How to use a projector like a TV?
In recent years, as projectors have become more powerful, more and more households are enjoying a cinema-like large-screen experience at home. However, many people have questions like, "How do I watch terrestrial TV on a projector?" and "Can I use it as easily as a TV?" In fact, you can easily use a projector like a TV by connecting it via HDMI, using a USB memory stick, or mirroring your smartphone. This article explains three viewing methods , the setup procedure , and important points to note.
Connecting a terrestrial tuner via HDMI
The most common method is to connect an external device using an HDMI cable . To watch terrestrial broadcasts, you need a terrestrial digital tuner . If you connect this to the projector, you can change channels with the remote control just like you would with a TV.
Required equipment
- Terrestrial digital tuner (e.g., SKnet terrestrial digital TV tuner)
- HDMI cable ( Aestiquo recommends HDMI 2.0 or higher)
- UHF antenna (indoor or outdoor)
- Aestiquo Q1/P1 Projector (HDMI input compatible)
Setup Procedure
- Connect the antenna to the "ANT IN" terminal on the tuner.
- Connect the HDMI cable to the "HDMI OUT" on the tuner and the "HDMI IN" on the projector.
- Turn on the projector and switch the signal source to "HDMI" .
- Turn on the tuner and perform a channel scan ("Settings" → "Channel Scan" on the remote control).
merit
- High-quality (1080p compatible) and stable viewing is possible.
- The remote control makes it easy to change channels and adjust the volume.
Points to note
- HDMI cables longer than 3m may cause signal degradation, so we recommend using a short cable .
- The reception quality will vary depending on where you install the antenna, so please install it in a location with strong radio waves (such as near a window).
Playing video files on a USB memory stick
The Aestiquo Q1/P1 projector is equipped with a USB port, allowing you to directly play video files stored on a USB memory stick . If you save terrestrial broadcast programs recorded on your computer in advance to a USB stick, you can watch them without any wiring.
Supported file formats
- Video: MPEG-4, AVI, MP4 (H.264 codec recommended)
- Audio: MP3, WMA
- Images: JPEG, PNG
Setup Procedure
- Save the video files to a USB memory stick (recommended to separate the files into folders).
- Insert the USB memory into the USB port of the projector.
- Switch the projector's signal source to "USB" .
- Use the directional buttons on the remote control to select a file and press the "OK" button to start playback.
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- No wiring is required and it is easy to carry.
- You can watch recorded programs anytime.
Points to note
- We recommend that you limit the capacity of the USB memory to 32GB or less (some large capacity memory may not be recognized).
- If the bitrate of the video file is too high, playback may stutter, so we recommend compressing it to 5Mbps or less .
Wireless viewing with smartphone mirroring
By using the mirroring function , you can display your smartphone screen on the projector, allowing you to enjoy video streaming apps (Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, etc.) and terrestrial broadcasting apps on a large screen. The Aestiquo P1 supports AirPlay (iOS) and Miracast (Android).
Setup procedure (iOS)
- Connect the projector and iPhone to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Select "AirPlay" from the projector's menu.
- Open the "Control Center" on your iPhone and tap "Screen Mirroring."
- Select the projector name (e.g., "Aestiquo-P1") and connect.
Setup procedure (Android)
- Select "Miracast" from the projector menu.
- On your Android device, go to "Settings" → "Display" → "Screen Mirroring".
- Select the projector name to connect.
merit
- No wiring is required and it's easy to set up.
- You can enjoy smartphone apps on the big screen.
Points to note
- Depending on the Wi-Fi congestion , delays and degradation of image quality may occur.
- The battery drains quickly, so we recommend using your smartphone while it is charging.
Equipment Recommendations and Setup Guide
To get the most out of your Aestiquo projector, we'll introduce recommended equipment and setup examples .
Recommended Equipment
| Equipment name | Purpose | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| Aestiquo P1 | Portable projector (1080p compatible) | ￥25,000～30,000 |
| SKnet terrestrial digital tuner | HDMI-connected tuner | ￥20,000～25,000 |
| Sun Electronics Indoor Antenna | Compact and high performance | ￥5,000～8,000 |
| Magic Voice HDMI Cable (2m) | High-quality signal transmission | ￥2,000～3,000 |
Setup example (living room)
- Place the projector in front of a screen or white wall (distance depends on screen size).
- The antenna is fixed to the window and connected to the tuner with a coaxial cable.
- Connect the tuner and projector with an HDMI cable.
- Power it on and perform a channel scan.
For detailed setup instructions, please see the official Aestiquo guidance video .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Format the USB memory (FAT32 recommended).
- Turn the projector off and then on again.
- Try inserting it into a different USB port.
For more troubleshooting information, please see the Aestiquo FAQ page .
Summary: How to enjoy watching TV with a projector
There are three ways to use a projector like a TV: HDMI connection , USB playback , and mirroring . Each has its own advantages and drawbacks, so choose the method that best suits your lifestyle.
- For everyday TV viewing , an HDMI connection is recommended.
- Portable viewing : Choose between USB playback or mirroring.
- Looking for high quality ? Take advantage of the Aestiquo P1's 1080p resolution and HDMI 2.0.
Come enjoy watching movies and sports on the big screen!
