A solution for old tellies...

2cvbloke

Here's something that might interest those with older TVs with no AV function that are threatened by the switchover;

A Sony Playstation (original grey box one) RFU Adaptor!!!

All you need is a couple of Phono leads with plugs on one end and sockets on the other and a 5vDC power source, and you can use the adaptor as an RF modulator for anything that uses only AV out, such as cheap freeview boxes...

It's only limited to UHF Channel 36, which was often the one used by VCRs, but after the switchover, I don't think that would matter (as long as there are no MUXes on 36!!!)...

Just need to find myself a 5v source, and I'll try it out...

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Channel Hopper

I recall a number of service calls, where the TV in question was unable to receive any digital signals. Once on site, it was often a case of disconnecting the adaptor from the kids room TV and handing a 25 pound callout charge to the houseowner.

Things have changed, I now charge 40 quid.....

There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness"

2cvbloke

Hehe, easy money eh?

I also have a switch thing that you plug the device into, then you can switch between the Aerial input or the Modulator input...

Though, how would an adaptor like that stop digital TV appearing on the TV? Or were the boxes also set to CH36?

BombedOne

Yes, this is good solution.

Also to be noted, if you'll make minor circut adjustments, you can make SCART<>S-Video adaptor from that box.

satelliteman

Also these and similar devices can be lossey and enough to drop off the cliff if the signal is marginal.

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Channel Hopper

Not just the loss, as soon as the games station is powered from the mains (even in standby), the modulator is running and this generates noise over the whole spectrum.

There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness"

satelliteman

Yes because of a cheap DSB modulator used thus will create side bands ie. N+/-1, N+/-5 within the uhf spectrum. In high signal areas cross mod / intermodulation distortion can occur.

Lets get all technical

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2cvbloke

Interesting, but, come switchover, there's no need to have an aerial plugged into the old analogue TV (so no requirement for anything to be plugged into that pass-through socket), so, how would the UHF interference get from modulator to STB??

rolfw

Some of the newer Freeview boxes have a built in modulator, the TVONICS MFR 300 is one example. I believe that there is a Ferguson which has a modulator as well.

Yes you are right 2cv, shouldn't be a problem come switchover.

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satelliteman

Yes also there are a few freeview receivers around with 4 connections ie. separate loop through and RF mod out

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2cvbloke

I'm happy with my Oggle boxes, despite the switchover attempting to kill them off, they work great, they just lack a modulator...

If I buy another freeview box, it'll have to be another Oggle...

Speaking of a Ferguson, my portable kit I'm selling has a stand-alone Tuner/Timer unit that could act as a modulator, seeing as the VCR unit needs "attention" (belts maybe?), then the TTU could be useful to some:

Ebay 230388359625

(shameless plug, I know, but it is terrestrial related, sort of!!!)

I still need to find a 5v source though, found a 2.5mm socket for the plug, just need a PSU now...

kenny1234

Manhatten freeview receiver also has modulator cracking box @ around £25

bobdisk

Another I think better solution would be to get a UHF modulator from a supplier, the likes of CPC
_http://cpc.farnell.com/labgear/mod111/uhf-modulator/dp/AV13328
This one costs about £36, a bit expensive, but I guess ygwyp4 ! (you get what you pay for!) Be careful buying cheap Freeview boxes, most have no modulator.
2cvbloke: these people also do small power supplies.
There are other suppliers available (that keeps the MadMen happy!)

2cvbloke

I've still yet to go through my bag of extensive electrical crap that I really should sort, all I need now to get my Playstation modulator running is the 5vDC supply, soon I hope, very soon...

nanochickin

I just use one of these. Works really well



Nano

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rolfw

For most people, buying a Freeview box with a built in modulator will be the cheapest and easiest option.

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2cvbloke

Yep, but for the likes people like me who have other things, and like to tinker, then making something is more fun...

bobdisk

Only problem is fewer manufacturers are putting modulators in these days, especially cheapos