Wednesday, August 31, 2022

Can You Use a Fire Stick on a Roku TV?

can you use a fire stick on a roku tv

Roku TV is one of the latest Smart TV solutions today. While enjoying the TV, you may wonder if you can use a Fire Stick on your Roku TV. 

We get it – you see Firestick as the best streaming service today. So, wonder no more! In this article, we’ll provide Roku TV owners with the answers on the Roku and Firestick connection.

Fire TV Stick to Roku TV Connection: Is it Possible?

Yes, it’s possible to use a Firestick on your Roku TV. You just need extra HDMI ports on your Roku television for this to work. 

Amazon Fire stick

You can connect the Firestick through the free HDMI port whether you have the Roku Stick on your Smart TV or the Roku TV installed. 

You will be able to enjoy your favorite channels and the latest streaming services, such as Disney+ and Netflix, plus lots of applications. Besides, have sure control when you install an Amazon Kids subscription, like usage control and lock apps if needed. 

How Can I Connect an Amazon Firestick to a Roku TV?

Here’s what you need to do to connect Amazon’s Firestick to your Roku TV:

Connect the Firestick to the available HDMI port on your Roku TV. 

connecting Firestick to TV

On your Roku TV, go to the “Settings” menu using the remote. Select “TV Inputs,” then choose “HDMI Port.”

Choose the “Setup Input.” After that, you’ll see the HDMI icon on your Roku TV’s home screen. 

Then, rename the HDMI input to identify and find the Amazon Firestick easily. To get this done, go back to the “Settings” menu, then choose “TV Inputs” and “HDMI.” 

renaming input device

There you’ll see three options: Rename, Remove, and HDMI Mode. Select “Rename,” then look for the “Edit Custom Name & Icon” option, press and select “Continue.” 

Input the name you desire, press “OK,” then choose a recognizable icon, then press “OK.” Afterward, go back to your Roku TV’s main screen, you should see the Firestick icon there. 

Click the icon to open Firestick. When the Firestick’s screen’s open, you can now browse its content using its remote. 

How to Start and Set Up Amazon Firestick

Just follow the steps below to start and set up Firestick: 

Grab your Firestick. You’ll notice that it has HDMI ports and a micro-USB port (USB type C), which you’ll need to connect to the USB power cable included in the device. 

person holding a Firestick

After attaching the USB, connect the other end to the adapter, then plug the adapter into your wall outlet or any power source. Note that some Roku TVs have USB ports, but we don’t advise using them to power your Firestick. 

Plug the Firestick into your TV’s HDMI port. Note the name of the HDMI [1] port you’re using, as you need it later in the process. 

Power on your TV and go to the HDMI input channel, then open the HDMI port where you plugged your Firestick. A loading screen will come out with the logo of Amazon Firestick. 

Once it opens, pair the Firestick with its remote. As soon as you put batteries on the remote, it should pair up with the TV automatically. If not, press and hold the “Home” button to pair the Firestick to its remote. 

FireTV Amazon

After pairing, press the “Play or Pause” button to start the setup process. Set your preferred language by navigating to the “Language” menu using the remote. 

Now your Firestick will seach for the available Wi-Fi networks nearby. Choose your Wi-Fi network or enter your network’s name and password to continue. 

Once connected, register your Firestick using your Amazon account. Follow the on-screen instructions. After that, your Amazon Fire TV Stick is now registered.

Sign in or Sign up with Amazon account

Also, you’ll have the option to save your password to your Amazon account or not. If you intend to use other Amazon devices, we suggest saving your password to your Amazon account. It will enable your other devices to connect to your wifi network easily. 

If you’re concerned about some Firestick contents, especially if you have children, then you can enable “Parental Controls.” You’ll need to set a PIN for this. 

After successfully doing the steps previous steps, you can now select “Get Started” and install your desired streaming services or streaming apps you wish to use with your Amazon Firestick device. 

How to Start the Amazon Firestick Remote With TV Controls

If you acquired the newer Firestick version, the Firestick setup process is slightly different as newer Firestick remotes have television controls. 

To get this done, refer to the steps below:

You’ll see an instruction to turn up the volume as music will be played. Then, choose “Next” to continue.    

setting up Firestick on Roku TV

Point the remote control on your television. Using the volume controls buttons on the remote, turn up and down the volume. 

Select “Yes” if you heard the sound. If not, choose “No,” and the process will repeat.

Now, you should get the “You have successfully set up your Firestick” message. Once you receive the message, you have completed the syncing process. 

Firestick successfully set up

How to Activate Firestick Automatically When Turning on a Roku TV

Did you know you can automatically activate Firestick as the default media streaming device upon activating your Roku television? 

Here’s how to go about this: 

  1. Go to the “Settings” menu. Select “System,” then choose “Power” and “Power On.”
  2. On the top of the device list, choose your Firestick. You can use your Firestick’s remote to power on or off the television instead of the Roku TV remote. 
  3. If you want to make the Roku TV menu again as the default, use the TV remote to change “Power On” to “Home Screen.” 

Do You Need an Amazon Firestick on Your Roku TV? + Pros and Cons

Pros

4K Viewing Experience

A Firestick is the right choice if you seek high resolution and image quality with a 4K viewing experience.

TCL Roku TV

Vast Selection of Content

Firestick offers a vast selection of quality content. But, you’ll need to pay a subscription fee, though – but it is competitively and reasonably priced.  

Fast, Simple, and User-Friendly

Did you know Firestick is one of the fastest and best streaming devices today? Aside from the fast streaming speed, it is also user-friendly and straightforward to use. 

Cons

Not Compatible With all Devices

A significant drawback of Firesticks is it is not compatible with all devices. 

Excessive Use of Data

This streaming device eats up four times more data than other top streaming devices. 

TCL 85-Inch UHD HDR Smart Roku TV (85S435)

Comparing the Features of the Fire TV Stick and Roku

Interface and Features

Feature-wise, Firestick is equipped with more apps than Roku TV. When it comes to the interface, everything on these devices is accessible. But with the Firestick interface, it emphasizes Prime Video, which you have to pay for some new releases. 

Voice Control

Both Amazon Firestick and Roku feature a voice commands system. But, we love the Firestick’s Alexa as it’s updated and more systematic than Roku’s. 

Data Usage and Flexibility

In terms of data usage, we go for Roku because it is data-efficient. But, go for Firestick if you want flexibility because there are a lot of subscriptions than on a Roku TV. 

Do You Need a Roku TV or Firestick For Your Smart TV? Can it Work on Older TVs?

The answer depends on your Smart Home TV. Some Smart TVs already have built-in access to popular streaming services such as Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Hulu, and more. So, you don’t need to purchase a streaming device. 

firestick and remote

But on some Smart Home TVs, you only have limited subscriptions and options. If this is your case, getting a streaming device like Firestick on a Roku TV is a good idea.

If you ask if Roku TV or Firestick works on older TVs, the answer is yes, as long as your TV can match the Firestick’s resolution and it has an extra HDMI port. But, if your TV doesn’t have any single HDMI port or built-in HDMI port, you can use an adapter to connect the two.  

FAQ

Will I be able to watch regular TV programs with these streaming devices?

Yes, you can watch regular TV programs with these streaming devices. There are many channels to watch from. You can watch Fox News, ABC, Al Jazeera, etc., and even live broadcasts.  

Are Apple TV and Google good options as well?

Yes, those two are good options, not just for Roku TVs but also for other television brands. Apple TV is a little expensive compared to other streaming services, but worth it. At the same time, Google TV hosts many cool features.  

Conclusion

The bottom line here is you can definitely use a Fire Stick on your Roku TV. It only takes a few minutes to set up the Firestick to start watching your favorite programs and channels. All you must do is follow the steps above to start using a Firestick on your Roku TV. 

The post Can You Use a Fire Stick on a Roku TV? appeared first on The Product Analyst.



from The Product Analyst https://theproductanalyst.com/can-you-use-a-fire-stick-on-a-roku-tv/

Monday, August 29, 2022

Where to Put a TV in a Bedroom: Best Placement Options and Ideas

TVs have become an integral part of every home. And, of course, one of the ideal places to display them is in the bedroom. Since there are different room sizes and layouts, deciding where to put a TV in the bedroom is challenging. 

If you’re wondering where your entertainment device should be, our interior designers have put together the best placement ideas. So sit back and relax, we’ve got lots of suggestions for you!

where to put a tv in the bedroom

Top Considerations to Know

Area of Your Room

You must consider the available space in your room, depending on your desired TV size. Some areas are too small to put a television or cluttered to have a television in place. 

So, we suggest picking a few spots and taking measurements to see if that place is ideal. 

Style and Comfort

Comfort is an essential aspect to consider in placing a bedroom TV. For example, if you’re a person who likes to watch TV in bed, then placing it in a way that it faces you directly goes without saying. 

cozy bedroom

But, if you don’t mind sitting in a certain position while watching television, that’s fine. As long as the place your wall-mounted TV is placed does not make it uncomfortable and difficult for you to enjoy. 

Besides being comfortable, you also need to consider your TV style. Having the right placement and the TV’s overall look are two of the most important factors you should consider when making your room look great.

10 Places to Install a TV in Your Room

#1: Above the Dresser

The best place to put a TV, if you’re not a fan of wall mounting, is above your dresser. 

Since this type of furniture is sturdy and wide, it gives enough space to serve as a television stand. Usually, a dresser is placed next to or across your bed, making it an ideal location to watch TV while in bed. 

tv above a blue dresser

If you change your mind, you can have your TV installed above your dresser for a completely finished look!

#2: Wall Beside Your Bed

Another great idea you could consider is putting your TV on the wall beside your bed. 

This might not be the best way to view the TV, though. But it works just fine in bedrooms. You can opt for this placement if you have wider wall space. Placing the TV in that particular place can fill the space quite nicely.

#3: Across the Bed

You can put a TV in the room placed across your bed. With this option, you can either use mounting brackets or a TV stand. 

We can say that this is the most convenient way to put the TV in the bedroom as it’s very accessible. Also, it completes the decor look when you place your television on the opposite side of the bed. 

#4: Outside or Inside a Cabinet

If you have a built-in cabinet, it can be the best location to put your TV effortlessly. You can put it outside, where it’s exposed, or put it hidden inside when not in use. 

tv installed inside a cabinet

With this setup, you can have other things surrounding your TV, making it look more attractive and interesting.  

#5: Mounted on a Feature Wall

You can have your TV wall-mounted on a feature wall or gallery wall, as this location is usually the most eye-catching. 

Imagine having a classy television mounted on the back wall along with a modern and sleek stand that can upgrade your sleeping area’s aesthetic. Besides, it’s a great way to fill empty spaces on your feature wall. 

#6: In the Corner

Most homeowners place a TV in the corner of the bedroom – and this is not a bad idea.  

You can put it in the room’s corner if you have no other option. You can make a little adjustment so it faces the direction you need it to be. 

tv installed on the corner of the room

Mind you, this is your best option if you want to watch television from your bed or on a bedroom chair. 

#7: End of the Bed

If you want the TV screen closer to you when you lie down in bed, put it at the end of your bed.

We suggest putting your TV straight on a drawer or post as long as the TV can safely stand. However, for this option, you better have a larger TV, instead of a small one, to fully enjoy its style and look. 

#8: Above Your Study Table

Yes, you read it right. You can place the TV above your study table. You’ll be making your study table a multi-purpose piece of furniture, accommodating your learning device/s and entertainment equipment. 

Also, this setup helps save space in rooms, especially for small bedrooms. 

#9: On Decorative Shelves

Another TV placement we recommend is putting it on decorative shelves in your sleeping area.  

tv in a bedroom

If you want your TV unit placed with some other things in your room, then put it on your shelf. Most shelves have lots of storage, so it’s an ideal stand for your television. 

You can put decors and displays above, below, or on both sides of your television – making that spot pleasing to the eyes.  

#10: On a Custom TV Cabinet

One of the best ideas is having a custom TV cabinet in your bedroom. Depending on your personal preferences, you can choose the layout you want.

For example, if you have a vintage TV, then have a custom closet in the classic style. You can place the built-in stand on a vintage TV back wall to achieve a full classic look.

Also, you can have a TV cabinet with sliding panels for easy access.  

How Do You Hide a TV in a Bedroom?

The ideal way to hide a TV in your bedroom is to put it inside the closet. As you close the television closet door, your room will appear cleaner while looking comfortable. 

tv above fireplace

Also, you can put your TV on a wheeled post, so you can store it wherever you like if not in use. 

In What Direction Should You Position a TV?

Actually, the direction you should position a TV depends on your preference and the room’s layout. 

In most rooms, the TV is placed where anyone in the room can view it. Basically, you should place it where all the seats can view it.

How High Should You Mount or Hang a TV in a Bedroom?

Our interior designers believe that you should mount your screen in the bedroom around 43 inches above the floor. 

But, you first need to consider your room’s size and layout as well as the size, form, and angle in which you want to view your TV. 

tv mounted on a wall beside two large windows

Consider this: what is your desired TV height? Should it be watched from all possible angles or a single point of view? Regardless, the optimal height must be at or above your eye level. 

Is it Recommended to Put a TV Opposite a Window?

We don’t recommend putting your TV opposite the window or the TV facing the window. Just imagine watching the television with sun rays passing through the window. You feel your eyes strain, right? 

If you have no choice but to put the TV opposite the window, we advise investing in some blinds or curtains that you can close to eliminate glare on the screen. 

Is Placing a TV in Your Bedroom Ideal?

While it’s not a bad idea to place a TV in a bedroom, there are downsides. Having the television in the bedroom can keep you awake longer at night. Also, research shows that watching TV before bedtime can disrupt your sleeping habits.

tv mounted on wall beside photo frames

So, if you don’t have the TV in your room, it allows you to get better and more sleep. It results in a productive and relaxed morning the next day.  

Best Place to Install a TV in a Small Bedroom

The best spot to install a TV in a small bedroom is inside a closet or a piece of furniture that’s fitted to the room’s size. Do not ever think of placing the TV in your room’s corner if you have a tiny space. 

Generally, having the TV positioned above the dresser or on a study table is the simplest solution. And make sure to position it across from the end of your bed.

Best Place to Install a TV in a Bedroom With Many Windows

If your room has many windows, avoid placing your TV across or in front of them, particularly one that faces west. 

In deciding where to install your TV, consider the direction where the natural light is coming from. 

What to Know Before Installing a TV in Your Children's Bedroom

According to research, putting a TV in a child’s bedroom can result in isolation, bad sleeping patterns, and reduced physical activity [1]. 

tv mounted on wall facing the bed

With TV or not, you should limit screen usage to 2 hours or less per day. Take note that children should get at least one hour of light exercise every day and 9 to 11 hours of sleep every night. 

Additionally, it’s not how much your child watches TV. It’s also where he/she watches it. 

Conclusion

Knowing where to put your TV in the bedroom is mostly based on your preference, once and for all. But, there are great options that you may want to consider, like what we’ve put together in this guide.

Whether you prefer the TV above the dresser, across from your bed, in your room’s corner, on a built-in stand, or elsewhere, make sure it’s easy to view. Consider your eye level and avoid placing it in front of the windows that reflect sunlight.  

The post Where to Put a TV in a Bedroom: Best Placement Options and Ideas appeared first on The Product Analyst.



from The Product Analyst https://theproductanalyst.com/where-to-put-a-tv-in-the-bedroom/

Saturday, August 27, 2022

Fixed: Insignia TV Not Turning On

insignia tv not turning on

Most Insignia TVs have the same problem of not starting or turning on. We’ve encountered a lot of owners dealing with this problem. So, if you’re one of those, lucky you, you’re at the right place. 

Our professional technicians will share the nine best fixes if your Insignia TV is not turning on or starting like before. Keep reading this post to learn more!

How to Fix an Insignia TV That Won't Start or Turn On: 9 Best Fixes

Fix #1: Unplug the TV and Do a Power Reset

The first thing you should do before you do a power reset is to unplug it from the power source. While your Insignia TV is unplugged, press and hold the power button (of your TV, not the remote) for about 30 seconds. Then, leave the TV unplugged for another 30 seconds. 

plug and power outlet

After the full 60 seconds, plug it back on the power supply, and your TV should turn on without any problems. If this your Insignia TV won’t turn on still, proceed with the following fixes.  

Fix #2: Check the TV's Temperature

If you have an Insignia Smart TV, it is prone to throttling, which eventually shuts down when the temperature rises. 

You can touch your TV’s body to check if it’s too hot. If so, turn it off, and let it sit for a few hours until it cools off. Also, ensure it is in a well-ventilated space to maximize cooling and heat dissipation.

Fix #3: Remove the Batteries From the Remote

The next fix is to remove the batteries from your remote control. With the batteries removed, hold down the power button for 30 seconds. 

Afterward, put the batteries back in your remote’s battery compartment and turn on your TV. 

batteries removed from Insignia TV Remote

You might want to consider using new batteries to be sure. 

Fix #4: Use a Different Power Outlet

If your Insignia TV won’t turn on still, we suggest plugging it into a different wall outlet or wall socket, as long as there’s a power supply.  

There are instances when a power outlet or power source has blown or has a short fuse, thereby causing the issue. So, if your TV turns on without any problem, that’s an outlet or power supply issue. 

To test the issue, you can plug any electronic device into the power source and see if it will turn on. If not, immediately seek help from an electrician. 

Fix #5: Check the Power Cord or Ports For Defects or Damages

The issue might be caused by a defective power cord, port, or TV cable, so double-check both the TV and ports for damages. 

checking power cord

Detach the cord from your TV or streaming device. For an easy fix, leave this unplugged for 60 seconds or more, then plug it back to ensure the connection is snug. 

After you plug back the power cord, turn on your Insignia TV by pressing the TV power button. You’ll see the red light indicator as it comes back to life as usual.   

Fix #6: Do a Factory Reset on the TV

Another effective fix is to factory reset your Insignia TV. Here’s how: 

  1. While your TV is plugged, turn it on, then press the “Home” on your remote. 
  2. Navigate to “Settings” and select “Device & Software.”
  3. Next, choose “Reset to Factory Defaults.” Your TV will turn off and on again. Once it turns on, a setup screen will appear. 
resetting Insignia Smart TV

If you have a reset issue on your older TV model, try these steps instead: 

  1. Navigate to “Settings” and select “System.” 
  2. Choose “Advance System Settings,” then “Factory Reset,” followed by “Factory Reset Everything.” That’s it!

How to Factory Reset an Insignia TV Without a Remote

If, for any reason, you don’t have your TV or universal remote, you can still reset the TV to its factory settings.  

  1. Unplug your TV from the power source [1] (or power supply) and find the power button. 
  2. Press and hold the power button. While pressing, plug your TV back in. 
  3. When the Insignia TV logo appears, release the power key. Then, you’ll see a recovery screen.
  4. Press the power button until you get on the “wipe data or factory reset.” 
  5. Once you’re in this option, press and hold the power button again until you see the “wipe data or factory reset” option turns green. 
  6. When a box asks if you’re sure to reset the TV, select “Yes,” then wait for the TV to reset. 
  7. Lastly, select the “reboot system now” option. 
wipe data or factory reset Insignia TV

Important Note: Your Insignia remote control will stop working when you factory reset your TV. Repair it by pointing the remote at your TV, pressing the “Home” button then holding it for 10 seconds. Wait for a minute, then try using your remote. It should work fine now.    

Fix #7: Choose the Correct Input

Your Insignia TV won’t turn on possibly because the input source is not in the correct settings. 

If you’re using a DVD player, a cable box, or any connected devices, make sure that the TV’s input and source match the number of HDMI ports it uses. 

Option #1: Enabling the Input Source With a Remote Control

  1. After you plug the TV into the power source, turn it on.
  2. On your remote, tap the “Source” button.
  3. Search and choose your desired input mode. 

Option #2: Changing the Input Source Without a Remote Control

  1. Start by plugging your TV into the power source, then turn it on.
  2. Tap the “Menu” Insignia TV button (usually located at the bottom or side of your TV). 
  3. Navigate to the “Source” option using your TV’s volume keys.
  4. Tap the “Menu” button, then search and select your desired input source. 
plug and power outlet
  1. Note: Some Insignia TVs have the “Source” button at the side or back. Check yours carefully. 

Fix #8: Check the TV's Backlight

If none of the fixes work up to this point, your TV’s backlight may be broken. 

Try taking a flashlight with you when you turn on your TV to check the issue. Flash the light on the screen and look closely to see if there’s any image or picture. 

If you see a faint image, it could be because the TV’s backlight has failed. You should replace it immediately. 

Fix #9: Check the TV's Power Board

If there’s been a storm recently, it’s possible that your TV’s power board has got fried. One way to confirm this is to remove the back panel.

Insignia TV power board

To test if the motherboard is not the culprit, plug in your TV, then turn it on. Detach the cable connecting the power board and motherboard. Your power board is OK if your TV lights up (or the red light lits), but you have a bad motherboard. So, we suggest replacing the broken board. 

When to Contact Insignia's Support Staff or Get a New TV Unit

If your TV is still not turning on, it’s time to contact Insignia’s customer support. You can reach their support team by calling 1-877-467-4289 – available daily from 8 am to 9 pm CT. 

Alternatively, you may consider buying a new TV unit if you feel like your TV is hopeless. If you have the budget, why not? 

FAQ

Will I be able to get my Insignia TV replaced if it's unable to turn on?

Although the one-year warranty on all Insignia televisions is a standard feature, it doesn’t cover internal component damage or accidental damage. You can still get your TV replaced and hope your TV doesn’t have internal components damaged so it can be replaced with a brand new unit. 

What are the signs of a bad capacitor on an Insignia TV?

One sign of a bad capacitor is when there’s brownish fluid flowing out of it. Also, having a bulged capacitor is a sign of damage. 

Is it possible that my Insignia TV was infected with a virus from an app, causing it to malfunction and not turn on?

There have been reports of Insignia Fire TV units being infected by crypto viruses. These infections occur when users sideload apps from malicious websites. But, none of the viruses have a function that prevents the TV from starting or turning on. Therefore, this possibility is low. 

Conclusion

Don’t be alarmed if your Insignia TV is not turning on as usual. It is a very common issue, and several fixes exist to resolve this concern. 

But, if your Insignia TV won’t turn on frequently, we suggest consulting an appliance technician. Recurring issues turning on your TV or any electronic device can be one of the signs of an underlying technical problem. 

The post Fixed: Insignia TV Not Turning On appeared first on The Product Analyst.



from The Product Analyst https://theproductanalyst.com/insignia-tv-not-turning-on/