MoHoSinger replied on 27/04/2024 19:30
Posted on 27/04/2024 19:30
I collect my Hobby T500 next Friday. With most things sorted from ramps to a SafeFill propane cylinder, crockery and SatNav etc, etc I can now turn my attention to sorting a TV and would welcome advice on the best option. My needs:
1. Freeview TV. I also have an Amazon subscription but nothing else.
2. Ideally with built in DVD for sites with poor mobile and wifi reception but my research to date means I am not optimistic about getting this plus all other features.
3. A decent size set (likely 22" or 24" - I will need to check what will fit when in possession of the van) and with HDMI connectors so that I can plug in my Dell XPS13" and bluetooth so I can use a bluetooth keyboard and mouse, will then have a decent size monitor for occasional work from my MoHo when that suits me. That replicates my home set up (albeit that I am spoilt by having 4K UHD res on a 26" screen!)
4. Full HD (1960 x 1080)
5. I have a Samsung Galaxy S10 5G running Android version 12 and a decent contract with EE with unlimited data. I am used to using my phone as a mobile hotspot.
6. My Hobby van has a decent 110Amp leisure battery and 130 Watt roof panel.
7. Initially I am looking to stay on sites with EHUs
8. I aim to tour Europe in this LHD van when work permits
So my questions:
A. 12V/24V sets seem to attract a massive premium. Is the 12/24V facility worth it? Or when on a site without EHU will a 12V/24V TV drain the leisure battery after say 3 hours of TV or working on the Dell XPS linked to the TV screen as monitor for a similar length of time? Maybe I should just buy a low consumption 240V model?
B. I almost certainly need a SMART TV. But I am looking at 12/12V TV's that are designed to function with Android. What is the difference between one of those and a SMART TV? The adverts for those are careful not to describe them as Smart TVs. They are much cheaper.
C. Will European sites offering 6 Amp max EHU (and some only 3!) impact upon my viewing ability?
C. I have a small portable inverter - Input 12V ~ 20A - Continuous (4 hours)Output Power 150W (Peak Power 300W) Output power 0.65 Amps. I would expect that could power the TV but how fast will it drain the leisure battery? Will I get a night's viewing without putting a serious strain on the leisure battery?
The Hobby Van comes with a roof mounted aerial and a mass of wiring. My (excellent) dealer has done a good job of getting the van in first class order but gives no warranty regarding TV hook up but I should have the basics already in situ. I have an old mains flatscreen 15" in the loft. I will set that up with the van on the drive and 240V power available and tinker to check that I can at least get a Freeview signal. Maybe I have a small enclosed FreeSat satellite dish as well!
In the short term I can get by watching via the Iplayer and ITVX on my Dell XPS but would like to sort a TV before my first proper trip in the UK at the end of June and certainly before my first trip abroad on 22.07.24.
All advice gratefully received!!! 😊
Chris
MoHoSinger
Motorhomer from Lancashire