How to Connect a Computer to Your TV
Many people choose to watch their favorite television shows and movies by streaming them over the Internet, but would prefer a larger screen or more comfort while watching. For this reason, some people have connected their PC to the television, allowing them to watch streaming video from the comfort of the living room. There are several ways of connecting your PC to your TV, but it all depends on the connections your computer has.
- Determine what type of connectors will be an option between your TV and PC. Most high-definition televisions will have a few HDMI inputs along with one or two VGA and DVI inputs. Most likely, your PC will be the one limiting your connection options, but many modern computers have many of the outputs required. The best connection you will first want to try is HDMI. If you computer does not have an HDMI output, then you will be forced to use DVI or VGA.
- Turn both your computer and television off. You will then connect the HDMI or VGA cables to both the television and PC. Be sure that the cables are completely connected because sometimes when the cables are not connected properly, it will cause problems that will hinder your ability to watch videos.
- Connect the sound from the PC to the TV. I you are using an HDMI connection then you do not have to worry about anything else, but if you are using DI or VGA, then you will need an audio cable. There are a number of options, but most choose to use a standard 3.5mm audio connector.
- Turn on both the PC and the TV. You may have to use an input button on your TV to make it show your desktop. Depending on the computer and TV you choose to use, you may need to manually choose your viewing resolution. Especially if you are watching a movie, you will want the best resolution possible.