What equipment is needed for Verizon FIOS TV?
Verizon Fios TV provides high-quality picture definition and has a plethora of channels and programs to choose from. However, there are a few things you must have to start enjoying Fios TV service.
Here they are; Below is a breakdown of the equipment that comes with Verizon Fios TV and the function of each of the items.
Fios TV Set-Top Box
The one that cannot be done without when using Fios TV is the set-top box. The Fios set-top box receives and decodes the Fios TV signal before sending it to your television. Verizon provides quite a few options to go with which are HD, HD plus DVR, and 4K plus DVR options. Some of the options that the box you select influences include the DVR space, the recording capacity, and the video output quality among others. A Fios HD DVR is chosen by most customers because of its additional options such as recording programs, pausing live broadcasts, Netflix compatibility, and voice commands.
Fios TV Router
While it may not initially come to mind as an essential, to get your Fios TV services you will also require a Fios router. The Fios network does offer a fiber optic internet connection. This means that you need to get a Fios router that is compatible as opposed to getting a cable modem/router device. Verizon also provides customers with a choice of opting for Verizon routers and getting one by leasing, or purchasing it at a one-time fee. The easiest option is to use the Fios Quantum Gateway router that comes with the Fios service because it comes with the router already set up to work with Fios TV.
HDMI Cable
You will also require an HDMI cable to plug in the Fios set-top box to the television. HDMI cables are used to transfer both digital video signals and audio signals from your Fios box to your TV set. It provides better video and audio signal quality than basic connections such as RCA composite cable or coaxial RF. HDMI cables are designed with a small connector so they easily connect from your set-top box to your television without creating a cable mess. When purchasing an HDMI cable, ensure that you get a high-speed HDMI cable that is about 10 feet long to facilitate easy installation.
Coaxial Cable
Depending on where you live, the setup might be slightly different, but you’ll require some form of coaxial cable wiring to get your Fios services going. The Fios fiber optic line ends at the Optical Network Terminal (ONT) box which is usually located outside or in your basement or utility room. From there, coaxial cables link the ONT to Fios routers and TV set-top boxes to convey data, Internet, and TV signals to various rooms of the house. It should be noted that these coaxial lines are connected during professional installation.
Ethernet Cables
You will also want to keep some spare ethernet cables around as well The above are some of the things you will need to have at your disposal. Though the Fios set-top boxes use coaxial cables to connect, the router requires ethernet cables to connect other devices in your home like smart TVs, game consoles, and computers. It is advisable to have several extra ethernet cables as it allows wiring additional devices to the Fios Quantum Gateway router for faster and more reliable wired connectivity and WiFi data transfer.
Backup Batteries
Here is one item that is not strictly necessary but may be a great idea to have - spare batteries. The Optical Network Terminal box that brings the fiber line into your home needs power from your home power system. In case you are out of power for some time your Fios services will be shut down once the ONT backup battery is drained. Therefore, purchasing Fios Backup Batteries for the ONT means your valuable Fios services continue working for up to 8 hours in the event of power loss such as storms.
This sums up most equipment that you will have to use for the Verizon Fios TV services. Fios offers the ONT, routers, cables, set-top boxes, and installation. However, some other components like the ethernet cables, the backup batteries, or another set-top box may be necessary depending on the situation. Knowing the function of every Fios TV component makes it possible to obtain the correct equipment for your house. If you have any other questions before ordering, you can also contact Verizon!
Ready to experience blazing-fast internet? Call us today at +1 844-967-4555 and discover the power of Verizon Fios Home Internet! Don’t miss out—get connected now!