What is smart TV on a TV - Technology capabilities

In order to find out what smart TV is on a TV and what opportunities this technology provides, you should consider its functionality not only in general, but also for individual brands, each of which provides consumers with its own advantages.

Indeed, today there is a fairly wide range of Smart TVs with different sizes and capabilities, and most brands that previously produced conventional household appliances have included such equipment in their line.

What is smart TV in a modern TV

The Smart TV option is an application that allows you to access the Internet and surf it while contemplating the image on the big screen. In addition, options can be controlled using the remote control.

Almost everyone already knows what smart TV is in modern TVs. This function is present in almost every LCD TV produced today.

The principle of operation of this function is quite simple. You should press the button on the remote control with the corresponding inscription, and you will be taken to Smart TV. Then, by selecting a certain program, or maybe just by going to the browser, you enter the information you are interested in in the search bar. This input is carried out using a virtual keyboard. You can simply connect a wireless keyboard or mouse via a USB cable.

The Smart TV application will give you the following features:

• Internet access via Wi-Fi or LAN port.
• Communication via Skype. Some TV models may have a built-in camera. If the model is not equipped with this device, then it is possible to purchase it yourself.
• Reading removable USB media.
• The ability to connect devices such as a tablet, computer, phone or SD card to the TV.
• Ability to control the device using gestures and voices.
• You can record programs and movies onto a flash drive.
• Smart TVs have many built-in playgrounds.

Recently, televisions have been released to which you can connect a keyboard or mouse.

TOP 3 free applications

To watch TV channels via the Internet, it is not necessary to subscribe or enter into an agreement with a provider . Below are the best programs through which the viewer can enjoy television without paying.

PeersTV

This is a multi-platform application that allows you to watch online TV for free, but with advertising. It automatically recognizes the provider and downloads playlists. After registration, the user will be able to save individual programs, series and videos in their profile to view them later. All content is sorted into categories. The service also has paid subscriptions, but the basic set (more than 150 channels) will satisfy the tastes of most viewers.

FRY!TV

This program allows you to watch more than 1,500 channels for free, but to do this you must install the Ace Stream application. The software works using torrent TV technology.

SPB TV

This service provides more than a hundred free channels, but with advertising. The program works on LG and Samsung TVs (released no earlier than 2013), Panasonic (from 2014) and selected Phillips models. Registration on the site is required to view. There are subscriptions.

Why is modern TV called “smart”?

Translated from English into Russian, smart means “smart” and “smart.” Of course, this device itself cannot think - until then, our technology is not yet perfect enough. Smart TV is a TV with Internet that is built into the device, which allows you to use a number of Internet services.

A smart TV is a device that can read files, process them, send and receive using an Internet resource, and do many other interesting things. With such a device you will not get bored. An adventure-filled leisure time is guaranteed.

Many models have a full-featured web browser that allows you to access any website. Smart TVs with 3D format also work successfully.

There are several ways to connect such a TV to the Internet:

• Using a network cable to the LAN port located on the rear panel;
• Connecting a special Wi-Fi router to a USB port that will receive a signal from a home distribution device;
• Built-in wifi receiver that will read the Internet directly.

As for the design of the operating system itself, with the help of which “smart television” operates, it can be noted that in most cases all the programs are already installed in it. These usually include online cinemas, channel-TV packages, and widgets for individual TV shows. You can easily download free TV programs of your choice through a special browser or application market. You will have access to Youtube, where you can watch videos, and access to popular social networks. Using the Skype server, you will have the opportunity to make calls on the big screen.

TOP 3 applications for LG Smart TV

The list of TOP software for webOS-based TVs presented below was also compiled based on the number of positive user ratings.

Simple Smart IPTV

There is also an abbreviated version of the name - SS IPTV. This is the first program for viewing IP TV on TVs of the brand in question. It works in conjunction with digital TV providers, so the number of channels is determined by the service provider, but the all-Russian twenty are available everywhere. The application supports playlists, and unencrypted ones can be freely downloaded on your provider’s website. This software is compatible with video streams from a number of OTT operators.

Smart IPTV

This is another program that allows you to download playlists to play OTT streams and watch IPTV. However, after 7 days of installation, you will need to pay $5 for the application.

LG Plus Channels

This program was created in collaboration with the Megogo service. After paying for the subscription, domestic and foreign TV channels, selections of films and TV series become available. Cost - from 197 rubles.

How to choose the right smart TV and which device is better to buy

The advent of Smart TV has made “smart” devices out of TVs familiar to every home. They now have functions similar to computers. Very quickly gaining popularity, smart TVs are not limited to passive broadcasting, but allow you to select a wide variety of functions.

How to choose a smart TV so that it becomes truly useful and practical? Managers in the sales departments of these devices can answer this question, or our article can tell you.

It is easy to see that smart TV really combines the functions of a regular television receiver and the endless capabilities of a personal computer. In order for this multifunctionality to provide full user comfort, you need to choose the right TV with the smart TV function. Correctly assessed device capabilities for high-quality image transmission, as well as the level of implementation of smart technologies will help you not to make mistakes.

When choosing a device, pay attention to the following TV parameters:

• Screen size;
• Viewing angles;
• Matrix type;
• Permission;
• Built-in 3D technology;
• How powerful is the operating system;
• Number of outputs and connectors;
• Sweep frequency.

To fully use smart technology, the TV must have a reliable Internet connection, read a variety of file formats, and also include various software.

How to set up the program

The setup methods for each application are different, and the process itself can be quite long and complex, so after installation you should refer to the help section on the developer's website . If this information is missing, you should look at thematic portals where program installation files, detailed instructions, errors and methods for eliminating them are published. In many cases, you will need to check in advance your hardware model and operating system version, as well as the MAC address of the device.

Summarize. Most applications for watching TV channels designed for SMART devices have a simple interface. If you install and configure such software correctly, the doors will open to the world of television, which is not limited to federal and local channels. It is important to remember that many providers (Rostelecom, NTV, Tricolor and others) have already released programs for smart TVs. This will help narrow down your search if you have a valid agreement with digital TV operators.

Which smart TV to choose: selection criteria

In order to understand which TV with smart function is better to choose, you need to understand how this model differs from regular ones. The answer is simple - Smart TV is a TV that has Internet support.

Which smart TV to choose from the models available on the market? This question can be answered unequivocally - it is better to choose products from well-known brands.

These manufacturers take their products very seriously and monitor the quality of their products. A good reputation is the main motto of these enterprises.

The commercially available models that support smart TV include the following:

These manufacturers, in particular Samsung, produce both very expensive TV models and cheaper products that are affordable to everyone. Therefore, having set a goal, you can easily choose the right model for yourself.

What do you need to turn on TV online?

Despite the fact that many people use mobile devices and tablets, it is almost impossible to do without television. TV settings may vary slightly depending on the model. Modern TVs have a lot of functionality. The main source of information offers not only viewing of terrestrial TV channels, but also many other interesting functions.

Set-top boxes for TVs with Wifi for watching online TV and accessing the Internet

Modern models can act as a media player, thanks to the presence of a USB connector where a flash drive, for example, with a movie, is installed. One of the most interesting additions to any modern TV can be access to the network. To find out how to set up TV channels on Smart TV via the Internet, first you need to select a language. Sometimes you need to specify the time zone. This must be done in order for the TV to automatically adjust the time.

Note! For Wi-Fi, you need to install a router connected to the Internet input cable from the provider at a speed of at least 2 Mbit/s. But this is a minimum figure, 10-20 Mbit/s is better. This way you can watch 4K videos.

The next step is to connect the TV to the Internet. Experts recommend connecting immediately. Since if the user decides to skip this step, he will still need to return to it in the future through the settings menu. You can choose a wired or wireless connection. When connecting your TV via a Wi-Fi network, you will have to click on the “wireless connection” option. To carry out this operation, you need to find your network and connect to it by entering a password.

After completing the easy procedure, you need to move on to searching for channels. For this purpose, you need to select a search mode, for example, “Terrestrial TV”, “Cable” or “Satellite”. When selecting the required mode, you need to start the automatic tuning mode for available TV channels. This process may take 10 to 20 minutes. When scanning is completed to 100%, you can safely proceed to watching TV shows.

Important! New models offer users parental controls on some channels.

Let's look at how to find out if your TV supports smart TV

Smart TV technology makes it possible to use the TV as a separate multimedia center with Internet access. This feature is undoubtedly very attractive and convenient. But you must be prepared for the fact that this TV will be expensive.

How do you know if your TV supports smart TV when choosing a model for your home? The best thing to do is read the instructions and try to understand whether this model has the functions that a product with a built-in smart system should have.

In order not to make a mistake when choosing such an important item for the home, you need to carefully study what a smart system is, have a clear comparison of this TV with a regular model that does not support smart, and arm yourself with this knowledge, as they say, to the teeth.

To choose the best smart TV, you need:

1. Decide on the size of this TV;
2. Find out how much money you can pay for it;
3. Take into account the wishes of all family members regarding the functional content of the model;
4. Understand which Internet connection will be the main one for the TV;
5. Decide what panel color you need.

Only after you have a complete knowledge of the smart system and an accurate vision of the TV in your home, can you go to the mall to make a purchase.

Features and new products of Smart TV in 2021

Smart TV technology has a great future, as it has become widespread and popular among consumers. Manufacturers do not stop there and try to improve not only the interface, but also various additional features. Smart TV functions are constantly being improved and expanded from simply watching movies and games to fully using all Internet resources. The main thing that happens with new firmware is the removal of errors and glitches from previous versions.

New firmware allows you to improve the quality of broadcast video and increase the list of displayed video formats.

What is smart TV in a modern TV

The Smart TV option is an application that allows you to access the Internet and surf it while contemplating the image on the big screen. In addition, options can be controlled using the remote control.

Almost everyone already knows what smart TV is in modern TVs. This function is present in almost every LCD TV produced today.

The principle of operation of this function is quite simple. You should press the button on the remote control with the corresponding inscription, and you will be taken to Smart TV. Then, by selecting a certain program, or maybe just by going to the browser, you enter the information you are interested in in the search bar. This input is carried out using a virtual keyboard. You can simply connect a wireless keyboard or mouse via a USB cable.

The Smart TV application will give you the following features:

• Internet access via Wi-Fi or LAN port.
• Communication via Skype. Some TV models may have a built-in camera. If the model is not equipped with this device, then it is possible to purchase it yourself.
• Reading removable USB media.
• The ability to connect devices such as a tablet, computer, phone or SD card to the TV.
• Ability to control the device using gestures and voices.
• You can record programs and movies onto a flash drive.
• Smart TVs have many built-in playgrounds.

Recently, televisions have been released to which you can connect a keyboard or mouse.

Disadvantages of technology

Smart TV has many advantages, which is why they are becoming more and more popular, but at the same time there are some disadvantages:

• Playing videos in unusual formats (such as .mkv) causes audio problems. Sometimes messages appear on the screen stating that codecs are not supported. While a smartphone, tablet or computer allows you to install the necessary software and watch a video with any extension, not all smart TVs have this feature;

Video supported by smart TV

• Despite the wide range of gaming programs for Smart TVs, most of them correspond to the level of approximately ten or twenty years ago. In addition, using the remote control as a controller is not always convenient. The best option would be Android devices, which allow you to play more modern games and use a gamepad;
• Watching a movie or surfing the Internet in a browser may be limited by the capabilities of the TV or the program itself.
• The increased price, due to which smart TVs are bought less often than regular ones. After all, many users either do not need most of their capabilities at all or are replaced by a computer.

Why is modern TV called “smart”?

Translated from English into Russian, smart means “smart” and “smart.” Of course, this device itself cannot think - until then, our technology is not yet perfect enough. Smart TV is a TV with Internet that is built into the device, which allows you to use a number of Internet services.

A smart TV is a device that can read files, process them, send and receive using an Internet resource, and do many other interesting things. With such a device you will not get bored. An adventure-filled leisure time is guaranteed.

Many models have a full-featured web browser that allows you to access any website. Smart TVs with 3D format also work successfully.

There are several ways to connect such a TV to the Internet:

• Using a network cable to the LAN port located on the rear panel;
• Connecting a special Wi-Fi router to a USB port that will receive a signal from a home distribution device;
• Built-in wifi receiver that will read the Internet directly.

As for the design of the operating system itself, with the help of which “smart television” operates, it can be noted that in most cases all the programs are already installed in it. These usually include online cinemas, channel-TV packages, and widgets for individual TV shows. You can easily download free TV programs of your choice through a special browser or application market. You will have access to Youtube, where you can watch videos, and access to popular social networks. Using the Skype server, you will have the opportunity to make calls on the big screen.

TOP 3 universal applications

The multi-platform programs below are suitable for most owners of SMART TVs and media players.

ViNTERA.TV

This is a free application that works on TVs of different brands, Internet TV set-top boxes and mobile gadgets running Android or iOS. It allows you to watch online TV without registration, but with advertising, which is absent when viewing channels of the selected provider. The program uses playlists in .m3u format, which can be downloaded from the websites of service providers. The list of free channels (except for 20 public ones) is determined by the provider.

Important! To play streaming video in SD quality, the Internet connection speed must be at least 2 Mbit/s, for HD - from 3 Mbit/s, for 3D content - at least 4 Mbit/s.

Smotreshka

This is a program for watching channels (including HD TV) on smart TVs Samsung (models from 2013 to the present), LG (models from 2012), Philips and Sony (based on Android TV), as well as mobile devices. It provides paid access to more than two hundred channels in Russian and several foreign languages. This service requires registration through an Internet provider. You can pause playback to return to the show within a week, and you can resume watching on another device. It’s easy to search for channels in the thematic catalog or by keywords. In addition, the user is given access to thousands of movies.

MEGOGO – TV and Cinema

This application for watching TV and movies (from the extensive Megogo catalog) is designed for Smart TVs, set-top boxes, gadgets and computers. It supports Full HD, 4K, as well as 3D resolution. The program has more than 220 channels (including interactive ones), a video archive up to 2 weeks deep, and the ability to connect any 5 devices to your account. The cheapest package (100 channels) costs only 197 rubles per month.

On a note! The company regularly holds promotions and distributes promotional codes for discounts.

How to choose the right smart TV and which device is better to buy

The advent of Smart TV has made “smart” devices out of TVs familiar to every home. They now have functions similar to computers. Very quickly gaining popularity, smart TVs are not limited to passive broadcasting, but allow you to select a wide variety of functions.

How to choose a smart TV so that it becomes truly useful and practical? Managers in the sales departments of these devices can answer this question, or our article can tell you.

It is easy to see that smart TV really combines the functions of a regular television receiver and the endless capabilities of a personal computer. In order for this multifunctionality to provide full user comfort, you need to choose the right TV with the smart TV function. Correctly assessed device capabilities for high-quality image transmission, as well as the level of implementation of smart technologies will help you not to make mistakes.

When choosing a device, pay attention to the following TV parameters:

• Screen size;
• Viewing angles;
• Matrix type;
• Permission;
• Built-in 3D technology;
• How powerful is the operating system;
• Number of outputs and connectors;
• Sweep frequency.

To fully use smart technology, the TV must have a reliable Internet connection, read a variety of file formats, and also include various software.

Smart TV operating systems

The Smart TV system is special software that allows us to use various TV-level applications. We are talking about popular streaming services such as TNT Premier, ivi.ru, Netflix, Okko, Wink, as well as portals such as Spotify, YouTube or Facebook. This solution should be typical for every modern receiver, because thanks to it we are not limited to only what standard television offers us. With Smart TV we can turn on whatever we want at any time.

In addition, Smart TV also allows you to control your TV using your smartphone or voice commands. Today the following operating systems are very popular and we may encounter them:

• Android TV is known to most users from tablets or smartphones. It's no surprise that we can come across Android TV. Its operation is very intuitive and allows us to access various applications. Additional benefits include the ability to use Google Assistant and transfer files between different Android devices.
• Smart Hub / Tizen OS is a system used only in Samsung TVs. This solution ensures uninterrupted operation with smartphones from this manufacturer - they can be used to control the TV or to transmit multimedia content. These days, a TV with Netflix is ​​a staple for many people in the receiver. By choosing Smart Hub, we can be sure that we will have access to various movie platforms, news and music programs.
• WebOS TV is another system specific to LG devices. Users praise it for its unprecedented smoothness, but also for its intuitiveness, which is why models from this brand are often recommended for older people. The best TV with this system is designed using artificial intelligence technology, which means that with our own voice we can ask questions or order tasks for this receiver.

Which smart TV to choose: selection criteria

In order to understand which TV with smart function is better to choose, you need to understand how this model differs from regular ones. The answer is simple - Smart TV is a TV that has Internet support.

Which smart TV to choose from the models available on the market? This question can be answered unequivocally - it is better to choose products from well-known brands.

These manufacturers take their products very seriously and monitor the quality of their products. A good reputation is the main motto of these enterprises.

The commercially available models that support smart TV include the following:

These manufacturers, in particular Samsung, produce both very expensive TV models and cheaper products that are affordable to everyone. Therefore, having set a goal, you can easily choose the right model for yourself.

View public channels

With Samsung Smart TV, you can set up multi-channel television using a universal method that works for all TVs. On the remote, you must press the Settings button to open the settings. Depending on the model, the button may have a different name. Next you need:

1. Find the “Channels” item.
2. Click on automatic search.
3. Designate the source of reception as “Cable TV” or “Antenna”.
4. In the “Supplier” field, select “Others”.
5. Set the desired frequency range.
6. Select to search for channels with analogue or digital signal.
7. Click “Run” and wait for the search to complete.

Thus, owners of TV with Smart function can watch their favorite TV shows without a subscription fee. The source of information will allow you to watch free HD channels via the Internet on Smart TV at any time of the day.

Podgornov Ilya Vladimirovich All articles on our site are audited by a technical consultant. If you have any questions, you can always ask them on his page.

Let's look at how to find out if your TV supports smart TV

Smart TV technology makes it possible to use the TV as a separate multimedia center with Internet access. This feature is undoubtedly very attractive and convenient. But you must be prepared for the fact that this TV will be expensive.

How do you know if your TV supports smart TV when choosing a model for your home? The best thing to do is read the instructions and try to understand whether this model has the functions that a product with a built-in smart system should have.

In order not to make a mistake when choosing such an important item for the home, you need to carefully study what a smart system is, have a clear comparison of this TV with a regular model that does not support smart, and arm yourself with this knowledge, as they say, to the teeth.

To choose the best smart TV, you need:

1. Decide on the size of this TV;
2. Find out how much money you can pay for it;
3. Take into account the wishes of all family members regarding the functional content of the model;
4. Understand which Internet connection will be the main one for the TV;
5. Decide what panel color you need.

Only after you have a complete knowledge of the smart system and an accurate vision of the TV in your home, can you go to the mall to make a purchase.

Is it worth buying a TV with SMART TV?

A TV is now not just a receiver of television signals, it is also a multimedia device, which has recently begun to resemble a computer. Here you have a browser, SKYPE, and all sorts of applications that you can install on your TV. In general, the 21st century, in a word! But are these TVs any good? And in general, is there any point in SMART TV? Looking far ahead, I’ll say that this is not so good, why? Read on...

First, a little definition.

A TV with SMART TV is a so-called “smart” (translated from English) TV. In addition to the functions of a TV (recognition of analog signals, as well as digital signals DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, etc.), such models have several built-in functions on board - such as a built-in browser, SKYPE, application platform (you can configure a lot of programs for various needs, for example watching video movies online). They recognize hard drives that can be connected to a TV and set up to record on them like a VCR; of course, they recognize smaller media, ranging from USB flash drives to SD cards.

In general, it’s fantastic, it seems like a simple TV but has so many functions. But everything would be fine, but SMART TV technology is now very much “unfinished” and buying such TVs at the moment is almost pointless, and here’s why

I'll start my story with moving to a new apartment. It just so happened that I succumbed to advertising and bought an LG SMART TV a year ago. YES, I was also excited by advertising, assuring that you will forget about the computer and will only sit in front of the TV. But it turned out the other way around

Antenna and SMART TV

Of course, the TV receives analog signals (regular signals from the tower), it would be surprising if it didn’t. But the point is that if you are far from the tower, the image quality drops significantly. I think this is clear to everyone. And my new house does not have a communal antenna (the residents decided so, relying on the fact that there was cable and satellites and why it was needed at all). Therefore, my reception with an indoor antenna is of average quality, and this is really not an option. YES and the 21st Century, we need to move away from analogue television.

WIFI

My model is not so recent, so I don’t have a WIFI module (almost all new models have it built in, pay attention to this). There is a regular connector like on a computer for connecting a regular cable. Internet via cable works without problems, but wires running around the apartment are annoying (if not hidden). Of course, you can buy a WIFI module, but it will not be cheap, branded LG costs about 2000 - 2500 rubles. It is difficult to find an analogue, but it is possible, but it will not be much cheaper.

DVB-T2

For those who don’t know, this is the digital range in which free digital television operates in Russia. So, not all SMART TVs have it! I NO, I cannot receive digital free-to-air TV! There is DVB - T, but it does not fit, you need DVB - T2, PAY ATTENTION TO THIS!

3D

There’s not much to talk about here, but it exists and works great, downloaded it, bought the movie, put it on a USB hard drive, put on the glasses and watch it, enjoy it.

IPTV

Yes, there are applications for IPTV, but good applications are paid, and you also need to look for playlists for them somewhere, free ones quickly become unusable, and all good ones are paid!

Browser

Okay, I thought, there is a browser and you can watch movies, or even television via the Internet right on the TV. It wasn’t like that! Almost all built-in browsers, almost all SMART TVs do not support the latest version of FLASH (a program for playing animation). Thus, the page loads, but all FLASH elements do not! That is, you will not be able to watch online movies (via a browser), television, you will not be able to listen to music on VKONTAKTE, etc. The browser is cut off and has nowhere to go!

SKYPE

Okay, I think at least there is SKYPE. And it is indeed preinstalled on many SMART TVs. Now I’ll plug in a camera and communicate with people! No such luck, any camera is not suitable for TV! You need your own from LG, the cost is 3000 - 3500 rubles, holy shit! Therefore, the meaning of SKYPE goes away! Of course, now there are TVs with SMART TV and a built-in camera, but they cost twice as much!

Applications

For television

Bad analogue antenna, no DVB – T2, so at least I can watch TV through apps! I thought I was naive! There really are no apps for watching TV, and they have many channels, which reassured me a little! BUT! These applications work extremely unstable, there are constant freezes and crashes, especially in the evening (it’s clear that the servers are overloaded). So there is no such thing as watching all channels at any time!

For films

There are already more applications for films, there are well-known ones, such as IVI, and little-known ones, in general, everything is not so bad. However, the old movies remain free in these applications; if you want to watch new ones, you have to pay. 3D channels are also paid. And tell me what these paid applications are! It’s easier to download to a flash drive and watch through it, so the point of these applications also disappears. Through them I turn on cartoons for my child and very, very rarely watch films, and only those that I have already watched 100 times.

YOUTUBE

There is a separate application for YOUTUBE, it works well, the interface is really limited, but you can find what you want. Moreover, the video is played, not so much in a standard browser.

Now video, MUST WATCH

RESULT. Guys, whether or not to buy a SMART TV is your decision, but I want to warn you right away, it’s just an expensive toy, and it doesn’t work very well! Of course, new versions of SMART TVs are getting better, but not many problems have been solved! REMEMBER SMART TVS ARE DESIGNED TO EXTRACT MONEY FROM THE POPULATION, for devices - cameras, paid movies, paid playlists, etc. If you really want a smart device, buy a TV with ANDROID on board, or ANDROID TVs like these have now begun to appear on the market. Everything there is implemented like on Android smartphones - there are no problems with television, SKYPE, movies (even if you install torrents), etc., I won’t list everything!

And what about me? - you ask! In reality, I was never able to finish my SMART TV, everything works poorly, channels via the Internet work terribly, it’s impossible to watch television. Therefore, the only option was to either connect cable, which I didn’t want, for us it’s about 250 rubles a month. Or think something else. And you know, I solved the problem, I bought an ANDROID TV set-top box for my TV, guys, this is a thing! Read the detailed review - I’m very pleased, now free TV via WIFI (it’s built into it), free SKYPE and a lot more.

In reality, who is thinking about buying a SMART TV, I would advise buying a regular LED TV? Definitely with 3D (still necessary), definitely with DVB-T2 (you will watch digital TV for free), definitely USB ports, and HDMI connectors (if you buy an Android set-top box and connect it, it will be the coolest SMART).

And that’s all, I can’t recommend anything bad.

remo-blog.ru

Functionality: what is smart TV on a TV (video)

When you decide to get a smart TV, first try to understand what exactly it can do and how to use it correctly. After all, a good friend is worth paying enough attention to.

It would seem that choosing and buying a TV - what could be simpler? The modern market of household appliances offers an incredibly large assortment. But how not to make a mistake and buy a quality device? The product is technically complex, returning it to the seller is often difficult, and some screen defects are not even considered defective. How to properly check a TV without taking it out of the store - in our article today.

In order not to buy a “pig in a poke”, you need to prepare for the purchase at home. And the matter here will not be limited to viewing numerous Internet resources. The presence of good reviews about the model only indicates that their authors came across successful copies. Nevertheless, a certain percentage of defects is present even among the most famous manufacturers. And not every seller will be willing to test the device for the buyer. Therefore, even having decided on the model, we first of all arm ourselves with knowledge of the hardware to check the TV before purchasing.

Key abbreviations

You can find this out in the instructions, but if you don’t have one, go online, which will be faster.

• DVB-T2 indicates that “digital” is supported;
• DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-S2X indicate reception of signals from a satellite;
• DVB-T, DVB-T2 – terrestrial;
• DVB-C, DVB-C2 – cable;
• DVB-T is an outdated model.

Below is a list of the most popular TV brands that support digital (you should pay attention to models after 2015):

• Samsung;
• Philips;
• Sony;
• LG;
• Panasonic;
• Toshiba.

Digital television is a modern take on entertaining and educational television programs. However, there is a more innovative technology - Smart TV.

Ears on top of head

Packaging is the second face of the product. And it’s not just about the design: if it’s noticeable that the packaging has already been opened and the protective films have been removed, it’s time to refuse the purchase. Most likely this is a used TV or a display unit. Special attention should be paid to TVs with polished metal panels or chrome elements - they should not have scratches or other damage.

When receiving the package with the TV, you need to check:

• condition of the packaging (especially traces of moisture);
• complete set of accessories (remotes, cables, documentation);
• the presence of original protective films on the TV body and stand;
• no traces of dust (a clear sign that the product has been used).

Often the list of standard accessories is not limited to the remote control: for example, Samsung UE43M5513AUXRU is equipped with a corner adapter for the antenna, which allows you to hang the TV close to the wall. To avoid unnecessary costs and loss of time, it is better to immediately check whether everything is in place. If at this stage everything turns out to be in perfect order, and the case is shiny from protective films and seals, you can proceed to the main part - testing for functionality.

Let's go deeper into details

Defective pixels

It seems that it’s not difficult to check the TV - turn it on and watch. But it’s not that simple—some display defects will only appear under certain conditions. Moreover, it may turn out that, by the manufacturer’s standards, they are not considered defects. The most obvious example of such reinsurance against the return or exchange of goods is the notorious dead pixels. A certain number of them is allowed by various standards, so if you discover this defect already at home, it will be extremely difficult to return the TV back. Therefore, it is better to check before purchasing.

It is quite easy to identify a completely non-working pixel, but a partially defective one is much more difficult. Each pixel is formed from three subpixels (red, green, blue). If one of them stops working correctly, then the dot on the screen will glow in the wrong color. Moreover, in order to catch the “saboteur”, sometimes you have to tinker - try to see the unfortunate point, for example, on the 50-inch LG 50UK6510PLB screen! Fortunately, you don’t have to arm yourself with a magnifying glass: it’s enough to prepare a flash drive with test pictures in advance that will identify the pest in any color range. Rarely, but still there are pixels that work incorrectly only periodically (when a neighboring point lights up in a certain shade). You can catch them using patterned pictures: with stripes, a grid, evenly alternating figures. Incorrectly functioning elements will stand out in the general row. To test a 4K display, this selection of images will be useful.

Illumination uniformity assessment

A full-screen black fill will allow you to evaluate the uniformity of the backlight. It is necessary to pay attention to the presence of “exposed” areas in different parts of the display. On LCD TVs, some differences are allowed, but if white spots are clearly visible on the black screen, this is a reason to look for a better copy or another model. As with dead pixels, most manufacturers do not consider this a defect, so it will be almost impossible to exchange a TV based on uneven backlighting.

Detection of colored "spots"

The white fill is no less important. Here you need to evaluate the presence of colored “spots” on the screen - most often they look like pinkish or greenish areas on a flat white color (the so-called tint). This “coloring” that appears in the matrix will remain on top of the main image, so devices with such a defect should be avoided. As in previous cases, many manufacturers will not consider the presence of “stains” a sufficient reason to exchange or repair the TV. At the same time, it wouldn’t hurt to check for banding, which appears in the form of stripes of a different shade. When watching regular TV shows, it will be noticeable in uniform areas when moving the camera. To identify this flaw, you need to send a uniform field of any color (gray, green, purple) to the screen from the same flash drive.

Technically, tint, highlights and banding are not defective or broken. It is almost impossible to find an LED TV without them. But the intensity of the interference varies; you should choose a device with minimally pronounced image defects.

"Pencil" test

Despite the assurances of marketers who depict cosmic refresh rate figures in the technical specifications, finding an “honest” 100 Hz TV today is still not easy. If before purchasing it was not possible to accurately determine the model of the matrix and find out its real capabilities, the popularly known “pencil” test will come to the rescue. To carry it out, you will need to present a very light picture, preferably white, to the display. Then take a pencil or any long and thin object and wave it in a semicircle 10-15 centimeters from the screen. If the individual contours of the pencil are not visible, there is no flicker. If several “pencils” are visible, the manufacturer has clearly added a zero to the real scan frequency, and the flickering of this instance will tire the eyes during prolonged viewing. You can verify the effectiveness of such a test using the example of the 100 Hz Samsung UE40MU6103UXRU display, placing it next to any 50 Hz model.

Sound check

You shouldn't have high hopes for ten-watt acoustics squeezed into the thin body of a modern TV. Of course, the bass reflex speakers Sony Bravia KDL40WD653BR sound quite decent for their size, but they cannot promise home theater level. Therefore, it is enough to simply check the sound for rattling using high-quality samples. At the same time, it makes sense to test the smoothness of volume control from the remote control along with the instant mute function.

Checking the connectors

It is very problematic to check the antenna input in a store, but if at least indoor antennas are on sale in the next department, you should not neglect this opportunity. Of course, the chance of running into a non-working TV tuner is small, but you can take your TV home with peace of mind.

USB ports are simply tested with the same flash drive with pictures to identify dead pixels. If the TV has two or more connectors (such as the LG 43UJ630V), nothing prevents you from checking them all one by one. If you plan to use Smart TV with a keyboard and mouse, it is better to take them with you. It may turn out that even with known-to-be-good USB connectors, the existing set will be incompatible with the TV. Here you will have to either come to terms with it or find a suitable replacement without leaving the cash register.

HDMI connectors are easy to test: most stores have demo stands with a bunch of cables that display the image on the display case. We just insert the cable into each of the ports one by one, nothing complicated. At the same time, it will become clear how conveniently they are located - this is important when planning connections for home devices.

The headphone jack can be checked even using a smartphone headset - its capabilities are quite enough to get a general idea of ​​​​the performance of the 3.5 mm jack. Well, if you don’t want to bother with a wire, then take your wireless headphones and test the Bluetooth connection, since modern TVs are equipped with such an interface. And unfolding the 49-inch Samsung UE49MU7000UXRU screen hanging on the wall every time you want to watch a movie with headphones is a dubious pleasure.

Network check

An important point when buying a TV with Wi-Fi. Wireless Internet access is now available in almost any shopping center or even a separate store. The minimum program is to launch a search for networks and compare the number of those found with those “caught” on a smartphone. Ideally, connect to the store’s network and access the Internet. At worst, you can distribute Wi-Fi from your device. At the same time, you will have the opportunity to evaluate Smart TV. And in models such as the Philips 43PFS5302/12, full-fledged Android is installed: you can even view your email without leaving the display case.

Smart TV technology overview

Three prerequisites that give impetus to modern television. Can TV really access the Internet, penetrate all mobile devices and become truly Smart?

The idea of ​​smart television, or as it is also called Smart TV, was born at a time when technical capabilities made it possible to deliver a television picture to several types of devices at once, namely to a TV, home computer, mobile phone and tablet, thereby creating a single information and entertainment zone in the apartment. an environment that allows you to start watching a series in the living room on TV, and continue on your tablet while lying in bed.

However, the mere fact of synchronization between devices could not be the only reason why television would be called smart, therefore, in order to expand the capabilities of all devices and build clear interaction between them, it was decided to combine them into a single network and connect it to the Internet. This would make it possible not only to enjoy terrestrial television and cable channels, but also to get instant access to video portals located on the Internet on all devices in the house at once.

The main task of Internet access for this united network of devices was to change the very approach to television viewing, because it made it possible not only to switch between TV channels, but also to select a specific film, series or TV show at any time. This is how the Internet, thanks to its interactivity, became a medium that breathed new life into everyday devices.

The holy grail of smart TV comes in the form of a multimedia center that combines simplicity and elegance, the ability to interact with every device in the home, and full access to all the shows and movies we can imagine. In addition, it must be fully interactive and easy to use, clearly responding to our gestures and voice control. Combine the functions of smartphones, tablets and laptops, complementing this with new impressions from displaying a three-dimensional image on a large screen.

But can we say with confidence that smart television will step into our homes tomorrow, or is this still a fantastic fairy tale? Should you start looking for reviews about smart television now, or should you wait another year before making a joyful purchase in order to be completely sure that the technology works and pays off?

You, of course, have heard about the new era of smart phones (smartphones), which in addition to the basic functions of “calling” and “writing SMS”, provide the ability to scroll through Internet sites, check email, use navigation maps, and in some cases even shoot and watch videos in Full HD format. Let's not forget about the new tablets, which, due to their large screens and a wide range of smart functions, quickly gained support among the population and relegated home computers to the background. And if you have been wondering about buying a new TV in the last six months or a year, you probably noticed on many models the word “Smart” that is already familiar to us, which opens the door to the era of Smart Television.

The reality is that current models of smart TVs are just beginning to comply with the ideological canons of smart television, and. becoming an integral part of the interactive home environment - thus gradually changing and developing the entire television industry, which has already undergone significant shocks over the past few years. Just remember the first boom caused by the release of plasma TVs, followed immediately by thinner LCD screens, and then 3D TVs. In order to correspond to the spirit of the times, “stop the broadcast”, “record TV shows” and “follow the broadcast” services appeared, which, by recording to an internal hard drive, were designed to destroy the idea that television can only be linear.

But this was not enough. On the one hand, manufacturers were limited by the technological capabilities of the devices themselves, on the other hand, the rapid growth of the Internet attracted new exciting opportunities. Thanks to these factors, a new round of development began, which forced televisions to go online in search of new functions that allow them to communicate with friends and family, and expand the horizons of the programs and films they offer.

Now there are many models on the market that, to one degree or another, promote the ideas of smart and interactive television, however, unfortunately, none of the currently available technologies has sufficient potential that could radically change our understanding of home of the 21st century. Until a full-fledged sample appears on the market, which will allow us to combine all the capabilities of our portable devices and meet all the requirements of even the most capricious users, as, for example, tablets are now doing, until then we can only talk about smart television as a technology and look for there are the best offers on the market that will sooner or later open the door to real smart television.

There is nothing wrong with the fact that we have not yet entered the era of smart television; on the contrary, this is only a reason for development and improvement. 2012 promises to be rich in new technologies and achievements, which are mainly implemented first in flagship (i.e., the most advanced and expensive) TV models, and then gradually move down to more affordable models.

If you feel like you're on the fence about buying a new TV, be sure to first check out our TV guide, which covers most of the models we know of. If you are satisfied with your TV, but you are full of desire to try all the current capabilities of smart television, we recommend that you pay attention to our review of set-top boxes that allow you to expand the boundaries of conventional television. They will be discussed in more detail below.

conclusions

The main thing is to behave confidently in the store and understand that half an hour spent checking will save you a lot of nerves and time in the future. With this approach, you will definitely be able to make a successful purchase: there will be no dead pixels, screen glare or other troubles. And to avoid any problems with the ability to check, contact Citylink - for a symbolic amount, the store’s specialists will not only check your device, but will also give you time to get to know it yourself. And if necessary, they will also help with the setup.