TCL S625/S525 Series Android TV Operation Manual

Chapter 1: Safety Information

Read all instructions before operating the set. Keep these instructions for future use.

Warning: A television set may fall, causing serious personal injury or death. Take precautions such as using recommended cabinets or stands, ensuring the TV is not overhanging furniture, educating children about climbing dangers, and routing cables safely. Never place a TV in an unstable location or on tall furniture without anchoring. Keep tempting items like toys away from the TV. If relocating a TV, apply the same precautions.

High Voltage Warning: The symbol ⚡ indicates high voltage inside. Do not make contact with internal parts. Disconnecting the mains is necessary for safety.

Fuse Warning: The symbol ☍ indicates the fuse may be in the neutral, requiring disconnection of mains to de-energize phase conductors.

Grounding: If an outside antenna or cable system is connected, ensure it is grounded by a skilled person to protect against voltage surges and static charges.

Product Precautions: Do not block ventilation openings. Do not insert objects into cabinet slots. Do not attempt to open the cabinet; refer all servicing to qualified personnel.

Screen Care: Do not touch the screen with fingers as it may scratch. Do not apply hard pressure to the screen as it may damage it.

Appliance Use: This appliance is not intended for use by unsupervised young children or infirm persons. Supervise children to ensure they do not play with the appliance.

Power and Plug: Unplug the set if not used for a long period, or if the power cord or plug is damaged. Adjust controls as per instructions; improper adjustment may cause damage. If the set is dropped or the cabinet is damaged, refer to service personnel. The disconnect device (mains plug or appliance coupler) shall remain readily operable.

Power Cord and Signal Cable: Do not allow anything to rest on or roll over the power cord and signal cable. Protect them from being trampled. Do not overload the power cord or outlet. Do not expose them to moisture.

Use Environment: Do not place the set on unstable surfaces. Ensure good ventilation. Do not use near damp or cold areas. Do not expose to excessive heat, direct sunlight, fire, or naked flame sources. Do not expose to dripping or splashing; do not place liquid-filled objects on the apparatus. Do not use in dusty environments.

Operating Conditions: Temperature: 5°C to 35°C (41°F to 95°F), Humidity: 20% to 80% (non-condensing). Storage: -15°C to 45°C (5°F to 113°F), Humidity: 10% to 90% (non-condensing).

Cleaning: Dust the set with a soft, clean cloth or special liquid cleaner. Do not apply excessive force. Do not use water or chemical cleaners on the screen.

Chapter 2: Connections and Setup

TV Buttons

If the remote control batteries are depleted, TV buttons can be used for various functions. Refer to the manual for specific button functions for different models.

Initial Setup

Upon first power-on, a Welcome screen guides you through the initial setup process, including language selection and network connection. You can skip steps and perform setup later via the settings menu.

Sockets

The TV features various sockets for connecting external devices:

• USB 2.0: For connecting USB devices.
• HDMI (SERVICE) or HDMI (ARC): For connecting Blu-ray players, PCs, DVD players, or digital satellite decoders. Provides uncompressed digital video and audio.
• AV IN adapter socket: For connecting video recorders, camcorders, decoders, satellite receivers, DVD players, or game consoles via an AV adapter cable.
• ANTENNA IN socket: For connecting an outside aerial.
• LAN: For connecting to external modem or network access equipment via RJ45 plug.
• SPDIF or DIGITAL AUDIO OUT (OPTICAL): For connecting a compatible digital audio receiver.
• Headphone socket: For connecting headphones or stereo earphones. Warning: Excessive sound pressure can cause hearing loss.

Remote Control Functions

Most TV functions are accessible via the on-screen menus using the remote control. Refer to the manual for a detailed list of button functions, including numeric buttons, navigation, OK, EXIT, GUIDE, SUBT., and colour buttons. Some functions are only available under DTV source.

Installing Batteries

1. Push to open the back cover.
2. Insert two AAA batteries according to polarity.
3. Replace the back cover.

Exclusive Remote Control

This remote control offers functions like standby, TV settings, Smart TV homepage access, option menu, navigation, confirmation, returning to previous menus, input source selection, Google Assistant access, virtual keyboard, volume control, channel change, Netflix access, and TCL Channel access. Note: This remote may be available for selected models only.

How to Use the Remote Control

For Google Assistant, pair the remote with the TV by keeping them within 1 meter and following on-screen instructions. Google Assistant is available for content search within certain apps. Set your preferred language in Settings > Device Preferences > Language for better voice search results.

Network Connection

An internet connection is required for full TV functionality. Connect via wired (RJ45 LAN) or wireless methods. Ensure a high-speed broadband internet service from your ISP.

• Connecting to a wired Network: Requires an Ethernet cable, a router/modem with an Ethernet port, and a high-speed internet connection. Connect the cable to the TV's Ethernet port and configure via the Network & Internet menu.
• Connecting to a Wireless Network: Requires a router broadcasting a wireless signal and a high-speed internet connection. Configure via the Network & Internet menu.

To access Network & Internet menu: Press on the remote, navigate to Settings, select Network & Internet, and follow on-screen guidance.

Switching On

Follow instructions for inserting batteries and connecting the power cable (TV first, then mains socket). Connect an aerial to the ANTENNA IN socket. The TV turns on or enters standby mode. Press the power button to turn on from standby.

Switching Off

Press the power button on the remote to put the TV into standby mode. To fully switch off, unplug the mains socket.

Chapter 3: Basic TV Operations

Accessing Channels

Use numeric buttons, P∧/V buttons, or the LIST button to access channels and display the channel list. For RC802V remote, use ▲/ buttons, OK button, P+/P- buttons, or the button for virtual keyboard access.

Watching Connected Devices

Press to display the source list. Select TV or other input sources using arrow keys and press OK. Alternatively, access the homepage, navigate to the Inputs area, and select the desired input source.

Adjusting Volume

Use the +/- buttons on the remote or TV set to adjust volume. Press the mute button to temporarily silence the sound.

Accessing Smart TV Homepage

Enjoy Internet Applications (Apps), websites, and system settings. Configure network settings before using Smart TV. Slow responses may occur depending on network conditions. Contact content providers for app issues. Application availability and features may change. Some applications may have limited service or be region-specific.

To access Smart TV homepage: Press on the remote. Use arrow keys and OK to enter apps, functions, or settings. Press to return to the homepage. To exit, navigate to Inputs, select your desired source.

Note: Allow a few minutes after standby activation for the Smart TV feature to be ready.

Accessing Google Play

Google Play offers a wide range of entertainment including music, movies, TV shows, books, apps, and games.

Accessing TCL Channel

Enjoy recommended content by accessing TCL Channel via the remote or the TCL Channel icon.

Using System Settings Menu

Adjust device settings like Network & Internet, Accounts & Sign-In, Apps, and preferences. Navigate through menus using arrow keys and OK button. Some options may not be available for certain signal sources. Setting LED motion clear can improve motion clarity but may darken the picture.

Using Quick Start Function

Enables faster TV startup from standby but increases standby power consumption. Enable/disable via Settings > Device Preferences > Quick Start.

Using TV Settings Menu

Adjust TV settings for picture and sound. Options include Picture, Sound, Channel, System, and More settings.

Chapter 4: Using more of your TV

Installing Channels

Automatically search and store channels. This is useful when prompted that no channels are found or to update existing channels. Navigate to Channel > Channel scan, select country/region, choose Automatic search, select channel type (Digital, Analogue, or Digital&Analogue), and start scanning. Use Channel organizer to hide or move channels.

Note: Analogue-only channels may indicate poor broadcasting.

Using Subtitles

Enable subtitles for TV channels. Subtitles are available via Teletext or DVB-T digital broadcasts. You can select preferred subtitle languages for digital TV channels.

• Turning On/Off Subtitles: Navigate to Channel > Subtitle and toggle on/off.
• Enabling Subtitle Languages: Navigate to Channel > Subtitle > Digital subtitle language 1st/2nd to select preferred languages.
• Selecting Subtitle Type: Navigate to Channel > Subtitle > Subtitle type to select hearing impaired subtitles if available.

Shortcut: Use the SUBT. button on the remote to directly select a subtitle language.

Using Teletext

• Selecting Decoding Page Language: Navigate to Channel > Teletext > Decoding page language to select the display language.
• Digital Teletext Language: On digital channels, select an available language for initial Teletext pages.

Network Wake Up

Allows remote TV turn-on via a network. Ensure TV is connected to a home network, the controller (e.g., smartphone) is on the same network, and an app supporting network waking is installed. Set Networked standby to On in Settings > Network & Internet.

Note: This feature is disabled if the TV is shut down using the power button.

T-Link

Enables CEC devices connected via HDMI to auto power on/off and auto standby. Enable/disable via System > T-Link.

Using Auto Power On

The TV automatically powers on when a connected CEC device (e.g., DVD player) is powered on.

Using Auto Standby

All connected CEC devices automatically go to standby when the TV is turned off.

Note: CEC functions depend on connected devices; consult device manuals for compatibility.

HbbTV

HbbTV provides interactive TV services over broadband internet, enriching digital programmes with features like EPG, games, and catch-up TV. Ensure TV is connected to the internet and HbbTV is switched on. HbbTV services are country-dependent.

• HbbTV Access: Navigate to System > HbbTV settings and turn it on. Follow on-screen prompts (often indicated by a red button) to access interactive pages.
• HbbTV Deactivation: Navigate to System > HbbTV settings and turn it off to disable the function.

Google Cast

Cast videos, games, and apps from mobile devices to the TV in high quality.

Using EPG (Electronic Programme Guide)

EPG displays scheduled digital TV programmes. Navigate, select, and view programmes. DTV EPG does not require internet. HbbTV must be set to off for DTV EPG; otherwise, HbbTV EPG is used. Use the remote control to navigate EPG, filter programmes by type, and set schedule reminders.

Bluetooth Function

(Not available for all models) Bluetooth is a wireless technology for short-distance data exchange. Connect Bluetooth audio devices, mice, or keyboards. Navigate to Settings > Remotes & Accessories > Add accessory to search and connect devices. Note: 2.4GHz frequency may interfere with Wi-Fi; move closer to the TV or increase space if interruptions occur.

Freeview Plus

Freeview Plus offers an aggregated TV service with a 7+ day EPG, catch-up content, recommendations, genre browsing, and reminders. Requires a high-speed broadband connection and an aerial. Launch Freeview Plus via the on-screen prompt or colour key.

Netflix Settings

Netflix provides on-demand movies and TV shows via the internet. Unlimited membership is required. Access Netflix directly using the Netflix button on the remote.

HDR Playback

The TV supports HDR up to 1920 x 1080 resolution. HDR can be experienced with streaming content like Netflix or via USB playback with supported video files.

Password in Parental Control

The default password is 1234. The super password is 0423. Use the super password to override forgotten codes.

Chapter 5: Other Information

Problems & Solutions

Network Issues: If unable to link to the network, check connections, reboot the TV, consult your ISP, ensure router DHCP is active, and test connection with a computer. Verify TV system time.

Video Playback Issues: Smooth playback may be affected by abnormal data transmission, high code rates, low network bandwidth, peak internet usage, or other computers using bandwidth. Videos may also be inherently unsmooth.

USB Drive Issues: If two portable hard drives are connected, they may not be recognized due to power consumption. Use one drive or a low-power drive. If USB video has no sound, the audio format may not be supported. Some video formats may not be supported.

Video Stops Midway: This can occur due to errors during video copying or compression.

Software Updating: Ensure no power cuts during updates. Avoid remote operations during updates. Updates may take time depending on internet speed. Interface changes may not always be distinct after updates.

Power-Off during Update: If a power-off occurs during USB update, restart the TV. For network updates, restart and check functionality.

USB Device Not Detected: Ensure portable hard drives are compatible and have sufficient voltage. Consider an additional power supply.

External Device Recognition: Some external devices may not be compatible with the TV. Try a similar device if issues persist.

Voice Search Not Working: Check remote pairing, language settings, and Google server availability.

Troubleshooting

• No picture, no sound: Check fuse/breaker, outlet, power plug, and signal source.
• No colour: Change colour system, adjust saturation, try another channel.
• Remote control does not work: Change batteries, ensure correct installation, check main power connection.
• No picture, normal sound: Adjust brightness and contrast. Check for broadcasting failure.
• Normal picture, no sound: Increase volume, unmute sound, change sound system. Check for broadcasting failure.
• Unorderly ripples on picture: Caused by local interference (cars, lamps). Adjust antenna.
• Snowy dots and interference: Weak signal in fringe areas. Adjust antenna position/orientation, check connection, fine-tune channel, try another channel. Consider a special antenna if signal is extremely weak.
• Ignition Interference: Black spots, streaks, or fluttering caused by car ignition, neon lamps, etc.
• Ghosting: Caused by signal reflection. Adjust antenna direction/position.
• Radio frequency interference: Ripples or diagonal streaks. Find and remove the interference source.

Note: Remove all labels from the TV front panel and screen before use for a better visual experience.

Licence

Information regarding HDMI, HEVC, Dolby Audio, Bluetooth®, and Freeview Plus technologies and their trademarks.