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How to make “Smart TV” from a regular TV: equipment, instructions

To the question of how to make a “Smart TV” from a regular TV, there is an answer that is quite accessible and understandable to most users. The bottom line is that buyers of fancy devices that transmit television broadcasts and are connected to the Internet often have no idea that such a system can be made much cheaper. This will require some devices (game console or tablet), a little skill and suitable adapters. As a result, you will be able to enjoy your favorite movies or games online without delays.

How to make a “Smart TV” from a regular TV?

Many people have a TV at home that is not the most modern, but still works. A dilemma often arises: to replace the TV with a new model or to upgrade an existing device. The latter option has many preferences using mobile or gaming gadgets.

You can do this simply through the HMDI port of the TV, but in the end you will get a kind of monitor, the image quality on which leaves much to be desired, and managing the functionality is not very convenient (especially with a mouse). This procedure is much more effective if there is an interface adapted for the TV screen. Don't forget that a standard computer is quite noisy and is not always appropriate next to a TV.

As an alternative - various mini-devices and game consoles. With their help, it is possible to reorganize a regular TV into the “Smart” format. One of the best options is considered to be “Android Whistle”, the production of which is well established in China. There are several series of them, but the principle of operation of each is approximately the same.

Options

Modern television repeaters are real multimedia centers with Internet access and support for a variety of services. However, with maximum functions, such a thing will be very expensive. It is much easier and cheaper to build a “Smart” with your own hands from improvised devices and wires.

You can do this in one of the following ways:

  • Using a compact and inexpensive media player.
  • Via a smartphone or tablet computer.
  • Using a universal Blue-Ray player system.
  • Using the game

What can a network media player do?

Owners of a network media player can read the device's characteristics in the operating instructions and make sure that it has a lot in common with the Smart function. If previously such devices were a player with a USB port, now they are an effective and multifunctional class of equipment. In fact, using a media player greatly expands the capabilities of the TV both in functional terms and in terms of sound reproduction quality.

The player has the ability to play movies from a PC in HD format. This opens up access to music, entertainment and other files, not to mention online stores. The main media is an old TV displaying full-fledged websites and additional files.

Pros and cons of media players

To figure out how to make a “Smart TV” from a regular TV with your own hands using a network media player, you need to take into account all the advantages and disadvantages of this method. With the right approach, the set-top box used will make it possible to make a real competitor to modern “sophisticated” devices at minimal cost. The advantages of using a media player include:

  • compact overall dimensions;
  • acceptable price;
  • interaction with all common modules and formats;
  • built-in WLAN option;
  • accessibility for connecting external devices, including a hard drive.

In addition, the modification in question has comfortable operation and works with most interactive services, including online stores and social networks. The disadvantages of this method include the fact that some media players do not interact with Blue-Ray disc images.

Criteria for selecting a media player for the Smart option

Most of the latest media players are equipped with connectors for connecting a keyboard or mouse via the USB ports of the TV. In the variety of models, you can choose an option with a Russified interface and access to proprietary applications.

You should also be aware of the supported connections. In any case, it must be there. A digital audio input S/PDIF and a built-in card reader would also be useful. Modern media players are increasingly being produced without a built-in hard drive, but with the ability to connect external media or a memory card.

If your TV is so old that it does not support an HDMI connection, then you will need to select analog composite connectors with corresponding inputs and outputs. Those who are not used to storing information on interactive services will need to make sure that the player is functionally able to play files in the desired format. Fortunately, the choice in this area is very wide.

"Android set-top box": smartphones and tablets

Modern tablet computers and smartphones are equipped with all sorts of interactive services and applications that allow you to perform a lot of operations, including watching movies in high quality and listening to music files. Most of these gadgets can be easily connected to your TV. To do this, you will need to select the appropriate adapters, which are not included with the device.

The disadvantages of this conversion include the limited memory of mobile devices, which does not allow storing the entire media set, but gives a regular TV the functions of a computer. To get maximum benefit, it is recommended to use special software. An “Android set-top box” in the form of a tablet or smartphone has a significant advantage: it is compact and has the ability to download the necessary content. Negative aspects include limited memory capacity, the need to use various adapters and the difficulty of watching video in high definition.

How to display an image using mobile devices on a TV screen?

Smartphones or tablets are often equipped with a mini-HDMI or MHL connector. This makes it possible to connect the device to TVs of various modifications. Otherwise, you will need to use adapters, which are selected individually, since they are not unified with each other.

For example, to connect Apple, you will need a special adapter. To avoid rapid discharge of the device, it is advisable to additionally connect the power cable. On the Android platform, you can select several types of resolutions (from 480 to 1080 pixels). Unfortunately, iPad and iPhone gadgets do not have such functions. Due to this, the image in interactive games may be slightly distorted and have black stripes on the sides. In this case, videos from YouTube will be formatted across the entire width of the screen.

Gaming consoles

One of the options for making “Smart TV” from a regular TV is to use a video console. Compared to full-fledged media players, game consoles are less functional, and some applications are paid. To get the maximum performance, users of the Microsoft Xbox 360 console must register with Xbox Live and pay for a “gold” account.

The Microsoft Xbox 360 service does not allow you to copy movies to your HDD, but plays them from DVDs, CDs and flash cards. In addition, connection of an external drive is available. All popular video and audio formats are also supported. To receive the full option, you must constantly be in touch with the updated Windows media center (DLNA format).

Sony PS-3

Next, we’ll look at how to make a “Smart TV” from a regular TV using In this case, the user is provided with two free resources focused on video playback, as well as the ability to store media information on an internal HDD format drive.

The console does not allow you to play files that weigh more than four gigabytes due to the limited capabilities of the device. "Play Station - 3" launches video from Blue-Ray, as well as from memory cards and external media of various formats within the allowed volume. Using the PS-3 console, you can listen to music, watch videos with a resolution of up to 1080 pixels, view photos and use several free online services.

Blue-Ray players

One of the options for making a “Smart TV” from a regular TV with USB is to use a Blue-Ray player. Such devices have a fairly high price, but also have great functionality. When using them, the consumer receives the following opportunities:

  • support for almost all video and audio formats and codecs;
  • built-in WLAN module;
  • connecting external drives and DLNA options;
  • full set of Smart and Wi-Fi functions;
  • additional applications and access to all kinds of interactive resources.

You can watch movies in good quality without any problems, not to mention videos from YouTube. Some models are equipped with additional functionality that makes it possible to download branded programs from online stores.

How to connect Blue-Ray?

All Blue-Ray players have an HDMI interface. If the player did not come with a suitable cable, you can easily buy it at any electronics store. You can also use adapters for SCART or RCA (“tulip”) connectors.

Often such connectors are provided in a standard set. It is worth considering that when connecting the player via the SCART or RCA interface, the image will not be as high quality as via HDMI. But if we make “Smart TV” from a regular TV, this point is not critical. To connect a Blue-Ray player to a device, you may need an RCA-SCART or HDMI-SCART adapter. When interacting with RCA, you will have to independently switch the television receiver to AV mode, since this connection does not provide an autonomous transition to decoder, as opposed to SCART mode. You should also choose an adapter carefully: too cheap copies may cause interference when playing files.

What should you pay attention to?

Before you buy a Blue-Ray player, you should make sure that your TV has the appropriate connectors. If you are using an optional speaker system, you must check that it is compatible with the device you are purchasing.

To make the most of network capabilities, you need to make sure that there are ports and connectors, without which the modes will not function (LAN, HD, HDMI and others). If using the TV involves frequent communication on social networks or interactive surfing, it is advisable to choose a media player with a convenient remote control. As the latter, you can use a tablet computer or smartphone.

If you look at the TVs that are on the market now, most of them support the Smart TV function. LG has webOS, Samsung has its own Smart system, Philips and Sony run Android TV. There are, of course, other manufacturers, but they are less popular. What I mean is that Smart TVs themselves are primarily an additional source of income for manufacturers (through the sale of additional accessories) and a good marketing move.

There are also cool features for the user. You can go online, watch videos on YouTube, read the news, watch the weather, etc. But here you still need to calculate what is more profitable: buy a TV without Smart TV and an attachment to it, or pay more for Smart functions. Since a regular Android box can make your TV more SMART than a built-in system. But today is not about that.

Of all the TVs that have Smart TV features, many models come without a built-in Wi-Fi receiver. True, in 2017 almost all models already have a built-in receiver. And if you don’t connect the Internet to the TV, then all these Smart functions on it are simply useless. Yes, all models definitely have a LAN port that allows you to connect to the Internet via cable. But you must admit, this is very inconvenient. You need to lay a network cable from the router to the TV.

And all these Smart TVs that do not have a Wi-Fi module are another insidious plan of the manufacturers. After all, you could insert this wireless module and make the TV a couple of dollars more expensive. What for? If we can then sell branded Wi-Fi adapters for $100 each :) And even now these branded Wi-Fi adapters for Samsung, LG, Philips TVs are very difficult to find. They are simply not on sale. But there are TVs, and their users want to connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi.

If you have a Smart TV without built-in Wi-Fi, and you want to connect it to the Internet via a wireless network, then there are the following options:

  • First, I advise you to look at the characteristics of your TV on the official website. Perhaps your TV still has Wi-Fi and can be connected to a wireless network. It might be useful: , and a separate one. If there is no built-in receiver, then you can search and buy a branded external USB adapter.
  • The second method is to buy a regular Wi-Fi adapter from D-Link, TP-Link, etc., and flash its firmware to work with the TV. Honestly, I can’t even imagine how all this is stitched and works, but I saw such information on the Internet. This is a method for those who are not looking for easy ways.
  • Well, the third option, which I will discuss in more detail below in the article, is to buy a regular, inexpensive Wi-Fi router or repeater and configure it as an adapter for a TV without Wi-Fi.

Let's look at the third option in more detail.

Wi-Fi adapter from a router for Smart TV without a built-in Wi-Fi module

Everything is very simple. Almost all modern routers can operate in different modes: amplifier (repeater), access point, adapter, wireless bridge. I wrote about this in more detail in the article:. This scheme works something like this:

  • We buy a router. Perhaps you have some old one. You can even have an inexpensive model. Totolink and Netis have good and budget options. Other manufacturers will also be suitable.
  • We set it up in adapter mode. If there is such a mode, then the router will receive the Internet from your main Wi-Fi network and transmit it to the TV via a network cable. Bridge or network amplifier mode is also suitable. True, in this case the router will further strengthen your wireless network.
  • We connect our Smart TV to the router via a network cable.
  • The Internet on the TV works via Wi-Fi.

It looks something like this:

You can also use a regular adapter that has at least one LAN port. And it is available on almost all models.

What's the result: A router or repeater can be bought in almost every store. Compared to branded Wi-Fi receivers for LG, Samsung TVs, etc. And it will be cheaper this way (though it depends on which router you choose), since the price of original adapters is very high.

I wrote about setting up different operating modes on different routers in the article:. If you have a model from some other manufacturer, then you can look for setup instructions through the search on our website. Or ask in the comments.

Here is a solution for Smart TVs without built-in Wi-Fi. Without a doubt, the best solution is the original receiver. But since they are practically not on sale and their prices are very high, you can use such a scheme. What do you think about it? Write in the comments!


Most of those who have a Smart TV still use cable TV, without even knowing what they can connect free channels on Smart TV using the IPTV application.

IPTV is a great solution with which you can watch TV in excellent quality and, most importantly, completely free. There are two options:

  • SS IPTV application;
  • Vintera TV program.

Both methods allow you to view channels without a subscription fee, so the choice is yours.

Smart TV watch free TV channels, what do you need?

So, you have a Smart TV and want to watch channels for free. Wondering what is needed to make everything work without purchasing a separate package from providers? A little is required, namely:

  • so that the TV can connect to the Internet;
  • computer or laptop to change access settings;
  • basic knowledge in using LG Store;
  • playlist with a list of channels.

The most difficult task is to decide on the list of channels. IPTV is always full of offers, so try different options, there is something for everyone.

Smart TV free channels set up IPTV

First you need to connect your TV to Wi-Fi. The application supports connection via cable TV and Wi-Fi, there is no difference in connection. Now you can start setting up IPTV.

It is possible to watch channels using an Internet connection thanks to the SS IPTV application. This requires a playlist with a list of channels and access parameters, as well as simple TV setup. First you need to create your account, you will be sent an email in which you need to confirm your registration, and then enter the received data in the TV connection parameters. Thanks to authorization, the user has full access to all features of the application.

After the work has been done, access to the LG Store will open, where the SS IPTV application is located. You should launch the program and click on the button to load the add-on. After a short wait, the package will be downloaded and installed, all that remains is to launch the application.

When you first launch the application, you won't immediately find a playlist, since you need to create it yourself. A menu will appear in front of the user, then you need to:

  1. Follow to "Settings".
  2. Select "Download playlist".
  3. Click on “Create playlist”.

As for creating a list of suitable channels, there are two options:

  • find and enter the address yourself in the TV menu;
  • synchronize via Wi-Fi with a computer or laptop and manage the list of channels through it.

Addresses for playlists are located on the websites of IPTV providers or downloaded from the SS IPTV website using the code, but it changes every time. The number of external directories has no limit, but the internal one is only 1. To download external channel directories, it is recommended:

  1. Open the “Content” submenu.
  2. Select "External".
  3. Click “Add”.
  4. Specify the name of the created directory and the link.

To add an internal list you need to:

  1. Open the “General” category in the application settings.
  2. Click "Get".

The list will be valid for a day or until another code is created. You need to copy it on the SS IPTV website in the section for editing the playlist and click “Add”.

Lg Smart TV free channels with Vintera TV application

Smart TV, watching free channels from Vintera TV is much easier to set up and use than the application described above, since this program already has a ready-made list of channels, there is no need to download the playlist. The choice here is small, but many users are satisfied.

A user with any skill level can install the application.

Step-by-step instruction:

  1. Go to the LG Store.
  2. Find Vintera TV.
  3. Download the application.
  4. Wait until it is installed.

After this, you can freely start watching, the main thing is to never forget that the TV must always be connected to the Internet.

View public channels

Smart TV Samsung free channels setting up multi-channel television is possible 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 signals.
  7. Click “Run” and wait for the search to complete.

Now you can watch numerous channels without a subscription fee that any TV can pick up. IP TV has a fairly large selection, and in it you can watch similar channels only in HD resolution. Don't be afraid to experiment with Smart TV features and find out what else your smart TV can do.

If you still have questions on the topic “How to set up free channels on Smart TV?”, you can ask them in the comments


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Smart TV is a smart TV with built-in access to the Internet. This function is implemented by software, which, in turn, requires a specific operating system. Accordingly, in essence, Smart TV is a kind of symbiosis of a TV and a computer.

Based on this, logically, if your gadget is not equipped with a Smart TV option, then this only means that it does not have a computer system. But can it be connected correctly from the outside? How to make a smart TV from a regular TV? Let's take a closer look.

Is it possible to make Smart TV from a regular TV?

Very often the decision that it is necessary to buy a new TV is made only because there is no Smart TV. But don't rush to spend money. After all, this technology is not tied to the TV, but may well be implemented in other devices:

  • Game consoles,
  • Digital television receivers,
  • Media players,
  • Blu-ray players

By connecting the devices listed above to your TV yourself, you can be content with the same functionality as a Smart TV. They are able to work on various operating platforms, since, for example, Androi and Linux, they provide Internet surfing and support the ability to update programs. That is, they actually implement all the same tasks as the desired TV model.

What is the difference between outdoor and built-in Smart TV?

The difference between these two Smart TV implementations lies in several important points. First of all, this is the interface and the ability to update. As a rule, a built-in Smart TV does not provide for a complete upgrade or expansion of functionality (and this will still have to be done over time). Considering such nuances, an external Smart TV becomes a fairly good solution.

External Smart TV on the Android platform

Android has an important advantage - a colossal Play Market library (paid and free applications). This unique functionality allows you to turn almost any device into a powerful tool for reading books, watching movies, playing games, and communicating with friends in a matter of minutes. All these options are available for implementation on the TV.

What do you need to do for this? It is enough to purchase a special mini-computer (Smart-TV set-top box). Visually, such a gadget resembles a regular flash drive. We connect it directly to the TV.

Let's consider a specific example - Smart TV based on the iconBIT Toucan Stick 3D PRO HD media player. Essentially, such a gadget is a network micro-computer housed in a case whose dimensions correspond to the dimensions of a regular flash drive. We connect such a device via HDMI. Power supply is directly from USB from the TV. If there is no such connector, use any other additional source. The technical characteristics of this option are quite impressive: built-in Wi-Fi, dual-core processor (1 GHz), Android 4.2 system, expansion up to 32 GB microSDHC, 4 GB NAND Flash, 1 GB DDR3.

By connecting this device, you turn your TV into a real media center that is capable of recreating files of almost any format from the Internet via USB (including Blu-ray 3D ISO, Full HD, MKV), there is support for IPTV services, can be downloaded from Play Market various applications. Moreover, you can connect the Skype messenger, communicate on various social networks, search the Internet, and play games. But what about without a mouse? In fact, this problem is easily solved. After all, its role is successfully implemented by the remote control.

If this is not entirely convenient for you, then it is quite possible to connect a regular mouse via a free USB. And even more than that, you can connect a standard keyboard. But be prepared for the fact that some devices may not recognize the gadgets you connect. In addition, many applications on the Play Market are designed for touch screens, but the TV is not. Accordingly, inconsistencies are also quite possible.

Nevertheless, the most important advantage of Smart TV is that comfortable viewing of movies online is fully realized using this method.

How to make Smart TV from a regular TV - conclusions

The potential of Smart TV is quite possible to realize on any TV. There is no need to buy a new gadget. In fact, in the case of connecting this function via SmartTV set-top boxes, the only condition that is necessary is the presence of an HDMI input. But if your TV is an older model and is not equipped with such a connector, then you can use stationary media players made in the form of a television tuner.

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