Streaming Resolution
#1
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Streaming Resolution
I have a Roku 3 in my bedroom (top floor) and a Panasonic TC-L42ET5 smart TV in the living room (main floor). My wireless router is also on the main floor. For some reason, when streaming Netflix (haven't checked other services yet), the Roku 3 always streams in 720P or 1080i, whereas my smart TV is typically 480SD max and rarely hits 720P. I set the Roku 3 to have highest priority (in the router menu), but if the Roku isn't streaming then it shouldn't be using much if any bandwidth, so I don't think that is the problem. I'm wondering if the wireless adapter that came with the TV is inferior. Another problem I've had since I bought the TV two years ago, is that whenever I click on the Internet button to bring up my apps, it performs an internet connection test, which fails about four or five times before successfully making a connection. I don't have this issue with any of my other devices that use wireless in my house.
#2
Have you tried streaming with the Roku connected with an ethernet connection and HDMI? If that solves the problem, it is an issue with your WiFi network. If it still does it, I would say you have a poor internet connection.
Run a test at Speedtest.net by Ookla - The Global Broadband Speed Test and let us know what the results are.
Run a test at Speedtest.net by Ookla - The Global Broadband Speed Test and let us know what the results are.
#3
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The Roku is good. It's the TV that has poor resolution. Poor meaning DVD quality (480P) when it should be 720P/1080i. The TV is only 25 feet from the router whereas the Roku is twice that, which is why I'm thinking maybe the wireless adapter on the TV is crap. I'll run an ethernet cable directly to the TV and if that solves the problem, then I'll know it's the LAN adapter. I'm hesistant to replace it with another adapter of the same kind though.
I just read in the manual that it recommends using the 5 GHz band as opposed to 2.4GHz for the best signal, so I'll give that a try first.
I just read in the manual that it recommends using the 5 GHz band as opposed to 2.4GHz for the best signal, so I'll give that a try first.
Last edited by mossman; 02-24-15 at 01:09 PM.
#4
The reason I am wondering about connection quality is that I am pretty sure your Netflix stream depends on your internet connection quality. Your Roku can handle 1080p but Netflix might only be sending a 720p stream to it (or 480 if the connection is really bad). I wouldnt think it would be throttled down between the Roku and TV.
#7
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Okay, now I'm having an issue with my Roku upstairs. Ever since I switched my smart TV to connect to the 5 GHz wireless signal, I can no longer connect to the 2.4 GHz signal with my Roku as I was before. BTW, I have both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz on simultaneously, which is how it has always been because my cellphone doesn't support 802.11n. Why not switch the Roku to 5 GHz as well you may ask, because it is a weaker signal upstairs (2 bars as opposed to full bars for the 2.4 GHz signal). So, 5 GHz is the stronger signal for my smart TV, which is located closer to the router, and 2.4 GHz is the stronger signal for my Roku, which is located twice as far away. Bizzare.
#8
It may not apply to your situation, but I replaced an older Roku with a USB version and it works fine. The only problem is it is possible I am over loading the router at some times. I'll note it buffers occasionally. I have a dual band router. BUT, two Ipads that really only go to sleep, one wireless printer that is always "ready", my cell phone on but charging in case I get emergency calls (or telemarketers -hate missing them), and a Microcell. I believe they are hogging the band width. Shutting unused items down completely helps keep the buffer down on the Roku.
#9
A couple weeks ago I upgraded my router to a Linksys WRT1900AC (4-antenna, dual band). The product description claims it was specifically designed to improve simultaneous-dual band and multi-floor use. I don't understand the tech but I know it cured my signal strength issues all over the house and out on the patio.
Now maybe someone can tell me how I can tell what bitrate I'm seeing when streaming to my home TV (via wifi enabled BluRay player or FireTV). I know there are test videos that display this when viewed on a PC or phone--but that overlayed display doesn't look to be available on the TV. Is my BluRay the "problem" and the actual bitrate is visible on a smart TV?
Now maybe someone can tell me how I can tell what bitrate I'm seeing when streaming to my home TV (via wifi enabled BluRay player or FireTV). I know there are test videos that display this when viewed on a PC or phone--but that overlayed display doesn't look to be available on the TV. Is my BluRay the "problem" and the actual bitrate is visible on a smart TV?
#10
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Mossman
You can enable the diagnostic menu on the Roku and it will show the bit rate that is being used when running netflix. Netflix as far as I know uses adaptive bitrate selection which means that Netflix determines what bit rate (and hence the display resolution) - it does on my Roku 2 anyway.
To enable disgnostics reboot the roku and then Press Home 5 times, Rewind 3 times, fastforward 2 times. Then a menu will show when you start streaming netflix and it should tell you the bit rate being used.
Roku 2 automatically sets the bitrate but you can fiddle with the settings in that mode. I think it shows for about 20 seconds or so at the start. Not sure about the Roky 3 however.
You can enable the diagnostic menu on the Roku and it will show the bit rate that is being used when running netflix. Netflix as far as I know uses adaptive bitrate selection which means that Netflix determines what bit rate (and hence the display resolution) - it does on my Roku 2 anyway.
To enable disgnostics reboot the roku and then Press Home 5 times, Rewind 3 times, fastforward 2 times. Then a menu will show when you start streaming netflix and it should tell you the bit rate being used.
Roku 2 automatically sets the bitrate but you can fiddle with the settings in that mode. I think it shows for about 20 seconds or so at the start. Not sure about the Roky 3 however.
#11
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Thread Starter
Everything is fine with the smart TV now that I switched it to the 5 GHz band. To clear up any confusion, the Roku never had an issue and I am using it on the 2.4 GHz band because it has the strongest signal, whereas the strongest signal detected by the smart TV is on the 5 GHz band. Streaming HD in both locations with no issues.
#13
I understand, you also have to stand on your left foot, twirl to the right while holding the remote in your left hand.. Just kidding. It does sound strange, though. You KNOW I'll have to try it.