This text is machine translated.
About TVs and portable TVs
-
Quick overview: TV - was important?
-
FAQ: 10 common questions about TV
-
A quick overview of portable TVs
-
FAQ: 2 questions about portable TVs
My car, my house, my TV: TV sets are more than just everyday items. A large display and modern features make television an experience similar to a cinema visit.
Less for a great cinema experience, but all the more convenient are portable TVs, which are often used in trucks or on the campsite today.
But before you can enjoy your new TV, everyone has to find their way through the maze of metrics and features. First of all, the location in the home is crucial to ensure optimum viewing pleasure - especially with large TVs.
In the following you will find a detailed overview of the terms on television and further links to counselors who deal with them in detail. In this guide, the focus is on answering the most common questions about television.
Quick overview: TV - was important?
You should know certain terms before buying a TV and think about was important to you. This makes it easier to decide from the wide variety of different offers.
A detailed consultation and description of the most important purchase criteria can be found here:
| Image quality | LCD, LED, OLED, QLED |
| Screen size | 81.28 cm (32 in.) to 223.52 cm (88 in.) |
| Resolution | HD-ready (1366 x 768 pixels) Full HD or HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) Ultra HD or UHD (3840 x 2160 pixels) |
| Reception type | Analogueue, DVB-T2, satellite, cable |
| Key features | 3D-enabled, curved TV, smart TV |
| Common features | Connections such as HDMI, USB, CI+, cinch, headphones, digital sound output Twin tuner Recording and playback function integrated DVD player |
FAQ: 10 common questions about TV
Who invented the TV?
This question is not easy to answer, because the technology of television has developed different people over several decades. Paul Nipkow laid the foundation in 1883. He developed an electric telescope with the Nipkos disc and had first ideas on television picture transmissions. In 1897 Ferdinand Braun and Jonathan Zenneck developed the cathode ray tube (brown tube), which was the most common method for producing television pictures for a long time. Manfred von Ardenne set another milestone on the 8th of March 1931. Radio exhibition in Berlin. There he presented the fully electronic television for the first time publicly. Since then, a large number of TV manufacturers have continued to develop the technology, making ultra-slim TVs with sharp images standard today.
Selection and location of the TV
How far away should you sit from the TV?
If the distance between the TV and the viewer does not match, this can negatively affect the viewing pleasure. If the distance is too small, the image appears pixelated and blurred. If the distance is too large, you may not be able to see all the details on the screen. However, the higher the resolution, the better the image quality and the lower the distance. So it's worth investing in a good picture quality TV when the living room is small.
In addition to the resolution, the display size also plays a role. In a smaller room, maybe a smaller TV makes sense. For a small model with a size of 96.52 cm (38 inches), the distance between the viewer and the TV does not need to be as large as a larger device with a size of 75 inches (190.5 cm), for example.
The table shows you an overview of the approximate distance between the TV and the viewer, depending on the image quality and display size.
| Display Size | SD (distance in m) | Full HD (distance in m) | 4K (distance in m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 101.60 cm (40 in) | 2.64 | 1.59 | 0.79 |
| 42 in (106.68 cm) | 2.77 | 1.66 | 0.83 |
| 116.84 cm (46 inches) | 3.04 | 1.82 | 0.91 |
| 119.38 cm (47 in) | 3.10 | 1.86 | 0.93 |
| 127.00 cm (50 inches) | 3.30 | 1.96 | 0.99 |
| 55 in (139.70 cm) | 3.63 | 2.18 | 1.09 |
| 152.40 cm (60 in) | 3.96 | ce 2.38 | 1.19 |
| 165.10 cm (65 inches) | 4.29 | 2.58 | 1.29 |
How high should the TV hang on the wall?
Mounting the TV on the wall is a trend. It looks noble, saves space and is safer because nobody can accidentally knock the device over. You can do without a Lowboard for the television or use the free space for storing books, for a luxurious sound system or for decorating.
To find the perfect spot for the TV on the wall, you can use a template. It is best to cut a piece of cardboard or cardboard that matches the size of your new TV. This allows you to try different positions without drilling holes in the wall or holding the heavy TV for a long time.
Typically, the TV should hang so that the eyes look at the center of the screen. Most of the time, the TV is located at a height of 1 m to 1.50 m. However, it is difficult to do this when more than one person is watching TV at the same time. Then it is better to take the middle of the sofa as well as the average eye level of the adults as a guide for wall mounting. If viewers are far enough away, it may be useful to mount the TV a little higher.
Also observe light sources that interfere with the image. These reflections are caused by lamps or windows located opposite the screen.
How do I hang the TV on the wall?
Wall bracket without swivel arm.
The TV is fixed to the wall like a mirror.
When hanging the TV, it is important to note the size of the TV mount and the nature of the wall. Current devices usually have a screw thread on the back, to which you can attach a TV wall bracket. When choosing the right holding fixture, you can confidently use universal holders. The size you need can be found in the manufacturer's description of the TV and holder.
There are two types of brackets: One fixing the TV to the wall like a mirror. The other devices have a swivel arm that allows you to move the TV flexibly. In this case, it is inserted from the top or side. This means that you must have sufficient space at the top or side to insert the device into the mounted holding fixture.
Depending on the material from which the wall consists, a suitable attachment is necessary. While a wall made of concrete or wood forms a stable base, this can become problematic with gypsum or plasterboard walls. Here, you should contact a specialist to find out whether the wall can support the weight of the TV and wall bracket. If this is the case, it is essential to select the correct dowels and screws as well as the number of screws. At least six screws, depending on the size and weight of the TV, should be used. This is the only way to keep the bracket and TV reliable and stable on the wall.
If the term Flat Display Mounting Interface (FDMI) is used in the technical descriptions of a TV, this is a standard for mounting the devices to walls or ceilings. This was introduced by the VESA organization, where more than 225 member companies are organized. This involves the television models, which have a screw thread on the back, with which they are attached to the wall. Depending on the dimensions and weight, there are at least four screw threads, which can be found in different positions and distances. This results in a wealth of different standards.
Example: VESA MIS-D 100 C
VESA: Name of organization
MIS: Mounting Interface Standard
D: Part D of the standard→ Screen size: 30.5 cm to 58.3 cm; max. 14 kg; 4 screws 4 mm; 0.7 pitch; 10 mm length
Technical questions
What was a CI+ module on the TV?
A CI+ module is a card of the size of a credit card. These can be plugged into a designated slot for modern TV sets. The module includes a smart card, which you can obtain from your TV provider. If the smart card and CI+ module are plugged into the TV, encrypted TV and radio stations can also be received. This includes channels for which the HD version is subject to a charge. Make sure you are using a CI+ module. Although CI modules can be used in the same way, digital programs may not be decrypted and thus not displayed.
How to connect the TV to a PC or notebook?
In many cases, this makes sense, for example, to view holiday photos comfortably with friends or to stream a contribution from an online library on a non-Internet-enabled TV. Here you have the following options:
- HDMI cable (Microsoft) connection: Plug the cable ends into the HDMI connectors on the TV and PC. Press the “Source” or “Source” button on your remote control and select the corresponding HDMI channel. On your notebook, you can find the item "Duplicate this display" in the Control Panel under "Display". The same can be seen on both screens. If you want to view the display only on the TV screen, select "Show Desktop on 2 only".
- HDMI cable (Apple) connection: Depending on the age of your MacBook, you may need a DisplayPort to HDMI adapter for the HDMI cable. However, some models have their own HDMI slot. If you have connected the adapter and HDMI to MacBook and TV, open System Preferences on the MacBook. Select “Sound Settings” and “Output”. The speaker icon of the TV you click will appear. Now you can watch and listen to the contents of the MacBook on the TV.
- Wireless connection via WHDI or Wireless HD: For this you need a receiver and a transmitter for the respective technology. Then plug the transmitter into the HDMI port of the notebook, the receiver into the HDMI input of the TV. Wireless HD also works on the same principle. The advantage here is that up to six transmitters can be connected to each other.
How much Hertz (Hz) does a TV need?
The number of repetitions per second is given in Hertz. Some manufacturers call their models a frequency of 600 Hz. And that even though the television is broadcast here at 50 Hz. The reason for these different numbers is a built-in technology in the television, which creates digital intermediate pictures. In this way, movements on the screen still appear more flowing. However, 100 to 200 Hertz are sufficient to ensure smooth motion.
Where is the IP address of the TV?
On the one hand, the IP address can be called up via the home network overview in the router. All devices that are online in the home network are listed there. To do this, you have to log in to the settings page of your router, which you can access via the browser. Another option is to search for the IP address in the network settings of the TV. There you will find the item “Network status”, where the IP address is located.
Why not put plasma TVs?
When transporting a plasma TV with a vehicle, it is important to carry it standing. The reason for this is the way it works. Plasma TVs use plasma to create the different color light that makes up the television picture for the viewer. However, these plasmas not only emit light, but also UV rays. In order to prevent this radiation, which is harmful to humans, from escaping in the long term, two thin glass plates are used to frame the plasma. If the TV is transported horizontally, these glass plates will vibrate and may get small cracks. The same danger exists in case of sudden shocks. These fine cracks may cause UV rays.
For this reason, it is recommended to carry the truck in a standing position and secure it well. For example, the TV can be transported in the box in which you purchased it. If you have already disposed of the molded foam, which is usually contained in the packaging, bubble wrap or blankets will help. Another possibility in the car is to fasten the device and cushion it sufficiently with covers.
In general, it is better to transport each TV standing for safety and to attach and cushion it sufficiently. Thus, the valuable TVs survive every drive.
Maintenance and disposal
How to clean TV?
From time to time, the TV is well cleaned. Dust or a soft micro-fiber cloth and water are sufficient. Scouring milk, cleaning agents with citric acid, vinegar or other aggressive ingredients can damage the TV.
When the appliance is switched off and cooled down, it starts to dust off. Here they use the duster best. If there is a lot of dust in the small cracks between the display and the display frame, a soft brush or a compressed air spray helps. The speaker grillees and the ventilation slots and connections on the back can be cleaned with the brush attachment of the vacuum cleaner. Care must be exercised to ensure that the housing does not scratch.
After dust has been removed, the device can be cleaned with a slightly damp micro-fiber cloth and then wiped dry. There are cleaning gels to buy especially for the display. They act like glass cleaners, but do not have sharp ingredients and stick like a gel on the screen instead of running down. Thanks to nanoparticles, a screen seal acts like a protective film that lays over the display and permanently repels dust or dirt.
How to dispose of the TV?
According to the Law on Electrical and Electronic Equipment (ElektroG), it is prohibited to simply throw televisions and other electrical appliances into the regular waste. Many contain valuable materials that can be recycled. The partly hazardous materials in the electrical appliances must also be handled properly. There are now numerous ways to dispose of the product easily and free of charge:
- Take-back obligation for all those who sell electrical goods on more than 400 square meters of retail space (stationary trade) or who have more than 400 square meters of shipping and storage space (online trade). Large electrical appliances such as TVs or refrigerators are being taken back by dealers against buying a new device. Small electrical devices up to a length of 25 cm can be delivered at any time, even without a new purchase.
- Other possibilities: Local recycling centers, municipal collection points for electrical appliances, electronic traneturn of Deutsche Post (free service for devices that fit into a maximum envelope)
Quick overview: Portable TVs
Even in the days of tablets and laptops, which allow access to tv or a video-on-demand provider, portable TVs are in demand. Always when there is no reliable Wi-Fi connection. For example, they provide comfortable television in trucks or on the campsite. We'll give you a quick overview of the key terms and criteria for portable TV.
For detailed details on portable TVs, see this guide:
| Picture size | 4:3 or 16:9 |
| Screen size | 17.78 cm (7 in) to 38.10 cm (15 in) |
| Power Supply | Integrated battery low voltage (12/24 Volt) 230 V power supply with corresponding output |
| Reception type | DVB-T2, satellite |
| Common features | Connections such as USB, memory cards, headphone HDMI port, video output Rotatable or inclinable monitor Mounting for car head supports in-built loudspeaker remote control |
FAQ: Portable TV
Why portable TVs?
Today there are many ways to watch TV or stream media libraries and movies. This is possible with an Internet connection via notebooks, tablets and smartphones. The problem: The Internet is not available everywhere - whether WLAN or via network cable. Especially in remote areas or when you are traveling by car or caravan, internet-free zones prevent the television enjoyment.
This can be remedied by portable television sets that receive television programs via DVB-T2 (digital aerial television). This is available almost everywhere in Germany. TV channels are also received outside Germany, but in the respective national language. Reception via satellite is possible, for example, via a parabolic antenna and a receiver or via a portable satellite system. The advantage: German-speaking stations can also be seen outside Germany.
Where are portable TVs used?
TRUCK: A portable TV in the cab is a welcome change for the break in the rest area. Please note that a 24 V on-board power supply is available in a truck, as two lead-acid batteries with 12 V each are connected in series. The higher voltage in contrast to a car reduces the power consumption and reduces the load on the vehicle batteries. This means that you should select a 24 V device. Alternatively, a voltage transformer that brings the supply voltage to the same level can help. This works from 24 V to 12 V as well as from 12 V to 24 V.
Car: While driving on holiday tv? Certainly a pleasant way to spend time, however, there may be interferences in radio holes. Alternatively, portable DVD players are recommended to watch a movie regardless of the radio reception. The portable DVD players are built into some portable TVs or can be purchased separately.
Camper: Of course, a conventional TV can be used in a camper. But in this way, you are dependant on a camping site with power supply, as the TV sets require a mains voltage of 230 V. If you connect the TV with an inverter to your on-board power supply (12 V), the conversion from 12 V to 230 V is associated with losses. A portable TV that runs at 12 V is therefore better. In addition, the portable TVs, also called camping TVs, don't take up quite as much of the scarce space in the caravan.
Boat: Portable TVs are also a welcome change to enjoy the evenings on a sailing trip in bad weather. Here, as in a camper van, the 12 V on-board power supply is completely sufficient for a compact device.
Hospital: In the case of longer hospital stays, the days are often long. If there is only one TV connection in multi-bed rooms, this may lead to discussions of the bedside neighbors about the best television program. Even if there are multiple ports, patients may only use them for quite high charges. This can be expensive in the long run. In addition to books, games or visits, a portable TV is also available. Especially when there is no WLAN available to take advantage of online media libraries or video-on-demand providers. However, check in advance whether there is sufficient DVB-T reception.