Mediasonic HomeWorx HW135STB ATSC Digital TV Converter Box Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Mediasonic HomeWorx HW135STB is an ATSC Digital TV Converter Box Dongle designed to receive over-the-air digital broadcasts and convert them for display on analog and digital televisions, projectors, and computer monitors. It features TV recording capabilities, USB multimedia playback, 1080P HDMI output, and Clear QAM functionality for unscrambled cable channels.

Image: The compact Mediasonic HomeWorx HW135STB digital TV converter box dongle, showing its USB-C and IR ports on the side and coaxial input on the end.

2. What's in the Box

• ATSC TV Dongle (HW135STB)
• IR Receiver with Display
• USB-C to USB-A Power Cable (3.3 ft)
• Remote Control (AAA Batteries NOT Included)
• 3M Double-sided Stickers (for IR Receiver)
• HDMI Cable (3.3 ft)
• AV Cable (3.3 ft)
• User Manual

Image: All components included in the Mediasonic HomeWorx HW135STB package, laid out on a white surface. This includes the converter box, remote control, various cables (HDMI, AV, USB-C power), IR receiver, and documentation.

3. Setup Guide

3.1 Connecting the Device

1. Connect Antenna: Attach your ATSC antenna to the RF IN port on the converter box.
2. Connect to TV:
   • For HD TVs/Monitors: Use the provided HDMI cable to connect the converter box's HDMI output to your TV's HDMI input.
   • For Analog TVs: Use the provided AV cable (3.5mm to RCA) to connect the converter box's A/V output to your TV's RCA inputs (Yellow for video, White/Red for audio).
3. Connect IR Receiver: Plug the IR Receiver with Display into the IR port on the converter box. Position the IR receiver where it has a clear line of sight to your remote control. Use the 3M double-sided stickers to secure it if desired.
4. Power the Device: Connect the USB-C to USB-A Power Cable to the USB-C port on the converter box. Plug the USB-A end into your TV's USB port (USB Type A) or a 5V USB charger (5V/2A recommended for stable operation, especially when using external hard drives).

Image: A visual guide demonstrating the connection process: Antenna connects to the dongle, which then connects to a TV via HDMI, with the IR receiver also connected. The dongle is shown mounted behind a TV.

Image: A diagram illustrating two ways to connect the converter box: one to an HD LCD TV or monitor using an HDMI cable, and another to an older version TV set (A/V port) using an AV cable. Both setups show an antenna connected to the converter box via an RF cable.

Image: A detailed diagram of the converter box ports, including RF IN (1), USB-A (2), IR (3), USB-C (4), A/V (5), and HDMI (6), with corresponding labels for their functions.

3.2 Initial Setup and Channel Scan

1. Power on your TV and select the correct input source (HDMI or AV) corresponding to your converter box connection.
2. The initial setup guide will appear on your screen. Select your preferred OSD Language (English) and Country (USA).
3. Proceed to 'Channel Search' and select 'Auto Search'. The device will scan for available over-the-air (ATSC) or Clear QAM channels. This process may take several minutes.
4. Once the scan is complete, the device will save the channels and display the first available channel.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Basic TV Viewing

• Use the CH+/CH- buttons on the remote control to change channels.
• Press the OK button to view the current channel information.
• Press the TV LIST button to access the full list of scanned channels.
• Use the EPG button to view the Electronic Program Guide, which displays upcoming program schedules.

4.2 TV Recording (PVR Function)

The HW135STB supports recording and pausing live TV. To use this feature, an external USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 hard drive or SSD (up to 4TB) is required. USB flash drives are not recommended for recording. Ensure your power source provides sufficient power (5V/2A) if using an external hard drive.

• Connect Storage: Plug your external USB hard drive into the USB-A port on the converter box.
• Format Device: Access the USB menu (via the remote) and navigate to PVR Configure to format your storage device if it's not already compatible.
• Record Live TV: While watching a program, press the REC button on the remote to start recording. Press STOP to end recording.
• Pause Live TV: Press the PAUSE button to temporarily pause live television. Press PLAY to resume.
• Schedule Recording: Use the EPG to select a future program and schedule it for recording.

4.3 USB Multimedia Playback

Play back your favorite photos, music, and videos directly from a USB flash drive or external hard drive.

• Connect Storage: Plug your USB device into the USB-A port.
• Access Multimedia: Press the USB button on the remote control to enter the multimedia menu.
• Select Content: Navigate through the options (Multimedia, Photo Configure, PVR Configure) to select and play your desired files.

Image: A collage showcasing the main features of the converter box, including program recording, multimedia playback, program scheduling, and OTA TV streaming, with the device and remote control in the center.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
• Software Updates: Periodically check for software updates. Updates can typically be performed by plugging a USB drive with the update file into the device and navigating to the 'System' menu.
• Ventilation: Ensure the device has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Do not block the ventilation slots.

6. Troubleshooting

• No Power: Ensure the USB-C power cable is securely connected to both the device and a reliable 5V USB power source (TV USB port or 5V/2A charger).
• No Signal/Poor Reception: Check your antenna connection. Ensure the antenna is properly positioned and capable of receiving ATSC signals in your area. Perform a channel rescan.
• Remote Control Not Responding: Ensure AAA batteries are correctly inserted into the remote control. Verify the IR Receiver is securely plugged into the device and has a clear line of sight to the remote.
• Recording Issues: Confirm that a compatible USB 2.0/3.0 HDD/SSD (up to 4TB) is connected and properly formatted. Ensure the power source provides sufficient current (5V/2A) for the external drive.
• No Picture/Sound: Check HDMI or AV cable connections. Ensure your TV is set to the correct input source.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

8.1 Warranty Information

The Mediasonic HomeWorx HW135STB comes with a 1 Year Warranty from the Mediasonic Store. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

8.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or product inquiries, please visit the official Mediasonic website or contact their customer support team. Refer to the contact information provided in your User Manual or on the Mediasonic website.