How to Connect RCA Cables to a Computer

RCA cables are the standard audio/video cables with the red, yellow,and white connectors. These cables are used to connect to devices that need audio and video and have RCA jacks. But how does one connect these cables to a computer, allowing the computer to be connected to a TV or another device? The key is for the computer to have a TV tuner card.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• TV Tuner card
• Phillips screwdriver
• TV tuner card audio cable
• TV tuner card drivers CD

1. 
    
   Computer with its side panel removed.

   Make sure the computer is turned off and all devices are unplugged and detached from the computer. Open the side panel of the computer. This is usually done unscrewing two screws located on the back of the panel and removing the panel, revealing the inside of the computer.

2. Find an open PCI slot. Use your screwdriver to remove the screw from the metal cover of the PCI slot, and then remove the metal cover.

3. 
    
   Device being put into a PCI slot.

   Line up the card TV tuner card with the PCI slot and gently lower the card into its slot. Once the card is firmly into place, screw the card into the slot to secure it.

4. Attach the side panel back to the computer. Then connect the audio cable that came with your tuner card and to your sound card.

5. Turn on the computer and install any drivers that are necessary. These drivers would be on a CD that came with the tuner card.