How to Make Your Own Web TV

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Understand what the original system included, before attempting to build your own Web TV system. A typical Web TV setup starts with the web browser, which is a box housing a small computer. This computer box sends video to the home TV instead of a standard monitor. A wireless keyboard and remote let you use the Internet from anywhere in the room.
Step 2

Duplicate the original components in order to make your own Web TV system. You can do this using off-the-shelf replacements. This may sound daunting, but is in fact fairly straightforward, thanks to the many inexpensive computer parts available today.
Step 3

Save money by finding used parts. While all-new components will certainly work, you may actually have several of the computer pieces already. The next section will break down the necessary pieces and provide sources for finding inexpensive components.

Step 1

Replace the core of the Web TV system, called the "box." This is sometimes also called the "browser." Use a standard PC as a replacement. A used desktop or laptop will usually work, as long as it is not too old. As a guideline, the PC you select should be able to browse the Internet, play videos and music and run programs such as word processors or games. Common sources for used parts include Craigslist.org and eBay.com.
Step 2

Use a keyboard and mouse to interact with your Web TV. While normal corded devices will work, you will probably want wireless versions to use them anywhere in the room. These are available new at locations such as Walmart or Best Buy and also online at sites such as eBay.com.
Step 3

Link the computer to your home TV---a video card with video signal outputs is needed. The computer you choose to use might already have this option. If not, many inexpensive video cards are available, including external cards that connect through the USB port. Check eBay.com to find available deals.
Step 4

Connect the system to the Internet to browse the Web. Since most homes already have Internet access, the easiest way to bring your Web TV system online is to simply connect to your home network or high-speed router. If the computer does not have a network card, it can be added inexpensively. Most major retailers such as Walmart will carry them.

Step 1

Wire the system to your home TV, once you have a working PC with the proper video cards and accessories. There are generally two ways to send the video signal from the computer: digital and analog. The analog connection is used on older TVs and connects with a standard yellow RCA cable, the same way a DVD player would be connected. The digital connection is found on most newer TVs and will connect with either HDMI or VGA cables. Though there are many options, simply checking the video card you have selected will usually make the choice clear.
Step 2

Connect your custom Web TV system to the Internet. If you already have high-speed broadband Internet or DSL, simply use an available network port and connect the new device. If you do not yet have broadband, you can use a dial-up modem. Most desktop PCs will have a modem or network card already installed.
Step 3

Switch between the computer and standard TV using the "Input" or "Auxiliary" buttons on your TV. With the computer connected to your home TV and the Internet, the system is ready to use. Use the keyboard and mouse to check email, watch Internet videos or chat---all from the comfort of your living room.

References