How the media player works. What is a network media player for? There are different media players...

Many modern TV models already have built-in devices for playing multimedia content, but their functionality may be lower than that of a separately installed media player for the TV. By connecting optional equipment, you can significantly expand the capabilities of your TV, gain access to social networks and various Internet services even from the screens of the most simple models. Therefore, many users are thinking about purchasing an additional TV set-top box.

Modern multimedia TV set-top boxes have replaced VCRs and DVD/CD players. Today they are:

  • read almost any video and audio formats;
  • capable of opening any images;
  • reproduce information from many sources (portable portable storage devices, mobile gadgets, etc.);
  • broadcast streaming video;
  • provide users with the opportunity to access the Internet through a browser and use a large number of entertainment services;
  • support uTorrent, 3D, Wi-Fi and gaming functions.

Specific functionality may vary depending on the model.

In appearance it is small devices with different ports and control panel. Latest versions may have an LCD display, touch user operating tool. Connection to the TV is made via an HDMI cable, wireless connection or component connector.

Some devices are suitable to old kinescope TV types. In this case, information is transmitted via S-Video or a composite slot. It is worth understanding that the functionality of such a pair will be limited. Because even if a media player has any capabilities, such a TV will not be able to reproduce, for example, FullHD or 3D format. Of course, users of modern LED TV models have more opportunities.

Composite video output RCA and S-Video

Is it worth buying a media player for your TV if you have a computer?

At first glance, it may seem that such a device is a waste of money when you have a PC or laptop. After all, the computer performs these functions. But not every electronic computing device is capable of transmitting high quality picture and sound, as widescreen LED TV will do, especially in high format HD and FullHD clarity, as well as Blue Ray.

You can connect a laptop or system unit via an HDMI cable, but this is not always convenient. In addition, you often have to rack your brains about setting up device synchronization, especially for playing streaming video or recording TV broadcasts on HDD computer.

Another plus in favor of a separate TV set-top box - silent operation . Since the computer is equipped with a cooling device, it creates some noise during operation. The advantages are obvious, so for connoisseurs of excellent video playback quality, it’s worth considering how to choose a media player for your TV.

Connecting the computer system unit to the TV

What criteria should you pay attention to when choosing a modern TV set-top box?

Today the market is represented by a wide model range digital players for TVs. To determine the choice of the most suitable device model for yourself, you should pay attention to the following criteria:

  • media player interface;
  • possible playback formats;
  • control system;
  • sources and media of content (support for Internet services);
  • additional functionality.

Media player interface

Even before you go to the store to buy a new device for your TV, you need to find out the availability of ports and connectors that your television equipment has. This information is important for choosing how to connect the set-top box. The most optimal and popular option today isHDMI-cable, such a connection will provide high quality video signal transmission and multi-channel audio. This digital connector allows you to play HD and FullHD resolutions available for modern LED TV models from LG, Samsung, Sony and other manufacturers.

In the case of earlier TV models, the set-top box may need to support the following types of connectors.

  1. Component output. For synchronization, many well-known “tulips” are used. A special feature of this connection is the transmission of individual components of the video signal through several cables, at the end of which there are three RCA connectors. In this case, only the image is transmitted, sound in stereo format is connected separately.
  1. Composite output. The principle of video signal transmission is similar to the previous one, but the image quality is worse. If possible, it is better to use an analog interface.
  2. S— Video. Such a connector can rarely be found even on CRT TVs, but it is still present in some models. The design feature and quality of video signal transmission are slightly better than composite. It is based on two dividing lines, which are used to convey the brightness and color signals of an image.

In addition to the ports for connecting the media player to the TV, it must support additional set of interfaces. Modern models, in addition to the obligatory HDMI and USB, may have an optical or card reader for connecting other storage media. Not all devices have a built-in HDD, but most allow you to connect a removable hard drive (two USB connectors are required for high-quality operation).

It is important not only to think about how to connect the set-top box to the TV, but also to synchronization with other devices. All necessary connectors must be included in the technical specifications of the device. Also, if necessary, you should take care of purchasing additional adapters that are not included with the media player.

Possible playback formats

Without exaggeration, we can say that modern multimedia TV set-top boxes reproduce almost all video and audio formats, and also open any images. Even the most budget devices will play popular AVI, MKV, MP4. Therefore, through most set-top boxes you can watch movies in BDRip (-AVC) or DVDRip standards.

The entire list of formats available for reading is indicated in the technical specifications.

But many inexperienced users are mistaken, evaluating a device based on the list of supported formats, without taking into account the concept media containers and codecs, equating them. Simply put, if a set-top box supports playback of the mp4 container, this does not mean that all files with this extension will be played back with high quality. They may open, for example, without sound or with noise if the audio track is not supported. Because the concepts media container and codec have different definitions. In the first case, this is the file format, in the second, the stream format in it.

For those who want to watch movies on their home theater in high quality or format 3D, it’s worth choosing extended reading formats. For example, often films with 3D graphics have an ISO extension or several folders with files of different formats. And support for the ISO BD3D expansion is not present in all models.

3D media player 3Q F370HW

Control system

In addition to supporting standard multimedia formats and optimal loading times, the media player must have Russian-language menu with convenient control and navigation are fundamental factors when analyzing this criterion. Users have the opportunity to control the media set-top box both from the device itself and from the remote control or through a mobile gadget. There are also models that support QWERTY keyboards and computer wireless mouse. These accessories will come in handy when working with social networks or an Internet browser via a TV screen. For convenience, you can use a universal remote control, which allows you to control both the set-top box and the TV at the same time.

Sources and media of content (support for Internet services)

The set-top box can play media content from various media.

  1. HDD built into it. In this case, the size of the media will be important. Plus built-in hard drive– all multimedia content is stored in one place and is available at any time.
  2. Portable storage device (flash drive, external hard disk) connected via USB connector.
  3. Memory cards for cameras, video cameras, mobile gadgets. Their connection is made either through a built-in or external card reader, or through a cable.
  4. Hard drives of devices connected to Wi-Fi (if a wireless connection is possible).
  5. Online services, for example You Tube, IVI, Google Video, Apple Trailers, Meta Cafe, etc. (if connected to the Internet).

The capabilities of media players are constantly expanding. Modern models allow you to read letters received on email, play online games, find out news and weather forecasts, watch new films that are just appearing in wide release, etc.

Media player Zappiti Player 4K

Additional functionality

More advanced devices provide users with more options. Therefore, if the purpose of the purchase is to make from your Samsung TV or LG - Smart TV, it is better to give preference to set-top boxes with:

  • opportunity connections to home network (via wireless connection or Ethernet cable);
  • Internet access to be able to use popular online services, social networks, IP television;
  • modern operating system to be able to update it and install additional software.

Choosing and purchasing a media player, even for modern TV models, will be very useful. Especially for those users who value high-quality images and multi-channel audio. In addition, such a device can turn a simple TV into a Smart TV, and in models with this function already built-in, significantly expand the capabilities. After all, even an expensive home theater may not have all the necessary functionality, but a properly selected multimedia TV set-top box can solve these problems.

(also Media Player Multimedia Player or Multimedia Center).

Many people are familiar with the situation when, despite the many available TV channels, there is absolutely nothing to watch on TV. In such cases, a media player will come to the rescue - compact device, capable of turning an ordinary TV into a multimedia entertainment center, optionally showing your favorite movies and photos or playing music. In this article we will tell you how to choose a media player model and what characteristics to pay attention to.
A media player is a device for playing photos, videos and music that works in conjunction with a home TV, monitor or projector, as well as a speaker system. The advantage of the media player is its relatively compact size, so it can be moved to any room where there is a monitor or TV. The media player will be an excellent choice for those who often purchase movies and music on the Internet and store their multimedia archive on their home PC, USB drives and hard drives. The fact is that most media players are equipped with standard USB connectors and even play content directly from the home network. To choose the optimal model that suits your tasks, you will have to analyze the main characteristics, which is what we will do .

What parameters to pay attention to

One of the main parameters of the media player is storage medium. To store media content, these devices use built-in hard drives, external HDDs, as well as USB drives and memory cards. Sometimes there is an optical drive slot or the ability to connect an external DVD drive. The advantages of a built-in hard drive are undeniable, but the higher the disk capacity, the higher the cost. Therefore, to save money, you can purchase a diskless model and connect external media to it.
The set of video and audio connectors on the media player body may vary significantly from model to model. : HDMI and cinch connectors. More equipped models have a 6-channel audio output, as well as S-Video and D-Sub. If the media player requires displaying information without an HDMI output, pay attention to the presence of analog ports on the first one.
Many media players are equipped with a network interface to connect to your home network and the Internet. For this purpose, a wired Ethernet, which will save you from the need to transfer content to the device’s memory every time and allow you to play movies located on your home computer or network storage device (). If this is not possible, support for the mode will come in handy USB Slave. Thanks to this option, the computer detects the media player connected via USB as external drive, which is convenient for replenishing your media library with files from the main PC.
The ability of some media player models to record TV broadcast directly to your hard drive.

Inexpensive and functional

As high-definition televisions become more common, standard Full HD began to appear even in the most affordable models of media players. So, with its low price (up to 5,000 rubles), the media player Western Digital The TV plays video in resolutions up to 1080p on your home TV, and its additional features include access to popular online photo and video services, as well as connection to your home network. Externally, the device is large, but the presence of HDMI, S/PDIF, composite video and RCA audio interfaces allows you to connect WD TV to any TV. The number of supported formats is also impressive. In addition to the common ones, the list is supplemented by such formats as OGG and MKA (audio), TIFF (photo) and H.264 (video).
One of the most affordable media players (up to 2,500 rubles), HDM33 HDMI, also supports high-definition video. The model is made in a strict rectangular case, which contains USB connectors and a slot for memory cards. They are used to download media content. In addition to music and movies, the media player allows you to view photos in JPEG format with a resolution of up to 8 megapixels.
The FreeAgent Theater+ media player has a good balance of price and capabilities. The device allows you to watch video on FullHD TVs and monitors, has Dolby Digital surround sound and is optionally equipped with a hard drive (250 or 500 GB). The drive is installed in a special docking station. In addition to the hard drive, you can use USB drives that connect to standard connectors to store content. The device works with popular formats MPEG-1, MPEG-2 (AVI/VOB/ISO) and MPEG-4 (AVI/DivX/XviD) with a maximum resolution of up to 1080p.

Balance of price and features

Mid-price media players offer an expanded list of supported audio and video formats, and sometimes features such as wireless connection to your home network (Internet) using Wi-Fi.
Concepts of balanced functionality and price (up to 7000 rub..) adhered to by the developers of the O!Play AIR HDP-R3 media player. This model supports all common video formats and is equipped with a rich set of connectors (eSATA, HDMI, USB 2.0), as well as a wireless communication Wi-Fi (802.11n) and built-in card reader (SD/MMC, MS/MS Duo, CF). This will eliminate the need for users to place a computer or external hard drive next to the TV. Please note that the model does not have a slot for an internal HDD.
For a similar price you can purchase the N-1 media player, which works with USB drives and memory cards. The model also does not have a hard drive, which has a positive effect on the size of the device: it is miniature and operates almost silently. The media player is housed in a durable and stylish metal case combining plastic and aluminum. In addition to removable media, content can be downloaded from the home network, playing music and video directly from home PCs or network drives. An Ethernet connector is provided for this.
Schedule video recording external sources The HDR12L model is capable of signal. The device uses an internal HDD to store content, allows you to connect two USB drives at once, an external eSATA hard drive and delete, copy or move files via the built-in file manager. With a built-in BitTorrent client, the HDR12L can download videos directly from the Internet. The player supports almost all popular video formats (including the AVCHD format used in camcorders), as well as the uncompressed FLAC audio format. You can buy HDR12L for 6950 rubles.

The most equipped

The most advanced media players, as a rule, contain a built-in hard drive of up to 1 TB, a wide range of ports and connectors, and many additional functions.
The M-7000 belongs to exactly such models. This is a multi-format multimedia center based on a hard drive, whose volume can reach 2 TB. The player has an unusual cylindrical design, which seems to indicate its central position in the home theater infrastructure. Information about the files being played and the system status is displayed on a special display placed on the front panel. A rich set of connectors allows you to connect to the device not only memory cards, hard drives and flash drives, but also cameras and video cameras. The player does not have Wi-Fi, but does have an Ethernet port, which means the media player can easily be integrated into your home network. The cost of TViX-HD M-7000 is 11,690 rubles.
The Egreat EG-M35A media player is three thousand cheaper. The model supports resolutions up to 1080p and allows you to access the Internet through your home network, working directly with the popular services YouTube, Google Video, iPodcast, Flickr. There is also a function for receiving Internet radio and IP television. To store information, the player has a built-in HDD, the volume of which you can choose yourself. In addition, it is possible to work with USB drives. Like the TViX-HD M-7000, the Egreat media player is packaged in a stylish cylindrical body and is equipped with a text-character

Another advanced media player is the Iconbit HD400DVD, which also supports playback of multiple audio and video formats, including high-definition video (up to 1080p), and reproduces digital multi-channel audio. There are also analog connectors, which makes the media player universal. In addition to the hard drive, which the user can install into the player himself, there is a DVD drive on board with a fashionable slot-loading disc. The cost of the model is 10,590 rubles.

conclusions

You need to consider purchasing a media player in the context of the audio and video equipment you already have at home. First of all, the media player must match your TV both in connection method (connectors) and in parameters. If there is a good one at home acoustic system and a large TV screen, you should take a closer look at the other parameters. A couple of terabytes of disk memory, which at first seem like overkill, can be very useful after purchasing a 3D TV and movies that support the new standards.

Media players: why are they needed and how to use them?

What are media players? Why are they even needed? What they can do, how to use them and why they are MORE CONVENIENT and BETTER than anything else (BluRay, DVD, CD). – read more about this.

A media player is a player for videos, music and photo albums (photos).

The media player plays files containing video, music or photos. The better the player, the more different file formats it supports. Taking advantage the best models you can completely forget about the word “format”: just select and launch movies, music, photo albums using standard buttons on the remote control - just like on the usual BluRay, DVD, and CD players.

Why do you need a media player?
Because it is much MORE CONVENIENT than everything else that came before it - CD players, DVD players and BluRay players.
What exactly is more convenient? Here's what:
1) It is much easier, faster and cheaper to replenish your media collection - a library of films, music and digital photos.
2) Cataloging and searching for works in a media collection becomes much more convenient. One or two HDDs with files are much more compact than racks and shelves. Finding and running the file you need is much easier and faster than going through an archive of disks for a long time. In addition, you can organize information according to any principle convenient for you.
3) Storing information in the form of files is more reliable than on disks.
4) Compared to similar launching of files on a computer, using a media player is much more comfortable! You use it like a traditional player - sitting on the couch in front of a large TV. Agree, THIS is simply MORE USUAL AND CONVENIENT to watch a movie than at a desktop in front of a small monitor, holding the mouse, or than watching from a computer on a large TV, each time going to the keyboard and mouse to control it.

In addition, the player compared to a computer:
- quiet,
- more compact,
- has fewer wires,
- turns on faster,
- easy to control with just one push-button remote control,
- hangs less often,
- has a friendly interface like that of a familiar player, and not like a computer - both a small child and an elderly person who grew up in the pre-computer era can easily learn to use it.

How to use the media player

It depends on the class (capabilities) of the media player you are using. Of all the variety that is now on the market, we can roughly distinguish four classes of media players.

1) Players with a USB port, without hard drive(HDD), without connection to local network(without network port).
This is the class of the simplest and most inexpensive models. At the same time, they can work perfectly at the level for which they are intended.

Usage
The player is connected to the TV, media files are recorded on a USB flash drive (or USB disk), which is then inserted into the USB port on the player. Take the player's remote control and find it on the flash drive. necessary files, let's launch. We look, we listen - that’s all!

2) Players with the ability to integrate a hard drive (HDD), without connecting to a local network (without a network port).
These models are slightly more expensive than previous diskless models. They are convenient because you can record and store files on the built-in HDD. If the HDD capacity allows, you can transfer your entire old DVD collection, all music/movies/photos from your computer to it and use only the player. A DVD player with racks of discs can be immediately sent to the dacha: where there is a media player, you will no longer need all this!

Usage
To record movies/music/photo albums on the player’s HDD, just connect the player to the computer as usual external USB drive and rewrite the necessary files. Then the player can be connected to the TV - watch movies, listen to music, leaf through photo albums.
In addition, these players, like the previous class of players, are equipped with an external USB port for connecting external USB devices to them hard drives and flash drives from which players can play files. Many models have a background music function, that is, when viewing photos can be accompanied by music. The most advanced models of this class can perform operations with folders and files, just like on a computer - copy, move, delete, rename, create new folders - and all this easily with the help of one remote control.

Note.
These players (described in points 1 and 2) can only play SD video (cheap models) and SD and HD video (more expensive models). However, almost all new SD models are equipped with an HDMI output, and are capable of outputting an HD signal via component and HDMI outputs, scaling the SD picture to HD.
All media players of the two following classes (points 3 and 4) support real (720p, 1080i/p) HD video.

3) Players with the ability to connect to a local network ( network port), but without Internet access - both disk and diskless models.
The advantage of these players is that, in addition to everything that models of the two previous classes can do, they can connect to a local network and play files from all available network sources - computers, network drives (NAS, Network Access Storage), other network players ( which have a built-in HDD).

Usage
The player connects network cable to the router (network router), video-audio outputs to the TV. Next you need to go to the player settings (setup) section network settings and set the parameters appropriate for your local network. In most cases, the factory settings allow the player to automatically connect to the network immediately when turned on. Next, those drives/folders on computers and network storage devices (NAS) where the media files we need are located need to be assigned a common network access so that they are “visible” from any other network device, for example, from a media player. After this, the media player will “see” all network drives/folders and will be able to play files recorded in them, and not just files from its local HDD or USB drives. The obvious advantages of this connection are that, firstly, the player has access to many more places where files are located, and, secondly, it is not necessary to copy files to the player (or connect external USB devices to it) - the entire media collection can be stored distributed on several network devices (or on one large-capacity network server). For example, if there are several rooms in an apartment or cottage, each of which is equipped with a TV and audio system, it is enough to have only ONE network media server where all films, TV shows (recorded by a TV receiver), music and a collection of photos will be stored. In each room you can use your own network media player and watch something of your own - from a server over the network, without the need to first copy files.

4) Players with the ability to connect to a local network (network port), Internet access and the ability remote control(With remote computer) – both disk and diskless.
This is the most advanced category of media players. They have many options for use depending on the user's wishes, the technology he has and (often) the degree of familiarity with the topics "media players / computers / computer networks/ Internet”, since a number of initial settings still require some immersion in computer topics. But after the settings are made, anyone can use the player, regardless of the amount of knowledge and age. What such players can do (in very general terms):
- play files of almost any format (naturally heavy HD video files of tens of gigabytes);
- play files – from the internal HDD (if any), from external USB sources (disks, flash drives), from external eSATA drives (some models), network drives (within the same local network), from remote Web servers (via Internet);
- download files (movies, music, photos) from the Internet (using the BitTorrent protocol);
- play IPTV and Internet TV channels;
- play the contents of popular Web media resources (YouTube, Flickr, Picasa, Yahoo Weather, etc., even viewing mailboxes Email);
- perform operations with files (copying, moving, deleting, etc.);
- have the ability to remotely control (over the network and via the Internet): managing settings, playing files (selecting a file, remote start, stop playback), turning on/off, downloading new files from the Internet, etc.;
- make it possible to install new software, including alternative software, which significantly expands the range of player capabilities.

If there are several rooms (not necessarily located nearby), each of which is equipped with a TV with a media player and Internet access, then you can either independently run the media player in each room, or manage the entire system of media players from one computer. This computer can be either on the same local network with the players, or remote and connect to each player via the Internet (see figure below). Even a pocket communicator, such as an iPhone, can be used as a computer. The players themselves can be either on the same local network or outside of a particular network.

From a remote computer you can launch files on each player, stop playback, change settings, turn the player on/off, etc. For example, you have a player at home (it is turned on and connected to the Internet), you are visiting, and so are your friends. There is a similar player (also with Internet access). You want to watch a movie or a photo album, or listen to music that is recorded in your home. What is needed for this? Just connect to your home player and run files from it as from a remote Web resource. In this way, you can easily exchange files with other player owners without overwriting files - just keep the players online (and know their IP addresses, of course).

How can I add content to my home media library? Here are some of the fastest, easiest and most common methods.

1) Many Internet providers have one or more FTP servers, where thousands of video and music files are recorded. Just download everything needed by the computer and reset to the player’s disk (if the player has a built-in disk), or to network folder computer, or to a separate network storage. Such downloading is free; traffic within the provider’s network is usually not charged.

2) Go to any of the Torrent trackers and just download what interests you. And completely free! Torrent tracker– Web portal, which contains an extensive catalog of films/music/photos/software/games/etc., from where special<*.torren t> files, which in turn when opened by the program torrent client, allow you to easily and quickly download the necessary media files - movies/music/photos/games/software/etc. Popular torrent trackers contain a truly huge database - you can find and download almost any movie (from Hollywood releases to classics and art house") or music. The most popular torrent trackers: ; http://torrents.ru http://tfile.ru ; http://opensharing.ru.
The most advanced players (the category described in point 4) usually have a built-in torrent client. You can run<*.torrent>file directly on the player, and the player will start downloading on its own, without the help of a computer (naturally, the player must be connected to a working router, and the router to the Internet).

3) Go to any movie or music Web resource that offers a download service (free or paid); files on such resources are often stored on the well-known file storage http://rapidshare.com (or similar ones) - from there you download them using the links indicated on the resource pages. If the download is paid, you are offered to pay via SMS. The amounts are usually ridiculous.

The enormous convenience of media players, their capabilities and flexibility of settings are worthy of several separate articles. A short use of such a device is enough to understand that DVD and BluRay players are already a thing of the past, if not the day before, and by and large they are not needed. What you REALLY NEED to have at home is the following:
- HD TV (display, projector) + separate audio system (stereo or 5.1);
- local network connected by a router with Internet access;
- at least one computer connected to the local network (for recording new media files);
- network disk drive (NAS) for storing the entire collection of media files (the NAS role can be performed by the same computer or another computer);
- media player (disk or diskless); if it has the function of connecting to a local network, then there are much more possibilities;
- if you watch TV, then you will also need a PVR receiver (satellite, cable or terrestrial, depending on what channels you want to watch), preferably connected to the local network.
On the media player you watch movies and photos, listen to music, watch IPTV and Internet TV channels, YouTube videos, etc. On the receiver you watch TV channels coming from satellites, cable or over the air, if necessary, record your favorite TV shows and films, replenishing the media collection of files.

“Ctrl+Enter”, if desired, enter a correction for the error or leave your comment to the administrator. Thank you very much for your help. Thank you for visiting the site and taking a couple of minutes. Best wishes Administrator.

Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. blog comments powered by Disqus

Last update

Network audio players have replaced CD players. In terms of sound quality, they are not only on par with older disc players, but are often superior to them, as they are able to play music recorded in ultra-high resolution. While Audio CD audio is recorded at 44 kHz/16 bit resolution, new HD audio formats use higher bit rates: 96 kHz/24 bit and 192 kHz/24 bit.

Some models of network players can operate in USB-DAC mode (connection to a computer via USB) and in preamplifier mode.

Formats

Many modern televisions(Smart TV) can play video files independently. However, in terms of the number of supported formats, they are far from the best examples of stationary media players. For example, not every Smart TV can boast of support for the M2TS format and the ability to play ISO images of Blu-Ray or DVD. Many media players support playing lossless audio files (without loss of quality) - this is necessary if you plan to connect high-quality acoustics and an amplifier to the player.

Additional functions

To view 3D video content through a media player, it requires support for playing Blu-Ray 3D images and an HDMI interface version of at least 4.0.

Some models of media players have the ability to work as a torrent client, when it can independently download and save files from torrent trackers to the hard drive.

A TV tuner with DVB-T2 support in your media player will help you switch to the new digital standard for terrestrial television. DVB-T2 is defined as the standard for terrestrial digital terrestrial television in Russia, but it is not supported on older TV models.

An alternative to a TV tuner is IPTV - Internet television. Media players with IPTV support allow you to watch television channels if your Internet provider provides such a service.

Modern TV models are significantly superior in functionality to their predecessors. They can play video and audio from external media, access the Internet, and record programs. All this thanks to the media center. It can be either factory installed or purchased separately. Moreover, a self-purchased device can turn even the simplest TV into an entertainment center.

What is a media player and what is it for?

More recently, everyone used first VCRs and then DVD players. But technical progress does not stand still and multimedia centers have replaced outdated set-top boxes. They still play and record files just like their predecessors. However, they have much more features. These include:

  1. Ability to play video and audio files of almost all existing formats.
  2. Read images of any format.
  3. Playback information from various media: USB, external hard disks, smartphones and tablets and other devices.
  4. The ability to access the Internet, which provides access to all available information and various entertainment portals. This feature is implemented using the built-in browser.
  5. Support various functions: 3D, Wi-fi, gaming services.
  6. Ability to save existing information.

REFERENCE! Each model of multimedia set-top box has its own set of capabilities, which is described in detail in the accompanying instructions.

Externally, they look like a small box; some models can be equipped with a liquid crystal display. Connection to a TV set-top box can be done in three ways: using wireless network Wi-fi, via HDMI wire or component output.

REFERENCE! Some models of media players are suitable for older CRT TVs. However, due to the design limitations of the TV receiver itself, not all functions will be available. For example, viewing video files in Full HD or 3D format will not be available.

Is it worth buying a media player?

It would seem that if you have a computer or laptop, a multimedia console becomes an unnecessary waste of money. After all, they have the same functions for transferring files. However, not all computers or laptops are capable of transmitting video and audio. High Quality. Yes, and connecting a laptop or computer is not always convenient, and sometimes various problems arise with synchronizing devices, which requires additional settings and takes a lot of time. Also, the multimedia console has a number of undeniable advantages. These include:

  1. Almost silent operation. Cooling personal computer and laptops are provided by coolers that cannot operate completely silently.
  2. The console takes up very little space.
  3. Boots much faster than a computer or laptop.
  4. A small number of wires are needed to connect to the TV.
  5. They are very convenient and easy to use, which allows pensioners or children to use them without any problems. Yes, and watching movies and other content is much more familiar and comfortable on big screen TV while sitting in a chair.
  6. All control is carried out from one remote control.
  7. Freezes on the multimedia console are extremely rare.

Thanks to the existing advantages, the answer to the purchase question is “Yes”.

There are several types of media players:

  1. The simplest and most inexpensive options without the ability to connect to a wireless network and without a hard drive.
  2. Without internet connection, but with built-in hard drive.
  3. Media players connecting via local network to a computer or laptop. This allows you to play files on your computer using your home network.
  4. The most expensive models with a built-in hard drive, connection to a local network and Internet access. These are modern models with the largest set features compared to simpler players.

ATTENTION! Some users think that multimedia devices and satellite receivers same. However, a significant difference between media set-top boxes and receivers is that players allow you to view the necessary files, IPTV and access the Internet. While receivers broadcast satellite television channels and record.

What to look for when choosing a media player

For a few more years, the range of media consoles was not very wide, since they were not very popular. However, quite a bit of time passed and consoles became in demand, which means the choice became much larger. In order not to get confused when purchasing the desired model of multimedia set-top box, you need to pay attention to the following parameters:

  1. Interface. When purchasing, you need to study what outputs the set-top box has for connecting to a TV. The most popular option is HDMI cable, since it is capable of transmitting a high-definition signal.
  2. Supported formats. Modern models can reproduce almost all existing ones on this moment video and audio standards. However, it is still worth researching before purchasing. specifications specific model.
  3. Control. The player must have a convenient menu in Russian.
  4. Service support. You need to pay attention to what media the player can read information from, and whether it has Internet access.

Modern models have all available functions, a user-friendly interface, user-friendly menus, and an updated operating system. This allows them to significantly complement and expand the capabilities of the TV.

Recently, the TV has evolved from a simple “box” for watching analogue TV shows into a high-tech device, which in its functionality can easily be compared to a computer. Modern models can be included in a home local network. Some people use them to surf the Internet, communicate via Skype with friends, and also for games. Of course, the hardware of the TV will not support powerful 3D shooters, but you will definitely leave Angry Birds behind.

But here’s the catch: only SmartTVs have all of the above functionality, the price of which often exceeds the cost regular TV And powerful computer combined. Of course, many consumers have very serious doubts about the need for such a purchase. This is correct, since a media player for a TV will turn an old LCD model into a good analogue of a “smart” device, and you are unlikely to pay more than five to six thousand rubles for all the pleasures.

What it is?

It would be stupid to continue talking about this type of device without making a digression and describing this concept itself in a little more detail. So, what is a media player for a TV?

If you are a user of gadgets on the Android mobile OS, then you can imagine a kind of mini-computer under its control. Have you heard of Raspberry Pi? So, the media player is the same “Blackberry” based on an ARM processor. Unlike the mentioned mini-computers, it already has a proprietary shell from the manufacturer installed, usually based on Android with the addition of some specific services and programs.

Roughly speaking, this is a miniature one for which your TV acts as a monitor.

Advantages

In principle, you can easily guess for yourself about the positive aspects of this type of technology. By purchasing a media player for your TV for just four to five thousand rubles, you can turn even outdated equipment into a modern entertainment center.

Considering the speed of Android development, you don’t have to worry about the lack of any applications: players for video and audio files, browsers, programs for We have already said that there is even Skype! Of course, in this case you will need to purchase an additional webcam, but it is also not too expensive.

In addition, portable devices can be connected to such devices, combined with the ability to run torrent clients; this makes any media player for TV a real treasure for movie lovers.

Easy setup and security

If you somehow follow IT technology news, you've probably heard about the scandal that erupted around SmartTV from LG. Let us remember that back then users accused the overly smart technology of spying. Not only was it very difficult to refuse targeted advertising in the settings (the option was hidden far away), but even after removing the corresponding checkbox, user information continued to be sent to the company’s servers.

Of course, the Android OS is far from perfect in this regard. There are currently hundreds of thousands of malware, which may pose a risk to your personal data. But there are also important differences.

Firstly, for Android there are many effective antivirus programs. Secondly, if you have not so deep knowledge of the topic, you can install not only different firmware on stationary media players, but even new operating system! In any case, instructions for installing special ARM builds of Debian and Ubunu can be found online without any problems.

As you can understand, not a single such fundamental feature is provided in SmartTV. Moreover, even with updating its firmware, problems may arise, since not everyone has a normal wired Internet, and such equipment is simply not able to recognize a USB modem.

Where can content be played from?

Unlike Smart TV or any other, it will easily “pick up” a movie or musical composition from home local network, with external hard drive or NAS servers, which are currently incredibly popular. Some of them have a built-in hard drive onto which you can download music and videos, and playback from a flash drive has not been canceled.

Please note that a portable media player with a supply of films will fit into your pocket, becoming a faithful and indispensable companion on a business trip or travel.

LAN Settings

Unlike the aforementioned smart TVs, you are unlikely to encounter any problems. Most often used Wi-Fi network. As a rule, the device will immediately “stick” to the home wireless network, requiring only a password to enter.

If you need to connect the gadget via wired connection, there may be more difficulties. So, you will probably need to enter the IP address of the set-top box itself, and other attributes. When setting up a digital media player, you will have to contact the manufacturer and study the procedure for setting up connected devices on their website.

Formats and other goodies

As for the number of supported photos and videos, in this case too these devices are beyond any competition. In addition, the media player will be indispensable for those who have an HD video camera at home. Why? Judge for yourself:

  • Burn to disk? Expensive, tedious, and optical storage devices themselves are gradually becoming a thing of the past.
  • The small display of the camera itself is simply inconvenient to look at.
  • Of course, you can use a computer monitor for the same purposes, but professional videos will look much more colorful on a widescreen TV.
  • In the end, you can connect a system unit or laptop to a TV, but not everyone can handle the settings.

There are different media players...

To choose the best media player, it is highly advisable to follow some of the guidelines below. Firstly, appearance and the dimensions of the device should be in harmony with the appearance of all your equipment. It may seem absurd, but if the gadget stands out against the background of your plasma panel, it will catch your eye even when watching a movie.

However, the technical characteristics of the player are much more important, which must include the following parameters:

  • The more formats supported, the better. The MKV codec is required in their list. The ideal to follow is the “classic” software media player.
  • It is highly desirable that only the highest-performance chips (like Sigma Designs 8634/8642) be used.
  • It would be nice if the player supports playing Blu-Ray disc images.
  • If you're a beginner, you might be interested in the option to automatically scan your home network for public folders.
  • Is it possible to watch IPTV? It is perfectly!
  • For those beginners, it will be much better if the equipment itself configures the mode for displaying the image on the TV screen.
  • If the buyer considers himself a music connoisseur, it is highly desirable to have HD-audio (DD TrueHD/Master Audio) decoders.

Some disadvantages

Of course, nothing is perfect in the world. Media players are no exception. What are the disadvantages of the technology we are considering? How serious are they and how much do they interfere with watching movies and listening to music?

We need to start with the fact that the Android platform without a stable and fast internet of little use. Of course, you can try to watch the movie on the device you just purchased, but no one can guarantee that it will have the necessary codec or a sufficiently “omnivorous” player.

Everything needs to be downloaded from the network, so you won’t envy the proud owners of a GPRS/EDGE channel in this situation. In their case though the best solution will be connecting a laptop or computer to a TV, since they will probably be able to cope with the image output settings, but they are unlikely to do without a normal Internet. In a word, network media player, which completely depends on the availability of an Internet connection, is definitely not suitable for us.

Ease of use

If possible, be sure to turn on the device while still in the store and try to control it. There are often cases when the media player itself is quite good, but its menu and navigation through it are so terrible that it is impossible to use the device normally.

Another point worth mentioning is the size and ergonomics of the remote control. Today on the shelves you can find quite a few of these types of devices, whose remote controls are more similar in size to a horseshoe for a flea. It is not known what the designers are guided by, but in the dark you definitely won’t hit the right button.

Avoid remote controls that have only a couple of buttons: they look nice, but it’s much more convenient to launch many functions with a single press, rather than spin through several menus. If possible, it is worth purchasing a universal control device that includes mouse and keyboard functions.

Please note that in most cases the keyboard, mouse and webcam will have to be purchased separately. The cost of specialized devices (a special camera for a player) is often much higher than that of their conventional counterparts.

Don't forget about the platform either. ARM processors cannot be called very productive devices, so movies at maximum resolution can noticeably slow down. However, this statement is not true for all devices: almost any Sony media player is almost certainly free of this drawback.



2024 wisemotors.ru. How it works. Iron. Mining. Cryptocurrency.