Modern multimedia habits dictate their own rules, and often a single TV set-top box in the home is no longer sufficient. MGTS subscribers often need to display content on a second screen, located, for example, in the kitchen or bedroom, but don't want to pay for additional equipment. Fortunately, modern Smart TV technologies and wireless data protocols offer an elegant and cost-effective solution.
The main principle that we will use is based on technology DLNA and functions Screen Mirroring, built into most modern TVs. Instead of running an HDMI cable through the entire apartment or buying a second interactive TV box, you can use your existing MGTS router and wireless network. This not only saves money but also preserves the aesthetics of your interior by eliminating unnecessary wires.
It is important to note right away that in order to implement this scheme, your second TV must have the function Smart TV and maintain a Wi-Fi connection. If you have an older TV without smart features, you'll need either a media player or an HDMI cable from a laptop, but in this article, we'll focus on a completely wireless solution for smart TVs.
Technical requirements and equipment testing
Before setting up, you need to ensure your home network is ready to transmit high-definition video. Wireless connections are more susceptible to interference than cable connections, so signal stability is critical. If the MGTS router is located far from the TV or the signal passes through thick concrete walls, lag or image artifacts may occur.
Make sure both devices—the primary signal source (computer, smartphone, or primary set-top box) and the target TV—are on the same local network. This means they must be connected to the same router. Separating the guest network from the primary network can prevent the devices from discovering each other.
⚠️ Attention: Video transmission protocols require significant bandwidth. If someone downloads large files or plays online games while watching a movie, the picture quality on the second TV may degrade.
For high-quality operation of the system, it is recommended to use routers that support the standard 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) or newer, operating in the 5 GHz band. The 2.4 GHz frequency is often overloaded with signals from neighbors and household appliances, which can lead to connection drops when streaming video.
Using Screen Mirroring and Wi-Fi Direct
The fastest way to display content from your smartphone or tablet on a second MGTS TV is screen mirroring. Depending on your TV brand, this feature may have different names: Miracast, Smart View, AirPlay or simply "Broadcast." This method allows you to broadcast not only video files but also the MGTS mobile app interface.
To get started, open your TV's settings and find the section for connecting mobile devices. On Samsung TVs, this is usually located in the menu. Settings → General → External devices menu → Manage device list, where you need to allow the connection. On LG, look for the section Connecting to a mobile device.
After activating the receiving mode on your TV, pick up your smartphone. In the Android notification bar, find the "Cast" or "Smart View" button. On your iPhone, use "Screen Mirroring" in the "Control Center." Select your TV from the list of available devices.
- 📱 Make sure you have the official MGTS TV or Wink app installed on your smartphone if you plan to watch channels via a mobile app.
- 📡 Make sure your phone and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, otherwise they won't "see" each other.
- 🔒 When connecting for the first time, a permission request may appear on the TV screen - confirm it with the remote control.
This method is ideal for temporary use, such as showing photos to guests or quickly changing channels. However, for regular viewing, it may not be the most convenient, as the smartphone screen will be occupied, and picture quality may depend on the phone's performance.
Setting up a DLNA server to stream your media library
If your goal is to play pre-downloaded movies or TV series stored on your computer or network-attached storage (NAS), then the technology DLNA will be the best solution. It allows the MGTS TV to see folders containing media files on other devices on the network and play them directly, without overloading the transmitting device's processor.
On a Windows computer, this feature is built into the system. You need to open "Media Streaming Settings" in the Control Panel and allow your TV to access media files. After that, your computer will appear as an external input source in the TV menu (usually under "Sources" or "Media").
For more advanced users, it is recommended to install specialized server software, such as Plex or JellyfinThese programs not only stream videos but also automatically create beautiful covers, descriptions, and sort content, turning your file collection into a full-fledged online cinema.
| Parameter | Windows Media | Plex Server | DLNA on a router |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficulty of setup | Low | Average | High |
| Subtitle support | Basic | Full | Limited |
| PC requirements | Minimum | Average | None |
| Interface | Standard | Advanced | Minimalistic |
Using a DLNA server allows you to watch content in high definition, up to 4K, if your local network speed allows. This is a great way to reduce the load on your main MGTS set-top box by transferring playback of archived video to a second TV.
Why can't the TV see files from the computer?
Most often, the problem lies in the Windows Firewall settings or network profile. Make sure your network is marked as "Private" and not "Public," and that the "Media Sharing Service" application is allowed in the firewall exceptions.
Broadcast via browser and Wink app
MGTS provider is actively developing its platform Wink, which is available not only on set-top boxes but also as apps for Smart TVs. This is perhaps the most streamlined way to access TV channels and video library on a second TV without purchasing a second set-top box.
You need to go to the app store on your Smart TV (Samsung Apps, LG Content Store, Android TV) and find the "Wink" or "MGTS TV" app. After installation and authorization (often via a QR code from your phone), you'll gain access to your channel package.
However, it's worth considering licensing restrictions. MGTS plans often require the service to be used on a limited number of devices simultaneously. If your plan only allows one active stream, then turning on a channel on the second TV may disable it on the first.
⚠️ Attention: The terms of multi-screening (viewing on multiple devices) depend on your specific tariff plan. Check your MGTS account to see how many devices can be used simultaneously.
If you can't install the app directly (for example, on older TV models), you can use the built-in browser. Go to the website of the video rental or TV service provided by MGTS and start playback. The quality may be slightly lower than in the native app, but the functionality will still be available.
☑️ Check before installing the app
Video compatibility and format issues
When connecting a second TV to signal sources without an MGTS set-top box, you may encounter audio and video codec incompatibility. Built-in Smart TV players do not support all formats, unlike universal set-top boxes.
The most common issue is the lack of sound when playing video files via DLNA. This is due to the fact that many TVs are not licensed to decode the format. Dolby Digital or DTS Without external speakers. In such cases, the system either remains silent or returns a format error.
To solve this problem, it is recommended to use software players that can recode audio on the fly, or install third-party players on the TV, such as VLC for Android or Nova Video Player, if the TV operating system allows it.
- 🎬 Use containers
MP4orMKVwith codecH.264for maximum compatibility. - 🔊 If there is no sound, try changing the audio output settings on your TV to PCM.
- 📼 Older TVs may require video conversion before viewing.
HDR support is also worth mentioning. If you're streaming content from a computer, make sure the color settings are consistent, otherwise the picture on the second TV may look washed out or, conversely, overexposed.
Optimizing your Wi-Fi network for stable streaming
Wireless video streaming is a resource-intensive process. To ensure the second TV works without stuttering or buffering, the MGTS network must be configured correctly. Routers provided by your provider often have basic settings that are worth double-checking.
First, separate the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands by giving them different names (SSIDs). Connect your TV to the 5 GHz network. This band provides much higher data transfer rates, although it has a shorter range, which is usually not an issue for an apartment.
Check if your Wi-Fi channel is overloaded. In apartment buildings, dozens of routers can operate on the same frequencies, creating a cloud of signals. Use Wi-Fi analyzer apps on your smartphone to find a free channel and manually enter it into your MGTS router settings.
⚠️ Attention: MGTS router interfaces are subject to update. The location of channel and signal strength settings may differ from those described. Look for the "Wireless," "Wi-Fi Settings," or "Wireless Network" sections.
If the signal is still weak, consider installing a Wi-Fi repeater or setting up a mesh system. This will expand your coverage area without sacrificing speed, which is critical for high-definition streaming video.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to watch MGTS broadcast channels on a second TV without a set-top box?
Yes, this is possible through the Wink app or a web browser on your Smart TV, if your plan allows multiscreening. The TV won't be able to receive a direct signal from an antenna or cable without a decoder (set-top box).
Why is there a delay when broadcasting from a phone to a TV?
Latency is inherent to wireless transmission technology. It depends on the router speed, Wi-Fi channel load, and the phone's processor power. While it's not critical for movies, it can be noticeable for games or sports.
Do I need to pay for a second TV if I don't have a set-top box?
Setting up a second TV via Wi-Fi is free. However, if you use the Wink service on a second device, it may be considered a second active device under your plan. Check with MGTS for details.
Does AirPlay work with MGTS routers?
Yes, if you have an iPhone and a TV with AirPlay 2 support (or Apple TV), they will work through any router, including MGTS equipment, provided they are on the same network.