How to Connect an HDMI Cable to a PC

Many modern models of PCs and laptops feature a built=in HDMI port.

High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is an all-in-one digital connection that passes audio and video signals through the same cable. This simplifies the connection between multimedia devices by requiring a single cable to connect them instead of the old standard method of using separate cables for audio and video signals. According to Cnet, HDMI quickly became the standard for audio and video output just a few years after its initial introduction. HDMI is backward compatible with the older Digital Video Interface (DVI) outputs, but an additional set of audio cables must be used since DVI is video only.

Things You'll Need

• PC with HDMI or DVI port
• DVI-to-HDMI converter and audio cables (optional)
• HDMI cable (size and configuration depends on intended use)

Instructions

1. Locate the HDMI or DVI port on the PC. Most PCs house the video ports on the back panel while laptops usually have ports on the sides of the device.

2. Determine the type of HDMI cable. HDMI cables come in a variety of configurations. The selection is based on the type of port available on the PC, standard HDMI or DVI in most cases, and the type of port on the device the PC needs to connect to, mini HDMI, standard HDMI or DVI.

3. Insert the male end of the appropriate size HDMI cable into the HDMI port on the PC. A PC that only has DVI ports must use a cable with male DVI to male HDMI ends or a male DVI to female HDMI adapter. For the latter, a standard HDMI cable will plug into the female end of the adapter. Connections that utilize a DVI port will require a separate audio cable since DVI is a video-only port.

4. Attach the other end of the HDMI cable to the corresponding port on the desired device. In most cases, this will be an HDTV or surround sound receiver.

5. Turn on both devices and test the connection. In most cases, this means selecting the appropriate output port on the PC and the appropriate input on the HDTV or surround sound receiver. On a Windows Vista/7 PC, right-click on the desktop, choose "Personalize," then "Appearance and Personalization" and finally "Screen Resolution." Choose the appropriate options and hit "OK." On XP, right-click on the desktop, choose "Properties," "Display Properties," and click the "Settings" tab. Choose the appropriate options and hit "OK." Use the input button on the remote control for the HDTV or receiver to select the HDMI input. The image from the PC will appear on the TV.

References

• Cnet: Quick Guide: HDMI and HDMI cables
• HDTV Supply: HDMI to DVI Converters and Cables
• Microsoft: Using Multiple Monitors with Windows XP
• Microsoft: Move Windows Between Multiple Monitors