Stb set top box iptv set-top box. IPTV Set-Top Box – MAG250 Hardware Brief

Today we will look at an unusual device. The multimedia players described earlier in our articles for the most part allowed working with files received from various media or over the network. Regardless of the location, these were still files - with their own formats, containers, audio and video codecs. In contrast, the ZyXEL STB-1001S IP television receiver allows you to view video streams, that is, broadcast video information transmitted over the network.

The classic example is television IPTV channels. Indeed, such devices are usually used by Internet providers to provide this service to the user. As an example, we can recall “STREAM-TV” from the company “COMSTAR-Direct” and digital television from “Corbina Telecom”. Other providers have also begun to develop these services. Despite this, set-top boxes (that’s what we call devices of this class, although abroad the abbreviation STB – Set Top Box) can be used in private projects. By the way, ZyXEL offers a different name for its devices - IP television receiver. If we take into account the established analogy “satellite receiver”, then this name can be considered quite successful and understandable for most consumers.

STB-1001S is a small device, made in the new “white” design of ZyXEL network products. The dimensions of the IPTV receiver - 34 × 190 × 132 mm (plus up to 45 mm for wires) - allow you to easily install it not only in a rack with equipment, but also simply next to the TV. It is possible to mount it on a wall, but you need to pay attention to the accessibility of the receiver window remote control. There are three indicators on the front panel - power/status, local network connection/activity, and remote control signal reception. All the necessary connectors are on the rear panel: power, Ethernet LAN, coaxial digital audio output S/PDIF and audio-video SCART output. There is also a power switch located there if you need to completely turn off the device, for example, while on vacation.

The package includes: the receiver itself, a power supply (compact model 12 V 1.5 A), a remote control with batteries (2×AAA), a SCART cable for composite video and stereo audio, network cable, short description, CD with complete description and software. Note that the descriptions are localized.

The remote control does not have an original design - a classic shape and many small buttons. However, the main keys for watching broadcasts are quite convenient to use. Note that turning off the power from the remote control, in fact, is not such a thing. Only the audio and video decoding and output unit is turned off. So after reverse switching The receiver is ready for use almost immediately. And if you use the button on the case, then first the operating system is fully loaded, which takes quite a long time - several tens of seconds.

Due to the specialized use of the device, support for a large number of formats is not required - after all, the provider prepares broadcasts in advance in a certain form. So we can only talk about a general list of codecs. The receiver in question can decode standard definition video using the MPEG2 MP@L3 and H.264 MP@ L3 codecs. Audio can be encoded in MPEG-1 layer I/II, MP3, AAC or AAC+LC. AC3 output via digital interface is supported. The video output on SCART can be configured to composite or RGB. The device does not have a reset button, so it may be difficult to switch video modes. H.264 support allows for best quality compared to MPEG2 at the same bitrate, or reduce the bitrate while maintaining quality. For example, “DVD quality” can be obtained on a 2 Mbit/s H.264 stream.

The receiver's hardware consists of an already middle-aged video processor from STMicroelectronics - ST7100. The main 266 MHz core is supported by two more 400 MHz cores, which are directly involved in decoding audio and video streams. The amount of RAM and flash memory is 128 MB each. The board also contains a network chip from SMSC and several other auxiliary chips. The processor is covered with a small heatsink. During prolonged operation, it heats up quite strongly, but this does not bring any negative consequences. The software component is a typical Linux operating system for IPTV set-top boxes. This makes it possible, if necessary, to easily adapt the firmware to support the special requirements of providers.

Note that in addition to the receiver in question, there is also a model STB-1001H, which supports high-resolution video, H.264 profiles [email protected], [email protected], has an HDMI output as well as a USB port.

Let's briefly describe general principle IPTV work. To implement the system in a minimal version, you need a server that broadcasts video streams to the network, a Web server with pages containing links to these streams, and the set-top box itself for decoding the video and outputting it to the TV. In addition to “live broadcasts”, IPTV also offers a “video on demand” service (VoD - Video on Demand). Its difference from the main version is the user’s ability to control playback - start, pause, and so on. The included CD contains all the necessary files and manuals for a test run of the system. Actually, the user shell menu consists of numerous html, css and js files and is actually implemented by the Web browser. This uses an extended set of JavaScript functions, in particular, to process button presses on the control panel and navigation. In addition, STB-1001S supports middleware from leading providers and various software versions content protection standards.

In addition to broadcasting television channels on Internet provider networks, you can find several other applications for the product in question. For example, you can use it in hotels, cottage villages, supermarkets, educational institutions, various marketing projects.

Let's describe the settings of the receiver itself. Basic menu allows you to select the type of video display (PAL composite, NTSC composite or RGB), screen format, digital audio output operating mode, set the time zone for the built-in clock, select the language (the tested firmware had only English).

Additional settings that relate to the operation of the receiver on the IPTV network are protected by a password. The first screen displays information about the STB - model name, hardware and firmware versions, network addresses. The second screen can be used to configure network settings. To obtain an IP address, you can use DHCP, manual configuration, or PPPoE. The main server addresses are also set here - TFTP for firmware updates (which, by the way, can also be performed via multicast - this is another similarity with satellite receivers), URL home page, ACS server address for automatic settings receiver (used by providers for mass configuration on their network) and NTP for clock synchronization. The last item in the additional menu is firmware updates via the previously specified server.

If necessary, you can control the receiver via telnet. This may be useful for providers to remotely monitor and configure user devices.

In the test configuration, we used DHCP to obtain the network address, and configure home page to the corresponding file on our test server. The computer configuration included installing the Apache web server, writing the necessary files to its directory for storing sites, setting up addresses in them and launching broadcast servers.

You can use the product or . The latter, by the way, is perfect for the role of a software player for streaming broadcasts. This is one of the most popular programs for this task, and it’s also free. Live555 allows you to implement both streaming and VoD. And VLC media player- only the first option. It is best to prepare broadcast files in advance in the MPEG TS (Transport Stream) container - this is the most convenient format for streaming. The same player is suitable for pre-coding (the range of its capabilities deserves a separate article). However, you should note that the H.264 it does may not be compatible with the receiver, so in this case you need to use MPEG2. Another, one of the most simple ways- repacking VOB files from DVD video disc. Then no recoding is required.

In addition to broadcasting files, you can use VLC media player or other programs to broadcast a video stream from a capture card or tuner. Note that to use H.264 you need to have a fairly powerful PC - on-the-fly encoding of one standard definition stream (720×576 pixels) can take about 40% of the time of one core AMD Athlon 64 5000+, while MPEG2 is only 10%. Of course, this applies specifically to VLC media player. Other programs may be better optimized.

After starting the servers, it is necessary to write links to streams into files with functions for generating content on the server, written in Java Script. The supplied files for it allow the user to implement channel selection and VoD in a simple menu structure.

In our tests, we used both the trailers provided on the disc and our own files from our test DVD. The latter were previously repacked in a TS container. The quality of the video image is determined by the usually broadcast stream. The device itself supports fairly high bitrates - up to 10 Mbit/s for MPEG2 and up to 6 Mbit/s in H.264. So the video quality in the case of this receiver can be higher than on DVD. As for the video outputs themselves (composite and RGB), the device realizes their maximum capabilities.

In our opinion, the set of audio and video outputs installed in the receiver is optimal for viewing standard definition streaming video - it provides trouble-free connection to most receivers, and the quality is not lost due to the interface. More modern options (component and HDMI) are required for devices that support high-definition video.

The device made a good impression. It supports the most popular video and audio standards, and has correct set outputs for connecting to audio/video equipment. Actually, the actual functioning is determined more by the provider than by the receiver. In this case, there are no obstacles to the implementation of any ideas.

Satellite or regular television using television towers, antennas and special receivers, despite high demand, does not meet consumer expectations. The video signal supplied using such technologies leaves much to be desired, and not all channels can be configured well.

The development of electronic networks, the global Internet, has radically changed the situation. The video signal can now be transmitted via IP protocol directly from a web resource without image and sound distortion in high-quality HD format using a special device - an IPTV set-top box or your personal computer.


Digital television capabilities

Before moving directly to a detailed study of IPTV set-top boxes, photos of which can be seen in any online store that sells modern electronics, let’s consider the architecture of the complex itself, which allows you to view wide-screen videos with excellent resolution and high-quality sound.

The main components that make up any modern digital video system operating over the IP protocol are:

  • "IPTV Middleware". Software that helps manage and control a variety of services, resources and applications;
  • Module for receiving and processing transmitted digital data;
  • Complex for protecting all data received and sent over the network;
  • System of interaction with web resources and servers;
  • Devices that directly monitor the equipment, signal quality on the consumer side, not the service provider.

After connecting and configuring the IPTV set-top box, the following options appear:

  • Make a request to view any video that is open for viewing. Or get this access for a fee.
  • Coordinate, group your current and future views, create your own personal TV program.
  • Pause, rewind your favorite movie or video channel.
  • Do delayed scheduled viewing,
  • Save a list of TV programs in a specific place (folder, directory).
  • View photos and videos from external media.

In a word, you have direct access to manage the content you want to watch, which is virtually impossible to do on a regular TV!


How to set up and connect

We will need high speed WiFi router and the IPTV device itself.

Typically, the kit includes many components necessary for a full connection, the number of which depends on the manufacturer. Some may not be available, and you will have to purchase them yourself.

Before directly connecting the IPTV set-top box, let’s look at what we have to deal with:

  • Front and rear USB ports located on the walls of the device;
  • RC connector. May be missing. An infrared receiver is connected to it.
  • Ethernet connector (LAN) for connecting to the provider's cable network (100 Mb/s).
  • Socket for connecting the set-top box directly to the TV (HDMI connector)
  • HDMI cable. Usually it is not included. Sold separately.
  • AV connector for connecting an audio and video system (cable with three pins). Designed exclusively for older TVs. The quality is much worse. Modern TVs are connected via an HDMI connector.
  • Socket (input) for power supply.

Only one connector is located at the front, all the others are at the back, on the body of the set-top box.

The device is connected to video resources either using a local cable via a LAN connector or through a high-speed router (router) with the same input.

After connecting the IPTV set-top box to the TV, connect the power supply and plug the device into the outlet. Navigation is carried out on the screen by pressing buttons on the control panel.

By going to the menu and following various links, we customize the software for ourselves. After saving all changes, reboot the console. When connected correctly, everything will work perfectly!

Features of choice

Interactive television is gaining more and more popularity every year. However, the important question is “Which is the best IPTV set-top box to choose in 2018?” more relevant than ever.


The main thing is to choose what you need, save as much as possible, and do not buy unnecessary components that were not provided in advance by the manufacturer.

It is important that the purchased IPTV set-top box is compatible with the TV and has a full-fledged browser. A rewind button is also needed.

The Internet provider can provide a connection kit, which can immediately include a router, all the necessary cords, cables and software. It may even be cheaper than buying everything yourself, understanding the instructions and setting it up.

The IPTV set-top box STB MAG-250 is considered the best. It has a number of advantages that distinguish it from other devices. Plus, the provider’s specialists themselves can configure it and connect it for an appropriate, usually not too high fee.

The IPTV set-top box Tiger i250 deserves attention, and Rostelecom also released its brainchild - IPTV HD mini, manufactured by the Ufa Promsvyaz plant.

A serious drawback of the latest device is that the firmware is designed exclusively for its own operator. Not only Rostelecom is guilty of this point.

Many operators also try, in the fight against competitors, to monopolize their product and limit their service to licensed use, without all kinds of pirate thefts.

Ultimately, it is now possible to connect to digital television from any Internet provider. Having weighed your financial capabilities, you can enjoy excellent television with excellent sound and image, forget about antennas and all sorts of problems with finding your favorite channels and TV shows.

Photos of IPTV set-top boxes

Despite the fact that the device discussed in this article is no longer quite new, in any case it deserves special attention. Since, today, this is one of the most popular models of IPTV set-top boxes throughout the post-Soviet space, and not only.

As you probably already understood, we will talk about an IPTV set-top box, produced by the Ukrainian company Infomir. And in this article, we will get acquainted with its hardware, appearance and delivery package. And I would like to immediately say a special thank you to ASP24 for providing the test sample.

Contents of delivery

Let's start our review, as usual, with packaging and delivery.

MAG250 is supplied in a bright and beautiful box with color printing. On different sides of which both the console itself and various logos of supported services and standards are depicted. There is also a factory sticker with barcodes, serial number and MAC address of the Ethernet interface.

Inside the package, in special compartments, the device itself is located, as well as everything that comes with it. Everything is neatly packed in such a way that during transportation, the possibility of damage is minimized.

The MAG250 package includes:

— STB MAG250
- Remote control
- Power unit
— AA batteries for remote control
— A/V cable
- Manual

In fact, this kit is self-sufficient. However, the lack of an HDMI cable is depressing. Because, to use the set-top box with modern TVs, it is simply necessary. But considering not very high cost these cables in this moment, you can close your eyes to this.

Appearance and interfaces

The trend towards miniaturization of modern electronic devices is especially noticeable in the case of the MAG250 Micro. What immediately catches your eye is the “modest”, so to speak, size of the console. It has dimensions of only 125x86x28mm (WxDxH), and its weight does not exceed 156 grams.

The body of the console has a classic rectangular appearance and is made of very high-quality black plastic, in some places it is glossy and in others it is matte. At the same time, the build quality is very high. There are no defects, nothing creaks, no flaws or gaps.

On the front panel of the device, there is one USB connector and hidden under translucent plastic led indicator and IR remote control receiver.

On the upper side of the case, on a matte background, there is a glossy MAG250 inscription. And on the bottom, in addition to standard legs and holes for mounting on a vertical surface, you can see ventilation slots and a label indicating the model, serial number and MAC address specific device. There you can also see a small but rather interesting inscription Made in Ukraine and a holographic warranty sticker covering one of the screws.

Well, as usual, all the most interesting things are on the back panel of the MAG250. Here, from left to right we see: another USB port, connector for external IR receiver, RJ-45 Ethernet port, HDMI connector, optical S/PDIF connector, A/V output (Jack) and power connector.

Generally, appearance MAG250 consoles, quite attractive. And its miniature size allows you to simply hide it behind the TV without showing it off. Although there is no shame in showing it.

Remote control

If we talk about the remote control, IPTV set-top box MAG-250, then it can be safely called convenient and thoughtful. And despite the absence of any ergonomic refinements and its completely square shape, it fits comfortably in the hand.

In addition, the layout of the buttons on the remote control is familiar to most set-top boxes, media players and receivers. Therefore, getting used to the remote control does not present any difficulties. Literally after an hour of communication with MAG250, you begin to control the device without looking at the remote control.

Another feature of this remote control is the ability to learn. On the right top corner, there is a block of buttons designed to control the TV. These buttons can be trained with the original remote control. And despite the fact that they are mainly labeled as volume (+/-), mute (Mute), power and TV/AV, they can be taught any commands to control your TV or even audio system.

There are also buttons at the top virtual keyboard, settings, muting the sound on the set-top box and a number of colored buttons.

In the central part of the remote control, according to an established tradition, there are menu control buttons, with OK in the center, as well as service buttons Menu, Back, Exit and Info. Even lower, there are three rows of buttons for controlling the media player, channel list and volume level. And finally, a standard block of number buttons.

All buttons are pressed clearly, with a characteristic “click”, while at the top of the remote control, green indicators (for MAG250) or red (when controlling TV) light up.

The remote control is powered by two AA batteries, which are included in the kit.

Specifications

And of course, the most important thing in any electronic device, it is his specifications. And in the case of the IPTV set-top box MAG250, the specification hardware, the following:

CPU STi7105
RAM 256 MB
Flash memory 256 MB
HDMI 1.3
USB x2 (on the back and front panels)
A/V output composite + stereo A/V output
Ethernet RJ-45 10/100Mbit/s Fast Ethernet port
WiFi Optional via USB adapter
Additionally Optical audio output S/PDIF, connector for connecting a 5V power supply, connector for an external IR receiver

And despite not the most outstanding characteristics, this configuration is quite sufficient to ensure the normal operation of all existing web and online services and even playback of any video formats.

Video modes1080i, 1080p, 720p, 576p, 480p, PAL, NTSC
Video codecs - MPEG1/2 MP@HL, H.264 HP@level 4.1, MPEG4 part 2(ASP) ,WMV-9(optional) , VC1 video, XviD; support for high bitrate video(up to 40 Mbit/s and above)
Video formatsMKV,MPEG-TS,MPEG-PS, M2TS, VOB, AVI, MOV, MP4, ASF, QT, WMV(optional) Audio codecsMPEG-1 layer I/II, MPEG-2 layer II, MPEG-2 layer III(mp3) , MPEG-2 AAC(optional), MPEG-4 AAC LC 2-ch/5.1ch(optional ), MPEG-4 AAC+SBR 2-h/5.1ch(optional), Dolby Digital
Audio formats -MP3,MPA,M4A,WMA(optional), Ogg, WAV, AC3, AAC
Image formatsJPEG, PNG, BMP, GIF, RAW
SubtitlesDVB,SRT(support coming soon) embedded text
Playlist formatsM3U

In a word, MAG250 fully meets all modern requirements for devices of this kind.

Software and some features

Basis for software MAG250, is linux 2.6.23. It is on this core that all the “firmware” for this set-top box is built. Both official and alternative. Moreover, anyone, if they have certain knowledge, can create their own image. On the manufacturer’s website, you can find not only everything you need, but also detailed instructions. It is this feature that attracts many enthusiasts and gives IPTV providers the opportunity to create their own platforms and entire services.

The official software (firmware) of MAG250 is available for downloading or updating the set-top box itself via the Internet. Developers quite often release new versions with changes, improvements and fixes.

You can install almost any official or non-official software in several ways - with USB disk(flash drives) through the appropriate menu or through the BIOS. Using Multicast, via the network and several other ways. Also available as automatic update, and updating in manual mode.

A main feature everyoneIPTV set-top boxesMAG250, is that almost all functionality depends not so much on the set-top box or firmware itself, but on the content provider. The more “chips” the operator has and the more diverse they are, the more extensive are the various options for using the set-top box.

It is for this reason that we have included a discussion of the features of the software and operation of the MAG250 in a separate article. Where we will introduce you to them, using specific examples of some IPTV operators and user portals.

In general, MAG250 is capable of receiving content from such sources as: USB storage devices (USB HDD, USB Flash drive, USB Card-Reader, etc.), PC and NAS on the local network via SMB protocols, NFS, UPnP or HTTP, as well as from local networks and the Internet via broadcasting via HTTP, UDP / RTP Unicast/Multicast protocols. And it fully supports the following Stream media protocols - RTSP, RTP, UDP and IGMP.

In addition, the set-top box is compatible with the following Middleware systems: Stalker, OFT-Media, Netup, SmartLabs, Netris, ZTE. This provides quite extensive opportunities for operators and providers.

Initial setup

Any MAG 250 IPTV set-top box, whether operator or “pure”, has a fairly extensive menu of settings. Which is called by the SET button on the remote control.

Here you can make video output settings, audio settings, get information about the device, including hardware and software version, update software, and much more.

There is also a Services section here. With which you can set the addresses of the portals from which you will receive the main content. These could be third-party portals created by enthusiasts. For example, a very popular portal is ModMenu. This is how you can use addresses paid services or IPTV providers such as Divan.tv, Bonus-TV, Planeta TV and many others.

In the same section, you can specify software update sources.

Network settings

Since IPTV involves receiving content from the Internet, it goes without saying that MAG250 has a number of network settings. The set-top box can be connected to the network using wired or wireless interfaces. Moreover, the second one is optional and requires an additional USB Wi-Fi adapter. Wireless adapter, can be purchased together with the set-top box for an additional fee. Or, use a third-party adapter based on the chip - Ralink RT3070 or Ralink RT5370. Here is the list of supported models:
— DLink DWA-125 (not all H/W versions are supported)
— ASUS USB-N13 (not all H/W versions are supported)
— Edimax EW-7711UAN
— Tenda W311MI
— TPLINK TL-WN727N
- Dune HD Air

It is also possible to use other models, for example I used the GI Wi-Fi 11N adapter (WL0224) from Galaxy-Innovations, based on the Ralink RT3070 chip.

It is also possible to raise a connection using the PPPoE protocol for direct connection to the provider’s network.

Moreover, it is possible to select different options for establishing a connection for each of the interfaces. Can be used as manual settings, and automatically receiving settings from the DHCP server.

In the case of setting up a wireless connection, you must specify or select from the list the SSID of your access point and specify the encryption parameters.

But one way or another, setting up a network in the MAG 250 does not take much time. And after doing several simple steps, the set-top box gains access to the network, after which you can begin to use it.

In a word, setting up the MAG250 is quite simple and should not cause any difficulties, even for people with limited knowledge of network technologies.

conclusions

To summarize this review of the MAG250 IPTV set-top box, we can draw a number of conclusions and highlight several pros and cons. But in any case, it is safe to say that this device It is not without reason that it has found considerable popularity.

First of all, this is, of course, thanks to the fairly extensive functionality that can be expanded by each specific provider or content provider. Then you can highlight the possibility of independently creating both internal software and external software (portals). And all this with plenty of choice network protocols and compatibility with various systems.

In addition, the attractive appearance, convenient remote control and ease of setup and control add points to the console’s treasury.

But, nevertheless, one cannot help but pay attention to not the most powerful hardware, which in some cases can become a bottleneck. For example, I would like to have a little more memory and a gigabit Ethernet port.

But in general, MAG250 leaves only positive impressions when used. Especially considering the wide selection of possible content providers. Which we will talk about in our next article. There, we will also touch on the issue of multimedia playback from external sources, image quality and other aspects of device operation.

You can discuss this article and the MAG250 IPTV set-top box on our forum -

New IPTV technology is based on signal transmission digital television via computer IP networks. For this purpose, the signal is encrypted and transmitted to a playback device, which can be home computer or special equipment - IPTV set-top box or STB (IP Set-Top-Box). The image is broadcast and the signal is decrypted on a computer using IPTV players. For this purpose, the STB set-top box uses electronic circuits decoders that convert digital signal to analog video for TV.

Advantages of IPTV technology

The main advantage of this technology is open access To digital resources like IP telephony and IP television.

Reliability of data transmission is guaranteed by the similar operating principle of both technologies and the use of fiber optic cable for transmitting a television or telephone signal. Excellent broadcast quality allows you to watch programs in high resolution with multi-channel sound and excellent color reproduction.

Interactivity is another advantage of the technology: the IP connection works in both directions - from the server to the client and back. Thanks to this, the consumer can control the service from an STB set-top box or computer.

Functionality of set-top boxes

The connected RT STB HD has the following functions:

  • Receive video materials upon request. The server hosts a library of VoD video materials, accessing which allows you to access a particular film. Often video materials are provided for a fee.
  • Control your viewing using Time Shifted TV technology. Software for a computer or STB HD set-top box for a TV allows you to rewind a TV program in any direction and temporarily pause its broadcast.
  • An alternative version of the VoD service - the nVoD service - allows you to create a personal TV program. A public cinema allows a group of users to coordinate their viewings among themselves.
  • The TVoD service allows you to postpone watching a movie or video. The user just needs to select the necessary TV shows and TV channels in advance and send a request for viewing in the future.

Set-top box capabilities

The main advantage of STB set-top boxes is a large number of interactive services and the ability to directly manage content. The set-top box provides access to most Internet services: Picasa, YouTube and others, plus such devices are equipped with USB ports that allow you to connect external devices. Through RT STB HD IPTV set-top boxes, it is possible to play video files from external media, view photos and images, and when connected to a Wi-Fi router, access network video resources. The video stream can be redirected to a computer or laptop.

Set-top box equipment

The contents of the device may vary depending on the specific model: some elements may be present, others may not.

The approximate configuration of the STB set-top box from Rostelecom includes:

  • Universal USB ports, one of which is located on the front panel of the set-top box, the second on the back.
  • An RC connector can be placed for an infrared remote receiver. Its presence is determined specific model STB set-top boxes.
  • Ethernet connector with a maximum connection speed of 100 Mb/s. It allows you to connect the set-top box to the network of the provider providing Internet services.
  • HDMI connector for connecting the set-top box to the TV.
  • HDMI cable. It is extremely rarely included with an STB set-top box; most often the user has to purchase it themselves.
  • A cable with three connectors connects to the analog AV connector. One of the connectors is intended for video broadcasting, the other two are for audio.
  • Connector for AA batteries.

The listed connectors are located on the rear panel of the set-top box.

Connecting the device

The set-top box is connected to older TV models via the AV connector using a cable with three connectors. Modern TV models equipped with an HDMI input are connected via an HDMI cable. Accordingly, in the latter version the quality of sound and image is much better.

The set-top box is connected to the network via a router. Some users connect the provider's cable directly to the network connector of the set-top box, but this move is not always advisable, since various additional devices. Accordingly, the LAN connector is connected to a similar connector on the router. After the set-top box is connected correctly, the corresponding image is displayed on the TV screen.

Navigation in the device menu is carried out using the corresponding keys on the control panel of the set-top box.

Setting up the set-top box software

There is a SETUP key on the control panel, which is used to configure the set-top box. The device is configured as follows:

  • In the “Advanced settings” menu item you can set the date, time and time zone. To fully use the interactive capabilities of the set-top box, this must be done, since the data is synchronized with the IPTV server.
  • If the set-top box is connected via a router, then you need to configure it as network device. This is done through the “Network Configuration” menu item: in the window that opens, select a specific network type - for example, a wired Ethernet connection.
  • In the next window that opens, the DHCP mode is activated by pressing the key labeled “Auto (DHCP)”. In the window that appears, click OK.
  • The readiness of the network for operation is checked in the “Network Status” menu. An Ethernet connection is selected and a request is sent. In response, a window should open with a list of TCP/IP settings: the user must make sure that all configurations are specified correctly.
  • The next step is to configure the servers. In the menu of the same name, enter the following data in the NTP server field: pool.ntp.org. All data is entered via electronic keyboard, which is controlled through the keys on the remote control.
  • In the “Video Settings” menu item, the playback of video materials is adjusted. It is advisable to disable options such as auto frame rate switching and DVI forcing. Next, the required monitor resolution is set by analogy with setting up a computer monitor. Lastly, the video output mode is assigned. You can configure this item according to the instructions for the set-top box. Older models equipped with an AV input use PAL mode.

In the "Reboot" menu everything installed settings are saved, after which the console is rebooted. If the connection and subsequent configuration are correct, you will be able to use the set-top box immediately after restarting it.

Results

STB set-top boxes of modern models are full-fledged analogues of media players and have full functionality for playing multimedia content.

Computer