How to Stream Live TV to HDTV With Windows Media Center

Use an HDMI cable to connect the HDTV to Windows Media Center.

Windows Media Center is a software package bundled on some computers with a Microsoft operating system that enables the user to stream multimedia content, including live TV, onto the computer or to an attached television. The computer connects to a high-definition television (HDTV) using a high definition media interface (HDMI) cable that sends video and audio through a single connection.

Things You'll Need

• HDMI cable
• Computer with HDMI port

Instructions

1. Connect the HDMI cable from the computer's output port to any HDMI input on the HDTV. The six-sided plug goes in the port with the narrow edge turned downward.

2. Turn on the computer and TV, then activate the computer's HDMI output by pressing the "Fn" key with one of the numbered F keys on the top row of the keyboard. Press the F key labeled with either a screen icon, "LCD/CRT" or "HDMI" to switch the display to the HDTV.

3. Click the Microsoft flag button in the lower-left corner of the screen to access "All Programs" and double-click "Windows Media Center" from the list.

4. Select "TV" from the main menu, then click "Live TV" to open a schedule listing of programs.

5. Click the name of the desired program or the icon next to the name of the show to begin watching television on the HDTV.

Tips & Warnings

• Only programs presented in high definition can be viewed in high-def on the HDTV.

References

• HDMI: Consumer Information Site
• Microsoft: Windows 7 with Windows Media Center