TCL Google TV Operation Manual

Introduction

This User Manual provides comprehensive instructions for operating your TCL Google TV. It covers safety precautions, connections, setup, basic TV operations, advanced features, and troubleshooting. A free Google account, a free TCL account, and a reliable broadband internet connection are required to enjoy all smart features and services.

Chapter 1: Safety Information

Precautions

Read all instructions before operating the set and keep them for future use. Avoid touching the screen with fingers to prevent scratches. Do not impact the TV screen with hard pressure. This appliance is not intended for use by young children or infirm persons without supervision. Ensure children do not play with the appliance.

Warning

A falling television set can cause serious injury or death, especially to children. Always use cabinets or stands recommended by the manufacturer, ensure the TV is not overhanging the supporting furniture, and educate children about the dangers of climbing on furniture.

High Voltage Warning: The symbol indicates high voltage is present inside. Do not make contact with any internal parts. The symbol with 'N' indicates the fuse may be in the neutral, and the mains shall be disconnected to deenergize the phase conductors.

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

Product Precautions

• Do not block or cover ventilation openings.
• Do not insert objects into the unit through cabinet slots.
• Do not attempt to open the cabinet; servicing should be done by qualified personnel only.

Power and Plug

• Unplug the set if it will not be used for a long period, if the power cord or outlet is damaged, or if the cabinet is damaged.
• 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 an unstable cart, stand, or table.
• Ensure good ventilation.
• Do not use near damp or cold areas.
• Do not expose to excessive heat, direct sunlight, 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 Temperature: 5°C to 35°C (41°F to 95°F).
• Operating Humidity: 20% to 80%, non-condensing.
• Storage Temperature: -15°C to 45°C (5°F to 113°F).
• Storage Humidity: 10% to 90%, non-condensing.

Cleaning

• Dust the set with a soft, clean cloth.
• Do not apply excessive force to the screen when cleaning.
• Do not use water or chemical cleaners on the screen.

Chapter 2: Connections and Setup

Sockets

Note: Socket locations and names may vary by model.

• HDMI, HDMI(SERVICE), HDMI(eARC/ARC) socket (input): For connecting devices like Blu-ray players, game consoles, PCs, or digital satellite decoders. Provides uncompressed digital video and audio.
• AV IN adapter socket: Connects to AV adapter cable for connecting video recorders, camcorders, decoders, satellite receivers, DVD players, or game consoles.
• ANTENNA IN socket (input): For connecting an outside aerial.
• LAN: RJ45 plug for connecting to external router/modem or network access equipment.
• DIGITAL AUDIO OUT (OPTICAL) socket: Connects to a compatible digital audio receiver. To enable, navigate to Settings > Display & Sound > Audio > Audio Output > Optical.
• Headphone socket (output): Connects headphones or stereo earphones. Warning: Excessive sound pressure can cause hearing loss.
• USB2.0 or USB 3.0 socket (input): Connects USB 2.0 or 3.0 devices. Number of USB sockets may vary by model.

Network Connection

An Internet connection is required for all functions. Data usage charges may apply. Subscribe to high-speed broadband Internet service.

Connecting to a wired Network

Ensure you have an Ethernet cable, a router/modem with a LAN port, and a high-speed Internet connection. Connect the Ethernet cable to the router and the TV's LAN port. Configure via the Network & Internet menu.

Connecting to a Wireless Network

Ensure you have a router broadcasting a wireless signal and a high-speed Internet connection. Configure via the Network & Internet menu.

To access Network & Internet menu: Press ✡ > Settings > Network & Internet.

Remote Control Functions

Most TV functions are accessible via the on-screen menus. Remote control types may differ.

• Power button: Standby / quit standby.
• Assistant button: Access Google Assistant for voice commands (requires network connection).
• Circular D-Pad: Navigation buttons (Up/Down/Left/Right) and OK for confirmation.
• Back button (←): Return to previous menu or quit an app.
• Google TV homepage button: Access the Google TV homepage.
• EPG button: Access Electronic Program Guide (for digital channels).
• Input button: Select input source.
• Volume buttons (+/-): Control volume.
• Channel buttons (P+/P-): Change channels.
• Quick Settings button: Display and edit quick settings.
• Quick Panel button: Display quick panel.
• Virtual remote control keyboard button: Pop up virtual keyboard.
• App buttons (NETFLIX, Stan., Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, TCL CHANNEL): Direct access to specific applications.

How to Use the Remote Control: Pair the remote with the TV before using the Google Assistant. App buttons may vary by model. Voice search works best with the TV language set to your local or official language.

Installing Batteries

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

CAUTION: Risk of fire or explosion if incorrect battery type is used.

Precautions on using batteries:

• Use only specified battery types.
• Ensure correct polarity.
• Do not mix new and used batteries.
• Do not use rechargeable batteries.
• Do not expose batteries to excessive heat, fire, or attempt to open them.
• Remove batteries if not using for a long period.
• Dispose of batteries environmentally.

TV Buttons

If remote batteries are depleted, use the TV's power button. It may function as a standby/multi-function button. Press the button to turn on the TV or display the multi-function menu.

MIC switch: Located next to the power button. Turn on for hands-free TV voice control.

Switching On

1. Connect the power cable to the TV, then to the mains socket. Ensure the TV's standby light is on. Do not connect to a DC supply.
2. Connect an outside aerial to the ANTENNA IN socket.
3. When powered on, the TV will turn on directly or enter standby mode. Press the power button on the remote or TV to turn it on.

WARNING: Only connect to AC supply. Risk of electric shock if plug is detached.

Initial Setup

The Welcome wizard guides you through initial setup (language, remote pairing, network connection). You can skip steps and complete them later in the Settings menu. It is recommended to set up Google TV during initial setup.

Remote Pairing: Keep remote and TV within 1 meter during pairing. Google Assistant requires paired remote.

Switching Off

• To enter standby mode, press the power button on the remote.
• To switch off completely, unplug the mains socket from the outlet.

Note: Some models have a relay switch for energy saving; a click sound is normal.

Chapter 3: Basic TV Operations

Adjusting Volume

Use the +/- buttons on the remote or TV set to adjust volume. Press the mute button (〆) to temporarily mute sound; press again or the + button to restore.

Installing Channels

This section describes how to search and store channels automatically, useful if no channels are found or to update existing ones.

1. Navigate to Settings > Channels & Inputs > Channels > Channel Scan.
2. Select Country/Region and enter your parental control password if set.
3. Select Scan Automatically.
4. Select Channel Type (Digital, Analog, or Digital&Analog).
5. Select Search and press OK to start scanning.

Note: Poor broadcasting can result in only analogue channels being found. Manufacturers are not responsible for poor broadcasting in certain areas.

Accessing Channels

• Use Up/Down buttons on the remote to scroll through channels.
• Press OK to display the freeview bar, then Left/Right and OK to enter.
• Use P+/P- buttons on the remote to scroll through channels.
• Use the ✡ button to display the virtual remote keyboard for numeric input.

Using Settings Menu

Access settings for picture, network, accounts, apps, and preferences.

1. Press ✡ on the remote to display the dashboard menu.
2. Select Settings and press OK.
3. Navigate to desired item and press OK to enter submenus.
4. Use Up/Down to select options, OK to enter lists or submenus, or Left/Right to adjust settings.
5. Press ← to return to the previous menu.

Note: Clear LED Motion can improve clarity of fast-moving images but may darken the picture.

Using Subtitles

Enable subtitles for TV channels. Subtitles are broadcast via Teletext or DVB-T. Digital broadcasts allow selection of preferred subtitle language.

Turning On/Off Subtitles

1. Navigate to Settings > Channels & Inputs > Channels > Subtitle.
2. Select the Subtitle option and press OK to toggle on/off.

Enabling Subtitle Languages on Digital TV Channels

1. Navigate to Settings > Channels & Inputs > Channels > Subtitle > Digital Subtitle Language 1st.
2. Select your preferred language and press OK.
3. Repeat for Digital Subtitle Language 2nd if needed.

Selecting a Subtitle Type on Digital TV Channels

1. Navigate to Settings > Channels & Inputs > Channels > Subtitle > Subtitle Type.
2. Select a subtitle type (e.g., Hearing Impaired) and press OK.

Using EPG (Electronic Program Guide)

EPG displays scheduled digital TV programs. Navigate, select, and view programs.

1. Navigate to Settings > Channels & Inputs > Channels > EPG, or press the EPG button directly.
2. Use navigation buttons to view program information.
3. Use Filter to select program types to highlight.
4. Use Reminders to set schedule reminders or recordings.

Freeview

Provides information on current and upcoming programs for the next 7 days. Allows quick access to on-demand content from various providers.

HbbTV

HbbTV (Hybrid broadcast broadband TV) offers interactive television features over broadband Internet, such as digital teletext, EPG, games, and voting. Requires Internet connection and HbbTV enabled.

Notes: HbbTV services are broadcast/country-dependent. You cannot download files via HbbTV. Application availability may vary.

HbbTV Access

1. Navigate to Settings > System > HbbTV Settings > HbbTV.
2. Press OK to activate.
3. On channels with HbbTV, an on-screen indication (e.g., red button) will appear. Press the indicated button to access interactive pages.
4. Use navigation and color buttons to interact.

HbbTV Deactivation

1. Navigate to Settings > System > HbbTV Settings > HbbTV.
2. Press OK to deactivate.

Chapter 4: Using More of Your TV

Accessing Google TV Homepage

Google TV brings together movies, shows, and more from your apps and subscriptions. An appropriate webcam is needed for online video communication applications (sold separately).

1. Press ✡ on the remote to display the Google TV homepage.
2. Use navigation buttons to enter desired apps, functions, or settings.
3. Press ← to return to the homepage.
4. To exit, press ✡, then Left/Right and OK to select your desired input source.

Note: Wait a few minutes after TV activation for Google TV features to be fully available.

Accessing TCL Channel

Enjoy VOD (Video on Demand) content and featured applications by pressing the TCL CHANNEL button or accessing the icon on the homepage.

Watching Connected Devices

Press ✡ to display the source list. Use Left/Right and OK to select TV or other input sources. Alternatively, navigate to the Inputs area on the homepage.

External devices control (CEC)

CEC allows control of connected HDMI devices, including auto power on/off and standby. It also enables ARC/eARC for soundbars.

Enabling or Disabling CEC

1. Navigate to Settings > Channels & Inputs > Inputs > External devices control (CEC).
2. Select HDMI control and press OK to toggle on/off.

Using Auto Power On

Automatically powers on the TV when a CEC device (e.g., DVD player) is turned on using its remote. Press OK to enable.

Using Auto Standby

Automatically puts all CEC devices into standby when the TV is turned off. Press OK to enable.

Note: CEC functionality depends on connected devices and may not work with all devices.

Password in Parental Controls

Set a password in Settings > System > Parental Controls. The super password is 0423 for overriding forgotten codes.

Using Quick Start Function

Enables faster TV startup from standby but increases standby power consumption. Activate/deactivate in Settings > System > Power and energy > Quick start.

Bluetooth Function

(Not available for all models) Connects Bluetooth audio devices, mice, or keyboards.

1. Navigate to Settings > Remotes & Accessories.
2. Select Pair accessory and press OK. The TV will search for nearby Bluetooth devices.
3. Select a device, press OK, and follow on-screen instructions.

Note: Bluetooth uses 2.4GHz frequency; Wi-Fi, routers, or microwaves may cause interference. Restarting devices or moving them closer/further may help.

Blue Light Filter

Reduces blue light emission to lessen visual fatigue. Activate/deactivate in Picture > Advanced Settings > Color > Blue Light Filter.

Notes: Rest your eyes after watching TV for 30 minutes. Look into the distance to avoid eye strain. Practice eye exercises.

Reset Shop

Resets the TV to factory default settings.

1. Navigate to Settings > System > About > Reset.
2. Select Factory Reset > Erase Everything and confirm.
3. Enter password/PIN if prompted.
4. Confirm selection. The Initial setup wizard will appear.

Multi Visual

Allows viewing of different programs simultaneously. Requires Android OS phone with Wi-Fi enabled. Follow on-screen instructions for setup and connection.

Notes: Feature may not be available in certain modes (HbbTV, Netflix, Media Player) or with scrambled video. Compatibility issues may arise with third-party apps in full-screen mode.

Works with Alexa

Requires an Amazon Echo device. Set up your Amazon device, then add "Works with Alexa" from Your apps on the TV. Enable the TCL Assistant Skill in the Alexa app.

Apple AirPlay and HomeKit

Wirelessly share content and control your TV using AirPlay and the Home app on iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Ensure iOS/iPadOS device has Wi-Fi enabled.

1. Navigate to Settings > System > AirPlay and HomeKit Settings > Apple AirPlay and HomeKit.
2. Select AirPlay.
3. Activate screen mirroring on your Apple device and select the TV.
4. Enter the AirPlay passcode if prompted.
5. To stop mirroring, open Control Center, tap screen mirroring, then tap stop mirroring.

Notes: Ensure Wi-Fi is enabled. To disable, navigate to Settings > System > AirPlay and HomeKit Settings > Apple AirPlay and HomeKit > AirPlay and turn it off.

Chapter 5: Google TV

Using the Hands-free TV Voice Control

(Not available for some models) Allows voice control in Google TV mode. Ensure TV is connected to the network. Turn the built-in MIC switch on. Press the Google Assistant button, select "Yes, I'm in", and say "Hey Google" to activate.

Notes: Availability depends on region/country/language. Requires a quiet environment and recommended distance of 2 meters. Built-in MIC increases standby power consumption.

Accessing Google Play

Explore entertainment including music, movies, TV, books, magazines, apps, and games.

1. Press ✡ on the remote to display the Google TV homepage.
2. Select Search, press OK, and search for "Google play store". Follow on-screen instructions.
3. Press ← to return to the previous menu.

Network Wake Up

(Only available in Google TV mode) Allows TV to be turned on from standby via a network. Requires TV connected to a wireless home network, a controller (e.g., smartphone) on the same network with a network waking app (e.g., YouTube), and Network Standby enabled in Settings.

Notes: Feature is disabled if the TV is shut down using the power button. Ensure Quick Start is set to on.

Chapter 6: Other Functions

Using Teletext

Selecting Decoding Page Language

1. Navigate to Settings > Channels & Inputs > Channels > Teletext > Decoding Page Language.
2. Select preferred language and press OK.

Digital Teletext Language

Select an available language for multiple initial Teletext pages on digital TV channels.

1. Navigate to Settings > Channels & Inputs > Channels > Teletext > Digital Teletext Language.
2. Select language and press OK.

Variable Refresh Rate

Provides smooth gaming and eliminates screen tearing. Dynamically adjusts refresh rate up to 144Hz. Requires Game Master set to Auto or On. Available on specific HDMI ports (HDMI 1 for 4K@144Hz, HDMI 1 or 2 for 4K@120Hz). Ensure console/PC and game support this feature.

Live TV Pause

(Available according to software version) Allows pausing, fast-forwarding, and rewinding live TV. Requires a USB drive. Complete disk setup for the USB drive first.

1. Navigate to Settings > Channels & Inputs > Channels > Live TV Pause.
2. Follow on-screen directions for disk setup.
3. Once setup is done, Live TV Pause menu appears.
4. Press OK to call out the menu if it disappears.
5. Press button to stop Live TV Pause.

Notes: Available only for digital channels. Back up USB drive data before use. Recommend USB drive with at least 1GB free space and speed faster than 5.0MB/sec.

PVR (Personal Video Recorder)

(Available according to software version) Records TV programs. Requires a USB drive.

Note: Feature availability may depend on product, country, and network limitations. Copyright protection may block recording.

1. Navigate to Settings > Channels & Inputs > Channels > PVR.
2. Select Record to start recording.
3. Use the blue button to access Settings for recording duration adjustment.
4. Press OK or button to stop recording manually.

Note: Access blue button via virtual remote keyboard. Recording progress is shown on a mini panel.

To watch recorded programs, exit PVR mode first.

MagiConnect

Formerly T-Cast. Enjoy videos, applications, and use your smart device as a remote control. Scan the QR code on the TV screen and download MagiConnect. Ensure smart device and TV are on the same LAN.

Chapter 7: Other Information

Problems & Solutions

1. Fail to link to the network:

Check network connection, reboot TV, consult ISP, ensure router DHCP is active, check router power and Internet connection. Test connection with a computer. Set system time manually if incorrect.

2. The video could not be played smoothly:

• USB Flash Drive: Abnormal data transmission or unsupported code rate.
• Internet/Online Videos: Low bandwidth, peak usage times, other computers using bandwidth, or the video file itself may be the issue.

3. Two portable hard drives connected:

May cause power supply problems. Recommend using only one hard drive or a low-power one.

4. Portable hard drive (USB) playing with no sound:

Unsupported audio format.

5. Some videos fail to play:

Unsupported video formats, especially those with private protocols.

6. Video stops playing midway:

Errors during video copying or compression.

7. Software updating:

Avoid power cuts and remote control operations during updates. Updates may take time depending on connection speed.

8. No distinct changes after software updating:

Updates may improve performance without interface changes.

9. Software updating stops due to power-off:

Restart TV for USB updates. Check functionality after restarting for network updates.

10. No USB devices detected after accessing Media:

Possible issue with the portable hard drive (damaged, low voltage). Try an additional power supply.

11. External device cannot be recognized:

Some external devices may not be compatible. Try a different device or contact your local dealer.

12. Voice search does not work:

Check remote pairing, language settings, and Google server availability.

Troubleshooting

No picture, no sound:

Check fuse/circuit breaker, outlet, signal source, and antenna connection/position.

No colour:

Change colour system, adjust saturation, try another channel.

Remote control does not work:

Change batteries, check installation, ensure main power is connected.

No picture, normal sound:

Adjust brightness/contrast. Check for broadcasting failure.

Normal picture, no sound:

Increase volume, unmute, change sound system. Check for broadcasting failure.

Unorderly ripples on the picture:

Caused by local interference. Adjust antenna to minimize.

Snowy dots and interference:

Weak signal. Adjust antenna position/orientation. Check antenna connection. Fine-tune channel. Try another channel.

Ignition:

Black spots, streaks, or picture flutter may be caused by interference from ignition systems, neon lamps, etc.

Ghost:

Caused by signal taking two paths. Adjust antenna direction/position.

Radio frequency interference:

Moving ripples, diagonal streaks, or loss of contrast. Identify and remove the source.

*To bring you better visual experience, please remove all labels from the TV front panel and screen before use.

Legal Statement

The use of TCL SmartTV services may be limited by content availability, features, applications, and territories. Some services may require subscription fees or additional peripherals. Service availability is subject to change without notice.

Content and services are protected by intellectual property laws and are provided for personal, non-commercial use only. Unauthorized modification, copying, or distribution is prohibited.

Use of the device is at your sole risk. TCL disclaims all warranties related to third-party content and services. TCL does not guarantee accuracy, validity, timeliness, legality, or completeness of any content or service. TCL is not liable for any damages arising from the use of the device or accessed content/services.

Third-party services may be changed, suspended, removed, or terminated without notice. TCL is not responsible for networks or transmission facilities it does not control. TCL may impose limits on service access.

Customer service for content/services should be directed to the respective third-party providers.

Consumer rights under Australian Consumer Law are not excluded by this statement.