What is a TDT decoder and what is it for?
A DTT (Digital Terrestrial Television) decoder is an electronic device used to receive digital terrestrial television signals and convert them into video and audio signals that can be seen and heard on an analog or digital television. Digital terrestrial television is a television signal transmission standard that gradually replaces analogue broadcasting in many parts of the world.
The DTT decoder is typically connected to an antenna and a television and is responsible for tuning into the digital television channels available in a certain geographic area. It then decodes the digital signal and converts it into a video and audio signal that the TV can display and play. Additionally, they often include additional features, such as the ability to record programs, pause live television, and access electronic program guides. In the case of a DTT HD decoder it is similar, but it can decode high definition signals
In summary, a DTT tuner is essential to receive and enjoy digital terrestrial television on a television that does not have the capacity to directly tune these signals.
Use an external DTT decoder: If you want to improve signal quality or access additional functions, or simply watch terrestrial television on your old equipment, starting in February 2024, you can buy an external DTT decoder. These devices are compatible with non-HD televisions and allow you to tune into digital channels, access electronic program guides, and, in some cases, record programs. Since 2023, all the DTT decoders that we sell at Electronic Embajadores are compatible with HD for those devices that at most only play up to SD.
SD TV blackout. What to do if they are going to stop broadcasting TV in SD and are only going to broadcast HD?
Effectively as of February 6, 2024, there will be a blackout in Spain of all channels that transmit in SD. This means that they will only broadcast terrestrial television through high definition channels. In other countries the blackout of conventional digital television has already occurred previously and in other countries it will happen shortly.
If your TV device does not play high definition television and your area only broadcasts non-pay television in high definition, you have 2 options:
- Change TV
- Acquire a high definition DTT decoder or receiver
But I repeat, this does not mean that in other areas outside of Spain HD channels can continue to coexist with SD channels or that other European countries have already made the change to HD, disconnecting SD channels. It is something that each country has been carrying out the blackout gradually for more than a decade.
At Electronic Embajadores we have HD or high definition TDT decoders ready for use
What type of DTT HD decoders are there?
There are several models of HD decoders or tuners for old televisions:
- With scart input: they are designed for older televisions, which do not even have an HDMI connector. They often also include an HDMI connector.
- With double tuner and recording: this type of tuner allows me to record the signal of one channel, when we are tuning another channel
- Stick type. It is a device similar to a pendrive, but larger, designed for smaller spaces, such as televisions hanging on a wall.
- With front buttons to change the channel: Although all DTTs are operated through the included remote control, some models have front buttons to change the channel directly on the tuner device, without having to use the remote control.
- With playback of multimedia files: Some DTTs have the ability to play multimedia files, such as photos and movies through a USB connector built into the front or on the side.
Choosing the most suitable DTT tuner is something very personal and also depends on the needs of the TV we have.
