Smart TV is a TV feature that is gaining momentum, thanks to which the user can find and watch their favorite films and TV series on the Internet. But first you need to connect the equipment to the World Wide Web - by cable or using wireless communications. A wired connection does not raise any questions - connect the TV to the router with the appropriate cable and look.
With Wi-Fi it’s more difficult, because not every model comes with a default receiver capable of picking up signals distributed by the router. There is a solution - choose a Wi-Fi adapter for your TV. What kind of device is this, how it works and how to connect it - this is discussed in the article.
What is a Wi-Fi adapter and why is it needed?
The device can “link” different gadgets with each other.
Not all TV models provide a wireless Internet connection. To get around this limitation, buy a special adapter. This is a small-sized network equipment, similar in appearance to a flash drive, the function of which is to receive and send signals via Wi-Fi, from a modem to a television receiver (a type of wireless LAN protocol).
Today, such an adapter is used by many who want to access the Internet. The compact device has many advantages, namely:
- A Wi-Fi adapter for a TV will allow you to quickly and easily connect your equipment to a wireless network, without laying wires throughout your living space;
- the device can “link” different gadgets with each other - TV with a computer, smartphone, laptop. This is convenient, for example, you can send a video or photo from your phone to the big screen;
- a correctly selected adapter will allow you to broadcast your computer’s “Desktop” to the TV screen. This is convenient for a number of work issues, and is also good entertainment for gamers;
- a wider format for watching your favorite films and TV series. Of course, you can watch it from a laptop, but not with the whole family;
- The digital television signal coming from the provider is received by the router. It turns out that the cable connected to it is both an Internet and television provider;
- In the age of technology, many smart gadgets with remote control via Wi-Fi appear. And the TV will become one of them, just choose the right Wi-Fi adapter for it.
Externally, it is similar to a USB flash drive and is inserted into the same connector. But not every TV is configured to work with it. There is a possibility that the equipment simply does not recognize the adapter. Therefore, it is worth knowing about this point in advance by studying the technical characteristics of the model.
Top 9 best digital DVB-T2 set-top boxes with Wi-Fi
Choosing a DVD T2 is not easy, since the range is quite diverse, and the price ranges from 1000 to 18 thousand rubles.
OEM TX3 mini
It is small and has a built-in Wi-Fi module. Connects to TV via a classic HDMI cable. Through OEM TX3 mini it is possible to install specialized utilities, watch channels online and pause viewing via TimeShift.
Xiaomi Mi Box 4C
Xiaomi is a leader in the production of such equipment. Therefore, it is not surprising that updated versions are regularly released. In 2021, the DVB-T2 Xiaomi Mi Box 4C attracted special attention, the feature of which is support for 4K video and functionality based on Android 6.0 OS.
Smotreshka Box
Smotreshka Box is suitable for interactive channels, and freely broadcasts 140 different streams - films, news, cartoons, music, sports, entertainment, melodramas, live broadcasts, Duma, etc.
World Vision T62A
World Vision T62A is a multifunctional tuner, as it works with both digital and cable. It is notable for being easy to set up even without a remote control.
LUMAX DV-2120HD
This tuner only works on terrestrial TV and does not support cable streaming. This is a reliable and durable device with a high-quality picture and stable broadcasting. The price range is affordable, therefore it is widely used in many regions of Russia.
Orbit HD925
This is a high-end set-top box, so its price starts at 1,700 rubles. There are many channels and there is a response to the universal remote control.
Dune HD Neo 4K T2 Plus
Compared to Orbit, Dune HD Neo 4K T2 Plus is more portable. It is small, black and matte. You can easily hide it somewhere in a nightstand, but at the same time the power allows you to catch the signal. There is an indicator on the front panel that responds to the universal remote control.
Dune HD Sky 4K Plus
Dune HD Sky 4K Plus supports many video standards and has good power. There is simple setup and the same controls, so you don’t have to call the experts.
iconBIT XDS804T2
iconBIT XDS804T2 is a new generation digital set-top box with wifi. It runs on Android 7 Nougat OS. The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty for this device.
How the device works
HDMI and USB ports
The basis of wireless technologies, thanks to which users can access the Internet wirelessly, are radio waves. Wi-Fi equipment – transmits or receives appropriate signals.
Your router, smartphone, or laptop has an integrated module. It works as a receiver (catches waves from the router) and/or transmitter (distributes a signal as an access point). If the TV does not have a network module, it must be purchased separately.
An external Wi-Fi adapter, inserted into the HDMI or USB port of the TV panel, allows the latter to connect to a wireless network. Structurally, it is a board in a housing that is responsible for receiving and transmitting information via Wi-Fi.
New generation of set-top boxes with Wi-Fi
The new generation of AV receivers are those that both connect to broadcasting and have access to the network. In 2021, there are a majority of these, and they began to be produced in 2015. In order to get the most useful options from this device, it is important to understand the operating principle and choose a powerful transmitter.
Principle of operation
A special feature of the receivers is the presence of a wi-fi module. It is thanks to it that instant wireless contact with the access point occurs. To connect to the network, the owner creates a special account with a login and password. The operating principle of such equipment consists of three possible options for receiving a signal:
- USB is a frequently used option, since almost all gadgets have such a socket;
- HDMI - TVs released after 2015 are equipped with this connector, since it is possible to transmit a high-quality signal through it very quickly and without interference;
- PCMCIA - for netbooks and laptops.
Varieties
Depending on the connection type, there are USB and HDMI devices. Even earlier, PCMCIA adapters were found, but in new TVs from Samsung, LG, Phillips, Sony, the technology is much more modern.
With HDMI port
An HDMI connector is available on any modern TV.
High Definition Multimedia Interface is a multimedia connection that transmits high-quality video content and multi-channel audio signals, while the data is protected from copying. The main task of this interface, for which it was developed, is to receive and send multimedia.
An HDMI connector is available on any modern TV, home theater, console, Blu-Ray player and TV tuner. The HDMI Wi-FI adapter is more of a full-fledged multimedia set-top box.
It not only receives a Wi-Fi signal, but also allows you to watch movies, listen to music, and access social networks. Typical examples are Google Chromecast, Yandex Module.
With USB port
This connection method is the most common today and is considered universal. It is found in almost all devices, including TVs. Adapters with a USB port are visually not much different from a mini flash drive.
For USB 2.0, the maximum data transfer speed is 240 Mbit/s. USB 3.0 (blue port) – up to 5 Gbps. Any data can be transmitted through the port, but at a lower speed.
How to use and why do you need a Smart TV set-top box?
There are a lot of options for using Smart TV set-top boxes. Well, I’ll probably watch it on YouTube first. I only use the console for this. Well, sometimes I also watch TV channels and movies through MEGOGO with a paid subscription.
You can go to the application store (Google Play) and install all the necessary applications and games. Weather, applications for reading news, file managers, players, applications for various online cinemas, etc.
You can read more about installing applications in the article installing applications on Xiaomi Mi TV Stick via an APK file or Play Store (relevant for all Android TV set-top boxes).
Of course, you are probably interested in how to watch movies, TV series, cartoons and TV channels via the Internet using a Smart set-top box connected to the TV. This is what the console is mainly bought for. There are two main ways:
- Watch with a paid subscription through various popular online cinemas. There are a lot of them. For example: Wink, Okko, MEGOGO, Ivi, Amediateka, START, Netflix. You can watch movies, TV series, TV channels and other content. Everything about them is as simple and convenient as possible. Everything works very stable. You just need to choose an online cinema, subscribe (usually you can try for free), install the application on the console and you can watch.
- Watch all this for free through applications like HD Videobox, TorrServe. You need to install these offers on Android TV set-top boxes via an .apk file (instructions in the link above), since they are not available in the application store.
You can also install a browser to view sites. Watching movies through a browser on websites is difficult and not very convenient.
How to choose
An adapter is an electronic device that is selected taking into account technical parameters. Due to inexperience, some users believe that it is the same for a computer and TV. On the one hand, they work using the same protocols, but the operating systems of the computer and the TV are different, which means the software is different.
TV model compatibility
A branded adapter will be more expensive.
As a rule, the manufacturer already indicates on the adapter body which TVs it is compatible with. It is best to take a device from the same company as the equipment at home.
A branded adapter will be more expensive, but it will be a guarantee against possible problems during connection and performance.
There are also Wi-Fi modules positioned as universal. They are easy to connect and, as a rule, function properly.
However, complaints have become more frequent that after reflashing the TV, the device is no longer recognized and then no longer works. And there is no way to restore it.
Transmitter power
The parameter is ambiguous, more relevant for a router than for a TV. Still, there is a recommended value: no less than 17 dBm. If it is lower, the connection will be unstable. The characteristics are indicated on the device packaging.
Operating frequency
For different devices, this parameter varies from 2.5 to 5 GHz. The router and adapter must operate at the same frequency, otherwise they will not be able to connect to each other.
Signal standard
If the router has one standard and the adapter has another, data will be transferred, but at a reduced speed.
This characteristic affects the speed of data transfer between devices. It should be similar to the router. Routers work with different signal standards. The optimal one is IEEE 802.11 n (300 Mbit/s), although there is also “ac”, which provides a maximum speed of 600 Mbit/s, but it is designed for a frequency of 5 GHz.
If, for example, there is one standard on the router and another on the adapter, the data will be transferred, but at a reduced speed.
Also, do not forget about various obstacles that interfere with the passage of the Wi-Fi signal: radiation from microwaves, refrigerators, metal objects in the form of pipes, batteries, and so on. All this prevents the adapter from working at full power.
Radius of action
This is the distance between the receiver and the transmitter - the TV and the router. An important parameter that is worth considering if you want a stable connection. Conventionally, modules are divided into:
- closed;
- open spaces.
The characteristic is indicated on the packaging of the device and is expressed in meters. The greater the range, the farther the TV can be from the router. When choosing an adapter based on this parameter, you should take into account all possible obstacles in the signal path: walls, partitions, furniture.
Encryption
If desired, the connection is hidden from prying eyes
. Who would like it if an unwanted guest connects to his Wi-Fi network. This needs to be stopped immediately, with knowledge of the matter, because the signal is transmitted further, going beyond the boundaries of the home.
Even if the owner does not mind his neighbors using his Internet, he must remember two things: firstly, the speed is reduced, and secondly, not everyone visits legal sites, which in the future can cause litigation.
To create a secure connection, you just need to specify a unique network name and set a strong password for it. If desired, the connection is hidden from prying eyes. You can also set the encryption to WEP, WPA, WPA2 (in the router settings, from the computer).
Criterias of choice
Wi-Fi adapter for Samsung Smart TV
When choosing a Wi-Fi module for TV, you need to pay attention to a large number of factors that affect the quality of the device. Below we will present several important criteria.
Wi-Fi transmitter power
The quality and stability of the signal supplied from the router depends on this parameter. In order not to constantly reboot the router, it is important to choose an adapter whose power is at least 20 dBm.
Powerful Wi-Fi adapter for TV
Important! When choosing a transmitter, you need to take into account the power of the router itself. This indicator for these devices should be approximately the same, otherwise the signal will regularly disappear due to communication asymmetry.
In some situations, for a high-quality wireless network signal, you will need to change the router, since it is the main device on which the stability of the Internet depends.
Operating frequency
For many TV adapters, this indicator ranges from 2.4 to 5 GHz. Intuitively, the higher the operating frequency, the more stable and better the signal. At the same time, the data transfer speed also increases.
The consistency of this parameter for both the Wi-Fi module and the router is also important. This means that the operating frequencies of these devices must be in the same range.
Radius of action
This criterion depends on the operating conditions of the equipment. When choosing a Wi-Fi adapter for your TV, you need to consider its location in relation to the router. As a general rule, the range should be greater in open spaces than in indoor spaces.
Information about the technical characteristics of the Wi-Fi module is indicated on its packaging. The range of action, which is measured in meters, is also presented there. It is preferable to choose devices that have this parameter at least 15 m, even if the router will be located in close proximity to the adapter.
Note! Signal quality largely depends on obstacles. For example, walls or partitions can interfere with device synchronization.
Wi-Fi adapter supporting 802.11n standard
Signal standard
This is an important parameter that affects the data transfer speed. The router that will distribute the Internet must be of the same standard as the Wi-Fi module for the TV, otherwise problems may arise with synchronizing the equipment.
There are several network standards:
- 802.11n. The standard was developed for industrial networks and is characterized by high information transfer speed and stable signal;
- 802.11g. The actual information exchange speed of this standard is 60 MB/s, which is three times lower than that discussed in the previous paragraph;
- 802.11a. Often used for home networks, as it has average speed.
Compatible with TV model
As a rule, the manufacturer of the Wi-Fi transmitter indicates on its packaging information about compatibility with other devices. You should read this information first to avoid connection problems.
However, the compatibility of the purchased module with TV can be configured by flashing it.
Note! If the Wi-Fi adapter and the TV are of the same brand, then the likelihood of their compatibility is high.
Wi-Fi module for TV from Tp-Link
Encryption algorithm
To prevent unauthorized access attempts, you need to come up with a strong password for your wireless network. The setup process on different router models looks similar:
- Connect the router to the computer via the LAN port.
- After completing the previous step, information about the connected device should be displayed on the monitor screen.
- Go to the “My Computer” panel and click on the “Network” tab.
- In the list presented, you need to find the name of your router and right-click on it.
- In the window that opens, tap on the line “Go to the device’s web page.”
- Enter your login details. Usually the login and password are indicated on the back of the router.
- A window with modem settings will open. Here you need to click on the “Network” or “Internet” tab.
- Go to the “Wireless Access” section, then to “Protection”.
- A window will open where you will need to specify the password and name of the access point.
The setup process is similar for different router models.
Important! To ensure secure encryption, it is recommended to specify a password of at least eight characters, preferably using letters.
After completing the above procedure, you can go to the TV settings and connect to this router by entering the previously specified password.
Router setup window on computer
Popular models
LG AN-WF500
LG AN-WF500. A proprietary adapter that works with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks. A special feature is the ability to combine devices into a common DLNA network. Along with TVs, it is compatible with soundbars and headsets. One of the functions is the “MagicRemote” connection. Connection type – USB 2.0. Frequency – 2.4 GHz. Standard – 802.11 a/g/b/n. There is an LED on the case that lights up when the module is active.
WIS12ABGNX.
WIS12ABGNX. Adapter for Samsung TV panels. Can communicate with other devices thanks to support for DLNA standards. To start using it, you do not need to install third-party software on your TV. Data transfer speed reaches 300 Mbit/s. Standard – 802.11 n. Compatible with Samsung AllShare.
Stream TV DIB-200
Stream TV DIB-200. High-quality universal adapter from the well-known company D-Link. Designed for transferring multimedia files to TV. Compact, easy to use.
D-Link DWA-137
D-Link DWA-137. Universal, suitable for TV and PC. Thanks to one operating frequency, it can overlap with other devices. Speed – up to 300 Mbit/sec. A detachable 5 dBi antenna is attached to the device body. Connection type – USB 2.0.
Fenvi FV-N700S
Fenvi FV-N700S. Compatible with older Samsung models, Blu-Ray players and home theater systems. Frequency – 2.4 and 5 GHz. Connection – USB. Speed – 300 Mbit/sec. The connection standard is 802.11 a/b/g/n.
Sony UWA-BR100
Sony UWA-BR100. Branded module for Sony TVs and other branded equipment. Compact, with USB connection, supports operation in two bands: 2.4 and 5 GHz. Standard – 802.11 b/g/n. One of the features of this adapter is that it is connected via a USB cable and installed on a special stand.
Kebidu USB
Kebidu USB. An affordable analogue of Wi-Fi adapter from AliExpress. Compatible with LG, Samsung, Sony TV. The case has a WPS button, LAN activity LEDs, and Wi-Fi. The kit includes a patch cord that creates a wired connection. Operating ranges are 2.4 and 5 GHz.
How does a Smart TV set-top box work?
Inside the TV box, or stick, there is a board on which the processor, video adapter, RAM and permanent memory, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module are installed (Bluetooth is not available in all models) and other equipment. Everything here is the same as in the case of a computer, tablet, or other similar device. The newer and more productive the processor and video adapter, the more RAM and permanent memory, the better. The performance of the set-top box, the speed of the interface, the launch of applications, etc. directly depend on this.
The operating system is “hardwired” into this hardware. Almost all set-top boxes on the market run on either Android or Android TV. There are also models that run on Linux or Windows. There aren't many of them, and I probably wouldn't recommend buying them. For fans of Apple technology, we can recommend the Apple TV 4K set-top box. A really cool console, but in terms of functionality it is no better than Android consoles. Although it runs on a special operating system from Apple.
What is the difference between an Android set-top box and an Android TV?
- Android TV is an operating system that was developed by Google specifically for installation on TVs and Smart TV set-top boxes. It is perfectly optimized to work on these devices.
It immediately installed the Google Play Market, which contains only those applications and games that are optimized for TV screens and for 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 consoles modify it a little, install some kind of launcher (which looks more or less normal on a TV) and install it on the consoles. The regular Google Play Market (application store) is available in it, just like on phones. The system itself and applications on the TV do not look very nice.
In addition, they are very difficult to control using the remote (especially individual applications), since they are designed to be controlled using touch screens, not a remote control.
I would, of course, choose a set-top box based on Android TV. It is much easier and more pleasant to use. I often hear that the downside of Android TV is that the store doesn't have all the apps you need. Yes, the application store there is really “stripped down”, since it only contains applications that are optimized for TVs. But on Android TV you can install any application via an apk file.
Most Smart set-top boxes connect to the TV via HDMI. Using a cable.
Or directly, if it is a stick format console. If necessary, you can use an HDMI extender.
If you have a very old TV, you can connect via AV (tulip). But for this you will need a special adapter.
After connecting to the TV and connecting the power, the set-top box turns on. If this is the first time you turn it on, then it will most likely offer to connect the remote control (if in this model it connects via Bluetooth) and perform a quick setup (select a language, connect to a Wi-Fi network, log in to your account, etc.).
After completing the quick setup (only when you turn on the media player for the first time), the main screen will appear.
You can use all the functionality of the Smart TV set-top box.
You can see the connection and setup process in the following articles:
- Xiaomi Mi Box S: how to connect to TV and set up?
- How to connect Xiaomi Mi TV Stick, set up and use the set-top box?
Connection and setup
The setup itself is simple and is done using a single algorithm for all models. The only thing that may differ is the menu items. To connect your TV to a wireless network, you need: Internet access from your provider, a router, and an adapter compatible with the TV.
For Samsung
Usually, the manufacturer’s website contains all the instructions for quick connection.
Before purchasing an adapter, you should look at the manufacturer’s website and find a list of supported TV models. Usually all instructions for quick connection are included there.
The universal algorithm looks like this:
- The adapter is inserted into the TV connector, after which it becomes active (an alternative to the built-in wireless lan adapter module).
- Setting up the network. Button on the remote control “Menu” - section “Network” - item “Network settings”.
- If the TV does not detect cables, it will offer to create a wireless connection. Press "Start".
- They select the home network that the router distributes, connect, enter the password, and click “OK.”
The TV will check the connection and if everything is normal, it will notify you with a corresponding message.
For LG
Again, it’s worth visiting the manufacturer’s website and making sure that the module is suitable for the TV model. Next, the adapter is inserted into the appropriate connector. You don’t need to do anything, it activates itself.
The further algorithm depends on the model of the television receiver. You need to go to settings, the item related to the network, select home and enter the password.
Setting up on TV model LG 55EC930V:
- Press “Home” on the remote control.
- Select the “Settings” gear icon and click “Ok”.
- Go to “Network” - “Connect to a Wi-Fi network.”
- The TV will find and display available networks, from which you select the one you need and enter your login and password.
For Phillips
In general, the setup looks similar for Samsung and LG. The only difference is the menu items. On Philips TVs, the order can be as follows: “Menu” - “Settings” - “Wired and Wireless Networks” - “Wired or Wi-Fi” - “Network Connection” - “Wireless”. Next, enter the password and connect.
Receiver setup
Wi - Fi receiver connects to your TV in a slightly different way than a regular digital set-top box. The antenna cable is connected to the set-top box itself. If the user plans to watch only over-the-air broadcasts, then communication with the TV can be done through the same antenna cable. If the user’s tasks include using the Internet and viewing content from flash drives, then you will need to use an HDMI connection or tulips (adapter from AV to tulips).
After this, you need to switch to displaying from the selected connector on the TV and configure the receiver. To do this, you will need to use its remote control and follow the instructions that appear on the screen. Most receivers require you to specify the date and time, as well as the region. After the initial setup, the device will offer to find channels (you should select automatic search) and connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi. All available networks will be displayed. Having selected the desired one, the user will be required to enter a password for it.
Important! The setup procedure may differ slightly, so you should look for more detailed recommendations in the instructions for the receiver.
