Expanding the media space in an apartment is not a luxury, but a modern necessity when family members want to watch different programs at the same time. Rostelecom set-top box provides flexible options for organizing a multimedia system, allowing you to display images not only on the main screen, but also on additional devices. Wi-Fi connection In this case, it is a key tool that frees the user from the need to run long HDMI cables across the entire room.
There are several proven methods for implementing this task, each of which has its own technical features and equipment requirements. Wireless transmission Signal transmission can be accomplished through built-in Smart TV features, dedicated apps, or screen mirroring standards. It's important to understand that image quality and stability directly depend on your router's speed and supported protocols.
In this article, we will examine in detail the action algorithms for various use cases, paying special attention to the nuances of configuration DLNA protocol and functions MiracastYou'll learn how to turn a regular TV into a second screen for your set-top box using only your home network. Proper configuration will allow you to enjoy content without lag or loss of quality.
⚠️ Attention: App interfaces and set-top box menus may vary slightly depending on the software version and device model (WZK, SML, Huawei). If you can't find the item you're looking for, check the official documentation in your provider's personal account.
Technical requirements and equipment preparation
Before you begin setting up, you need to make sure that your equipment meets the minimum requirements for stable operation of the multimedia network. Router is the central node, and for transmitting high definition video stream (HD or 4K) the use of the standard is highly recommended Wi-Fi 5 GHzThis frequency range provides high throughput, which is critical for wireless video transmission.
Both devices—the primary set-top box and the second TV (or the set-top box on it)—must be on the same local network. This means they must be connected to the same router. IP addresses The devices must be on the same subnet, which usually happens automatically with a standard DHCP setup.
TVs that do not have built-in Smart TV support will require additional hardware. This may include: Android TV Box, a gaming console, or even a laptop connected to the TV via HDMI. The main requirement is that the receiving device has an operating system capable of handling network video streaming.
- 📡 A stable router that supports the 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) standard or later.
- 📺 A second TV with Smart TV functionality or a media set-top box connected to it.
- 🔌 Rostelecom main set-top box with active internet access.
- 📶 A single Wi-Fi network for all devices without client isolation.
Using Miracast and Wi-Fi Direct technology
The fastest way to display an image from a smartphone or tablet connected to the ecosystem on a large screen is to use technology MiracastMany modern Rostelecom set-top boxes running Android support this feature natively or through additional utilities. Wi-Fi Direct Allows devices to connect directly, bypassing the router, which reduces latency.
To activate, go to the display settings on the receiving device (TV). In the menu, this is often called "Cast," "Screen Mirroring," or "Wireless Monitor." After turning on standby mode on the TV, set-top box, or mobile device, find the available display in the list of wireless connections.
Transmission quality in this mode depends on the wireless module's power. If you notice audio and video out of sync, try moving the devices closer together or clearing the airwaves of other active network congestion. Miracast protocol Ideal for displaying photos, videos from the gallery or web pages, but may not be suitable for dynamic games due to input lag.
Why might Miracast not work?
This feature may not work if AP Isolation is enabled on your router or if your Wi-Fi adapter drivers don't support monitor mode. Some antivirus software may also block the connection.
Setting up DLNA for media streaming
Technology DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is the de facto standard for sharing media files on a home network. Unlike Miracast, which broadcasts the entire screen, DLNA allows you to stream specific files: movies, music, or photos stored on a set-top box's hard drive or a connected USB drive.
To set up access, you need to ensure that the media server function is enabled on your Rostelecom set-top box. This is usually activated automatically when a USB drive is connected, but sometimes manual configuration is required in the "Network" or "Storage" section. A media player app that supports this feature must be launched on the second TV. UPnP/DLNA.
After scanning the network, the TV will detect the set-top box as a content source. You'll be able to access folders and launch files remotely. This is a great way to watch downloaded movies in the kitchen or bedroom without physically moving the hard drive. Transfer speed DLNA is usually higher than screen mirroring, since only data is streamed, not the interface video signal.
| Parameter | Miracast / Wi-Fi Direct | DLNA | Provider applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission type | Screen mirroring | File transfer | Streaming video |
| Router dependency | Low (Direct) / Medium | High | High |
| Image quality | Depends on the signal | Original (lossless) | Adaptive |
| Control | From the transmitting device | From the TV remote control | From the TV remote control |
Wink app and cloud technologies
The most modern and convenient way to use a second TV is to install the official application Wink or "Interactive TV" directly on a Smart TV. In this case, the Rostelecom set-top box acts as just one client, while the second TV becomes a fully autonomous receiver.
You won't need to set up complex network bridges. Simply download the app from your TV's app store (Samsung Apps, LG Content Store, Google Play). When logging in, use the same account linked to your contract with your provider. Multi-screen Allows you to watch different channels on different devices simultaneously within one tariff.
This method relieves the home Wi-Fi network of the burden associated with transmitting a heavy video stream from the set-top box to the TV, since each screen downloads content directly from the provider's cloud. Picture quality will be determined only by the speed of your Internet channel and the capabilities of the TV itself.
Step-by-step instructions for connecting via a local network
Let's look at how to set up streaming using Android's built-in tools if your set-top box runs Android. This method allows you to stream screen content or individual apps to another Android-compatible TV or set-top box.
First, you need to prepare the receiving device. On the second TV (or connected set-top box), open Settings and find the "Connections" or "Network" section. Select "Cast" or "Connect to Device." The device will enter search mode.
On the main Rostelecom set-top box, lower the notification curtain or go to Settings → Display → BroadcastThe name of your second TV should appear in the list of available devices. Click it to pair it.
☑️ Broadcast setup checklist
Once connected, the image from the main screen will be duplicated on the second one. You can minimize the app and use the set-top box for other tasks by running a video in picture-in-picture mode or using specialized players that support background playback.
⚠️ Attention: When actively using Wi-Fi to stream 4K video, download speeds for other devices in the home (smartphones, laptops) can significantly decrease due to the radio airwaves becoming crowded.
Solution and troubleshooting
During setup, users often encounter problems with devices "not seeing" each other. The most common cause is using different frequency bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) with isolation enabled in the router settings. Make sure both devices are connected to the same SSID network, even if the frequencies are different, but it's best if they match.
Another issue is the low performance of the set-top box's processor when encoding the video stream. If the image is choppy or appears blocky, try lowering the output resolution in the set-top box's display settings. Buffering This can also occur if the Wi-Fi signal is weak; in this case, use a Wi-Fi repeater or move the router closer.
If the audio lags behind the video, check your audio output settings. Sometimes switching from "Surround Sound" to "Stereo" or "PCM" in the set-top box settings resolves the issue of desynchronization during wireless transmission. It's also worth updating the set-top box firmware via the menu. Settings → About device → Software update.
- 🔄 Restart your router and both devices—this solves 80% of network visibility issues.
- 📶 Check the Wi-Fi signal strength on both devices; it should be at least 2-3 bars.
- 🛡️ Disable the VPN on your set-top box if you are using one, as it may hide your device from your local network.
- ⚙️ Reset the network settings on your TV and reconnect using the password.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to watch broadcast TV on a second TV without a second set-top box?
Yes, this is possible if the second TV has a Smart TV and the Wink app (or a similar app from Rostelecom). Simply install the app, log in, and watch live channels online without using the main set-top box as a signal source.
Why is the image quality low when connected via Wi-Fi?
Most likely, the 2.4 GHz band is being used, which is congested, or the signal is too weak. For HD and 4K content, the 5 GHz band is critical. Quality may also degrade if other devices are actively downloading large files.
Does my old Rostelecom set-top box support Wi-Fi transmission?
Older models (such as the SML-483 or early Huawei models) may not have a built-in Wi-Fi module or only support older standards that won't handle the video stream. In this case, you'll need an external USB Wi-Fi adapter (compatible with the model) or a LAN cable.
Does watching on a second TV affect the main set-top box?
When using DLNA technology or the Wink cloud app, no, the primary set-top box can be turned off or used for other tasks. When using Miracast (screen mirroring), the primary set-top box is busy transmitting the image and cannot be used for other tasks.