How to Control a TV with a MacBook

You can control a television using a MacBook by setting up a home share.

Although a MacBook has a high-definition screen that makes viewing videos optimal, sometimes seeing it on a bigger screen, like a television screen, is simply better. Fortunately, Apple offers the option of letting users wirelessly stream their MacBook's content on a television using Apple TV. After Apple TV is hooked up, you can create a "Home Share" between the two devices, which allows you to stream content as long as the devices are on the same wireless network and logged into the same iTunes account.

Instructions

Connect Apple TV

1. Plug the correct end of Apple TV's HDMI cable into the back of the television. Plug the other end into the back of the Apple TV.

2. Turn the television on.

3. Scroll through the wireless networks listed on the screen until yours is highlighted using Apple TV's remote.

4. Type your wireless password.

Create Home Share

1. Open iTunes on Apple TV and the MacBook.

2. Select "Turn on Home Sharing" under "Advanced" on both devices. Make sure both the MacBook and Apple TV are on the same wireless network; otherwise, the home share will not work.

3. Log in to your iTunes account on both devices.

4. Click "Create Home Share." The iTunes app will notify you several minutes later when the Home Share has been created so you can begin using it.

References

• Apple Support: iTunes: How to Share Music and Video
• Apple: Apple TV (2nd Generation) Setup Guide (PDF)