How to Connect Cox Mini Box to TV (Step-by-Step Guide)
Quick Checklist (What You’ll Need)
- Cox Mini Box
- Remote control with fresh batteries
- HDMI cable (recommended) or coaxial cable (for older TVs)
- Power adapter
- TV remote (to switch inputs)
- Active Cox TV service
Step 1: Place and Power the Mini Box
- Place the Cox Mini Box close to your TV in a ventilated area (do not cover it).
- Plug the power adapter into the Mini Box, then into a wall socket.
- Switch on the Mini Box using the power button or remote. The light should come on.
Step 2: Connect with HDMI Cable (Best Option)
- Locate an HDMI port on your TV (labelled HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.).
- Plug one end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI OUT port on the Mini Box.
- Plug the other end into your TV’s HDMI port.
- Switch on the TV and press the Input/Source button on your TV remote. Select the HDMI input you used.
- Turn on the Mini Box. You should see the Cox welcome screen.
Step 2 (Alternative): Connect with Coaxial Cable (Older TVs)
- On the Mini Box, find the round port labelled To TV or RF OUT.
- Screw one end of the coaxial cable into this port.
- Screw the other end into the TV’s ANT IN/TV In port.
- Switch on your TV and select TV/ANT input using the TV remote.
- Tune your TV to Channel 3 or Channel 4.
- Turn on the Mini Box. The Cox welcome screen should appear.
Step 3: Set Up the Remote
- Insert fresh batteries into the remote control.
- Test by changing channels on the Mini Box.
- If the remote does not control your TV’s power or volume, go to the on-screen Remote Setup menu.
- Select your TV brand and follow the pairing instructions.
Step 4: Activate the Mini Box
- Once the Mini Box is connected, it must be activated.
- You can activate in three ways:
- Through the Cox website (log into your account).
- Using the Cox/MyAccount app.
- By calling Cox customer support.
- Activation may take a few minutes. Once complete, your channels will load.
Step 5: Adjust TV and Audio Settings
- If using HDMI, set resolution to Auto / 720p / 1080i for best quality.
- On your TV, set Picture Mode to “Standard” or “Movie” for better results.
- For audio, ensure the setting is on “Stereo/PCM” if not using external speakers.
Troubleshooting Tips
No Signal/Black Screen
- Check that the TV is on the correct input (HDMI 1, HDMI 2, or TV/ANT).
- Reseat the HDMI or coaxial cable firmly.
- If using coaxial, try switching between Channel 3 and Channel 4.
- Unplug the Mini Box and TV for 30 seconds, then reconnect.
Remote Not Working
- Replace batteries.
- Point directly at the Mini Box, ensuring nothing blocks the signal.
- Re-pair the remote using the on-screen setup.
No Sound
- Check TV volume and mute settings.
- If using HDMI, set audio to “TV Speakers.”
- For coaxial, check TV audio options (mono/stereo).
Missing Channels
- Re-run activation.
- Restart the Mini Box (unplug for 30 seconds, then reconnect).
- Check if your subscription includes the missing channels.
Best Practices
- Label your cables for easier troubleshooting.
- Avoid stacking the Mini Box under other hot devices.
- Use short, good-quality cables for better performance.
- Remember: each TV in your home needs its own Mini Box for full channel access.
Quick Recap
- Plug in power.
- Connect via HDMI (best) or coaxial.
- Select the correct input on TV (HDMI/TV-ANT).
- Switch on the Mini Box.
- Set up and pair the remote.
- Activate the Mini Box via website, app, or phone.
- Fine-tune picture and sound settings.
- Use troubleshooting if needed.