Why are HDTV cable boxes hot to the touch and buzz even when off?
Jeannie L asked:
Why do HDTV cable boxes make low-pitch buzzing noises and feel hot to the touch even when they’re off, whereas when an analog TV cable box is off is silent and cool to the touch? One time the cable box buzzed so loudly, even though it was off, that we unplugged it; only then did it stop buzzing. My HDTV cable box is a Motorola brand and is provided by Verizon in the D.C. area. Aren’t there any silent cool-to-the-touch HDTV cable boxes available? Thanks.
Why do HDTV cable boxes make low-pitch buzzing noises and feel hot to the touch even when they’re off, whereas when an analog TV cable box is off is silent and cool to the touch? One time the cable box buzzed so loudly, even though it was off, that we unplugged it; only then did it stop buzzing. My HDTV cable box is a Motorola brand and is provided by Verizon in the D.C. area. Aren’t there any silent cool-to-the-touch HDTV cable boxes available? Thanks.
July 16th, 2008 at 7:46 am
Depending on what type of power supply the box has or if it has a fan, it can emit a low pitched buzz or a high pitched squeal. In either case the box should be exchanged for one that works quietly.
As far as heat goes, I’ve seen plenty of analog boxes that get pretty warm. HD has a lot more circuitry and will produce more heat as a result. They really need a fan, but fans can be noisy. This is just the nature of the beast.
July 16th, 2008 at 7:47 pm
Yeah, that’s the problem with today’s electronics. Even if we turn them off they sit there, all day, actully “on” just waiting to hear “wake up” from the remote.
July 19th, 2008 at 6:14 pm
If the box is hot the noise may be the fan trying to cool the box…
There should be atleast 3 inches of clearance around the box for proper ventalation…
The fan is designed to cool the box even when it is turned off.
If you have a HD DVR it may be the hard drive spinning that is making the noise…
the box may need to be re-setted… Call verizon tech support..
after acouple of trouble shooting things they will come out and swap the box….
Anywho hope this helps…