How to Use Your TV as a Monitor for a Laptop

Most laptop computers are capable of using an external video output, such as a VGA monitor. Many newer laptops also feature a High Definition Media Interface, or HDMI connection. You can use your TV as a monitor for a laptop computer if the TV supports the same type of video output as your laptop. HDMI is the preferred connection type as it uses a digital signal and carries a separate audio stream over the same cable as the video. Nearly all HDTVs support HDMI inputs. VGA is an analog connection and is the most common connection type on laptops, though HDMI is beginning to increase dramatically in popularity as of 2011.

Things You'll Need

• HDMI or VGA cable

Instructions

1. Determine your TV's input capabilities. Nearly all HDTVs support HDMI, and many support VGA.

2. Determine your laptop's output capabilities. Most laptops feature a VGA connector, and many newer laptops feature an HDMI connector. Use HDMI if it is available.

3. Insert one end of the HDMI or VGA cable into the input on the TV.

4. Power on the TV and select the appropriate input.

5. Power on the laptop and connect the other end of the cable to the laptop's VGA or HDMI output port.

6. Press the Windows logo key and "P" simultaneously to duplicate the laptop's display on the TV.

Tips & Warnings

• Press the Windows logo key and "P" simultaneously twice to extend the display to the TV, which creates two separate screens. Press the Windows logo key and "P" simultaneously three times to make the image display on the TV only.