How to Watch TV on a PC With a USB
Using your PC to watch TV allows you multiple viewing screens without having to purchase new TVs. What's more, using a laptop as your TV gives you portable access to channels anywhere that has a digital signal. You can also record live television directly to your PC for viewing at a later time. A TV USB stick and antenna create a mini-receiver, tuning in to all available local stations and uploading them straight to your computer. When used in a new area, the USB stick will rescan and find new available channels. The USB stick can be used on any compatible computer.
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Things You'll Need
- PC (desktop or laptop)
- TV USB package for PC, including USB stick, portable antenna, software, remote control, instructions
Instructions
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Check your PC and make a note of the manufacturer and specifications.
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Choose a TV USB package that is compatible with your computer. If available, choose a generic product that can be used on different computers.
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Turn on the computer and insert the TV USB stick into the USB port.
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Connect the portable antenna to the TV USB stick. The computer will recognize that a new device has been introduced and prompt you to install the software.
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Run the software in the CD drive and follow the on-screen commands to install, save and run.
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Open the new program and go to "Settings."
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Press scan to tune in to available TV and radio stations.
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Save your settings when the scan is complete.
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Use the remote control to change channels.
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Store your choice of live programs to the PC using the recording option. Set the start time for recording if available; this allows programs to be saved at any time as long as the TV USB tuner is running.
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Tips & Warnings
For access to more channels, check to see if your USB package offers an upgrade for a subscription to cable or satellite services.
When choosing your USB product, take advice from the store manager if you're unsure what's correct for your computer.
Registering the product may require an Internet connection.
Resources
- Photo Credit usb stick memory image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
