How to Use an HDMI Cable to Connect Your Mac or PC to an LCD or Plasma TV

You can view your computer output on a widescreen TV.

As flat-panel LCD and plasma TVs become more affordable, there's less reason to hook up to a bulky computer monitor. If your LCD or plasma TV has an HDMI port (and most do), connecting your computer and viewing the output on your widescreen TV is as simple as plugging in the right cable.

Things You'll Need

• TV with HDMI port
• HDMI-to-DVI or HDMI-to-VGA cable

Instructions

1. Examine your computer to determine whether it has either a DVI or VGA port. Almost every desktop computer has one or the other; it's how the monitor is usually connected. Plug your cable into the port on the computer and run it to the TV. A longer cable is often needed.

2. Examine your LCD or plasma TV and make sure it has an HDMI input port. Typically, you'll find this port on the back or the side of the TV. Plug the other of the cable into the HDMI port on the TV.

3. Turn on your computer and make sure the correct input for the TV is selected. The output from your computer displays on the LCD or plasma TV screen.

Tips & Warnings

• You may need to adjust the display settings on your computer to the resolution on your TV. This can be done through the Control Panel on a Windows PC or under "Settings" on a Mac.

References

• Samsung: How Do I Connect My TV to My Computer?
• My Media Experience: Connect Computer to HDTV and Receiver With These Easy Tips