What is the difference between the DVB-T, ATSC and QAM versions?

They output the same encoded program in different RF standards. Pick the one your TVs' tuners use: DVB-T for most of Europe and many other regions, ATSC for North America over the air, QAM for North American cable systems.

Can it distribute more than one channel?

No. It has one RF carrier and one video input, so it puts out a single program. For several channels you need several units or a multi-channel rack modulator.

Will my TVs find the channel automatically?

Yes, if the RF standard and channel match. Run a channel scan on each TV after setting the output frequency, and the modulator's program appears as a normal digital channel.

Does it accept copy-protected HDMI sources?

No. Like other compact modulators it expects an unprotected HDMI signal. A cable box or streaming stick with HDCP will not pass through; use an unprotected source or a compliant splitter.

What can I play from the USB port?

Recorded transport stream (.ts) files. It is not a media player for MP4 or MKV files, so convert other formats to TS first.

Is it worth it over a rack-mount modulator?

For one channel in a small venue, yes: it is simpler and needs no rack. For many channels, remote management or redundancy, a rack unit is the better fit.

Thor H-AC3-CMOD-DVBT HDMI Digital TV Modulator

Q: Where is the Thor H-AC3-CMOD-DVBT HDMI Digital TV Modulator cheapest?

At HDTV Supply, for $1,195.00, as of our latest check.

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What reviewers say

Owners of compact single-carrier modulators like this one report quick setup once the RF standard and channel are set, and stable picture on tuners across a building. Complaints center on the installer-style menus and the single input limiting multi-source jobs.

What people mention

SetupMixedSetup is quick once you know the RF standard and channel, but the menus assume installer knowledge.
Picture qualityPraisedOwners report a stable 1080p picture on tuners throughout the building.
AudioPraisedThe Dolby AC-3 chip keeps audio working on strict standards tuners.
InputsCriticisedOne HDMI or YPbPr input means only one program at a time.
HeatCriticisedThe compact case runs warm and needs open space around it.

About the Thor H-AC3-CMOD-DVBT HDMI Digital TV Modulator

The Thor H-AC3-CMOD-DVBT is a compact digital TV modulator. It combines a real-time MPEG hardware encoder, a DTV transport stream generator and an agile RF modulator in one handheld unit. It converts a live HDMI video source into a TV channel that can be sent over existing coax cable and antenna TV systems.

It distributes 720p, 1080i or 1080p Full HD video, up to 1080p60, to any number of HD displays on the coax. The channel can be viewed on a television using its built-in tuner. The unit includes a licensed Dolby AC/3 audio encoding chip, so channels can be viewed on strict standards tuners such as Motorola or Scientific Atlanta set top boxes. It can also play any recorded TS file from a USB drive.

The H-AC3-CMOD series uses the same hardware for all versions. The output format is set by firmware, which is hard for the user to change, so it is chosen at the time of ordering. Available formats are QAM, ATSC and DVB-T. The DVB-T version's output conforms to DVB-T terrestrial broadcasting standards, and its NIT tables are configurable.

Input

HDMI (YPbPr also listed)

Output

1 HDTV carrier RF output

Video

720p, 1080i, 1080p; Full HD 1080p60

Audio

Licensed Dolby AC/3 encoding chip

Formats

QAM, ATSC or DVB-T, set by firmware

QAM

Supports all three ITU-J.83 annex standards, including J.83A and J.83B