What is DLNA support on TV
Compared to computer monitors, TV is the best solution for family viewing of media files. The use of DLNA technology expands user capabilities and facilitates access to certain functions. Thanks to this, it will be possible to view files not only from hard drives, but also those located on the Internet.
The content of the article
Explanation of the concept DLNA
DLNA is a designation for the method used when transmitting data. The use of such technologies simplifies the work with wireless and wired group channels. Information will begin to move between devices immediately after enabling the “server-client” mode.
There are different groups of devices for both servers and clients:
- Photo and video cameras.
- Tablets.
- Phones.
- Computers.
The TV becomes a client for them. It only receives information, while the server is responsible for storing and transmitting information. DLNA technology works not only when you have devices, but also after downloading programs. Each company has its own developments that support this or that technology.
The first step is to install the appropriate programs and connect the devices themselves to the same network. It doesn’t matter whether the wired version is used or whether it’s WiFi. After this, the first attempts to create a unified system begin. DLNA and Smart TV technologies are similar to each other in many ways. But each of them has its own purpose, different from the other option.
Smart TV allows you to connect to the Internet. DLNA only works with the server. In the latter case, protection increases. After all, various devices equipped with anti-virus programs and systems become servers.
Each type of network has its negative and positive sides. Wired networks make it easier to receive quality signals even where thick walls block signals. The disadvantage is that during installation it is often necessary to disrupt the structure of other structures. The need for such manipulations disappears with wireless channels. But they can be highly dependent on various obstacles and the materials used to make them.
Technology support on TV: about possible options
Technology support is provided in two options:
- Built-in.
- External.
In the case of built-in support, everything works much like a Smart TV. USB connectors organize a connection to a wired channel. Wireless channels are based on WiFi modules. Playback improves quality thanks to drivers and codecs from each specific manufacturer.
Attention! But in most cases, codecs are released without additional features like scaling and the like.
With external support, various devices are expected to be used:
- Blu-ray players.
- Satellite or digital television receivers, and so on.
Each option has its pros and cons. With built-in support, it's easy to work with any connected devices, as long as they are compatible. But you can’t, for example, watch Blu-Ray discs.
How to use
UPnP technology is the basis on which everything works.Thanks to this, a stable, reliable connection to the network and any data streams is formed; the format used does not matter.
The protocol designated TCP/IP is used as a transport protocol. This component is required for the latest versions of game consoles. The niche is already supported by more than 200 manufacturers. Continuous improvement helps to increase the speed and accuracy of technology.
The appropriate software is enough to implement the technology into a regular TV or computer. You can use regular applications, or you can choose special developments. But when working with them, certain difficulties arise. Exchange,flow routes follow different scenarios during control.
For convenience, the main devices for such networks can be divided into several classes:
- Networked household devices. We are talking about printers, TVs, players of various types.
- Portable devices such as phones and tablets, cameras.
- Multifunctional devices. These are types of equipment that support additional network standards.
Attention! The movement of information is organized between all components. The main thing is to ensure stable operation and take care of device compatibility.
Setting up networks
The main advantage of technology lies in the ability to set up networks with different structures. But there are general principles, some of which are suitable for many situations. The DLNA server is the center or heart of the system. Its role is played by various devices that were mentioned earlier.
The following components are included in the simplest designs suitable for typical homes:
- Mobile phone.
- TV.
- Laptop.
- Computer.
The use of home computers and routers with special firmware is allowed. The ideal option is to purchase a NAS or special network storage. It usually works in real time. The main purpose of devices is data storage and exchange. Management is carried out over the network, including through regular browsers.
Each manufacturer gives its own name for the DLNA technology supported by the equipment:
- AirPlay
- Single Share from Philips.
- Smart Share in the case of LG.
- AllShare for Samsung.
It is required to open certain folders so that other network users can access the information. The server usually searches automatically in the “My Documents” folder on the system drive. Therefore, it is recommended to place all important files in this location.
Important! When connecting new devices, it is important to take care to find the correct network. If everything does not happen right away, there is a high probability of problems with the software. Once the correct elements are selected and compatibility is achieved, everything works automatically at the correct speeds.
Screen size affects the price of a TV that works with DLNA technologies. 10-30 thousand rubles – the cost of devices with a diagonal in the range of 15-20 inches. If this figure reaches 50 inches or more, then prices will increase - reaching 60-150 thousand rubles. The place of production, along with the support of additional functions and the brand also play a role in establishing certain frameworks for each model. Prices are reduced if models are assembled in Russia and not in other countries, in Europe or the USA, Japan.