How to Connect Cable TV to My Laptop

If you've ever wanted to watch cable television on your laptop computer, you'll be glad to know that there are a wide range of TV-Input and TV-Tuner cards manufactured especially for this purpose. These cards connect to your PCI or PCI Express card slot and do not require an additional source of power. The cards can be used to connect your computer directly to your cable television connection. Some of the most advanced cards feature a recording feature to allow you to save copies of your favorite episodes.

Things You'll Need

• TV-Input PCI card
• Active cable connection

Instructions

1. Locate and purchase an appropriate TV-Input/TV-Tuner card for your laptop; some examples are linked in the Resources.

2. Insert the card into your computer's PCI or PCI Express port. This port is usually located on the side of the laptop and will look like a large flat port about two inches in length. The card should fit comfortably into the slot and snap into place.

3. Install any necessary drivers for the TV tuner, which should come with your tuner card on a CD or memory stick.

4. Connect your cable television cord to the cable input on the TV-Tuner card, making sure that the cable is twisted tightly in place.

5. Run any software necessary for your TV-tuner card to display. This software should accompany your card and you may need to install it separately.

References

• CNET Reviews: TV-Adapters

Resources

• Amazon.com: Listing of PCI TV-Input Cards