HDTV Tuners FAQ’s

HDTV tuners are one of the most popular HDTV accessories. Before you buy one, though, here are some basic facts you should know about them.

What are HDTV Tuners?

HDTV tuners are also known as HDTV receivers or HDTV decoders, precisely because these are the two main functions of an HDTV tuner. First, the HDTV tuner receives the HD signals, whether from your cable or satellite TV provider, Blu-Ray player or HDTV-capable video game console, then decodes and processes them so they can be displayed properly on your HDTV. If you do not have an HDTV tuner, you will only receive regular TV signals, which means you won’t get to enjoy the superior picture quality offered by your HDTV.

How is an HDTV tuner different from an HDTV tuner card?

While High Definition TV tuners and HDTV tuner cards have the same function - to receive and transmit HD signals, the term HDTV tuner usually refers to an external or stand-alone HDTV tuner, more commonly known as a Set-Top-Box or STB. These are separate devices which you can connect to your HDTV. On the other hand, HDTV tuner cards usually refer to HDTV PC tuners, which, as implied, are connected to a computer via the USB or PCI port. This computer can then be connected to the HDTV via the HDMI port, DVI-D port or RGB port. Both the HDTV tuner and the HDTV tuner card have its own share of pros and cons. The HDTV tuner is easier to install, but does not always come with a recording function like the HDTV tuner card.

What is the difference between an HDTV tuner and an HDTV converter?

An HDTV tuner is a device connected to an HDTV. It receives HD signals and allows them to be displayed properly on the HDTV. On the other hand, an HDTV converter converts digital signals into analog ones so that your regular TV can still process them and display them on the screen, though not with the same superior picture quality.

Is an HDTV tuner really necessary?

If you want to partake in the full High Definition experience, then the answer is yes. You don’t need to buy one, though, if you already own a full HDTV monitor since these already come with built-in tuners.

What is the cost of an HDTV tuner?

The cost of an HDTV tuner depends on its features and its brand. Popular brands include Sony, Samsung and Panasonic. Prices range from $80 to over $400.

How do I install my HDTV tuner?

Installing an HDTV tuner should be relatively easy. The most important thing is to connect it properly to your HDTV. Depending on the type of tuner you have, you should be able to find a port at the back or the side of your HDTV to connect it to. You should also be able to connect it to your antenna or other sources of HD content in order to receive the HD signals for it to transmit to your HDTV. When in doubt, consult your manual.

What HDTV tuner should I buy?

If your cable or satellite TV provider offers an HDTV tuner, it is best to buy that one so you can be spared the trouble of looking for one on your own. If not, though, there is no reason to worry, since there are many HDTV tuners to choose from. To narrow down your choices, look at the features, and more importantly, the compatibility of the tuner with your HDTV. If you want, you can buy an HDTV tuner with the same brand as your HDTV to guarantee compatibility, although there are many tuners that are compatible with several brands of HDTVs.

Edward McKellen is an HDTV expert who writes HDTV reviews for HDTVreviewlab.com. To check out the latest Sharp HDTV reviews or learn more about HDTV televisions visit HDTVreviewlab.com

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