Loading ...Samsung SMT-S7800
6.71 out of 10 (385 votes)
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Samsung Freesat+ HD PVR Digital Box (SMT-S7800)
Released: March/April 2011
This product is now discontinued and the page will no longer be updated. You may still be able to buy this product from one of our listed retailers below, just follow the link.
| STORE | PRICE | P+P | DISCOUNT CODE | TOTAL | SHOP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | - | - | - | - |  |
| Currys | - | - | - | - | |
| John Lewis | - | - | - | - | |
| Satbuyer | - | - | - | - | |
| Tesco | - | - | - | - | |
*Discount codes must be entered when prompted at checkout to apply savings
No discounts at this time.
About the Samsung SMT-S7800 Freesat+HD Digital Box (official press release 23-Mar-11)
Samsung Electronics Co. UK Ltd., announces the sleek and stylish SMT-S7800 Freesat HD PVR, providing choice and flexibility to TV owners wanting to get the most from their set.
Offering up to 250-hours of standard definition or 120-hours of high definition recording with its 500GB of storage, the built-in twin tuner lets you record one channel while watching another. The ‘+’ functionality means that you can pause, rewind and fast forward live TV, so there’s no need to miss your favourite programme.
The SMT-S7800 is full HD, delivering dazzlingly rich colours and vivid detail and it supports standard definition upscaling, providing a sharp and crisp picture. It is also Wi-Fi enabled and will allow you to gain access to Freesat’s on demand services including YouTube and BBC iPlayer. Support for ITV Player will follow shortly.
The contemporary and minimal design makes the PVR a stylish addition to any home entertainment set-up. Features include a light-up front panel showing channel information, time and commands plus a USB port integrated into the chic facia.
Samsung’s Smart Electronic Programme Guide (EPG) makes finding your favourite TV shows easy with channel programme listings, series link, recorded programme lists, disk space availability and a screensaver function to protect the TV. The SMT-S7800’s low power consumption in standby mode is less than 1watt, which will appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
Andy Griffiths, Vice President of Consumer Electronics, Samsung UK, said,;
Samsung continues to deliver against its promise to create products that evolve with the needs and desires of our customers. With the Digital Switchover happening, we want every TV owner to be able to enjoy a great selection of TV channels and connectivity options. The SMT-S7800 is Samsung’s first foray into the UK retail set top box market and we are looking forward to becoming a force in this sector
Managing Director of Freesat, Emma Scott, said;
Marrying a trusted and loved national TV service with such a well known household name can only mean good things for both Samsung and Freesat, and it’s great to have them on board. This launch further strengthens the Freesat proposition of subscription-free satellite TV and is part of our long-term plan to keep on innovating to offer viewers across the UK great TV without monthly bills
Samsung SMT-S7800 Specification
- Information to follow…
Samsung SMT-S7800 Online Reviews
We haven’t seen a review, let us know if you have!
Samsung SMT-S7800 Product Links
Samsung SMT-S7800 Product Page
Samsung SMT-S7800 User Manual
March 3rd, 2011 at 5:50 pm
March 4th, 2011 at 1:58 pm
The only link found to date (by Paul-well done-thanks) is
http://www.samsung.com/global/business/telecommunication/productInfo.do?ctgry_group=14&ctgry_type=81&b2b_prd_id=572
Samsungs website(s) don’t seem to respond to a search for the product ref.
RozzoQuote
March 22nd, 2011 at 8:02 pm
http://www.samsung.com/uk/consumer/tv-audio-video/set-top-box/set-top-box/SMT-S7800/XEU/index.idx?pagetype=prd_detail
RozzoQuote
March 23rd, 2011 at 4:24 pm
I wonder if you can stream films from Lovefilms with an account at Lovefilms like you can on some other Samsung Products?
It would be good if you can..
ztoppeQuote
March 23rd, 2011 at 6:07 pm
http://www.laskys.com/Samsung
2.5% Off Everything Use Code Lent25
Save £7.50 on SAMSUNG SMT-S7800 at £292.49
and on the first day it is out too
ztoppeQuote
March 24th, 2011 at 8:15 am
March 25th, 2011 at 4:31 pm
It seems to have vanished from Samsung’s website.
Samsung SMT-S7800 Product Page
http://www.samsung.com/uk/common/notfound.html
Richard CrichtonQuote
March 25th, 2011 at 6:10 pm
in the belief we are not talking vapourware, dose any one know if it possible to make a dvd like copy of a programme, then archive it to a flash drive so that I can take it to a friends house?
jamesQuote
March 27th, 2011 at 12:13 am
How can 28 people rate/vote on this item when no one has got one yet?
ztoppeQuote
March 29th, 2011 at 3:19 pm
I have took some quick phone photos and put them on this link
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ztoppe/5570325585/in/photostream/
I will add more later on
There is now about 54 Photos on the above link. I know they are not the best photos but they were took on my phone for speed so to get them up on flickr as soon as I could. So I will say sorry now for some of them, but I hope they will help you.
ztoppeQuote
March 29th, 2011 at 3:20 pm
Ok my first impressions of it is very very good I like the feel of the remote and it works from any part of the room I am in and from any angle which is good. Plus some of the keys glow in the dark. I have try the remote from 22 feet away and it works fine.
It is very easy to set up and the menu system is fast. I also got Channel 4 HD on the Non-freesat part and did a test recording of what was on at the time and it played back OK.
The iPlayer works well and I had NOT even set up the network yet. The Samsung box find and set the internet network up by itself without me having to do anything apart from pluging the network cable in the back of the box.
YouTube work well and quick also, I had a quick try out and was happy with it.
Now the thing is am I happy I got this? Well at the moment that will have to be a big YES as what I have seen so far is very good.
But remember I have only had this for a few hours so far.
So that is my first impressions.
ztoppeQuote
March 29th, 2011 at 5:13 pm
Thanks so much ztoppe!
I see non-freesat is switched via menu settings > service mode and that you recorded ch4hd that way.
I’d love to know as soon as you can give it a try;
1. if you can set up timer recordings in non-freesat
2. whether these can be epg or manually set?
and eventually …
3. whether there is any auto-switching between modes if you set recordings in both modes
4. any key pages for the more advanced operations you can photograph from the manual that supplement the set of photos you linked to.
RozzoQuote
March 29th, 2011 at 7:04 pm
ztoppe as you have one in your hand, is there a way to down grade hd recordings for the purpose of for example lending a copy to a friend.
Or is there a way to edit recordings, for example to remove adverts
jamesQuote
March 29th, 2011 at 8:49 pm
Q: Have you tried recording from the buffer yet for a program which has already started?
A: Now Been tested
I put it onto a channel before the program started and then waited until it was around 20 mins into the program.
Then I press record and a menu pop up giving 3 choices so I pick the first one “record program” and then waited until the program and recording finish.
Now 1 of 2 things can happen here
1. did it just record from where I had press record in the program missing the first 20 mins.
or
2. did it use the buffer and added the missing first 20 mins.
Well when I went to play it back it had recorded from the beginning of the program, so using the buffer to record from.
So we now know that this is working on this box:D
ztoppeQuote
March 30th, 2011 at 11:46 am
Just finish testing
I have recorded two channels at the same time while watching a third channel.
The two recorded channels were CBBC and Popgirl and the third watch channel (all at the same time) was Pop..:D
see my photo link above and go to the new photos number 055,056 and 057 to see.:)
ztoppeQuote
March 30th, 2011 at 1:24 pm
How to record Three programs on 3 channels which are on at the same time.
HOW it is done:
Schedule the first TWO channels to record as normal.
Then go to the Third channel a few minutes before the Program start and leave it on.
When one of the other channels finish recording (you can check by pressing the “info” on the remote) just press record on the channel you are on and then press record full program on the pop up.
It will then take the full program from the buffer and record the start of full program on to the samsung drive.
You will end up with all three programs recorded on the drive.
That is how I did it. ( I did it my way)
ztoppeQuote
March 31st, 2011 at 9:36 am
Just tried to copy a recording to usb – doesn’t look possible
It might get sent back!
JohnQuote
April 1st, 2011 at 9:54 am
It’s on Amazon now but the price is a bit high and surely they can’t be serious with a release date of 3rd June 2012 (tes TWELVE) when we know it’s already being delivered by other stores.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Samsung-SMT-S7800-500GB-Freesat-Recorder/dp/B004S5ZUJ4/ref=sr_1_46?ie=UTF8&qid=1301648288&sr=8-46&tag=5336653544-21
AndyPandyQuote
April 1st, 2011 at 1:34 pm
Admin and all. The official website is back but using the link to the subpages only as below. The main page seems not to be there but the subpages are and it also means that navigating through the drop downs to set top boxes ends up in a not found
http://www.samsung.com/uk/consumer/tv-audio-video/set-top-box/set-top-box/SMT-S7800/XEU/index.idx?pagetype=prd_detail&tab=feature
RozzoQuote
April 1st, 2011 at 6:35 pm
Link to main page seems to work again (maybe it was my third webform submission or maybe others have complained too).
Still no downloadable manual though. I did go through to their global downloads and the box is listed there with a certificate of conformity under the tab for manuals.
RozzoQuote
April 2nd, 2011 at 4:11 am
I complained too.
Laskys price now showing as £279.99 but still out of stock.
Comet now shows “Sorry, this item has now been discontinued”
JGHQuote
April 2nd, 2011 at 4:09 pm
Web formmails I have submitted have come back with the most ridiculous answers; Not our product, It’s a Sony product; Contact the retailer….
Phoning no better; SMT-S7800? that must be a commercial name, what’s the product reference?
Did get another phone no. for “technical” 0800 1691269 but they are too busy to answer now. The message does give an email address I have tried ; eucctv.help@samsung.com and seeing as the auto reply says “Thank you for contacting Samsung Techwin Europe’s CCTV technical support team” I don’t think it will get us anywhere.
RozzoQuote
April 4th, 2011 at 6:30 pm
Answer received; wrong dept.
RozzoQuote
April 5th, 2011 at 9:11 am
Laskys sent me an email confirming that they now have 30 units in stock. They have reduced their price to £279.99, matching Currys/Dixons – and also now Comet.
However, those who have been following the firmware problems may be reluctant to buy until Samsung demonstrate their ability to deliver an effective firmware upgrade quickly.
JGHQuote
April 8th, 2011 at 11:53 am
The Amazon price has been reduced to £272.99 but it still shows “due to be released on June 3, 2012″.
JGHQuote
April 23rd, 2011 at 9:29 am
How did you guys give this box such a high score “7.33 out of 10 (82 votes)”?
I cannot even see where you vote for it.
IMHO, at the moment the box has some of the worst bug-ridden software I have seen in years. Also their promised first software update never materialised.
You can however now download the manual.
List of common issues is at http://www.morlocks.co.uk/Samsung_Freesat_Bugs.htm
AutomanQuote
April 24th, 2011 at 7:34 am
Purchased from John Lewis on Friday.
Overall impression v.good.
Takes 30-40 seconds to boot up -I have not timed it fully.
I upgraded from a terestial Humax. the samsung manual is lacking. If you had never seen a pvr or sat box before you would be challenged. Fortunately the menus and buttons are self explanatory so it worked straight out of the box.
Recorded Dr Who in HD.
Picked up my media pc via network and streamed photos and music.
Iplayer works well – took a while to find it on channel 901.
Itv player -coming soon. No 4od. No obvious way to stream from love film.
I am thinking it’s passible with the hardware but needs a software patch.
I chose this over the Humax Fox because of the on demand functions.
V happy so far. No ratting yet. I’ll u it for a week first.
BacksmithQuote
April 25th, 2011 at 8:36 pm
You vote by hovering over the stars at the top of this page. Most votes were made even before it became available so were based on “spec” not “in use”.
RozzoQuote
April 26th, 2011 at 9:45 pm
Unfortunately neither the updated site nor the manual tell me anything about
whether or not it has that DiSEqC I would need so much, which I wrote about previously.
@ztoppe
The photos you originally posted showed some tuning screens for other satellites and I am guessing there might be some reference to DiSEqC in the screens that precede or follow those tuning ones.
Please could you/someone take a look for me.
Now that the price is down to the £250 mark again in some places (and sw update due) I’d like to consider buying one if it has the feature.
RozzoQuote
April 27th, 2011 at 11:55 am
JL and Amazon prices also now reduced, but I won’t buy one yet. Need answers to questions listed on the Samsung website reviews tab (DiSEqC, timers etc) as well as the sw update to happen first.
RozzoQuote
May 3rd, 2011 at 3:11 pm
SW update has taken place but is reported to have only partly cured some of the issues making the box still drop single recordings from the schedule.
RozzoQuote
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:52 pm
Upgraded my SMT-7800 last night with the newly released ‘fix’ Haven’t tested all issues yet but the box now records 2 HD programs one after the other successfully. Very interested in other comments and trials…?
EdGeQuote
May 4th, 2011 at 9:52 am
IMHO with the new firmware it still has the following issues…
Critical
Non series link planned recordings sometimes vanish from Library / Timers.
Some recordings are not made and all you get is several recordings all with the same name at various lengths up to 16 seconds
Non Critical
On channels that support accurate start signals, if the program runs late the unit seems to stop recording at the scheduled time rather than after it actually finishes (however, since new firmware I have not missed a program end so not 100% sure this is still an issue – more late running programs needed to test).
Sometimes the unit will record several 1 second recordings with the same name after the program ends.
Some recordings are saved with no program information.
If connected to your TV using HDMI via an A/V amp you may find you get no sound unless on the amplifier you set it to send HDMI audio to TV (with Sony AMPS at least).
If you load the Media application from a channel with Dolby Digital sound (HD Channels) you will not hear any of your music. (work-around – exit media player, select a non HD channel and try again).
Media player only shows the first 100 matching tracks or artists when browsing.
AutomanQuote
May 9th, 2011 at 5:09 pm
Samsung Technical seem to think vanishing planned recordings are a problem with my units hardware and it needs to go to one of their service centres.
I have asked for a refund and have hooked my old Humax-HDR back up.
AutomanQuote
May 19th, 2011 at 1:32 pm
I understand the Samsung SMT-S7800 was due to receive an OTA update on 4th May. It is impossible to verify whether this happened because the Freesat elements of the DTG website have not been updated since the 25th February. There have been numerous updates in respect of Freeview OTA updates; any idea why DTG has gone into hibernation with regard to Freesat?
Gordon SimeQuote
June 12th, 2011 at 10:34 am
Can owners of this box please post how well it is working or not working…
My one is away at a Samsung service centre who now to seem to have cancelled my repair.
AutomanQuote
June 13th, 2011 at 4:42 pm
Some news, at the amazon website some feedback to comments made indicate a software upgrade will be on offer from the 20th June at their support website.
AutomanQuote
June 23rd, 2011 at 9:10 pm
A new firmware / software release is now on the Samsung website…
Release Notes of SMT-S7800 Software V4.0.296 23rd June, 2011
√ Resolved the issue with missing timers for single recordings.
√ Resolved the issue with small duplicate recordings.
√ Resolved the issue of cutting short recordings.
√ Improved the compatibility with HDMI audio AMP.
Note 1: Some users may experience schedule conflicts when recording some regional programmes in series because of broadcast information. Samsung is working with Freesat to resolve this issue.
So far so good
AutomanQuote
June 29th, 2011 at 9:56 pm
New software is not bad and the box is now usable.
However they have introduced some new bugs and one is quite bad…
If two episodes of the same series follow each other and are recorded by a series link e.g. Family Guy the unit will not stop recording one of them till hours later.
If you playback a recording still being made and stop playback the resume information is not saved.
Clock display is often 15 seconds slow.
AutomanQuote
July 8th, 2011 at 9:48 pm
8th July, 2011 There is also new firmware available! (The Third Update)
Release Notes of SMT-S7800 Software V5.0.300
8th July, 2011
Quote:
√ Resolved the issue of missing some timers of individual recordings after the STB has been low-power standby.
√ Resolved the issue with small duplicate recordings.
√ Resolved the issue of cutting short recordings.
√ Resolved the issue of not being able to stop recording a programme of a series recording in some cases.
√ Improved the compatibility with HDMI audio AMP.
Note 1: Some users may experience schedule conflicts when recording some regional programmes in series because of broadcast information. Samsung is working with Freesat to resolve this issue.
Note 2: This includes the major fixes or improvements, compared with V3.0.273.
Note 3: You can find the latest software from the menu “Support > Downloads” of the website http://www.samsung.com/uk or http://www.samsung.com/uk/support/de…name=SMT-S7800
Tips for users:
√ You can use the SMT-S7800 remote to control most TVs. Refer to the pages 12 or 13 of the User Guide (Ed.01) uploaded on the same website as in Note 3.
√ You can use the HDD auto-eraser feature by turning on the option and by unprotecting recordings with the button . Refer to the pages 41 and 57 of the User Guide.
√ You can use the “Seek Modes” to seek fast a recording by pressing or without release while the play banner is displayed. Refer to the pages 32 and 40 of the User Guide.
√ You can add the time-shifted and watched contents to your instant recording. Refer to the page 32 of the User Guide. ”
ztoppeQuote
August 30th, 2011 at 9:16 pm
My box is 3 months old. And has started to play up. The screen will go black for a few seconds. The will go totally grainy and pixilated. The only button on the R/C that works then is the off switch. If I reboot, it works OK. But tonight for the first time. It keeps going off.
Mike +Quote
September 10th, 2011 at 9:29 am
Everytime I change channel the screen says cannot receive channel please check connection. If I pick a channel then go up andc then back down a channel it works but is a pain. My signal strength is strong…… any ideas anyone?
zacsmithQuote
September 21st, 2011 at 1:30 pm
I’ve got exactly the same problem. A repeat Freesat scan seems to restore channels for a while and then it starts to play up again. It seems to happen on channels where either the strength or quality are just below the 50% mark but I haven’t confirmed this for definite. I had the box connected via a signal splitter because I only have a single LNB so I connected direct on one input alone – same problem. SW upgraded automatically when I switched on. I’m completely stumped. New LNB needed?
JJQuote
September 21st, 2011 at 7:11 pm
@zacsmith, @JJ
2 wires: reset to defaults, choose Two cables on antenna settings.
1 wire: reset to defaults, choose SAT1 or SAT2 on antenna settings.
Make sure you have the latest version of software (5.0.300). If not, download and install via USB.
AmmarokQuote
September 21st, 2011 at 7:22 pm
@JJ (no edit)
Splitter doesn’t work. I’d suggest to upgrade your LNB installation to be able to record 2 and watch 3rd channel at the same time.
AmmarokQuote
September 26th, 2011 at 2:27 pm
Hi just got the box in August and for the last 2 day I can not get the Library
contents up the timer will come up but not what I have recorded Im 58 so I wont understand short abbreviations
angelaQuote
October 17th, 2011 at 7:03 pm
Hi Angela,
We got the box in July, and around the end of September, we started experiencing exactly the problem that you describe. After unplugging the box completely, and plugging it back in again, we would sometimes have some of the recorded programs appear again. But after viewing one or 2 recordings, it would start playing up again and show only a few recordings, or none at all.
We’ve now decided to reformat the hard disk, thus unfortunately losing some unwatched recording. We’ll keep you informed whether this will have solved the issue.
JanQuote
October 17th, 2011 at 8:24 pm
Jan, Angela,
Format is not needed, just perform “reset to defaults”. It shall solve the problem.
Also make sure you have the latest software (5.0.300).
AmmarokQuote
October 22nd, 2011 at 3:44 pm
Thanks a lot, Ammarok!!!
Reset to defaults did the job. Do you have any idea why this started happening?
JanQuote
December 30th, 2011 at 9:44 am
i have recorded lots over xmas now all thatshows up on library is the contents of the timer when you go up to the actual contents recorded just a blank screen any suggestions before i take a hammer to it or get adivorce only got it at end of oct 2011
peteQuote
December 30th, 2011 at 10:58 am
@pete: read 48.
AmmarokQuote
January 19th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
Updated FAQ from Samsung site:
Settop Box : Missing programme information when accessing EPG Guide (Electronic Programme Guide)
Because of the way programme information data is updated whilst the device is in standby, occasionally some of the information is not completely gathered, and therefore is not displayed when the device is switched on.
We are aware of this issue, and are currently working to provide a software update, to enable the programme data to be displayed much faster.
A fix for this issue will be available in the next software update, scheduled for the 2nd May from Samsung’s website. An ‘Over-the-Air’ download will be available from the 4th May.
This software update notification is shown on numerous FAQ, so let’s hope it solves most of the problems.
MikeQuote
January 26th, 2012 at 3:14 pm
Anybody help with this problem?
When I push the ‘on’ button the HDR goes from blue light to ‘– –’ (4 dashes) and then, eventually, the clock appears. You then have to do a further press to get the unit to displkay a channel both on the TV and on the units front panel.
So does this unit need 2 ‘on’ button presses to get fully operational? Also, if I turn the TV off or into standby after 5 minutes the HDR goes back into ‘deep sleep’, as I call it, and then needs two ‘on’ button pushes, as detailed above, to get fully operational again.
EamonnQuote
January 28th, 2012 at 8:10 pm
We had to retore defaults this morning (again – this is the third time) but since then when the sat box is switched on the tv crackles (like a power surge – or like its going explode !). It doesn’t happen when watching a DVD (so we think the problem is with the box) – anyone any ideas ? Before 9pm and Borgen starts if possible
FlintonQuote
February 24th, 2012 at 10:32 am
Is it possible that this update mentioned for 2nd May is last year’s update… Very co-incidental that it’s exactly the same dates as 2011??
CastleQuote
March 2nd, 2012 at 3:05 pm
Quite often when i select library, the list of recorded programs is blank and the only way i have found to recover or veiw them is to switch of at the mains and reboot. Any solutions anyone?
SteveCQuote
March 8th, 2012 at 1:45 pm
Hi Steve,
Reset box to factory default and your sorted.
SteveCQuote
March 12th, 2012 at 7:58 pm
may be of interest to some
available used like new from amazon warehouse for £123.19
cheers
afQuote
March 16th, 2012 at 4:13 pm
I think the May update is going to include ITV player
Lee SQuote
April 8th, 2012 at 12:18 pm
Our flat has just been upgraded to SCR-enabled feed – anyone know how to get this working?
DrPaulQuote
May 2nd, 2012 at 5:51 pm
any one know when the update is coming out as found on the forum here 2/05/2012 been to samsungs website and no update can even find anything from samsung about the update also what will the update involve
Raj GhaiQuote
May 2nd, 2012 at 6:05 pm
Raj GhaiQuote
May 2nd, 2012 at 7:26 pm
Have just checked this page
http://www.dtg.org.uk/industry/download_schedule.php
This week’s scheduled OTA upgrade isn’t even listed anymore. Anyone know if it’s been re-scheduled or just cancelled?
MikeQuote
May 3rd, 2012 at 3:26 pm
See this reply posted on Digital Spy
Upgrade now moved to June or July, no exact date know yet!
Does Admin at joinfreesat have a contact at Samsung to confirm what is really happening?
Thanks
MikeQuote
May 3rd, 2012 at 3:27 pm
Oops, link not shown in last post, here is the full reply
Thank you for contacting Samsung.
I am sorry to hear of your continuing problems with your Freesat box.
We have received confirmation from Joe, our audio visual engineer, that
a firmware update for this product will be released in June or July of
this (exact date TBA). You can check for the update becoming available
at the following link (under ‘Firmware’):
http://www.samsung.com/uk/support/mo…/XEU-downloads
If you have any additional queries or require further assistance, please
contact Samsung again and we will be happy to help.
Kind regards,
Helen
MikeQuote
May 3rd, 2012 at 3:37 pm
Not really surprised to be honest, still not convinced they will release any update, or certainly won’t resolve all the bugs in the current software. Shame really as it would be a cracking receiver otherwise.
I’ll have a word, see if I can dig anything else up; Samsung are notoriously cagey though.
adminQuote
May 3rd, 2012 at 4:49 pm
Thanks
MikeQuote
May 3rd, 2012 at 4:56 pm
hi thanks for replying to my previous comment but does any one what this update will include will it have itv player or is that down to samsung or freesat
and will it become smart tv freesat box like the new box samsung released yersterday
Many thanks
Raj GhaiQuote
May 8th, 2012 at 12:34 am
Good Freesat PVR but I wont be buying one until Samsung bring out a Smart Hub version like they have with the Freeview PVR!!!
SimonQuote
May 10th, 2012 at 11:11 pm
Email from Richer Sounds say its now £179.95 and £219.95 TSP
JohnQuote
May 23rd, 2012 at 2:35 pm
Has anyone any feedback or review on this Samsung Freesat STB-E7500 Smart High Definition Freeview Recorder with 500Gb HDD?
IykrisQuote
May 23rd, 2012 at 2:39 pm
Unlikely as this is a Freesat site, not Freeview
adminQuote
May 23rd, 2012 at 2:47 pm
@admin; sorry about that. I’ve read almost all the reviews on here so went to samsung webpage to see if they’ve got any update or new freesat box that would fix most of the laid down complaints raised on here as the scheduled SW update didn’t happen. I mistakenly looked on the freeview.
So, for those who have used freesats, I would be happy to know which is most efficient and most recommended as I am interested in buying one this week as I fell out with sky recently…
Thanks in advance
IykrisQuote
May 25th, 2012 at 5:04 pm
It’s a very good freesat receiver and the Samsung is the closest to a sky tv set up as you have a mini tv in the corner on the epg. If you want to know anything about this box then ask away. I’ve had no probs whatsoever with mine.
Lee SQuote
May 27th, 2012 at 8:49 pm
Hi, on this page it says the Samsung box is Wi-Fi enabled, but on the official Samsung page there is no mention of Wi-Fi capabilities.
Can someone please clarify this ?
Thanks
JohnQuote
May 29th, 2012 at 10:25 pm
Hi John, the Samsung SMT-S7800 is not wi-fi ready out of the box but a Samsung USB wi-fi dongle can apparently make it so (according to the very knowledgable sales guy in Comet who I spoke with.) However, if you’re streaming iPlayer or anything over your home network, an Ethernet connection might offer a quicker and potentially more stable connection.
PaulQuote
June 1st, 2012 at 8:40 pm
Thanks for the info, would one of those Homeplug things be suitable ?
Also, does the favourites list let you combine freesat and non-freesat channels together?
How do you flick between freesat and non-freesat channels ?
JohnQuote
June 8th, 2012 at 8:29 pm
I have a number of recorded programs on my Samsung Freesat receiver and I would like to transfer these to my own HDD. Unlike the Humax, there is no facility to copy these files. Would I be able to copy these by recording the play back onto a VCR or DVD recorder, for example by using the Scart leads?
I use to be able to do copy files on my old DVD recorder and since I’ve changed to Samsung, I’ve no longer have this facility.
Philip4946Quote
June 11th, 2012 at 6:03 pm
Changing the thread – anyone out there keep getting black screen, white message – check connection. The box I have is under 6 months old, for 3 months it was fine, the last 3 terrible. the box has been back to Samsung for a supposed repair, all they did was upgrade firmware, but it didnt need doing!, after having the box back from Samsung for 2 days it came up with the same error message again, this time we went back to Currys where we bought it from, they would not do anything apart from offer to send it back to be repaired again. Apart from being disgusted that I’ve wasted £200+ on a box that looks like it will be going backwards and forwards to be repaired, might just as well get a hammer to it and have done with it, waste of money as far as I’m concerned. All dish, other connections checked and they are OK, or is Sky sending out secret signals to their previous customers using a Sky dish???!!
VinceQuote
June 11th, 2012 at 6:52 pm
Impossible to do, you can’t localise a signal.
adminQuote
June 25th, 2012 at 6:05 pm
Hi does anyone have any news for when the firmware update is being release for the smt s7800 and what it will have in it please
Raj GhaiQuote
July 5th, 2012 at 4:46 pm
I have been having epg problems where it is not populating past 2 hours so i cannot set recordings etc unless i power down the box and start again. I had this problem with my old Technisat hdfs, but i was unaware that this was an issue on the Samsung. Any advice?
Lee SQuote
July 6th, 2012 at 7:56 pm
Raj, Samsung responded to my query yesterday and told me that ‘At this time, we have no information as to when any Firmware will be released for this product.’ They had previously told me May and then June/July.
EamonnQuote
July 7th, 2012 at 3:56 pm
Thanks eamonn i think that samsung have a very poor service when come to the samsung freesat box sayint thease dates when update due and never is i really ashamed but thaks for letting me know when the hell is itv player comin for the box
Raj GhaiQuote
July 19th, 2012 at 12:54 pm
Been told by Samsung support that even the developers don’t know when it’s due… Freesat haven’t been able to find out either, but obviously not their fault.
CastleQuote
July 30th, 2012 at 1:18 pm
This PVR is ****, I had my for about 10 month and it has never worked from the start, It will miss programme, it will delete programme, it will not record all of a serials and miss one or two of them. I have email Samsung every month from the day I got it and now. The firmware has only had one update, I’m currently testing a YouView box and there has been more that 10 update to the firmware. If you are luckly and everything records then one day the recorded programme will start to go and you will be left with nothing and the only way to get the recorded programme back is to do a default reset but then you have to put back all the timmer programme back.
Please think twice before buying this PVR
MattQuote
August 12th, 2012 at 2:53 pm
Got this box a month ago. Picture quality excellent. However, about a week ago, it seems that from time to time, the connection go back to 576p, and then lost sound altogether. Tried later a few hours later and it will switch back to HD connection mode. It seems that it is because there is a scart plugged-in at the back. That happens even with audio only! Tried Samsung support and they simply won’t accept email if you don’t list the model on your query. And of course the model is not on the selection list. Now that’s the best way to not having any customer’s questions and dare I say, working brilliantly. That is, if any one choose to be a Samsung customers.
FreddieQuote
August 13th, 2012 at 2:16 pm
Freddie,
I have had no problem submitting queries via ‘My Samsung’ (though their answers have been frustrating to say the least). Have you actually registered your product with them at https://account.samsung.com/account/signIn.do ?
EamonnQuote
August 15th, 2012 at 11:22 am
Registered with My Samsung and raised the query. Needn’t have bothered. Just tell me to reset to default, which I told them I have done already. They just want to fob you off until you give up. I have had 2 previous experiences with Samsung and both very bad. The first DVD recorder suddenly default to Austria mode for Freeview. So totally useless for UK. The next one have the annoying habit of occasionally not do the time recording. I mean, VCR has been doing this since the 70s, so how hard can it be. And it wasn’t Freeview+, so just some basic programming recording stuff. The replacement Panasonic has been performing faultlessly. I have really thought long and hard before I go for this Freesat box and how I regret it. I for one will not be buying Samsung again. And anyone out there should think twice unless they are into heartache and frustration. I figured a work around last night, which is to switch off the power altogher and when cold booting, it will detect correctly and go to the HD mode. But should I be doing this for a machine just 1 month old? Why do they think it is a good idea to road test their machines with paying customers? The last firmware was over a year ago and is it going to be another one? Have they given up on this already and just trying to clear all their stocks? As I bought this from John Lewis, I have the safety of 2 years warranty so I think I will stick with it for the time being, until it go seriously wrong, which is very likely. Then go back to John Lewis. And if this is a firmware issue, I simply cannot believe I am the only one suffering from it. Is it possible there are lots of machines out there giving non-HD services and punters have no idea about it? Worth checking.
Finally, there are some “review” out there which give full marks to this box. Very properly written, even give comparison with other boxes and how clever this one is and how wonderfully it will perform, despite all the identified issues. You just thought, is it not possible it is done by a certain marketing department disguised as customers. Be careful out there.
FreddieQuote
August 20th, 2012 at 9:43 pm
had my samsung 8 weeks 7800 what a waste of money library keeps crashing
going for the Humax
john mccabeQuote
August 23rd, 2012 at 2:26 pm
Had mine about 6 months a bit fussy when streaming video from my PC but otherwise ok,would like itv player though seeing as it had the sticker on and it was listed as being supported on the freesat site when i bought it,still waiting on a firmware update i suppose but otherwise its a good bit of kit
Jeff CoyneQuote
August 24th, 2012 at 2:55 pm
Have to agree with the above comments. Keep losing my library so have to reset and programs not recording because there is not enough epg data on the screen. I have 100% signal strength and 90% quality!! This shoudn’t be happening.
Lee SQuote
September 5th, 2012 at 9:03 am
It seems there has been an update to the firmware.
http://www.samsung.com/uk/support/mo…/XEU-downloads
‘Software V6.0.376
Resolved the issue with YouTube log-in.
Resolved the issue with the number of media files listed.
Improved the recordings.
Note 1: Some users may experience schedule conflicts when recodring some regional programmes in series because of broadcast information. Samsung is wokring with Freesat to resolve this issue.
Note 2: This includes major fixes or improvements, compared with V5.0.300 or V5.0.301.’
EamonnQuote
September 5th, 2012 at 9:04 am
Apologies – here’s a link that works
http://www.samsung.com/uk/support/model/SMT-S7800/XEU-downloads
EamonnQuote
October 6th, 2012 at 8:57 pm
Agree with all of above. Have been stung twice now by Samsung.
So Samsung have an update…. Does it have the promised G2 upgraded that was promised, or does it just fix bugs that shouldn’t have been there since its launch over a year ago?
SeanQuote
October 6th, 2012 at 8:59 pm
FYI G2 is now
SeanQuote
October 6th, 2012 at 10:29 pm
Samsung box can’t receive the G2 spec update.
adminQuote
October 25th, 2012 at 5:37 am
Just noticed that ITV Player now works on this machine.
EamonnQuote
October 28th, 2012 at 7:40 pm
yep just tried it and it works like a treat thanks for letting us know eamonn god knows otherwise when i would of known thanks again
raj ghaiQuote
October 29th, 2012 at 4:55 pm
I am well chuffed that my Samsung SMT-S7800 can now view ITV Player, its only taken 2 years but hey it works now so that’s all that matters. Also got TalkTalk visiting on Friday to install YouView, so I think the combination of FreeSat and YouView will be enough for my viewing. 2 years plus without sky now and no intention of going back to the rip of merchants!
Mark North WalesQuote
October 31st, 2012 at 3:32 pm
Samsung have told me that they have no date for any OTA update for the new firmware released in early Sept. No news on rectifying the 4:3 bug either. Though they are aware.
EamonnQuote
November 1st, 2012 at 3:58 pm
Another update for the SMT-S7800 firmware! Looks like USB only so far. http://www.samsung.com/uk/support/model/SMT-S7800/XEU-downloads
EamonnQuote
November 1st, 2012 at 5:39 pm
Hmmmm…can’t actually see what this has changed. 4:3 aspect ratio bug still there.
EamonnQuote
November 2nd, 2012 at 5:46 pm
HI eamonn i have noticed that the sep update has gone so mayb it might be the same update please let us now if you find out what is new in the update
Cheers
raj ghaiQuote
November 2nd, 2012 at 7:09 pm
I’ve had my box for almost a year now, but recently my library started crashing. It appears empty even though the HDD shows that it’s not. If I switch the box off then on again sometimes the library recordings return. Will the new update rectify this problem? Thank you
ShellyQuote
November 2nd, 2012 at 9:21 pm
Does anyone know if Samsung will upgrade this box to use Freesat’s new “Free Time” feature, or this not possible?
GioQuote
November 2nd, 2012 at 10:55 pm
Can’t happen, the receiver requires significantly more processing power so requires completely different chipsets etc.
adminQuote
November 4th, 2012 at 11:39 am
Told Samsung about the 4:3 ratio bug and they have told me the following;
‘The fact that this issue does not happen on all channels just means that
it is down the broadcaster sending out the signal that adjusts the
screen. This cannot be a bug as you are the only case that we are aware
of with this issue.’
Can others report this issue to Samsung please? It clearly is a bug as nobody using other Freesat PVRs reports this problem and on my Freesat TV the channels in question appear in 16:9 as they did on my Samsung PVR beofre the Sept update.
EamonnQuote
November 4th, 2012 at 3:54 pm
Eamonn,
This is not a bug, auto means that the broadcasted content is presented according to its format, so 16:9 is presented as 16:9, 4:3 as 4:3. However, it would be nice to have an option to override this to stretch the 4:3 content. It is called “anamorphic format”. Cited “explanation” suggests, that probably they don’t understand the topic.
AmmarokQuote
November 4th, 2012 at 5:10 pm
Ammarok,
Thanks for the info. However, before the update the Samsung box did just this. If aspect ratio was set to ‘auto’ then all channels appeared in 16:9 whatever aspect ratio they were transmitted in (maybe that was a bug?). Now they don’t. Oddly, the effected channels appear in 16:9 for a few seconds when the box is turned on and when the EPG banner appears they go to 4:3.
EamonnQuote
November 6th, 2012 at 1:42 pm
I have had to set the 4:3 channels in 16:9 centre cut out mode. Although the top and bottom is cropped from the broadcast, The channels now fill the screen and do not look overstretched. It will have to do for now I guess. I raised the same problem with Samsung and they are not interested.
Lee SQuote
November 6th, 2012 at 2:11 pm
Just been playing around with the new update and it looks like a small grey line has been added to the bottom of the channel info bar with the genre underneath it ie. entertainment or drama etc. Also the program synopsis in the epg doesnt scroll anymore so you can actually read it!
Also for those of you who have a ‘Just Scan’ setting on your tv, set your aspect ratio to this (not 16:9) and the Samsung box will do the rest. HD programs will now fill the screen to their native resolution and even 4:3 channels adjusted to 16:9 fill the screen better. There is also no small black interference line at the bottom of the tv if you use the ‘Just Scan’ feature.
Lee SQuote
November 6th, 2012 at 6:15 pm
Lee,
Thanks for the tips. Very useful.
EamonnQuote
November 6th, 2012 at 8:46 pm
I have done the latest update and lost the sound on my hdmi.
I’ve tried reset and cables plugged correctly changing to scart works fine.
Anyone come accross this?
RichQuote
November 9th, 2012 at 4:21 pm
Does anyone have this problem with BBC iPlayer on the Samsung? When a programme ends instead of iPlayer returning to the programme info. showing options like ‘more like this’ etc. the screen goes black, the coloured button options appear at the bottom of the screen and ‘Loading….’ appears at the top? The iPlayer is unresposive and you have to change channel and then go back to channel 901 and re-enter the iPlayer.
EamonnQuote
November 14th, 2012 at 8:43 am
I have downloaded the latest update, I missed the Sept one and it’s missing from the Samsung site, I installed it and rebooted machine but no sign of itv player on 903?
DaveyQuote
November 14th, 2012 at 8:53 pm
Same thing happened here yesterday when it upgraded itself, how did you resolve it?
Nilhil SleighrideQuote
November 14th, 2012 at 10:12 pm
Sorted. For the life in me, I don’t know why it started needing the Sony amp to be set to Amp and TV after working perfectly well with it just set to Amp for 12months
Nilhil SleighrideQuote
November 20th, 2012 at 12:27 pm
Mine has missed 2 series recordings since the last upgrade. However, when I have tried to add them back I’m told there is already “another instance” in the library. On checking scheduled recordings they are not listed. If I find there is a repeat on another day and try to schedule for then I’m greeted with the same error message.
Have done the power down, but do not want to do yet another factory reset so soon after the last time
No point telling Samsung, as they’ll just say it is my box and recall it for a format and reinstall of same software.
MikeQuote
November 27th, 2012 at 3:07 pm
I have been away for a couple of months, during which time, my Samsung freesat box was turned off. On powering up yesterday, I keep getting the display message ‘Software upg’. Going into ‘System/software upgrade’ I am told that there is no software upgrade available. Can someone tell me what is going on.
I do notice, however, that I have not suffered that ‘Channel unavailable. Please check connection’ thingy since I reconnected.
Michael.DQuote
November 30th, 2012 at 8:39 pm
Actually, forget the above. I did a reboot, because the box stopped working properly. I now get whole banks of channels that just get the “Please check connection” rubbish. Plus now almost every channel keeps breaking up and pixelating.
So I have now given up. Disconnected the Samsung and gone back to my old Sky box! So, no HD! Nor program recording. But at least I get a stable picture with an instant positive response from the remote.
RIP Samsung SMT-7800
Michael.DQuote
November 30th, 2012 at 11:17 pm
Likewise. Had the disappearing recordings from about 6 months old, now had it 13 months, and this has required a restore to defaults to get them listed again. However this problem is totally new. I have got the old firmware on USB and putting this back on solves the problem. What I can’t do is stop the damn thing auto updating a couple of days later and bringing the problem back. I am going to try calling them to see if this can be stopped. Wish me luck. If I get any result I will let you know.
DuncanQuote
December 12th, 2012 at 6:13 pm
Had a similar problem: Samsung’s advice was to download the latest firmware upgrade and apply it (via a USB stick – simple enough). Then reboot from power off. Then go into settings and reset all back to the factory defaults. Reboot. Start over, searching for channels etc. In the middle of this, it downloaded its own software upgrade!
Whatever – the very long way round eventually worked, but needed the firmware upgrade (manual) to do so.
BobQuote
December 12th, 2012 at 6:18 pm
Regarding STM-S7800 Internet connections: many people will have a perfectly adequate broadband router sending a signal round their dwelling. Theoretically it should be possible to just plug a “dongle” into the ethernet port. Samsung, however, confirm that the obvious just won’t work. Why you need to use a long ethernet cable or two mains plugs (for the router and STB) is unknown to Tech Sup. Shame about this necessity for even more wires!
BobQuote
December 17th, 2012 at 3:02 pm
Update on my box. Having called Samsung they confirmed that it was under warranty and they are more than happy to look at it even though apparently this is the first time they have ever heard of this issue?
They said that they would be sending out all of the packaging and return details so it can go back to them for work. Seeing as we are rapidly approaching Christmas I strongly suspected to be without and PVR during the festive season. Not being the fan of an impending Samsung enforced retro TV experience this year I went out and bought a Tvonics Freeview HD+ box.
Still waiting for the box to arrive from Samsung to return my S7800 and most annoyingly of all I have been running both boxes in parallel and the Samsung currently appears to be working fine and hasn’t deleted or missed anything!
At least I can now record 4 channels at once!
For £130 the Tvonics box is very good but have to say you can see where the money has been saved. The menu system is very basic in comparison to the Samsung and you can only use iPlayer and not any of the other on demand services. But hey at least it actually records when it’s told to!
If the Samsung box does ever get looked at I will let you all know.
DuncanQuote
December 25th, 2012 at 6:39 pm
The library list is now getting very long with recordings I want to keep. how do I put them into a seperate folder? I’ve given up trying to follow the instructions in the handbook:
select programme by pressing the yellow button.
press “TOOLS” button on the remote
Select “MOVE” in the pop-up menu
Press Green button to create a new folder
Press Red button to see main folders
Press Yellow button to move the file
barblessQuote
December 29th, 2012 at 7:20 pm
OK, I think I have this correct.
To create new folder:
Press ‘Library’
Click right arrow to activate library
Press ‘Tools’
Click on ‘New folder’ option and then ‘OK’
Name your folder
To move items into new folder:
Go to ‘Library’
Select item(s) by scrolling to them and clicking yellow button
Press ‘Tools’
Press ‘Move’
Press ‘OK’
Select destination folder
Click ‘OK’
Press yellow button to move items into folder
EamonnQuote
December 31st, 2012 at 10:07 am
In my opinion it is a bug,but, I think it to be associated with the epg in that ,when it happens, I go to Guide and then out again ie click guide twice normality is restored.
DavidWQuote
January 3rd, 2013 at 2:17 pm
DavidW: Thanks for that workaround for the 4:3 ratio bug, it works a treat
Eamonn: Samsung have had others (including me) report this bug. Regrettably this is the poor level of ‘service’ they continue to provide.
I note this box is no longer being sold at johnlewis.com or RicherSounds.com – apart from any stock on hand in shops – presumably they have had far too many returns to make it worth their while selling this equipment in future.
MikeQuote
January 3rd, 2013 at 2:21 pm
Discontinued, that is why.
adminQuote
February 6th, 2013 at 12:24 pm
That yet another Freesat PVR has seemingly bitten the dust is a real concern, I believe. The number of ‘viable’ PVRs is dropping, as is the number of panels with Freesat installed. Given the apparent lack of interest by manufacturers and the dearth of new channels (why did Sky get More4HD and Film4HD, for example) I wonder how much longer Freesat will exist if no-one can access it
Clem DyeQuote
February 6th, 2013 at 12:58 pm
It hasn’t been the lack of interest by manufacturers but freesat wishing to go the route of their next generation service (free time) which has put a stop on further approvals for generation 1 receivers. The timing is about right with freesat reaching around the 3 million sales mark where natural slow down is likely and consumers look to the next generation products to upgrade to. It does however leave some very good manufacturers like Echostar with no option to bring new products to market, and many question the success of the free time service, waiting to see how it fairs for Humax (the sole manufacturer of this product at this time).
Sky got More4HD and Film4HD simply because they have the money and resource at thrashing out a strong deal; freesat are non-profit and funded by the BBC and ITV; who simply cannot compete with BSkyB.
adminQuote
February 6th, 2013 at 1:00 pm
Actually, having just checked I see that the Echostar box is also no longer available to buy, limiting choice even further. With so few PVRs now up for grabs I think that Freesat has to be on the way out. How do you watch/record anything without suitable equipment? Looks like Mr Murdoch has won again, because at this rate of kit attrition that’ll soon be the only option left for UK satellite TV …. Freesat RIP.
Clem DyeQuote
February 10th, 2013 at 8:31 am
happy with the box so far for a ton, the bright blue light under the display is way over the top and a waste of time and it spoil’s the programme title display on the unit (i might have the get the black tape out!) does not even change colour if on or standby. hd picture not as good as built in hd sony tuner but a for £100 it will do. came with latest software bbc/itv player working
antonyQuote
March 21st, 2013 at 6:58 pm
Don’t know if anymore posts are being accepted for this particular box but here goes. I thought I would give mine just one more go. But the grief just mounts up.
I hadn’t used my 8700 for a while. So I did a factory default reset. First of all, there is always a loud pop before the Samsung logo rolls several times before settling down. But the strangest thing. Although I set my London postcode correctly. ITV local news seems to think I live in the Midlands and gives me ITV Central news. The ITV London news appears on channel 977
Michael.DQuote
March 21st, 2013 at 7:08 pm
Oh, and I nearly forgot! Every time I turn on now. The programme guide always initially goes to midnight Jan 1st
Michael.DQuote