What Kind of TV is Needed for a Converter Box?
In recent years, as the world slowly transitions into the digital age, analog TVs have become obsolete. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandated the final transition from analog to digital television broadcasts in 2009 in order to free up frequencies for more efficient use, but many households remain unaware of the steps necessary to continue receiving free, over-the-air broadcasts.
For those with analog TV sets, a digital converter box is needed to convert the digital signals into an analog format that the TV can display. These converters are inexpensive, easily available and provide a quick and simple way to keep old TVs in use. However, it is important to know what type of TV is compatible with a converter box.
The most basic requirement is that the TV set must have an antenna or cable input jack. These are usually located on the back of the TV, and are essential to connect the TV to the converter box. Without this input jack, the TV is not suitable for use with a converter box.
The TV must also be able to display a 480i resolution. This is because digital signals sent over the air are broadcast in this format, and converters only convert to this resolution. Therefore, if the TV cannot display a resolution of 480i, it is not possible to use a converter box with it.
Another important consideration is whether or not the TV has an AV input. AV inputs are important because they allow the converter to connect to the TV using RCA cables (the red, white, and yellow cables). RCA cables allow the TV to display a better quality signal as compared to coaxial cables, which deliver a lower quality signal.
If the TV does not have an AV input, it is still possible to use a converter box, but the picture quality may not be as good as it could be. In this case, the converter box can be connected to the TV using coaxial cables, which are the same cables used to connect the TV to a cable service.
In summary, the most important requirements for a TV that can be used with a converter box are an antenna or cable input jack, the ability to display a 480i resolution, and an AV input for better quality signal. Although older TVs may not be as technologically advanced, the good news is that a converter box can keep them current with the digital world. |