How to Use HDMI Cable to Access the Full Potential of an HDTV

Contributor

By Geoffrey Weed
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (5 Ratings)

HDTV

Many people who own and utilize an HDTV don't realize that much of what they're viewing each day isn't being displayed in true high definition. The problem is that true high definition signal requires a specialized type of cable, called HDMI cable, to be transmitted from an outside device to your television. So, in other words, if your HDTV isn't connected to your DVD player, TIVO, video game console, or other peripherals, using HDMI cable, then you aren't harnessing the true high definition potential of your HDTV.

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Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

An HDTV
HDMI Cable
High Definition Peripherals

Step 1

Set up your television as you would if it were being connected with any other kind of AV cord. Make sure that the television is plugged in and working properly in every respect.
Step 2

Set up your high definition peripherals as you would normally. Once again, make sure that they're plugged in properly and are functioning correctly.
Step 3

Purchase lengths of HDMI cable that are long enough to connect your high definition peripherals to your HDTV. You can purchase HDMI cable at any electronics store, online, or at retailers like Best Buy or Circuit City.
Step 4

Connect one end of the HDMI cable to your HDTV, making sure that the connection is firm and that the HDMI cable is fully inserted.
Step 5

Connect the opposite end of the HDMI cable to your high definition peripheral, making sure that the connection is firm and that the HDMI cable is fully inserted.
Step 6

Enjoy the vastly improved, high definition entertainment experience that your HDTV provides when properly outfitted with HDMI cable and high definition peripherals.

Tips & Warnings

Only peripherals that are capable of broadcasting a high definition signal will have HDMI inputs. This is a great way to tell whether each of your peripherals should be hooked up with HDMI cable or standard cable.
Don't buy super-expensive HDMI cable. Decent HDMI cable (short lengths) can be purchased for under $20. All of the supposedly "premium" HDMI cables on the market today are essentially identical to their more reasonably priced counterparts.