How do I Hook a Computer to a TV Without an S-Video Cable?

by David Johnston, Demand Media

Connecting your computer to a television allows you to view downloaded videos, play video games or surf the Internet in a larger, higher quality way than the typical notebook or even desktop monitor allows. If you don't have an S-video cable or input jack, you can still connect your computer to a TV using either an HDMI or a VGA cable.

HDMI

Step 1

Connect one end of the HDMI cable to your computer and the other to your TV using any available HDMI jacks. On laptops, these will often be located on the sides whereas on desktops these will often be located on the back of the device. Likewise, most TVs have HDMI jacks located on the back. Your TV will only have HDMI jacks if it is a high definition model.

Step 2

Change the video input on your TV to the HDMI input you've just connected the cable to. You can do this using the video-input button on your remote or on the television itself. If your TV and computer are turned on, you will see the computer image on your TV screen if you've switched to the correct input.

Step 3

Adjust the computer-screen resolution to optimize the image to the TV. You can access resolution options through the control panel on your computer.

VGA

Step 1

Connect the VGA cord to your computer and screw in the posts to secure it. Connect the other end of the cord to your television and secure it using the screws if your TV has receptors for them.

Step 2

Switch your TV to the VGA input using the video-input button on your remote or on the TV menu buttons. If both devices are powered on, you'll see the computer image on your screen.

Step 3

Adjust the resolution on your computer to fit your TV screen. You can access screen resolution options on your computer through the control panel.

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References

  • Online Tech Tips: How to connect your Laptop/PC/Computer to your TV

About the Author

David Johnston works internationally as a freelance writer and editor in a number of professional fields. He received his bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs.