How to Use an LCD TFT TV As an LCD TFT Monitor

LCD TFT televisions can also work as computer monitors.

LCDs, or liquid crystal displays, use a liquid crystal solution to either block light or allow light through. The light that is allowed to pass through then goes through a color filter and makes up the pixels that create the image on the TV or monitor. Some LCD televisions have the liquid crystal solution controlled by a panel of thin film transistors, or TFTs. TFT LCDs are suitable for use as a television or a computer monitor since images cannot be burnt in like they may in other HDTV technologies.

Things You'll Need

• DVI to 15-pin converter
• 15-pin video cable

Instructions

1. Attach the DVI to 15-pin converter to the DVI port on the back of your computer; it may already be marked as the port for your monitor. If your computer only has one DVI port, you may need to unplug the monitor already connected to it. You do not need the converter with a notebook computer or for a desktop computer with only a 15-pin video connector.

2. Connect one end of the 15-pin video cable to the DVI to 15-pin converter, or to the 15-pin video connector, on the back of your desktop or notebook computer.

3. Attach the other end of the 15-pin video cable to the 15-pin connector on the back of the LCD TFT television. The exact position of the 15-pin input will vary by manufacturer and model of the television, but it should be separated from the other inputs by a small box that says "PC IN" or "PC." Consult your television's manual for exact instructions on finding the 15-pin input.

4. Access your computer's video settings to adjust the resolution as needed. In Windows, right-click on the desktop and choose "Settings" or "Personalize." Many computers will recognize the native resolution of the television and adjust it automatically, but some will not.

5. Consult your video card manual, or the video card manufacturer's website, for specific instructions on changing the output settings to your liking if you are using the LCD TFT television as a second monitor or desktop extension. On laptop computers, press the "Function" button along with "F1," "F2" or "F8," depending on your manufacturer.

References

• Samsung: LN-S1951W TFT-LCD Manual
• Plasma.com: Learn About LCD TV and TFT LCD Displays