How to Hook Up PlayStation 2 to DIRECTV

Let's go through the process of hooking up a PlayStation 2 to the DirecTV receiver. (One reason this may be desired is that the TV auxiliary inputs may be in use by another application.) It's basically the same procedure you use to hook up the game console to a TV screen, except the results will be viewed via the DirecTV unit.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• PlayStation 2
• DirecTV receiver
• TV screen

Play on with DirecTV

1. Check the options for input. Depending on the specific model of your DirecTV receiver, there can be a variety of input connections for a video signal. They will most likely include one of the following: Coaxial, RCA, HDMI, USB and S-Video. Some models will have an auxiliary input, or it may be labeled as input "B." If there is no secondary input available, you will need to purchase an audio/video A/B switch. Your satellite output would connect to the A side and your video game output would connect to the B side. The output of the A/B switch would connect to the satellite input on the DirecTV receiver.

2. Check the options for output. The PlayStation 2 will have the same options for output that we listed in Step 1. Once a matching connection has been determined between the two units, select the appropriate cable to make the hookup.

3. Connect the PlayStation 2 to the receiver. Connect the cable from the video game output to the receiver input.

4. 
    
   The game's on.

   View the PlayStation 2. Since the game is routed through the DirecTV receiver, you will simply select "satellite" on your TV remote, as you would for DirecTV programming. You may then need to select "aux" on the receiver to see the game. In the case of an A/B switch, you will need to turn to the "B" side.

Tips & Warnings

• Satellite receivers are not really made to have a secondary input, although some models may feature that option. Most receivers have secondary outputs but only one input. Connect the PlayStation 2 to the DirecTV receiver only as a last resort.
• Connecting video equipment in ways that void the warranty should be avoided.

Resources

• PlayStation 2