How to Connect Microsoft Windows Media Center to a TV

S-video socket on an older computer.

Windows Media Center is a Microsoft program for viewing Internet and live television on a computer. Media Center can also be used for viewing photos and videos, listening to music and playing games. Connecting a Media Center computer to a TV lets you enjoy content on a bigger screen. High Definition computers can connect to a digital TV with an HDMI (high definition media interface) cable. Older PCs with an S-video socket can hook up to a TV using an S-video cable.

Things You'll Need

• HDMI or S-video cable

Instructions

1. Plug in the HDMI or S-video cable from the corresponding video out port on the computer to the video input on the back of the TV. Line up the plug on either cable with the outline of the port and push straight in.

2. Turn on the computer and TV, pressing the TV remote control source button until the computer desktop screen appears on the television.

3. Click the Microsoft Start button in the lower-left corner of the computer desktop and click once on "All Programs."

4. Highlight and click "Windows Media Center" to launch the program, which can now be viewed on the television.

Tips & Warnings

• An HDMI connection transmits video and audio to the TV. An S-video connection sends only video to the TV, so use the computer speakers for sound.

References

• Tech Lore: How to Connect a Computer to Your TV
• Microsoft: Windows Media Center