Connecting a computer to a TV
Thanks to site visitor Lou Valdini for asking this question:
“How do I connect my tv to my laptop to achieve internet streaming of music and films? I have Sky+HD connected through my home cinema system.”
There are several options, and we’ll look at each in turn:
HDMI from your computer
Many high-end laptops have an HDMI out – If your laptop has an HDMI output, then this is the best option, as it will give you HD digital quality.
HDMI Plug
From the computer VGA port
Most computers and laptops have a VGA output, which is normally used to connect the output to a PC monitor. It may be possible to use this to connect your computer output to your TV.
A VGA Plug
Some TV sets have a VGA socket, so can accept a feed straight from a PC or a laptop – you just need a standard VGA-to-VGA cable. If your TV set doesn’t have a VGA socket, there are adapters:
1. The PC to TV Converter from Maplin. This converts a VGA feed from a computer to a Composite video (your TV’s yellow phono socket). The adapter is powered from the computer USB socket. Note that this only supplies the video, and not the audio. You will need to run a lead from the computer’s soundcard to the audio input on the TV (the red and white phono sockets)
PC to TV Adapter (VGA to Composite Video)
2. There’s also the PC to TV Box from Maplin, which essentially does the same thing (VGA to composite video) – no audio.
The PC to TV box from Maplin
Wireless connection
By far the most elegant solution is to be able to connect from your PC laptop to your TV wirelessly. For that, you’ll need the EZView+ system from EZAir. A USB dongle plugs into your laptop, and sends a wireless signal to a special receiver that connects to your TV. The system supports full HD video plus 5.1 surround sound. It handles video and audio smoothly, with no leads and adapters to worry about.
More details: EZView Kit at Amazon
EZView / EzAir Wireless Laptop to TV Kit
Any other suggestions, or any questions? Please add a comment below.