making a Wi-Fi receiver out of a ZyXEL router

I decided to start with ZyXEL devices. From the ZyXEL Keenetic line of routers. This company's routers support a variety of modes of operation. And among them there is an "Adapter" mode. On devices with the new version of the firmware NDMS V2, which is blue in appearance.

In addition, everything is set up very simply and clearly. And everything works. I have already tested all modes of ZyXEL router (by the example of Keenetic Start), and of course I have prepared detailed instructions. Simply put the router near your computer or TV, connect them via a network cable, set the mode "Adapter", and everything is ready.

I will not describe the setup process in detail again, but just give you a link to the detailed instructions: Zyxel Keenetic router as a Wi-Fi receiver.

If you suddenly do not have such a mode of operation, you can configure WISP mode (wireless connection to the provider) . By the way, this method can be used on older versions of the devices.

Well, you can also use the Wi-Fi amplifier mode. In addition, you can not only connect your device to the Internet via cable, but also extend the range of the main wireless network.

TV-sticks

TV-sticks, which are shaped like flash drives. This type of Wi-Fi set-top box is considered an economical option. But it must be said that they are also distinguished by their reliability and quality.

Also, one of the disadvantages of this device is that it has a fairly modest size, which greatly simplifies the functionality and limits the capabilities of the device.

Also, due to the small size, this device does not have any cooling device, and this can lead to a reduction in the life of the console and hangs and crashes when using on the verge of possibility.

TV Boxes

Another type of Wi-Fi set-top boxes are TV-boxes, which look very similar to routers. This set-top box is slightly different in price compared to TV-sticks, but unlike them it is equipped with a full-fledged processor, cooling system, remote control and other additional features that allow you to use the full functionality of the device.

The TV box is aimed precisely at long-term operation without malfunction. Also, this device allows you to connect video cameras, flash drives, computer mice, keyboards and so on.

Popular models

Despite the huge number of digital set-top boxes equipped with Wi-Fi, there are a number of models on the market that are the best in terms of value for money. Here is a small overview of such devices, so you can make a comparison between them and understand why they are so in demand.

The first model we want to say a few words about is the OEM TX3 mini. This small TV set-top box, equipped with a Wi-Fi receiver, is connected to the TV via HDMI interface. It provides a constant and stable connection to the Internet, so you can use it not only to run games and applications, but also to display video content online in various formats.

The model is also equipped with an Ethernet connector, which allows you to connect a wired Internet connection.

The OEM TX3 mini is equipped with a 4-core processor, 2 gigabytes of RAM and a Mali-450 graphics gas pedal. These 3 components allow you to watch video content even in high resolution. А 16-gigabyte storage allows you to download a lot of multimedia files and install quite a few games and applications.

The OEM TX3 mini runs Android 7.1 operating system. A relatively new version of the operating system allows you to download IPTV playlists, install utilities for viewing digital online TV, watch terrestrial channels online and record various TV programs to the internal drive.

Quite popular is model of the multimedia set-top box Mi Box 4C from the Chinese company Xiaomi. It runs on the Android operating system version 6.0, has a Wi-Fi module, as well as an HDMI connector, a 4-core processor and 1 gigabyte of RAM. One of the key features of the device is support for playing multimedia files in 4K format.

It can be connected to the TV via HDMI connector to watch photos and video files, go online and visit various websites and watch channels online.

How to choose?

To understand which model is better and how to choose it, you need to pay special attention to some characteristics.

• Compatibility with the TV device. For the full work of the digital TV set-top box, you should buy only a branded receiver, which is suitable for a particular model of TV. This type of tuner will be a great solution for receiving wireless Internet, because it will have maximum reception and data transfer speed. If you decide to purchase a universal set-top box, it may happen that your TV stops detecting it after reflashing it.
• Data transmission standard. Before purchasing, compare the indicators on the selected device with the indicators that are set on the router. The standard is what directly affects the data transfer rate. It shows the maximum possible value and the real value. In practice, of course, the actual values will be somewhat lower compared to the standard ones. The fact is that in home conditions there are interferences and obstacles, and such conditions cannot be called ideal. One example of obstacles are other devices working in the network or the walls of the house where the router is located.
• Frequency. When choosing a set-top box, you should buy a model that has the same frequency as the router.
• Power. For the fastest and most stable data transfer, you should buy a device with the appropriate power. If, for example, the area of the room is large, the signal strength will drop in the most remote places, and, accordingly, the data transfer rate will fall.
• Range. For greater efficiency, you should choose models that have a large range. You should take into account the distance between the router, TV and the tuner. It is necessary to take into account the presence of different furniture, as well as obstacles that will be in the way of the signal.
• Encryption algorithm. This point is also extremely important if you are interested in a secure and safe data transfer. Many algorithms are now considered outdated and can be very easily hacked by an intruder.
• Execution format. The device can be in a flash drive or set-top box format. Devices of the first type take up less space, but their functionality will be somewhat less.
• Power supply method. The devices in question can operate not only from a conventional power supply, but also by connecting to the mains via USB, which can be a significant advantage.

Connecting to wi-fi Samsung TVs of different series

Before you turn on wi-fi on a Samsung TV, you should make sure that the Smart Hub service is present on it. Otherwise, you will have to buy a TV set-top box.

M-Series TV receivers are manufactured in 2017 and later. To turn on the wireless Internet on the TV of these series, all you need to know the name of the wi-fi and the password for it. To do this, you will need to do the following steps:

1. Use the "Home" button on the remote control.
2. Select the "Settings" block on the TV screen.
3. Go to the "General" tab, then – to the item "Network".
4. Switch to the "Network settings" line.
5. Specify the signal type as "Wireless".
6. Wait until the TV detects wireless networks and select your own.
7. A keyboard will appear on the screen. Here you need to enter the Wi-Fi password and click on "Done". To view the written access code, you can check the box next to "Show password".
8. After checking that the entered combination matches the password, click on "OK".

How to connect a Samsung Smart TV to the Internet via Wi-Fi:

How to connect LG Smart TV to wi-fi

If the TV without Smart TV, in order to connect it to the Internet, you should inspect the device for the presence of a LAN connector, which should be located on the back or side panel. In this case, you will need to select a wired network connection in the settings.

1. Go to the settings of the TV device.
2. Select the "Advanced Settings" block.
3. Then expand the item "Network", and then – "Connect to Wi-Fi network".
4. Specify the desired option among the names in the list.
5. Enter the password and confirm the connection to the wireless network.

If you are dealing with a model without a built-in module, you must figure out how to connect the cable to the TV. The cable must be long enough. There must be a LAN connector on the TV body. It is necessary to insert one end of the cord into the TV receiver, and connect the other end to the router. Then configure the signal reception by going to the "Networks" section.

How to connect the TV to LG wi-fi – solution to the problem of connecting Smart LG to a wireless network:

Advantages and disadvantages of a TV set-top box with Wi-Fi

Digital set-top box with Wi-Fi has a number of advantages. Multifunctional TV set-top box for digital TV with Wi-Fi costs more than models that do not support wireless Internet, but it also has more features. Modern digital set-top boxes with Wi-Fi have the following advantages:

• DVB T2 tuner gives you access to digital TV in the absence of a built-in TV option;
• Auto-connection to the wireless Internet allows you to access online movies;
• applications can be installed on the set-top box;
• various connectors on the tuner enable connection to peripheral devices;
• the media player allows you to watch content from external drives;
• You can connect a mouse and keyboard through the console, making the use of the Internet more convenient;
• With a built-in browser, the user gets full access to the Internet, as on the PC.

Pay attention! Not every set-top box with DTV 2 with Wi-Fi has a complete set of the above functions. Depending on the model, they may be limited to a certain number of features.

Most users have heard about the capabilities of modern TVs with Smart TV technology. However, due to their high cost, not everyone can afford to buy them. You don't want to change a new TV set without Smart either, in which case a DVB-T2 set-top box with wi-fi will be a great solution to the problem. Digital receiver with Wi-Fi will allow you to watch channels in high quality, access the Internet and perform other actions.

Features and principle of operation

STB Smart TV with Wi-Fi for your TV is a minicomputer with a built-in OS, connected to the Internet. This provides the ability to view online movies, play games and gives access to other services through the TV. Connecting an additional mouse, keyboard, camera and microphone, you can fully communicate with friends via video, send messages, connecting a joystick, you can take part in online games.

State-of-the-art digital signal processing devices

Inside any set-top box is inserted the motherboard, it has different ports: HDMI for connection to the TV system, headphone output, space for flash drives input, charging input, LAN-port for connecting to the Internet.

For your information! The board has the RAM, processor, built-in memory. Depending on the model, there may also be modules for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection.

How to choose the right set-top box

The main advantage of the set-top box is its multi-functionality. An important role is also played by the software, the platform on which the device runs, the quality of transmitted video, the ability to work with different formats, its size.

Processor and RAM

The number of cores and the RAM size will determine the speed and the quality of the signal and the picture quality. It is important to choose a device with at least 2 GB of memory, depending on your financial situation you should choose a console with 4 and 8-core processors.

Pay attention! The clock frequency of the processor must be at least 2 GHz.

Connectivity interfaces

A wi-fi set-top box for the TV is mainly focused on picture quality and transmission speed. With HDMI connection, it will be the best, but not always the monitor has a special connector for this.

Connecting to the network can be done via cable or via Wi-Fi. The bandwidth of a cable connection is much higher than a wireless connection.

Transmitter power

For best performance, you should take a set-top box with at least two processors.

Supported screen resolution

Set-top boxes broadcast the signal in HD or Full HD resolution.

Pay attention! SDTV clarity is practically not used anymore, it is an obsolete option.

Support for memory cards and file formats

For the receiver to work smoothly with large amounts of data, you should buy a device with a large amount of memory. At the same time, you should pay attention to the possibility of connecting external media.

Most set-top boxes work with various file formats: you can watch videos, listen to audio and open different images.

How does a Smart TV set-top box work?

Inside the TV box, or stick installed board, which houses the processor, video adapter, RAM and permanent memory, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module (Bluetooth is not in all models) and other equipment. It's just like with the same computer, tablet, or other similar device. The newer and more efficient the processor and video adapter, the more RAM and RAM, the better. This directly affects the performance of the device, the speed of the interface, application launches, etc.

This hardware has an operating system built into it. Almost all set-top boxes on the market run either Android or Android TV. There are also models that run on Linux or Windows. There are not many of them, and I probably would not recommend buying them. For fans of Apple tech, you can recommend the Apple TV 4K set-top box. Really cool set-top box, but in terms of functionality it is not any better than the Android set-top box. Even works on a special operating system from Apple.

What is the difference between the Android set-top box and Android TV?

• Android TV is an operating system, which was developed by Google specifically for installation on TV sets and Smart TV set-top boxes. It is perfectly optimized to work on these devices.
  
  It has the Google Play Store, which contains only apps and games that are optimized for TV screens and remote control.
• Android is a common system that is installed on phones and tablets. It is clear that it is not optimized for TVs. But the developers of Smart set-top boxes refine it a bit, install some kind of Launcher (which looks more or less normal on the TV) and install it on the set-top boxes. It has the usual Google Play Market (app store) as on phones. The system itself and the applications on the TV do not look very nice.
  In addition, they are very difficult to control with the remote control (especially some applications), because they are designed to be operated via touch screens, not by remote control.

How to use and why do I need a Smart TV set-top box?

There are a lot of options for using a Smart TV set-top box. Well probably first and foremost is watching YouTube. I use a set-top box only for that. Well, sometimes I also watch TV channels and movies through MEGOGO with a paid subscription.

You can go to the app store (Google Play) and install all the necessary applications and games. Weather, news reader applications, file managers, players, applications of different online cinemas, etc.

For more information on installing applications you can read the article Installing applications on Xiaomi Mi TV Stick via APK file or Play Store (relevant for all Android TV set-top boxes).

Of course, you will probably be interested in how to watch movies, TV shows, cartoons and TV channels over the Internet via a Smart STB connected to your TV. This is what you basically buy a set-top box for. There are two main ways:

1. Watch with a paid subscription through various popular online movie theaters. There are a lot of them. For example: Wink, Okko, MEGOGO, Ivi, Amediateka, START, Netflix. You can watch movies, serials, TV channels, and other content. They make everything as simple and convenient as possible. Everything works very stably. You just need to choose an online movie theater, subscribe (usually you can try for free) , install the application on the console and you can watch.
2. Watch it all for free through apps like HD Videobox, TorrServe. Install these proposals on the set-top box with Android TV via .apk file (see link above for instructions), as there is no application store.

You can also install a browser to view sites. It is difficult and not very convenient to watch movies on the sites through the browser.

How to choose an adapter

When you need to buy a wireless WiFi adapter for your TV, it is important to follow these principles:

1. Buy a model of the same brand as your TV.
2. The device should provide a good connection speed. Some uncertainties are acceptable. For example, if the documentation shows 400 Mbit/s, but the reality is 380-390, this discrepancy is acceptable. If you get less than 350 instead of 400, you have to return the product.
3. The proper warranty period. There should be a one-year warranty on such products.

Experts recommend buying a TV that already has such a device right away. This saves a lot of hassle of buying additional devices to access the Internet, and connecting the network is much easier. Usually such models have a detailed step-by-step instruction on how to do it.

Examples of devices of famous brands

To date, Samsung, Sony, LG brand TVs are in great demand. Consequently, they require adapters from the same manufacturers.

If you require a USB Wi-Fi adapter for a specific brand of TV, make sure to consult the sales staff to find out which model is optimal for your receiver.

Here are a few popular examples for Samsung and LG TV sets.

Definition and types of adapters

If you decide to connect your Samsung TV to the Internet via Wi-Fi, first make sure that it supports this function. This information is in the manual. But if you've lost it, that's okay.

Check for a LAN port on your TV. It is usually located somewhere on the back and looks just like the network adapter connector on your computer. If there is a port, it means that the TV can be connected to the Internet via cable.

But we're interested in a wireless network. Then you'll need a wifi adapter to connect your Samsung TV. It can be built-in or external. Open the menu of your TV, look for "Network Settings" and if you find wireless settings here, then everything is fine: your TV has a built-in Wi-Fi module.

You can check its presence by looking at the series of the device. On the back panel there is a sticker with information about the TV. On it, among other things, you will see the serial number. It looks like this:

We are interested in the third letter. They are different, depending on the year of manufacture. If the label says UE50J6230AU, the right letter is J. In the UE32D6100SW serial it is D. M, Q, LS, K TVs have a built-in wireless adapter. Versions with the letter C, D, E, H, F or J do not have it. In the first case, you can go straight to configuring the connection to your router. In the second case, go to the store to buy an external adapter.

It looks like a flash drive and connects to the USB port of the TV. There are also old Card Bus (PCMCIA) adapters, which are inserted in a special slot. But there is no such slot in modern Samsung TVs. It can be found on some Chinese TVs, but only rarely.

If there is no compatibility

If your TV can't be connected to the network, the situation can only be saved by buying a Smart TV set-top box. This is a separate device that uses an HDMI interface. For older TVs, the connection can be made through an RCA (Tulip) connector. The set-top box works as a minicomputer and the TV acts as a display.

Let's consider the variant when there is nothing wrong with the TV. The only thing that remains is to choose the appropriate adapter. Some people recommend buying only well-known brands. Some people believe that all manufacturers are the same and it is not worth overpaying for a brand. I recommend that you primarily focus on the characteristics of the device.

1. Quality of reception. Many adapters have a built-in antenna. In principle, it quite copes with its task and provides a stable reception in a standard city apartment. But if you have a router located far away from the TV, and even behind two concrete walls, it is worth looking at adapters with an external antenna. Usually the maximum gain of such an antenna is from 3 to 5 dBi. The higher the gain, the better the reception. For very special cases, there are adapters with a removable antenna, instead of which you can connect another, more powerful antenna. But such a solution may be required only in the case when you are going to receive Wi-Fi signal from the neighboring house.
2. Transmitter power – The second factor that affects the quality of communication. You should aim for 17-20 dBm. Most modern routers have the same transmitters. Less power will not allow you to fully utilize the capabilities of your network.
3. Communication standards and speeds. High data rates are important for watching high quality video online. If your router supports 5 GHz, choose an adapter that works in this range. You're unlikely to find an adapter that uses the outdated 802.11b/g standard. They haven't been around for a long time. Unless someone is selling their used one. You should go with 802.11n. Or better yet, go with the modern 802.11ac.
4. Encryption. Your adapter must support WPA2 data encryption. It is used by modern routers.
5. Compatibility. Now network equipment manufacturers use common standards, and compatibility problems and adapter settings should not arise. However, there are cases when the TV does not recognize the connected device. The problem can't be solved by downloading and installing drivers like on your computer. Perhaps it will help to reflash the adapter, but this procedure requires knowledge and skills. In addition, there is a chance of damaging the device.

Possible connection problems

It is not always possible to debug the Wi-Fi to the TV at the first attempt. Sometimes a warning message appears on the screen warning of a network error, lack of Internet, or hardware key. If all gadgets except the TV are connected to the virtual line, the problem is in the wrong setting.

• from the menu you should move to "debugging";
• In the networking subsection, find the "Wi-Fi connection" block;
• select the "advanced settings" sub-item;
• click on "change" and uncheck the box next to "automatic";
• type in DNS: 8.8.8.8;
• select the "connections" subsection.

Sometimes problems are associated with a lot of bugs accumulated in the software. To avoid them, you should timely update the software.

Another issue with the lack of connection occurs when the provider performs technical work. In this case, you need to contact the technical support line and clarify whether service changes are being made or the failure is being eliminated.

Popular adapter models

• D-Link DWA-137 – a universal unit can be used for computers and receivers. The working frequency allows crossing with other equipment, functions at a speed of 300 Mbit/sec, connects to USB 2.0. There is a removable antenna with a power level of 5 dBi on the body.
• Fenvi FV-N700S – works with older Samsung devices, home theater and Blu-ray player. Allowable frequency of 2.4-5 GHz, with speeds up to 300 Mbps. Works with standards – 802.11 a, b, g, n.
• Kebidu USB – affordable unit from Chinese manufacturers, combines with Sony, Samsung, LG. The body of the equipment is equipped with a WPS button, LEDs LAN and Wi-Fi. In the package there is a patch cord for wired connection, the unit operates on two frequencies: 2.4 or 5 GHz.
• LG AN-WF500 is a proprietary unit that functions with Bluetooth and wi-fi. Features include the ability to link a single DLNA line of hardware. Compatible with headsets and sound panels, has the functionality of "MagicRemote". Connects via USB 2.0, communicates with the Internet at 2.4 GHz, in the standard 802.11 a, g, b, n. When the module is active an LED on the case lights up.
• Sony UWA-BR 100 is a proprietary unit for the TV receivers of the same name and other equipment of the specified brand. The compact device supports functionality in the range of 2.4 and 5 GHz, standards 802.11 b, g, n. The equipment is installed on a special stand, connected with the help of usb cable.
• StreamTV DIB-200 is a universal device from the manufacturer D-Link. It is intended to move to the receiver files of multimedia, is characterized by simplicity in work, compactness.
• WIS 12 ABGNX – made for Samsung, can be used with other equipment via DLNA (if the adapter supports this standard). To use wi-fi on your TV no need to install third-party software, operates at speeds of 300 Mbit / sec, via 802.11 n. It is compatible with "Samsung AllShare".

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