What Do You Need to Hook Up PC to TV?
Televisions share many of the same qualities and functions as computer monitors, especially flat screen HD-capable models. In fact, newer TVs are designed to act as an external monitor for a PC, provided the right elements are in place.
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TV Inputs
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The television must have an input that can be used to connect a PC. This will vary depending on the model and when it was produced. Among those with inputs are HDMI and S-Video, as well as the PC-specific VGA (Video Graphics Array) and DVI (Digital Visual Interface).
PC Outputs
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The PC must have outputs that can route the video signal to an external monitor, which can be a TV. With some PCs, especially desktop computers, that will likely be VGA and/or DVI, while others, especially laptops, may also have HDMI and/or S-Video.
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Video Cables
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The user must have the proper type of video cable that matches up with the input/outputs available on their PC and TV. Adapters are available when the two do not match up exactly, such as a DVI to HDMI cable.
Audio Cables
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The audio from the PC can also be routed to the TV, provided you have the proper input/outputs and cables. The most common audio input (not including HDMI) will be a composite RCA stereo (two-pronged, red and white connectors) input or a single-pronged 3.5 mm input, usually paired with the VGA or DVI input. The PC's likely audio output will be the 3.5 mm line-out or headphone jack, with adapter cables again available to bridge the two types when necessary.
Converter Box
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If none of the standard video input options will work, which may be the case with basic older model TVs, converter boxes are available, such as those with a VGA input and a composite and/or S-Video output, common inputs on older TVs.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit laptop computer image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com
