How to Connect an RF Modulator to an Older TV

Older TV's often don't have the necessary A/V inputs to let you connect devices like DVD players or game consoles to them. If your TV is one of these, you'll need an RF modulator. Using an RF modulator is an easy way to extend the life of an old TV you may want to use in a kid's or guest room.

Things You'll Need

• TV
• RF modulator
• RCA patch cables
• Coaxial TV cable

Instructions

1. Evaluate the TV you want to use. If your TV does not have standard composite A/V connection (red, white and yellow RCA inputs), you'll need an RF modulator to connect many newer pieces of gear, like game consoles. Most TVs will have a standard "F-type" coaxial cable input. This is the type of input that's used for TV cable. If your TV has only a 300-ohm input (two screws on the back panel), you've got a real antique. However, adapters can be purchased that connect to the screw cables and provide an F-type connection. At the very least you will need an F-type connection before you can proceed.

2. Purchase an RF modulator. Many electronics stores and websites carry these. The primary difference between models is the number of inputs for external gear they have. If you plan on hooking up several pieces of equipment to the TV, buy one with multiple inputs. That way you can easily add extra gear when you want to, and won't be limited to one or two external devices for your TV.

3. Evaluate what cables you'll need. At the minimum, you'll need a set of composite A/V cables to run from your gear (a cable with red, white and yellow male RCA connectors on each end) and a coaxial TV cable with a male F-typed connector on each end. If you're going to connect more than one piece of gear to the TV, like a game console and a DVD player, you'll need two A/V cables. However you'll only need one F-type cable, since you'll switch sources at the RF modulator. Determine the length of cables you'll need and buy them at the same time you get the RF modulator.

4. Connect the RF modulator to a power source. Most have a small AC to DC adapter you'll plug in to the wall. Then attach the coaxial cable from the modulator to the TV input. Finally attach the A/V cable from the source (like a game console) to the modulator. Simply connect red to red, white to white and yellow to yellow.

5. Turn on the TV and set it to channel 3 (or whatever is specified by the RF modulator's manual). Be sure the modulator's power is on, then turn on the external source.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to buy your cables when you buy the modulator to save a return trip to the store.