How to connect a TV to computer, HDTV to PC or laptop

Parts used: http://jasonrj.net/blog/how-connect-hdtv-computer

I explain the best way to connect your desktop or laptop computer to your HDTV. This will not work with a standard definition TV. I choose the HDMI cable method because it is the absolute best way to do this when concerned with picture quality. I use a DVI to HDMI converter but a video card with a built in HDMI port is even better.

Please note that just about any computer is capable of doing this but if the video card is not powerful enough you may see choppy video on the TV as a result.

DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY ON EXPENSIVE HDMI CABLES!!!!
The cheap cables are EXACTLY as good as the ridiculously expensive ones. This is a proven fact that I find hilarious people try to argue:
http://www.mint.com/blog/trends/the-rip1/
http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/03/audiophiles-cant-tell-the-difference-betwe...
http://gizmodo.com/268788/the-truth-about-monster-cable-part-2-verdict-cheap-...

Category:

Education

Tags:

• tv
• computer
• hdtv
• tutorial
• hdmi
• pc
• home
• theater

[kokainkalle]

VG how much 1 cable cost??

[MrBrotato]

@kokainkalle There are links to Amazon on my blog post, check out this video's description. Most cables are only a few dollars.

[cali4life72]

PLEASE RESPOND SOON: I'm just going to use my laptop, would i be able to use a VGA to HDMI cable? Because i just tried using a VGA to DVI cable then a DVI to HDMI but the VGA to DVI (that i got) won't read DVI Digital (and it's expensive). I can get a VGA to HDMI much cheaper and i was wondering, Would that work and would it give me a good quality? P.S. I'm only going into a 32' 720p tv so i couldn't get to crazy with quality even if i wanted to.

[MrBrotato]

@cali4life72 If your computer only has a VGA port then see if your TV has one also and if it does then just use a VGA cable. If not, then you'll need a VGA to DVI or HDMI converter box, they're a little bit of money. You can't just use a VGA to DVI/HDMI cable, there needs to be a converter box to go from an analog (VGA) signal to a digital one. The better option is just using a DVI or HDMI port if your computer has one.

[RetroEcHo789]

@MrBrotato LOL we got the same TV 1 question i want to buy a desktop without a monitor will it instantly connect to the tv with hdmi? will the options menue show up on the tv when the hdmi is connected to it. Im i ok if i buy a dell without a monitor and just use it with my tv?

[MrBrotato]

@RetroEcHo789 If you have an HDMI port on your TV and a DVI or HDMI port on your computer, the process is as simple as connecting a cable and setting the TV to the HDMI input channel.

[ben2talk]

Why do you think HDMI is better than RGB?

I ask this because it's easy for me to run an RGB and wired (headphone style) audio connection into my TV.

When I connect by HDMI, the picture is different - too bright - so I went back to the RGB connection.

HDMI cables DO transmit sound - but maybe your PC isn't supporting this function (my nVidia driver gives no option to set audio - and unfortunately my PC has an electrical digital output whilst the TV has optical!

[kokainkalle]

@MrBrotato thnx just got 1 working great just need a special adapter so i can use 3 VGA

[Jr3Kicks]

Hey great vid...I have a 2005 compaq presario has VGA port in the back m just got a hd tv it also has VGA port in the back but when I connect them and turn on my pc it won't show up on my tv do I need to get something else? Please respond thanks

[hafsteinnhelga]

hdmi does transmit sound you just have to go to control panel/ hardware and sound/ sound, there you should see your tv's name and your Speakers click your tv's name and you should see option Set Default down below click that and there you go. But there is a problem you can only have one working at the time (speakers or TV). You can not have them working at the same time. I have a hdmi port on my graphics card, i don't know if that has something to do with it, but it works for me.

[tino730]

You could also buy a vga to dvi adapter then an dvi to hdmi adapter and plug it in! LOL!

[NTWIChilarious]

i have a 42 inch tv in my room and i want a computer but dont have enough room to fit one in so can i buy a toweer and link it to my tv (my tv hasnt got hd ) please help