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Introduction
With the rise of streaming services and the widespread availability of fast internet, traditional cable and satellite TV have taken a backseat to internet-based TV services. This has resulted in an increase in the use of networked TV boxes, also known as networked media players, which are small devices that connect to a TV to enable it to stream online content. However, these devices can be quite pricey, leading many people to look for cheaper alternatives. In this article, we'll look at how you can modify an old printer to transform it into a networked TV box.
Materials and Tools
Before we get started, it's important to gather all the necessary materials and tools. Here's what you'll need:
An old printer
A small computer (such as a Raspberry Pi)
A USB Wi-Fi dongle
A power supply for the computer
An HDMI cable
A keyboard and a mouse
If you don't have some of these items, you can purchase them online or from a local electronics shop.
Modifying the Printer
The first step is to modify the printer to turn it into a networked TV box. You will need to remove the printer's casing and detach its control board. Then, you'll need to install the computer and connect it to the printer's existing ports, such as the USB and power connectors. Once the computer is securely attached, you can reassemble the printer's casing.
Installing the Operating System
Next, you'll need to install the operating system on the computer. There are several free operating systems available online that are suitable for this project. A popular option is OpenELEC, a lightweight operating system that is specifically designed for media centers.
To install the operating system, you'll need to download the image file from the OpenELEC website and burn it onto an SD card. Then, insert the SD card into the computer and power it on. Follow the prompts to complete the installation process.
Connecting to the Internet
Once the operating system is installed, you'll need to connect the computer to the internet. Attach the USB Wi-Fi dongle to the computer and configure the network settings to connect to your wireless network. You can do this from the settings menu in the operating system.
Configuring the Media Player
With the computer now connected to the internet, you'll need to configure the media player to stream content from online services. OpenELEC comes pre-installed with several media player apps, such as Kodi and Plex, which you can use to stream content.
You'll need to set up the app by configuring your user account and adding your preferred sources of content, such as Netflix or Hulu. This process will vary depending on the specific app you choose to use as your media player.
Connecting to the TV
Finally, connect the computer to your TV using an HDMI cable. You can also connect a keyboard and a mouse to the computer to navigate the media player and control the content playback.
Conclusion
Modifying an old printer to transform it into a networked TV box is a fun and affordable DIY project that can save you money and provide an excellent streaming experience. With a little time and effort, you can enjoy all your favorite TV shows and movies on your TV without breaking the bank.
