This article shows you how to connect a computer (desktop or laptop) to a TV using an HDMI cable. Your computer desktop will appear on your TV screen, allowing you to use a larger surface area to watch a movie or browse the web. The only tool you need to make the connection is a normal HDMI cable.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Connect the Computer to the TV
Step 1. Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the corresponding port on your computer
If you are using a desktop computer, the HDMI port should be on the back of the case, while if you are using a laptop it should be on either side.
- Some computers are equipped with a standard HDMI port, while others adopt mini HDMI or MiniDisplay ports.
- In the case of a mini HDMI or MiniDisplay cable, one of the connectors will be visibly smaller and will need to be connected to the corresponding port on the computer, while the other will be a normal HDMI connector which will be connected to the TV.
- Not all computers have an HDMI port. Some older models use the VGA or DVI video standard. Again, you'll still be able to connect them to your TV using an adapter and separate cable for the audio signal. If you are using a laptop without an HDMI port or a video out port, you can solve the problem by purchasing a USB to HDMI adapter. You may need to install additional software on your computer.
Step 2. Connect the other end of the cable to the corresponding port on the TV
Find a free HDMI port on your TV and plug in the cable from your computer. Normally, the ports are numbered and labeled "HDMI".
- Make a note of the port number you connected the computer to.
- Make sure you buy an HDMI cable that is long enough to be able to connect your computer to the TV without straining it too much. If necessary, use a tape measure to measure the distance between the two devices.
Step 3. Use the TV remote control to select the video source corresponding to the correct HDMI port
Locate the "Source" or "Input" button on the remote and press it to be able to select the HDMI port you used to connect.
- In some cases, after connecting the computer to the TV, the TV will automatically detect the video source to select and the desktop image will immediately appear on the screen. If the picture doesn't appear, read the next method to set up your TV in Windows 10.
- Please refer to the HDMI port number you connected your computer to in order to select the correct video source for your TV.
Part 2 of 2: Detecting the TV on Windows
Step 1. Access the "Start" menu by clicking on the icon
It features the Windows logo and is located in the lower left corner of the desktop. Alternatively, press the ⊞ Win key on your keyboard.
Step 2. Launch the Settings app by clicking on the icon
It features a gear and is located at the bottom left of the "Start" menu.
Step 3. Click the System icon
It is the first item in the Windows "Settings" menu. It features a stylized laptop.
Step 4. Click on the Screen item
It is the first option listed on the left side of the window. The screen configuration settings will be displayed.
Step 5. Scroll through the appeared list to locate and click the Detect button
It is displayed at the bottom of the "Settings" menu.
