GPX TVRT149B Digital TV Tuner and Recorder

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the GPX TVRT149B Digital TV Tuner and Recorder. This device is designed to receive over-the-air (OTA) digital television broadcasts and allows you to record them directly to a user-provided USB flash drive. With its advanced ATSC HD tuner, you can enjoy high-definition digital channels without a cable or satellite subscription. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance of your new device.

Key Features:

• ATSC HD tuner and recorder for digital over-the-air broadcasts.
• Automatic and manual channel scanning for TV and radio channels.
• USB 2.0 PVR (Personal Video Recorder) port for recording and playback.
• Multiple video outputs: HDMI, Component, and Composite.
• Compact and user-friendly design.

2. Safety Information

Please read all safety and operating instructions carefully before using this product. Keep these instructions for future reference.

• Power Source: Use only the power adapter supplied with the unit. Ensure the voltage matches your local power supply.
• Ventilation: Do not block any ventilation openings. Ensure adequate space around the unit for proper airflow.
• Water and Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, or dripping/splashing liquids. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the unit.
• Heat: Do not place the unit near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Cleaning: Unplug the unit from the wall outlet before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth only. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

3. Package Contents

Please check the contents of your package. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your retailer immediately.

• GPX TVRT149B Digital TV Tuner and Recorder Unit
• Remote Control
• Power Adapter
• User Manual (this document)

4. Product Overview

Front Panel

Figure 4.1: Front view of the GPX TVRT149B unit, showing the power button, channel navigation buttons, menu button, OK button, and a USB port on the right side.

The front panel features essential controls and indicators:

• Power Button: Turns the unit on or off.
• Channel Buttons (CH+/CH-): Navigates through channels.
• Menu Button: Accesses the main menu.
• OK Button: Confirms selections.
• USB Port: For connecting a USB flash drive for PVR functions.
• LED Display: Shows channel number or time.

Rear Panel (Typical Connections)

The rear panel provides all necessary connection ports:

• ANT IN: Connect your digital TV antenna here.
• HDMI OUT: Connect to your TV or monitor for high-definition video and audio.
• COMPONENT OUT (YPbPr): Connect to your TV using component video cables (Red, Green, Blue) for high-quality analog video.
• COMPOSITE OUT (RCA): Connect to your TV using composite video (Yellow) and stereo audio (Red, White) cables for standard definition.
• COAXIAL/OPTICAL AUDIO OUT: For digital audio output to an amplifier or sound system (may vary by model).
• DC IN: Connect the provided power adapter here.

Remote Control

Figure 4.2: Remote control for the GPX TVRT149B, showing various buttons for power, channel, volume, menu, recording, and playback functions.

The remote control provides full functionality for operating your TV tuner. Familiarize yourself with the buttons:

• STANDBY: Power on/off.
• MUTE: Mutes audio.
• PAGE+/-: Page up/down in menus or EPG.
• AUDIO: Select audio track.
• FAV: Access favorite channels list.
• CC: Closed Captioning.
• GOTO: Jump to specific time in playback.
• HDMI: Switch video output (if applicable).
• CH+/CH-: Change channels.
• RECALL: Return to previous channel.
• MENU: Access main menu.
• EPG: Electronic Program Guide.
• Navigation Buttons (Up/Down/Left/Right/OK): Navigate menus and confirm selections.
• VOL+/VOL-: Adjust volume.
• INFO: Display program information.
• EXIT: Exit current menu.
• USB: Access USB media.
• Numeric Buttons (0-9): Direct channel entry.
• PLAY/PAUSE/STOP/REC: Playback and recording controls.
• REV/FWD/PREV/NEXT: Fast reverse/forward, previous/next track.
• PVR LIST: Access recorded programs list.
• TIMER: Set recording timers.

5. Setup

Follow these steps to set up your GPX TVRT149B unit.

5.1 Connecting the Antenna

1. Locate the ANT IN port on the rear panel of the TVRT149B.
2. Connect your digital TV antenna (indoor or outdoor) to this port. Ensure the connection is secure.

5.2 Connecting to Your TV

Choose one of the following connection methods:

HDMI Connection (Recommended for HD)

1. Connect one end of an HDMI cable (not included) to the HDMI OUT port on the TVRT149B.
2. Connect the other end of the HDMI cable to an available HDMI input on your TV. Note the HDMI input number (e.g., HDMI 1, HDMI 2).

Component Video Connection (YPbPr)

1. Connect component video cables (Red, Green, Blue - not included) from the COMPONENT OUT ports on the TVRT149B to the corresponding component video inputs on your TV.
2. Connect RCA audio cables (Red for Right, White for Left - not included) from the AUDIO OUT ports on the TVRT149B to the corresponding audio inputs on your TV.

Composite Video Connection (RCA)

1. Connect a composite video cable (Yellow - not included) from the COMPOSITE OUT port on the TVRT149B to the corresponding video input on your TV.
2. Connect RCA audio cables (Red for Right, White for Left - not included) from the AUDIO OUT ports on the TVRT149B to the corresponding audio inputs on your TV.

5.3 Powering On and Initial Scan

1. Connect the power adapter to the DC IN port on the TVRT149B, then plug the adapter into a wall outlet.
2. Turn on your TV and select the correct input source (e.g., HDMI 1, Component, AV) that corresponds to your connection.
3. Press the Power button on the TVRT149B unit or the remote control to turn it on.
4. The first time you power on, the unit will likely prompt you to perform an initial channel scan. Follow the on-screen instructions. If not, press the MENU button on the remote, navigate to the "Channel Search" or "Auto Scan" option, and press OK.
5. The unit will scan for available digital TV and radio channels. This process may take several minutes. Do not interrupt the scan.
6. Once the scan is complete, the unit will save the channels and tune to the first available channel.

5.4 Preparing a USB Drive for Recording

To use the PVR function, you will need a USB 2.0 flash drive (not included).

1. Insert your USB flash drive into the USB port on the front panel of the TVRT149B.
2. Access the main menu (press MENU), navigate to the "USB" or "PVR" section, and look for a "Disk Management" or "Format" option.
3. It is recommended to format the USB drive using the unit's formatting function to ensure compatibility. Note: Formatting will erase all data on the USB drive. Back up any important files before proceeding.
4. The unit typically supports FAT32 or NTFS file systems.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Basic TV Viewing

• Changing Channels: Use the CH+/CH- buttons on the remote or front panel, or enter the channel number directly using the numeric buttons.
• Adjusting Volume: Use the VOL+/VOL- buttons on the remote.
• Mute: Press the MUTE button to temporarily silence the audio. Press again to restore.
• Program Information: Press the INFO button to display current program details.

6.2 Using the Electronic Program Guide (EPG)

1. Press the EPG button on the remote control.
2. Use the navigation buttons (Up/Down/Left/Right) to browse through channels and program listings.
3. Press OK on a selected program to view more details or to set a recording timer (if supported by the EPG data).
4. Press EXIT to leave the EPG.

6.3 Recording Programs (PVR Function)

Ensure a formatted USB drive is connected to the unit.

Instant Recording

1. While watching a program you wish to record, press the REC button on the remote.
2. A recording indicator will appear on the screen.
3. To stop recording, press the STOP button. Confirm to stop recording.

Timer Recording

1. Press the TIMER button on the remote, or access the Timer/Schedule menu via the MENU button.
2. Select "Add Timer" or "Add Event".
3. Set the channel, start time, end time, and recording mode (e.g., Once, Daily, Weekly).
4. Confirm and save the timer. The unit will automatically turn on and record at the scheduled time.

6.4 Playback of Recorded Content

1. Press the PVR LIST button on the remote, or navigate to the "USB" or "Media Player" section in the main menu.
2. Select the "Recordings" or "PVR" folder.
3. Use the navigation buttons to select the desired recorded file.
4. Press OK or PLAY to start playback.
5. Use the playback control buttons (PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, REV, FWD) to manage playback.

7. Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance will ensure the longevity of your GPX TVRT149B.

• Cleaning: Disconnect the power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the unit. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
• Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation slots on the unit are not blocked by dust or debris. Periodically clean them with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner.
• Storage: If storing the unit for an extended period, disconnect it from the power outlet and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

8. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your TVRT149B, refer to the following common problems and solutions.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

GPX products are designed for reliability and performance. For specific warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official GPX website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or to inquire about replacement parts, please visit the GPX support section on their official website or contact their customer service department. Contact information can typically be found on the product packaging or the manufacturer's website.

Visit the Official GPX Store on Amazon