As a rule, technology was meant to serve humans and make their lives easier. If you consider watching television, you might doubt whether its development went in the right direction. While you have many diverse channels available, you often have to juggle four different remotes and connect just as many devices integrated with the TV. The solution – a TV set-top box. But more on that in a moment.
Operating a TV in 2025 might not be quantum physics, but setting everything up can be difficult for less tech-savvy individuals. However, you need to grit your teeth and go through the process. That way, you can later come home after a full day of open-sea fishing, pour yourself a horn of mead, and enjoy watching your favorite soap opera about the fate of a Danish jarl's lineage. So, find out what to do to take control and bend television to your will.
Smart TV?! TV Set-top Box Without Secrets
Nothing is eternal, especially the grace of the Norse gods. New televisions emanate power that allows for free use of a full range of solutions. However, such privileges have an expiration date, which in many cases lasts only 2 years. After this time, devices lose some of their power and become a shadow of their former glory. However, you can refill them with energy and regain a wide range of possibilities.
In this context, a multimedia set-top box for TV is crucial. It provides salvation when the manufacturer's support period expires and you lose the ability to update software. Thanks to it, you regain access to functions that differentiate your smart receiver from its less nimble predecessors of yesteryear.
A smart TV set-top box comes in various forms. The key in this case is the hardware ecosystem you've pledged allegiance to. If you're from under the sign of the bitten apple, take a look at Apple TV. If you're closer to the green robot, a TV set-top box with Android will be the appropriate choice.
Maintaining consistency in this dimension will also allow for more convenient switching between devices. You will have intuitive tools at your disposal, making it obvious how to connect your phone to the TV.
DVB-T2 – Is It a TV Set-top Box? No? Then What Is It?
DVB-T2 sounds like a mysterious rune, but it's simply a new digital terrestrial television standard that has been in effect in Poland since 2022. If you have a TV from a few years ago, there's a significant risk that it's not compatible with this technology. In such a case, you'll need a DVB-T2 decoder. Otherwise, your TV Ragnarök will arrive sooner than you think!
How to check if your TV has a built-in DVB-T2 decoder?
Before you rush to buy a DVB-T2 decoder, examine your TV's parameters. It's possible that your equipment already has this feature as standard, and you'll save a few silver coins. To check this, the easiest way is to type your TV model into an internet search engine and study its specifications.
If the device was manufactured after 2019, there's a good chance that the DVB-T2 standard is already on board. Individual brands prepared for this change like Vikings for the coming winter.
DVB-T2 Decoder – Which one to choose?
If it turns out that your TV doesn't have the built-in DVB-T2 standard, you'll need to reach into your pocket and get yourself a decoder. However, it won't be a big expense. Many models cost less than 100 Polish zlotys and will serve you for years. If you're wondering which decoder for terrestrial television will be appropriate, pay attention to the following factors:
- range of supported standards (e.g., HEVC, H.264),
- number of available connectors (e.g., HDMI, USB),
- additional functions such as recording,
- ease of use.
A TV set-top box is a one-time effort – years of benefits
Just as an experienced sailor takes care of his boat, you should take care of your TV ecosystem! If you choose and configure your TV and appropriate additional equipment well once, you can enjoy peace of mind for years.
