What is an ATSC converter box used for?
A set-top box that converts over-the-air digital TV broadcasts to analog for TV sets that accept only analog input (NTSC, PAL). It transforms digital broadcasts in standard definition (SD) and high definition (HD) to analog.
Is a TV tuner the same as a converter box?
Only analog TVs require converter boxes A DTV converter box is a tuner that converts a signal from digital to analog so that a digital television (DTV) transmission can be used with an analog TV set. HDTVs do not require converter boxes, so if your set is so old that it needs one, you might as well consider an upgrade.
Does my TV have an ATSC tuner?
Look for a marking This sticker or marking could say several different things. If your television has the words ATSC, DTV, Digital Ready, HD Ready, HDTV, Digital Tuner, Integrated Digital Tuner, or Digital Receiver printed on it, then it includes a digital tuner.
Is a digital tuner the same as an antenna?
Digital TV tuners interpret the digital signals received by an antenna. So, TV users who want to watch digital over-the-air broadcasts require a built-in tuner, external tuner, or converter box, as well as an antenna.
How do ATSC tuners work?
Most ATSC tuners have relatively simple on-screen menus, and automatically bring the user to a setup screen when turned on for the first time. This allows the user to pick the time zone and daylight-saving time mode (as all stations transmit time in UTC), and bandscan for stations.
What is error correction in ATSC tuners?
Error correction is a technology that is used by the ATSC tuner to make sure that any data that is missing can be corrected. For instance, sometimes interference or a poor-quality signal will cause the loss of some data that the ATSC tuner receives.
Where can I find reliable ATSC signals?
These signals can be reliably tuned in most cities with a good indoor antenna and an ATSC tuner. US-based ATSC signals can be reliably tuned with an outdoor antenna and an ATSC tuner in Canadian markets within 60 miles of the US broadcast towers.
How does an ATSC receiver stretch?
Some ATSC receivers, mostly those in HDTV TV sets, will stretch automatically, either by detecting black bars or by reading the Active Format Descriptor (AFD). An ATSC tuner works by generating audio and video signals that are picked up from over-the-air broadcast television.