Configuration & Functionality of a TV Tuner
TV tuners are produced by several different manufacturers, each with their own products made to work best with particular systems. Many TVs today come with TV tuners, which allow them to pick up digital broadcasts sent over the air by TV networks. Computer systems with media features are increasingly being equipped with TV tuners as well, which are also sold separately as cards or USB systems.
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Definition
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A TV tuner allows television sets to pick up over-the-air signals and transmit them into video. In the U.S., over-the-air broadcast signals are now only in high definition, and tuners must be designed to pick up these data-intense broadcasts to properly function. All up-to-date TV tuners pick up these HD signals, and new TVs often come equipped with these tuners. TV tuner cards are also made, which are placed in computers to allow them to pick up broadcasts.
Process
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The most simple type of TV tuner is a device that works with a receiver to help it properly interpret incoming signals. The digital signals are transmitted, decoded and turned into a video signal. Originally, TV tuners were designed primarily to switch channels, moving the TV from one type of signal-interpretation to another. Today, TV tuners also have this function but the term "TV tuner" is now often used to mean the ability to pick up a TV signal in the first place.
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External vs. Internal
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TV tuner cards used on computers can be one of two types: internal or external. Internal devices are literally cards that are inserted into computers, picking signals and transmitting them directly into the computer's interface as a driver. External TV tuners tend to be much cheaper, and attach via a USB or firewire port, provide slightly slower connectivity and lower quality. Some TV tuners are made specifically for PC or Mac computers, but these differences are fading as the tuners become more common.
Types
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Although analog TV tuners are a thing of the past, there are still several different kinds of digital tuners used in computers. Hybrid tuners can switch between digital and analog in other countries, or areas where specific analog signals may be picked up. Combo tuners include two or more TV tuners that allow users to watch one channel while recording one or two others.
Additions
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Many TV tuners have the ability to pick up other signals, notably FM radio signals, combining both HD TV and radio broadcast abilities. Quality will still depend largely on the computer or television the tuner is connected to. HD signals will be most noticeable on a screen designed to pick the detail the broadcast supplies, and the surround sound elements included in most signals need a proper sound system to be fully utilized.
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References
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Windell Oskay
