What Is A Digital TV Decoder?
In countries all over the world television stations are moving towards broadcasting in a digital signal. It’s not just cable or pay per view TV stations that are making this change, all major free-to-air stations are now committed to replacing their analog signals with digital signals.
This means if you have an analog television, then you will require a device to translate the digital signal so that it can be displayed on your television. This device is known as a Digital TV converter/digital set top box/ digital-to-analog converter.
Some newer televisions that are not digital have the device built in and so there is no need to purchase the additional box or even a digital TV. But if you want to keep your older analog TV then you will need a converter to watch these new digital channels.
How Much Does a Digital TV Decoder Cost?
Not much. You are looking at about $50-$100 for your average model.
More expensive models also include a Digital recorder. This means you can record your digital TV as well and play it back when you want. It’s like having a VCR but without the hassle. The digital TV recorders use a hard drive to record the television and can be programmed to record at the same time each day or each week to catch regular programs.
Recommended brands include Dish, Toshiba, Zinwell, with the Zinwell ZAT-970A being the cheapest.
You can check out user reviews at Amazon.
How Do You Use a Digital TV Decoder?
The digital TV decoder is attached to the television antenna and the television, as well as a power source. Instructions that come with the decoder will help with scanning for digital channels but if further problems are experienced you may need to adjust or replace your antenna.
Remember the aim with Digital TV is high quality images and sound. If you don’t have that then you may need to contact a digital TV service professional.
Please see our page on Digital TV Problems to help with troubleshooting.