ClearStream TV™ Frequently Asked Questions
Connecting to WiFi
-
ClearStream TV did not connect to my WiFi network.
Follow the steps below to troubleshoot your WiFi connection with ClearStream TV, or go to our dedicated WiFi Setup page.
- Ensure you chose the correct WiFi network and entered the correct network password during setup.
- Place the ClearStream TV unit in a location with a strong WiFi signal from your home network, ususally within 20 feet of your router.
To troubleshoot your WiFi signal:
- Check the WiFi signal strength at the ClearStream TV unit with a smartphone. WiFi should be at least medium strength (3 out of 5 bars) or at least -60dbm as read by a WiFi scanning app.
- Verify the network and credentials by connecting another device to the WiFi network.
- Perform the setup again.
Tip: Verify the status of ClearStream TV by going to the router’s webpage (typically 192.168.1.1) and check to see if the MAC address is listed as an active client. Visit ClearStream TV’s IP address in a browser to verify it is active.
Advanced WiFi troubleshooting:
If your WiFi environment is too congested, you may need to change the channel of your WiFi router to avoid interference. A WiFi analyzer app on an Android device or a computer can help diagnose the WiFi. The WiFi channel is typically changed in the router’s settings (visit the router's webpage to access settings).
-
Is there a good WiFi analyzer app you recommend?
For an Android device: We recommend the farproc WiFi Analyzer.
For an iOS device: We are still looking for the best free WiFi analyzer app.
-
I have two WiFi networks, my normal network and a “5G” network. Which network should ClearStream TV be connected to?
Most modern routers broadcast both a 2.4 GHz and a 5 GHz network. ClearStream TV will work with either one. If available, a “5G” or a 5 GHz network will provide a faster connection to the ClearStream TV.
-
My app cannot find the ClearStream TV on my local network.
- Ensure your app and ClearStream TV are on the same network. If the “ClearStreamTV_XXXX” WiFi network is visible, ClearStream TV is still in Setup Mode and is not connected to your home WiFi. Go back into the app and select "Get Connected" to finish the WiFi Setup.
- Use a computer to confirm ClearStream TV is visible on the network and active.
- Find ClearStream TV on your router’s list of client devices.
- Visit ClearStream TV’s IP address in a web browser and check that the webpage is found without errors.
The default settings of most routers will work with ClearStream TV. If you continue to have issues, you should review the following settings on your WiFi router:
- UPnP, UDP, IGMP, Multicast (if available) are Enabled
- AP Isolation is Disabled
Go to our dedicated WiFi Setup page for more detailed steps on connecting your ClearStream TV to your home WiFi network.
-
How far away can my phone, tablet or streaming media player be from ClearStream TV?
Your device will need a strong WiFi signal to play live TV. This varies by device, and typically 3 out of 5 bars is required, so check your WiFi icon to check the signal strength. WiFi signal strength depends on your wireless router and the number of walls and objects between your device and the router.
Tip: The video pausing intermittently is an indicator that the WiFi signal is marginal. Move the ClearStream TV device closer to your router.
-
Are there specific requirements for my internet service?
Not at all! ClearStream TV receives live TV over your home WiFi network, not the internet. Once the ClearStream TV app is downloaded on your device, you can watch live TV even when your internet goes out! ClearStream TV can be used on any home WiFi network compatible with 802.11n over 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bandwidth.
-
Can ClearStream TV reconnect to the router if the WiFi goes down temporarily (router reboot, poor reception, etc.)?
Yes. ClearStream TV reconnects once the WiFi network comes back online. In many tests, the reconnection happened within 20 seconds each time.
Live TV
-
Live TV won’t play on any channels.
Make sure your ClearStream TV_XXXX is connected as an access point first, then to your WiFi network during WiFi Setup mode. Click on How It Works to find out more. If you have performed all the WiFi Setup steps and are still having issues, power cycle ClearStream TV by unplugging the power cord from the ClearStream TV unit for 10 seconds, and then plug the power cord back into the ClearStream TV. Wait for the status light to turn green before going into live TV.
-
Some channels won’t play, or channel plays intermittently.
If your device is receiving interfering broadcast signals, move or elevate the antenna, making sure it is not placed near metal objects or other antennas.
You will need to perform another channel scan in the ClearStream TV app every time you move your antenna. You can also check antennapoint.com for a list of broadcast stations in your area, as well as their tower locations.
Depending upon the distance between your home and the local broadcast towers, you may need a long-range outdoor/attic antenna. Antennas Direct offers many models for this purpose.
Connectivity Issues
-
ClearStream TV won’t stay connected to my WiFi. Should I power cycle my router?
If you are experiencing connectivity issues with ClearStream TV, you can try to power cycle your router. To do this, unplug the power adapter from the router for approximately 30 seconds. Then, reconnect the power adapter to the router. The router will take a few minutes to boot up during the reset. Once your router is back online, go back to the "Connect CLEARSTREAM TV" screen under Settings in the ClearStream TV app and follow the on-screen instructions.
Go to our dedicated WiFi Setup page for more detailed steps on connecting your ClearStream TV to your home WiFi network.
-
Power Cycle ClearStream TV.
If you have already performed a manual reset on ClearStream TV, and you are still having connectivity issues, you can power cycle ClearStream TV. To do this, unplug the power adapter from the back of the ClearStream TV unit for ~10 seconds. Then plug the power adapter back into the power jack on the ClearStream TV. This process can take up to 2 minutes to reboot. Wait for the status light to turn green before going into live TV.
Samsung Devices and Your ClearStream TV
-
When in my Samsung smartphone or tablet WiFi settings, it reads, “You are not connected to the Internet.”
ClearStream TV is being used as an access point, therefore during the Connect to Network step in WiFi setup, you are not connected to the Internet and that is OK. Click here to find out How It Works.
Roku Devices and Your ClearStream TV
-
How do I set up my Roku?
Roku streaming devices do not support the initial WiFi Setup of your ClearStream TV. You will need to complete the initial WiFi Setup using an iOS or Android phone or tablet. Once you have finished the WiFi Setup on your iOS or Android device, you can exit the ClearStream TV app. Click here for detailed instructions to setup ClearStream TV on your Roku.
-
Why can’t I pause, rewind or record live TV on my Roku?
Pause, Rewind and Record functionality is not available on any Roku devices due to the limitations of the Roku data storage on the device itself. The pause/rewind/record feature works by allocating a certain amount of memory on the local device and is using that as a buffer for the video. Roku has very limited memory onboard and has restrictions on what apps can do.
-
Can ClearStream TV reconnect to the router if the Wi-Fi goes down temporarily (router reboot, poor reception, etc.)?
Yes. ClearStream TV reconnects once the Wi-Fi network comes back online. In many tests, the reconnection happened within 20 seconds each time.
-
Is streaming through a Roku any different than streaming through an Android/iOS (etc.) device? Example: “My Roku TV is stuck on “retrieving” but my other devices work fine.”
Yes, Roku streams using a different protocol than most others (HLS instead of RTSP). Effectively, this means that the Roku has higher bursts of activity followed by dead periods, whereas Android/iOS operating systems have a more continuous stream of activity at a lower bitrate. (For example, if the Roku can’t reach 4 Mbps, it won’t be able to stream the standard video quality. However, on Android, a 4 Mbps stream would have only a few interruptions, if any. The video quality settings are identical; it’s the streaming protocol that is different.)
Kindle Devices and Your ClearStream TV
-
In my Kindle WiFi settings, it reads, “You are not connected to the Internet.” What does that mean?
ClearStream TV is being used as an access point, therefore during the Connect to Network step in the WiFi setup, you are not connected to the Internet and that is OK. Click here to find out How It Works.
Apple TV 3rd Generation Devices and Your ClearStream TV
-
My Apple TV is the 3rd generation and it doesn’t allow you to download apps, it only comes with the pre-installed apps, so how can I use the ClearStream TV?
You can add the ClearStream TV app to your iPhone or iPad and stream them to your Apple TV via AirPlay.
Chromecast and Your ClearStream TV
-
You don’t list Google Chromecast compatibility on your packaging, so, does ClearStream TV work with Chromecast?
Android-only devices with the ClearStream TV app that also have the Chromecast app installed will be able to cast the OTA broadcast to your chosen device.
Note: When changing channels, you must use the device you are casting from to change the channel, then you must recast the OTA broadcast TV channel to your chosen device.
ClearStream TV Device
-
What do the LED status lights mean on ClearStream TV?
In order, here are the lights you will see appear on the ClearStream TV:
- During the initial setup when plugging in ClearStream TV, you will see Red and Blue Solid lights (2 sec) – this means ClearStream TV is starting up.
- Blue Flashing, Red Solid (30 sec) – ClearStream TV is going through its second phase of startup.
- Red and Blue Solid (5 sec) – ClearStream TV is going through the third phase of startup.
- Blue Flashing, Red Solid (15 sec) – ClearStream TV is going through the fourth phase of startup.
- Red Solid (9 sec) – ClearStream TV is going through the final phase of startup.
- Green Solid – ClearStream TV is on and ready for use.
- Blue Flashing with Green Solid – ClearStream TV is communicating with your wireless network.
- Quick Flashes of Green – your ClearStream TV has been properly rebooted.
-
My ClearStream TV seems excessively hot.
ClearStream TV may become very warm to the touch; this is normal. Make sure to place ClearStream TV in a well-ventilated area. Unplug the power source and let it cool before handling it. Click here for Safety and Handling tips.
ClearStream TV App
-
What other features are available in the ClearStream TV app?
-The Guide shows you a complete list of networks and TV shows available. In Settings, you can sort the channels, move your favorite channels to the top of the list, or delete unwanted channels.
-Record your favorite TV shows and watch anywhere, anytime. Once your ClearStream TV app has updated and you have verified your device has sufficient storage capabilities, you can begin recording live TV. Within the app, you can view, delete and organize your recorded shows. Watch them anywhere, no Internet connection required.
Note: To fully benefit from features such as the Recording button and the "Storage time remaining" indicator, make sure that your tablet or smartphone is in Landscape mode.
-With the latest update to our app, we have now made it possible for you to Set a Reminder to watch or record a live TV show. To set a reminder in the app, select Guide, choose the TV program you wish to receive a notification for and then select the reminder symbol. You will receive a notification from the ClearStream TV app 5 minutes before your TV show begins.
Note: Setting a reminder will only notify you for the program and time you have selected. Automatic reminders (for example, for every episode of a particular show) are not supported. For Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick streaming players, the notification will appear in the Settings menu.
-
What are the operating systems compatible with ClearStream TV?
The ClearStream TV app is compatible with these operating systems:
- Android 4.2 or above
- iOS 8.4 or above
- tvOS 10.2 or above
- Roku v7.50 b4099 or above
- Amazon Fire devices from 2013 or newer
Availability and performance of certain features and applications are device and network dependent. If you are using a device with an operating system lower than the compatible operating systems, some features will not be available, such as the Program Guide.
The ClearStream TV app is not available for PC, Mac or Smart TVs.
-
How do app updates work?
All operating systems will update within 8 hours of an app update. You can always check if an update is available through your device’s app store or equivalent.
-
Can I zoom in and out during the initial setup? Or during live TV on my phone or tablet?
No, this feature is not available.
-
Re-syncing the App.
If you are still having connectivity issues, try uninstalling and reinstalling the ClearStream TV app on your viewing device. This will clear any cache or old data the application stored.
Recording
-
Can I record shows using ClearStream TV?
Yes! If you have the latest version of our free ClearStream TV app and a compatible iOS/Android smartphone or tablet or Amazon Fire TV device with sufficient storage capabilities, you can now record your favorite broadcast TV shows to watch on-the-go, no Internet connection required.
New: Set a Reminder to watch or record a live TV show! You will receive a notification from the ClearStream TV app 5 minutes before your TV show begins. To set a reminder in the app, select Guide, choose the TV program you wish to receive a notification for and then select the reminder symbol. For more information about this feature, see our FAQ about setting a reminder below.
How it Works:
-Record a live TV channel on iOS or Android smartphones or tablets and Fire TV streaming media players with available storage.
Note: Check the available storage space on your device in your settings menu before starting a recording.
-Watch recorded programs at your leisure, no WiFi or Internet needed, and bring your recorded shows with you to watch on your smartphone or tablet, anywhere you go.
-To watch recorded programs, you don’t need your ClearStream TV with you – just the app on your compatible device. You can watch a recorded show on one device and someone else can watch their live broadcast TV program using the ClearStream TV tuner adapter on another streaming device.
-With the use of a signal splitter, you can connect both ClearStream TV and your HDTV antenna to your TV, making it possible to view live TV on multiple TVs or streaming devices. This means you can watch one channel using the ClearStream TV app on your smartphone, tablet, or streaming media device, and record or watch a live TV channel on another device.
-Two hours of recording equates to approximately 3 GB of storage when recording in standard definition.
-View your recorded program details and sort your recordings by date, title, most recent, and more in the ClearStream TV app.
-Delete your recorded watched shows to free up space for more recorded programs.
-Record, pause, rewind, and even fast-forward through commercials.
-To help you manage your available storage space, when you start a recording, an indicator next to the Record button will show "Storage time remaining". This indicator will count down the total storage time available on the device you are recording to.
What You Need to Know
-To fully benefit from features such as the Recording button and the "Storage time remaining" indicator, make sure that your tablet or smartphone is in Landscape mode.
-The recording feature functions as a live TV component. There is no scheduled recording feature available on ClearStream TV, so recording future programs or programming a start time and an end time is not supported.
-To record live TV, the ClearStream TV app needs to be active on the tablet, smartphone, or Fire TV streaming device you are using to record your program. Make sure you are tuned to the channel which is broadcasting your program for the duration of the time you wish to record. To watch live TV on another TV channel while recording, call the Connection Crew for tips on using a signal splitter and viewing live TV from two different devices.
-The higher the definition of the program you are recording, the more storage space it will take on the device you are recording to. Always make sure you have enough storage space available on your device.
-
Can I record with my Roku?
No. Because of the limitations of Roku Streaming Media Players, data storage, including Recording, Pause, and Rewind is not available. The Recording, Pause and Rewind features from the ClearStream TV app work by allocating a certain amount of memory locally on your smartphone, tablet or streaming media player and using that memory as a buffer for the video. Roku streaming media players have very limited memory onboard, as well as restrictions on how channels can perform on their devices.
Set a Reminder to Watch or Record
-
Can ClearStream TV notify me of upcoming shows?
Yes! With the latest update to our app, we have made it possible for you to set a reminder to watch or record an upcoming show. To set a reminder in the app, select Guide, choose the TV program you wish to receive a notification for and then select the reminder symbol. You will receive a notification from the ClearStream TV app 5 minutes before your TV show begins.
Note: Setting a reminder will only notify you for the program and time you have selected. Automatic reminders (for example, for every episode of a particular show) are not supported. For Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick streaming players, the notification will appear in the Settings menu.
Powering Up
-
It is taking a long time for ClearStream TV to power up.
The initial setup for ClearStream TV may take approximately 2 to 3 minutes for the device to power up as it searches for known WiFi networks. If none are found, ClearStream TV will reboot into setup mode.
Channel Scan
-
The channel scan takes a long time and I didn’t receive all the available channels.
A typical channel scan can take from 5 to 7 minutes, depending on the number of available channels in your area.
Make sure you have a strong WiFi signal while you are scanning for channels. A weak WiFi signal can also create communication issues between the app and the ClearStream TV unit and will cause interference during a channel scan.
Ensure the WiFi signal is at a maximum and stays at a maximum during the channel scan step. If a channel scan takes longer than 10 minutes, then you are most likely having connectivity issues. The performance of a WiFi wireless network connection depends greatly on signal strength. You can check your WiFi network using a WiFi analyzer app to see if your router meets the requirements. ClearStream TV can be used on any home WiFi network compatible with 802.11n over 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz and compatible mobile devices.
-
Where can I go to see all the available channels in my area?
Check out Antenna Point. Our mapping tool will allow you to view the TV transmitters in your area. Using this tool, you will see broadcast patterns showing the distance between your location and the broadcast towers.
Certain variables unrelated to the antenna’s performance can affect reception, such as terrain, tall buildings, and trees. Call our helpline or chat with us online if you need assistance choosing the best TV antenna for your location.
-
I didn’t receive all the channels I expected, or I received channels that don’t work with live TV.
ClearStream TV will tune just as well as connecting the TV antenna directly to your TV. See HDTV FAQs for additional antenna tips. Below is a summarized list of simple steps.
- Check out Antenna Point and enter your zip code for a list of available channels in your area.
- You may need a long-range antenna.
- Move your antenna to a better location.
- You can also check the number of available channels by connecting the coaxial cable from the antenna directly to your TV and performing a channel scan, prior to installing ClearStream TV.
Tip: Make sure your TV antenna is placed in the best possible location to receive broadcast signals, and your ClearStream TV is within 20 feet of your wireless router.
Program Guide
-
I don’t have guide data for all channels.
Guide data takes some time to load. If the guide data is missing for a channel, in the app, click on the program guide and select the station that is missing the program information and wait up to 2 minutes for the program information to load. You will need to do this for each main station, while sub-channels will auto-populate once the main station program information loads. If the program information is still not loading, there is a possibility the broadcast tower is not transmitting the program information, therefore, ClearStream TV is unable to produce program information for that channel.
Using Your ClearStream TV With More Than One Device - Learn How to Split the Signal
-
Can my HDTV antenna remain connected to my TV along with ClearStream TV?
Yes, you can still watch broadcast TV for free on your television while ClearStream TV is connected to your antenna. Once you find the right location for your HD antenna, with the use of a signal splitter, you can connect ClearStream TV and your HDTV - or multiple TVs - to one TV antenna. This means you can watch one channel using the free ClearStream TV app on your smartphone, tablet or streaming media device while watching another channel on your TV, just as you would normally.
To see illustrated examples of how to use a splitter with ClearStream TV, click here. You can also watch our videos on splitting the signal with an indoor TV antenna here or with an outdoor or attic antenna here.
Every installation is different, so we suggest you call our Connection Crew (toll-free in the U.S.A.) to provide advice on your installation.
Helpful tip in the ClearStream TV app: If you have more than one ClearStream TV device, after you have completed the WiFi Setup for each ClearStream TV, go into the Settings menu in the app and select each device to rename them for each user or room in your home (Example: "Living Room", "Bedroom", "Tablet", etc.).
Antennas and Your ClearStream TV
-
What kind of antenna do I need?
ClearStream TV works with any HDTV antenna, and can be used with indoor and outdoor antennas. If using an outdoor antenna, the ClearStream TV unit needs to be indoors, in a dry area. Connect ClearStream TV to the down lead coaxial cable coming into your home.
Data Usage
-
Does ClearStream TV use cellular data?
No, ClearStream TV streams live TV over your local network. No connection to the internet is required once the app is installed. Check out our How it Works page to learn more.
Closed Captioning
-
Is closed captioning available?
Yes, each application supports Closed Captioning.
During live TV mode:
iOS - use the gear icon in upper right to activate or disable Closed Captioning.
Android - use the triple dots in upper corner to activate or disable Closed Captioning.
tvOS - swipe in from the right.
Roku - from the main menu select Caption.
Video Quality
-
Video quality is poor.
If you’re experiencing poor video quality, there could be a few reasons why this is happening.
- If the video looks good, but stops, starts, or stutters, this is most likely due to a poor WiFi signal from your router to your device, i.e. phone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Kindle, or Google Chromecast. You may also be experiencing a poor WiFi signal from your router to the ClearStream TV. Try moving the HDTV antenna and the ClearStream TV closer to your router.
- If the above step doesn’t work, you can also move to a different WiFi channel in your router (see your WiFi router guidelines or ask your provider). You can also upgrade to a router that supports a 5Ghz band.
If the video quality has an occasional breakup, a few pixels from time to time, the problem is most likely HDTV reception. Move your antenna or make sure your antenna is aimed in the direction of your TV stations’ broadcast towers and check reception by scanning for channels. If you are not receiving all of the available channels, move the antenna and rescan.
If you continue to have poor video quality, call our helpline for technical assistance in the U.S.A., toll-free: 1-877-825-5572.
Amplifier and Preamplifier Use with Your ClearStream TV
-
Can I use an Amplifier or Preamplifier with ClearStream TV?
Yes. For attic and outdoor enhanced performance with broadcast signals, adding a preamplifier to an antenna increases over-the-air signal strength and will help overcome challenges with long coaxial cable runs over 100 ft., using splitters, or weak signals in the area. We recommend the ClearStream JUICE UHF/VHF Preamplifier System.
For indoor use, an in-line amplifier is designed to provide added range and maximum signal reception to receive more channels. We recommend the ClearStream In-Line Amplifier. With the In-Line Amplifier, you can provide power through a USB port on your TV or use the USB power adapter and a wall outlet.
Distribution Amplifiers can also be used to split the signal to multiple TVs in your home. Check out the CDA8 for more information.
Factory Reset
-
What if I want to factory reset my device?
ClearStream TV should not need to be reset unless the router it is connected to changes. You can perform a manual reset on your device by following the steps below. This will take approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Make sure the power adapter is plugged into a wall outlet.
- First, unplug the power cord from the power jack on ClearStream TV.
- Locate the reset button next to the male f-connector on ClearStream TV.
- Hold down the reset button [tip: use a sharp point. Press until you feel the reset button click]. While holding down the reset button, plug the power cord back into ClearStream TV power jack. Continue holding the reset button until the green status light flashes twice, then release.
- Wait for the status light to turn green [tip: you should see blue and red flashing status lights initially].
- When the status light turns green, ClearStream TV is ready to configure WiFi. Go into the app under Settings and select "Connect CLEARSTREAM TV". Then select "Get Connected" to start the WiFi Setup.
If the status light does not turn green, repeat steps 3 – 5.
Safety and Handling for Your ClearStream TV
-
Operating Temperature
ClearStream TV works best in ambient temperatures between 32° and 95° F (0° and 35° C) and can be stored at temperatures between -4° and 113° F (-20° and 45° C). While you’re using ClearStream TV, it is normal for the housing to become very warm while in use. The ClearStream TV housing is designed to transfer heat from inside the unit to the cooler air outside. Unplug ClearStream TV and let it cool before handling, and always install ClearStream TV in a well-ventilated area.
-
Safety and Handling for ClearStream TV