The purchase of a new television often brings with it the automatic need to connect it to the digital terrestrial antenna to access the channels. However, this operation is not always feasible: the antenna may not be present, or the TV may be located in a position distant from the socket, making it difficult to connect even with an extension. If you're in this situation, don't despair. There are several effective and modern solutions that will allow you to watch TV using Wi-Fi or other ingenious alternative systems.
Use the Internet Connection: The Age of Streaming
The advent of streaming platforms has revolutionised how we consume multimedia content. Today, thanks to a simple Wi-Fi connection, you can access a wide variety of TV programs, movies and TV series, making the Earth antenna almost obsolete for many. This option is particularly advantageous for those who own a Smart TV.
Smart TV and Integrated Applications
If you have a latest TV, known as Smart TV, the solution is at your fingertips. These devices are designed to connect to the Internet, allowing you to navigate between an infinite number of preinstalled or downloadable applications. You can easily access paid streaming platforms such as Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+, NOW, or enjoy the free channels offered by services such as RaiPlay and Mediaset Infinity, all directly from your remote control.
Transforming a Traditional Smart TV with Streaming Devices
If your TV is not a Smart TV, don't worry. There are numerous external devices, known as dongles or streaming boxes, which can turn any TV with HDMI input into a smart multimedia center, opening the doors to the world of streaming.
Google Chromecast: This compact “key” connects to a TV HDMI port and is powered via USB or power outlet. Chromecast allows you to broadcast programs, movies and music from your smartphone, tablet or computer directly on the big screen. The latest models, such as Chromecast with Google TV 4K and Chromecast with Google HD TV, include a complete operating system and a remote control with voice control, offering direct access to apps like YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, Spotify and DAZN. Previous versions, such as the Chromecast Video, are based exclusively on the transmission of content from other devices, without an autonomous user interface on TV.
Amazon Fire TV Stick/Fire TV Cube: Similar to Chromecast, Amazon's Fire TV Sticks connect via HDMI and offer a complete ecosystem for streaming. They allow you to install many apps, including Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube and Mediaset Infinity. Available in various models (Lite, Standard, 4K, 4K Max), differ for supported resolution (up to 4K Ultra HD), storage capacity, Dolby Atmos audio support and additional features such as Wi-Fi 6 and Live View for security cameras. The Fire TV Cube represents the most powerful option, with an octa-core processor for a smoother experience and advanced functions.
Apple TV: This Apple set-top box offers a premium streaming experience. Thanks to its dedicated App Store, you can download a wide range of applications, including the main video and audio platforms. Supports AirPlay technology to send content from Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac) and provides access to a vast catalog of movies and TV series for purchase or rental. The current model Apple TV 4K guarantees video resolutions up to 4K with Dolby Vision and HDR10+, as well as Dolby Atmos audio, and can be controlled via the Siri Remote voice remote control.
NOW Smart Stick and Sky Q without parable: For Sky content enthusiasts, there are dedicated solutions that do not require the installation of a parable. The NOW Smart Stick is a proprietary dongle that connects via HDMI and Wi-Fi, allowing you to access the NOW Theme Pass via subscription, as well as support other streaming apps. Alternatively, the service Sky Q without parable uses a decoder that connects directly to the home internet network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) to offer the entire Sky offer, including the content of the main integrated streaming platforms.
- Other Streaming Devices: The view of streaming devices is vast and includes:
- Game console: Modern consoles such as Xbox and PlayStation 5 allow you to install and use apps from major streaming platforms, turning into multimedia centers.
- Android TV Box: These small computers with Android operating system connect to the TV and offer a complete interface for streaming and installing apps.
- Set-top box dedicated: Some providers of telephone services or Pay TV offer their own set-top box (e.g. TIMVISION Box) that allow access to streaming services and on-demand TV.
- Blu-Ray Smart Readers: Some latest Blu-Ray readers integrate smart features, with the ability to install streaming applications.
- Game console: Modern consoles such as Xbox and PlayStation 5 allow you to install and use apps from major streaming platforms, turning into multimedia centers.
Door antennas: The Simple Solution
If your preference falls on “traditional” television channels but you don’t have a fixed antenna, a portable antenna can be the ideal solution. Easy to install and place, these antennas connect directly to the TV and are designed to amplify the TV signal, improving reception even in areas where the terrestrial signal is weak. They are particularly effective in cities or areas with good external coverage.
Many recent models support the DVB-T2 standard, ensuring compatibility with the latest digital television broadcasts. To achieve the best results, it is advisable to place the antenna near a window or at a point with the best possible reception.
Wireless repeaters: Extend the Existing Signal
If there is already a television correctly connected to the antenna and receives a good signal, but you want to see the same channels in another room without pulling cables, wireless repeaters are a practical solution. These kits consist of a transmitter and a receiver.
The transmitter connects to the source television (the one with the antenna) via RCA cable, SCART or, in the most modern models, HDMI. The receiver, however, connects to the remote TV with similar modes. The system extends the TV signal via radio waves, allowing the viewing of the channels also to several meters away (in the absence of significant obstacles). The most advanced repeaters operate at 5.8GHz for optimal transmission and can include a repeat function of the IR remote control, allowing you to change channel on the source TV from another room.
Connect your PC to the TV: A Straight Bridge
Finally, a simple and often neglected method is the direct connection of your computer to the television. Whether it's an HDMI cable for a wired connection or wireless technologies such as Miracast, AirPlay (for Apple devices) or Chromecast (for Windows and Chrome OS), you can easily project your PC screen on your TV. This allows you to watch any content played on your computer – from streaming services to personal videos – directly on the big screen, turning the TV into an extended monitor.
Conclusion
The lack of a traditional antenna connection is no longer an obstacle to enjoy television. From Internet-based solutions such as Smart TV and streaming devices, portable antennas or wireless repeaters, to simple PC connection, options are multiple. By evaluating your specific needs, such as the type of content you want to watch, the presence of a stable Wi-Fi connection and the budget available, you can choose the right solution to turn your TV into a complete entertainment center.
