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For dummies, how to connect TV to a laptop. Problems with cables and adapters when connecting. Third-party programs for connection

Agree, sometimes when using programs on laptops that require a large working space that a standard screen cannot provide, it is much more convenient to use a modern television panel as a monitor. In this regard, there is an urgent need to solve the problem when you need to connect a TV to a laptop via a VGA output. Why VGA? Because almost all models of laptops and TVs are equipped with such connectors. But when creating such a connection, in some cases you may encounter some difficulties. Next we will show how to bypass or eliminate them, as well as make the correct connection and initial setup of both devices.

How to connect a TV to a laptop via VGA: what will you need?

The first step is to make sure that there are appropriate connectors on both devices. Of course, when connecting devices to each other, it is advisable to use outputs and inputs of the same name. There are no problems here.

But you can often encounter a situation where the laptop only has a VGA output (aka D-Sub), and the TV only has an HDMI connector. Here the essence of the question of how to connect a TV to a laptop via VGA-HDMI is to use a special adapter.

VGA connection problems

But the problems don't stop there. This is due to the fact that only the picture is transmitted through VGA, but not sound.

But many would like to use the powerful acoustic systems of modern TV panels with multi-channel sound. How to connect a TV to a laptop via VGA so that there is also sound?

In such a situation, you will have to purchase a special VGA to HDMI adapter model, which additionally has connectors for audio transmission (either a regular 3.5 mm mini-jack or standard “tulips”).

How to connect a TV to a laptop via VGA with sound?

As a rule, connecting when choosing the above scheme does not present any particular difficulties.

The VGA and HDMI connectors are connected to the corresponding ports, after which the audio cable is connected. It is impossible to confuse the connectors. There is a special socket for the mini-jack, and the “tulips” are connected in accordance with the color marks.

Initial screen setup

The TV is connected to the laptop via VGA-HDMI. Now you should check the settings

You may initially need to specify the connection type on the TV panel by selecting HDMI as the source by pressing the Source (Input) button on the remote control several times or by calling up the appropriate menu. On some models of television panels, you may need to enable or disable the TV/AV or TV/Video modes (it all depends solely on the modification of the TV and its manufacturer).

After this, to connect the TV to the laptop via VGA, you need to send the image to the television panel. As a rule, one of the function buttons F1-F12 should have a special icon with two screens. The button is used in combination with the Fn key, although there is no uniform standard among manufacturers. Typically, a single press causes the image to appear on the TV, and a second press returns the image to the laptop screen.

However, there is a universal solution on all Windows systems. It is enough to use the combination Win + P, after which a setup menu will appear, including expanding the screen to multiple monitors or duplicating it. In Windows 10, this function is available by clicking on the notification icon in the system tray at the bottom right. In addition, if the automatic setting of screen parameters does not work, you will need to set the resolution on the TV directly in Windows manually, based on its characteristics and capabilities.

Alternative Image Adjustment Method

But, let’s say, using this method, the TV did not connect to the laptop via VGA, or the combination did not work for some reason.

As a backup option, you can use RMB on a free area of ​​the “Desktop” and select the screen resolution setting. In the basic settings, you can perform the same operations (extend the screen onto two monitors or duplicate it, depending on the user’s needs). For example, when expanding, you can display only the media player on the TV panel, but when duplicating, you can display the entire space of the “Desktop” or a running program.

Sound settings

As it turns out, connecting your TV to your laptop via a VGA connector is only half the battle. Now you will have to start setting up the sound, since for some reason Windows systems do not automatically switch to television panels.

You can set the sound parameters through the RMB menu on the volume icon in the system tray, where the line of playback devices is selected. In principle, settings can be accessed from the standard “Control Panel”.

Here, on the playback tab, you should pay attention to the device that has HDMI in its name. Right-clicking opens a submenu, and in it selects the default device usage line. If the TV panel's audio system is not in the list, you should activate the display of disabled devices in the menu that is called up, and then repeat the steps described above.

As for switching the sound format, it all depends on the capabilities of the speaker system of the TV itself. On some models, right on the remote control you can find a special button that changes the sound, activating various audio circuits, setting the priority sound of different speakers, adjusting the equalizer, if provided, etc.

Conclusion

As you can see, the problem of how to connect a TV to a laptop via a VGA output can be solved quite simply. In theory, there should be no questions with the choice of connectors. The most important thing is to further configure the transmission of image and sound to the television panel. However, no particular difficulties are foreseen here, since in Windows systems this entire procedure is standardized.

Actually, the connection procedure comes down to correctly selecting the required adapter, connecting it to both devices, and adjusting image and sound parameters. At the same time, Windows can sometimes additionally install the corresponding driver when selecting an audio device. But such a procedure is performed in the background, and user participation in this process is not required at all. Otherwise, as practice shows, everything is simple even with the use of somewhat outdated models of laptops and television panels. And in the case of Smart TV, the setup is usually simplified even more. In most cases, such panels are initially focused on the ability to connect external computer or mobile devices with automatic device recognition mode and its appropriate settings at the time of connection.

A modern laptop is a high-quality multimedia platform. Using it, you can not only play games, but also listen to music, watch movies and pictures. However, sitting in front of such a compact device, you will never be able to experience the same fullness of sensations that can be achieved from the wide screen of a plasma panel.

This is the reason why most PC users decide to connect their laptop to the TV. It is worth noting right away that completing the task is not as simple as it might seem at first glance, but the creators of this electronics took care of the compatibility of these devices and thought through additional connectors.

A little about connectors

Depending on the “age” of both devices, the following types of video outputs can be found on them:

It turns out that depending on the type of connector you need to select a cable. Next, you need to connect both devices to each other using it. So, let's try to make sense of this list.

Determining device capabilities

The connection method will depend on the type of ports that the devices have. A TV connected to a laptop can turn into a music center, gaming screen or monitor for watching movies.

Using it, you can open any files that are on your laptop, view photos and images. It is possible to open text files, edit them, and save them. Surprisingly, you can go online and do your usual activities. In other words, the processor runs on the laptop, but all data is displayed on the TV screen.

Video: connecting TV

Setting up connections by interface

To configure the interfaces you do not have to carry out complex operations; you need to:

  • go to the settings or menu of the TV, find the active connector through which the connection passes;
  • in most TV models it is disabled or not detected independently;
  • You can select the active mode using the remote control.

To configure the laptop computer interface you need to:

  1. open screen properties;

  2. When working with Windows OS, you just need to right-click on the desktop.

    3. If the TV was found by the system, the user will be offered several options:

  • duplicate. This option means: everything that is displayed on the screen will be duplicated on the LCD monitor. This is convenient when you just turn on a movie on your device and don’t use it anymore;
  • expand screens. This is an interesting feature, when used, you can perform certain activities on your laptop desktop, and a movie will be shown on TV.

Some laptops have other features. For example, canceling a connection.

HDMI

Modern LCD TVs have similar features to computers, and therefore belong to the class of digital devices. Consequently, plasma is practically no different from a monitor. The only difference may be the screen diagonal. To transmit sound and pictures in high quality, you need to use modern technology – HDMI. With its use, you can reach a new level of image quality.

Types of HDMI cables:


To connect to a TV, you can use any option.

The process itself is not complicated; it occurs according to the following algorithm:


During the cable connection process, the user may encounter several questions. The first is associated with a black TV screen. To solve this problem, you need to force set the required resolution in the operating system settings on the laptop.

It is recommended to do this before connecting. Another issue that most often arises among money savers is poor image quality or unexpected data transfer stops. To solve this problem, you will need to replace the cable with a better one.

RCA

RCA is a three-connector output located on the front panel of modern TVs. It contains connectors in white, yellow and red. To connect the TV to external devices, you will need to use a special cord, whose name is a tulip. It also has triple branches at its ends, each of which is dedicated to a specific connector.

The process of connecting a TV to a laptop:


VGA

With modern TV models there are no problems when connecting, but what to do if the video card you are using is outdated and there are no TV connectors on it? The only solution in this case is to connect to the VGA-analog connector using special devices. They modify the computer's RGB signal so that it can be recognized by the TV.

To connect devices you need:

  1. connect the converter to your laptop using a double-sided VGA cable;
  2. then connect the converter to any port located on the TV panel.

DVI

DVI is an interface used to generate signals from modern video cards. The quality of the transmitted image will be affected by the type of cable. The difference between this type and HDMI is that DVI can only transmit images. An additional cable is used to transmit sound. The procedure for connecting with a DVI cable is the same as for connecting via HDMI.

S-Video

S-Video is a four-channel connector with which you can transmit high-quality images without an HDMI cable. This result was achieved by separating the brightness and color signals from each other. There is also no need to use any adapters, since almost all video cards have S-Video connectors. When connecting, make sure that both devices are turned off.

In the operating system settings you will need to specify TV as the second monitor. Startup on the latest device is usually automatic. If this does not happen, then you need to go to the menu and find the active connector yourself.

How to connect a laptop to a TV via a WIFI router

Most modern devices are equipped with the function of connecting a laptop to a TV via Wi-Fi, so no problems should arise.

To connect you need:

Some nuances

If you want to connect a laptop to several TVs at once, then this procedure is possible. You just need to use two or more connectors on the panel of the laptop at once. If the monitor goes out during the transmission of the picture, then do not worry.
The data will still be shown on the LCD screen. The laptop has entered power saving mode, but this will not affect the TV in any way.

Connecting a laptop screen to a TV is not an easy task, but if you understand all the connectors and cables, you can do it in just a few minutes. The main rule is to remember to turn off both devices before they are connected. Good luck!

Computer technology is constantly evolving, developing new devices that provide high information processing capabilities. Therefore, modern computers are equipped with many different connectors.

Many people are interested in connecting a laptop to a TV in order to use the large screen. Modern TVs are endowed with many capabilities: they read multimedia files from the hard drive, provide Internet access, and organize viewing of streaming video. But despite these capabilities, they cannot fully perform all the tasks that a computer can perform.

A connected TV to a laptop has many possibilities:

  • display the image from the laptop to the TV, and therefore to a convenient large screen;
  • organize presentations;
  • When communicating via Skype, have a large screen in front of you.

There are several ways to connect a TV to a laptop. It's quite easy to do this. But first, you need to study the available interfaces and determine how you can connect them. After connecting the connectors of these two devices, settings are made.

Modern laptops have HDGA and VGA outputs, as well as S-Video and DVI connectors. The same ports are found on TVs. If the devices have the same type of connectors, then we connect the TV to the laptop with a cable with the same pins. When they are different, you need to buy the appropriate adapter, for example, HDMI - DVI or HDMI - VGA.

Connecting a laptop to a TV via cable does not depend on its model. All TVs are suitable for this: Philips, LG, Lenovo, Samsung, and laptops: Lenovo, Asus or others.

To connect your laptop to your TV, you need to take just three steps:

  1. You need to inspect the entrances and exits. Determine the available connectors and decide which ones will be used.
  2. Select a cable for connection. Perhaps there are no ports of the same type on these devices, then you will have to connect with special adapters.
  3. Configure the operating mode of the graphics adapter.

We connect the cord starting from the laptop, the laptop has the required connector, to the old TV, where there is no such socket, then we select a suitable adapter for it.

How to connect a laptop to a TV using an HDMI cable? This can be done easily, having such a cord and the presence of the necessary ports on two devices. To do this, let's look at how a laptop is connected to a TV via an HDMI connector. This is one of the best ways to ensure high-quality video transmission, 3D image format and good audio signals.

The compact HDMI cable is convenient, and its connector does not require additional fasteners. Bandwidth is 3 times higher than DVI. The new version of the 1.4 cable has ultra-high resolution, its standard length is up to 15 meters, this is very convenient if the screen is large.

Let's consider a cable connection from a laptop to an LG TV. For this you will need:

  • TV with HDMI connector;
  • Availability of a laptop with HDMI output;
  • Availability of HDMI-HDMI cable.

The advantage of an HDMI-to-HDMI cable is its ability to transmit video and audio signals over a single cord; it does not have the disadvantages of transmitting an analog signal, like others.

The HDMI connector has a trapezoidal shape. Its input port consists of 19 contact holes. If the TV is new and the laptop is old, it means it does not have the same connector. Then you need to buy a VGA to HDMI convector.

The laptop is connected to the TV via an HDMI cable, all that remains is to configure it by switching the TV channel to the input being used, the laptop display will begin to transmit the picture to the screen. In some models, this happens automatically, or you will have to configure them additionally. And on the remotes of some TVs, for example, LG, there is a special “INPUT” button. It allows you to switch between video inputs.

After connection, the transmitting signal and sound from the laptop will begin to be displayed on the TV screen. Contact is established with the TV, there is a picture on the TV, the sound is good, without interference, which means everything was done correctly, if not, you will have to press “find”.

The new Samsung TVs have several HDMI connectors, so you need to set the selected signal source and port number in the menu.

How to set up a laptop? To do this, click on the desktop and go to “Screen Resolution”. In the window that appears, select “Display” and indicate the TV you are using.

Set up a Lenovo (or other) laptop in Windows 8 like this: press win+C and select “Device”, and then what you need, namely:

  • "Duplicate";
  • "Expand";
  • "Only the second screen."

VGA cable

Well-known modern manufacturers are increasingly introducing digital interfaces: HDMI, DVI and DisplayPort. That's why all old or budget TVs have a VGA connector.

Connecting a laptop to a TV via a VGA cable is easy, but to transmit sound you will need another additional cord.

How to connect a laptop to a TV with a VGA cable, turn it on in viewing mode and get sound? To do this, press and hold the Fn key, then press F7 (there is a picture with two screens on it), the sound will start playing, but only on the laptop or speakers, if they are connected to it.

Connecting a TV using adapters and convectors is more difficult, but sometimes it is necessary due to the lack of necessary connectors. The problem is solved using a VGA-HDMI cable or another, you can always pick it up, and it’s called a “tulip”. Instead of a cord, it is better to purchase a converter, which gives better results.

DVI cable

Digital cable technology makes it possible to transmit images with higher quality. If there is a DVI connector on the TV and an HDMI connector on the laptop, then feel free to use an adapter or a combined cable. This interface has three options. The first is DVI-D, which is digital video transmission, and the other two are in 3D format.

Wireless connection

Wireless Wi-Fi connection is more preferable, it does not require a long cable, which creates inconvenience in the room.

It is possible to connect a laptop to a TV via WIFI, but only the TV must have a modern, built-in adapter (or connected), which has audio and video playback functions, and can communicate with the Internet via WIFI technology.

Is it possible to connect to a TV via a USB port if there is no such built-in Wi-Fi adapter? To do this, special software is installed, that is, the adapter is connected via a USB port, the receiver is installed on the HDMI or VGA of the TV, and the transmitter is connected to the USB port of the laptop.

Such technologies allow you to connect to your TV wirelessly and also have quick access to a library of files. Display information from other mobile applications on the screen, this is a tablet or smartphone.

There are two connection options:

  1. Direct is TV and computer.
  2. Using a WIFI router.

A direct connection makes it possible to watch movies that are located on the laptop. A special folder is created on it in which you can place everything that you plan to play.

Router. All settings go through it. But you need to install a special media server program on your laptop, then the TV will recognize all programs and files.

Connect Smart TV to laptop

For such a connection, both devices are connected to the same network; routers are designed for this; when there is none, they use a laptop. By the way, it is advisable to read the instructions that came with the TV, it describes in detail how to connect to Wi-Fi, the steps will be as follows:

  • looking for the settings menu;
  • go to the “network” section;
  • select “Network settings”;
  • indicate the connection type “Wi-Fi”.

We scan available connections. A list of suggested networks will appear on the screen. Select the name of the network. By default, it is called the router.

Now everyone can evaluate all the connectors of their devices. Based on the possibility, choose a way to connect the laptop to the TV, expanding its functionality.

How to watch videos from a laptop through a TV

If you have the necessary cable and hardware, you can view any photos or videos on your laptop on TV. In this article, we will explain how to connect a laptop to a TV.

The best way to connect your laptop to your TV is to use an HDMI cable or a wireless HDMI solution, although you can also use an older cable such as VGA. In this article, we will describe step by step how to connect a laptop to a TV.

Connecting your laptop to your TV is very easy. All you need is the right cable and video or streaming media. You don't have to spend a fortune to have all the features of today's smart TVs. The cheapest and easiest way to watch internet content on your TV is to connect your laptop to it. This will allow you to watch streaming TV from different Internet services on a large TV screen or even a projector.

Which cable to connect a laptop to a TV

Before you start connecting, look at what output and input ports are available on your laptop and TV. The easiest way is to connect two of them with an HDMI cable. Unless your laptop is too old or cheap, it should have an HDMI output. Virtually all TVs made in the last six years also have HDMI ports. (The HDMI port is highlighted in red in the picture below.)

Another popular way to connect a laptop to a TV is with a VGA cable and a 3.5mm audio output (which connects to the laptop's headphone port). One cable is for video, the other is for audio. Use this method if one or both of your devices does not have an HDMI port. The VGA port in the image is labeled PC IN.

If your laptop does not have a video output, you can use an adapter. Which has a USB port and a VGA output.

Connect using wireless technology

If you don't want wired connections between your laptop and TV, there is a wireless option. And here, depending on the capabilities of your laptop, there are different options. For example, some laptops have a built-in wireless system called WiDi (Intel Wireless Display) that works with a compatible receiver, such as the Netgear Push2TV.

There are also wireless systems that use the HDMI ports of your TV and laptop (possibly the laptop's USB port). They are usually not cheap, but they allow you to stream good quality video.

Another way to solve the problem is to use a dedicated media streamer, such as Western Digital WDTV, Google Chromecast, Roku Streaming Stick, or Apple TV.

Apple TV is designed to work with an iPad or iPhone, but can stream video from any computer. Although, there are limitations, since the video must only be one of several supported formats. In addition, there is no access to BBC iPlayer and many other TV services.

How to connect a laptop to a TV using HDMI

Connecting a laptop to a TV via an HDMI cable is the best and easiest way, as the cable is cheap and provides HD picture and sound of the highest quality. And here only one output is required, since HDMI handles both video and audio.

To connect a laptop to a TV with an HDMI cable, all you need to do is insert the cable into the laptop and into one of the HDMI ports on the TV. If you are using the current version of Windows, simply turn on the laptop and insert the cable into the correct HDMI channel of the TV, the laptop will automatically configure the necessary settings.

If for some reason the required settings are not automatically set, open Control Panel>Display>Resolution settings. Here you will see two drop down fields. The first thing you should do is switch the display on your TV. Then select the resolution that matches your TV settings.

  1. Connect your TV and laptop with an HDMI cable (in any order).
  2. Select the correct HDMI input on your TV (usually by pressing the AV button).
  3. If your laptop doesn't automatically output to your TV, go to Control Panel > Display > Resolution Settings, and select your TV from the drop-down box.

How to connect a laptop to a TV using VGA

The next simple way to connect a laptop to a TV is to use a VGA port on both devices. This is probably an option for 4-5 year old laptops.

VGA outputs video only, so additionally you'll have to use the 3.5mm audio output from your laptop's headphone socket and the audio port on your TV or external speakers.

VGA settings, as in the case of an HDMI cable, are configured automatically by Windows. However, if you are having difficulty, go to Control Panel > Display > Resolution Settings.

  1. Turn on your laptop and TV.
  2. Connect the VGA cable to your TV and laptop (in any order).
  3. Now do the same with the 3.5mm audio jack - use the headphone port on the laptop and the audio input on the TV or speakers.
  4. Go to Control Panel > Display > Resolution Settings and select your TV from the drop-down box.

How to connect a laptop to a TV using USB

Strictly speaking, connecting a laptop's USB to a TV's USB connection should not work. However, there are several companies that have developed adapters to convert a USB port to HDMI. The only problem here is the need for additional software, so before purchasing an adapter, be sure to check the compatibility of the HDMI adapter with your laptop.

If the adapter is compatible, then using this method is quite simple. First of all, you have to install the adapter software/driver, then run it and connect the laptop to the TV.

How to connect a laptop to a TV using a USB device/external hard drive

If your TV is fairly new, it most likely has a USB port. Depending on the capabilities of the TV, you can see all the video content on the laptop.

The video format your TV supports (MP4 is almost universally supported) should be displayed just as easily as a regular USB stick or external hard drive.

  1. Check that the video file format is compatible with your TV.
  2. Copy the video file(s) to the memory card.
  3. Insert USB into TV.
  4. Select a USB channel on your TV.
  5. Using the TV's explorer, locate the video and turn it on.

How to Connect a Laptop to a TV Using WD TV Live Wireless Technology

WD TV Live is a media streamer that plugs into your TV's HDMI port and connects to your home network via Ethernet or Wi-Fi. It allows you to view virtually any file, including MKV, MP4, XVID, AVI, ISO/VOB and MOBA.

All you have to do is connect the streamer to your network and TV, then use the video folder on your laptop over the network, WD TV Live does the rest.

WD TV Live turns your TV into an almost smart TV by giving you access to a variety of TV apps.

  1. Connect your WD TV Live digital receiver to your home network via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
  2. Connect WD TV Live to your TV with an HDMI cable.
  3. Use the folder containing the videos you want to watch on TV on your home network.
  4. Select the HDMI channel you connected WD TV Live to.
  5. To locate the video folder, use the WD file explorer.

How to connect a laptop to a TV: a quick guide

There are many reasons to connect a laptop to a TV, for example, viewing photos, favorite TV shows on the big screen, or using online services. It is very easy. Here are the specific steps.

First step

First check the ports on your TV and laptop. They will be: composite, S-video, VGA, DVI, or HDMI port. Find the same ports on your laptop and TV. Check which laptop port can be connected to the second display. It's worth noting that if you're using S-video, the audio will be fed through your laptop. But if the laptop has a bad audio system, you will have to use the audio processing jack.

Second step

Now you need to configure the settings for the second monitor. Open the control panel and select the personalization section. Select a connection to an external display. Make sure the display is duplicated on the TV.

Third step

In the same window, adjust the display resolution of your laptop and TV. In the display drop-down menu, select the appropriate display and click the “Apply” button. Now use the slider to adjust the resolution. It is advisable to use the recommended resolution for each display. Now you can watch the content saved on your PC on TV.

It is more convenient to watch movies or photos on a large TV screen than on a compact laptop. If you have a home theater, watching a new movie will become even more comfortable. You can also run computer games by transmitting images to the TV screen. Let's figure out how to connect a laptop to a TV - you need a special cable or wireless connection setup.

Connecting a laptop to a TV via cable is easy:

  1. Determine what video ports your PC and TV have.
  2. Select your connection type.
  3. Buy a cable that matches it and connect the devices.
  4. Set up image transfer.

In the same way, you can connect a TV to a stationary PC system unit, but then the devices must be located close enough to each other so that the cord is long enough.

Defining ports

First, inspect the laptop connectors. Find one of the video outputs:

  • HDMI is a modern interface that allows you to transmit high-resolution video and audio. Not available in budget and older models. The TV may have several ports of this type, in this case, remember the number of the hole into which you insert the wire.
  • DVI – digital video output. The signal from it can be easily converted into analog form through an inexpensive adapter. This type of cord will help connect devices that have DVI or VGA ports on one of them.
  • VGA is a common connector, transmits only analog video signal, no sound, maximum resolution 1600x1200 pixels. This type of port on a TV is often labeled as PC; a standard computer monitor cable can be used for the connection. To transmit audio you will need an additional cord.
  • S-video is an outdated port and does not provide the best picture quality. Suitable for connecting to old TVs, VHS video players.

You should find one of these ports on both your laptop and your TV. They do not have to be the same type; in case of different connectors, adapters will come to the rescue.

Connecting and setting up

To set up the connection, you will need to run a cord from the laptop to the TV, having first disconnected both devices. Once turned on, in an ideal situation, you will see the picture from the laptop on the TV screen. To switch between displays, use one of the function keys with the dual monitor icon - usually F4 or F5. On your TV, open the list of signal sources, instead of TV, select the name of the port to which you connected the cable. If there is no image or it is distorted, go to detailed settings.

How to connect a computer with a wire to a TV: right-click on the desktop and launch “Display Settings”; in Windows 8 and earlier, the item is called “Resolution”.

For each monitor, set the correct resolution, set the sharing mode:

  • duplication - the same picture on both screens, suitable for running games, distortions may appear if there is a large difference in extensions;
  • display on only one - the second display will turn off;
  • screen expansion - the TV will become a second monitor, expanding the desktop to the left or right (the order depends on the location of displays 1 and 2 in the settings, they can be swapped by dragging). Move any applications to the second monitor, dragging them beyond the edge of the table - launch a movie in the video player on the TV while continuing to work on the laptop.

A similar menu can be opened in a laptop by pressing the Win+P keys. You will be asked to choose the option of using the second screen - duplication or expansion.

Via USB

It is not possible to transmit video through USB ports; they are not designed for this type of signal. But you can use such a connector to connect to a laptop, you just need an HDMI adapter.

How to connect a laptop to a TV directly via USB: in addition to the USB cable, you will need an adapter - a compact external video card that will help broadcast images from the desktop. When purchasing it, pay attention to fullHD support and the characteristics of the transmitted audio signal. After connecting the devices, install the video card drivers on your computer and select USB as the signal source on TV.

Without wires

If you bought a modern TV with integrated Wi-Fi, connect your laptop to it wirelessly. But even owners of devices without Smart TV technology can set up a wireless laptop connection using a special adapter. To establish a connection, select one of the methods:

  • DLNA – if the TV is connected to a local network router or has Wi-Fi Direct;
  • Miracast or WiDi - will help you use your TV as a wireless monitor, transmitting any video signal;
  • via adapter;
  • Apple TV.

DLNA

To connect your laptop to your TV via DLNA via WiFi:

  1. Connect both devices to a single router. In the TV menu, go to the “Network” item and mark your access point as the main one, enter its password.
  2. Create a server on your PC, allowing access to content for TV. In the Network and Sharing Center, set your active network to Home.
  3. Find the folders with the files that you are going to duplicate on your TV screen. Right-click on the folder, open “Properties” and go to the “Access” tab; in the advanced settings, enable access to content.

A special program will help simplify the creation of a server - “Home Media Server”, Share Manager, Samsung Share. The first is the most common, it can transcode video and audio files, supports subtitles and digital television. For use:

  • download the installation file from the developer's website;
  • install and open the application;
  • Select your TV model from the list;
  • Mark the folders in the directory whose files you are going to transfer to the second screen.

Now turn on the TV, in the menu find the service for viewing content from third-party devices. For LG devices it is located in the SmartShare section, for Sony – Home. To transfer a movie from your computer to your TV via Wi-Fi, click on the desired file on your laptop and go to “Play to” in the submenu.

In Windows 7 and 8, there may be problems with transferring videos in MKV format; the playback function on another display is not activated for them. To display the image in this case, you will first have to convert the files to AVI.

If your TV is equipped with Wi-Fi Direct, you just need to enable access to the desired folders on your laptop. After that, activate Direct in the TV menu - select your laptop from the list of detected devices, enter the password and you can transfer files.

Miracast and WiDi

These technologies do not require access to folders, but the laptop must meet a number of requirements in order to display images via Wi-Fi:

  • minimum Intel 3 processor;
  • pre-installed Windows 8.1 and higher with Wi-Fi – for Miracast;
  • Intel HD Graphics wireless adapter – for WiDi;
  • The TV must support one of these technologies.

How to display a laptop image on a TV via WiDi: download and open the Intel Wireless Display utility, run a search for a wireless display. To connect, enter the security code shown on TV.

To connect via Miracast in Windows 8.1, expand the Charms panel and activate “Projector” in the list of devices. Select to add a wireless screen.

Adapter

If your TV does not have Wi-Fi, but has an HDMI connector, purchase a small adapter like:

  • Android Mini PC;
  • Google Chromecast;
  • Miracast set-top box.

These small devices will give your TV full-fledged Smart TV capabilities. Also, some TVs allow you to connect a Wi-Fi adapter to their USB port, after which they can connect to your home network.

Apple TV

Apple TV lets you stream video from your computer to your TV screen. The easiest way is to connect a laptop with Mac OS X, but you can also set up the transfer on a Windows PC.

How to connect a MacBook: connect the Apple TV to the TV, connect the set-top box to the Wi-Fi network. In the PC system settings, select “Displays”, select Apple TV in the list - an image from the laptop will appear on the TV screen. If you want to stream one movie, launch it in the player, click on the arrow icon in the bottom menu bar and click on “AirPlay”. The video will go to TV.

For Windows PC, install branded iTunes. In the “File” menu, activate the “Home Sharing” item, the AirPlay icon will appear in the player. All films and music from your library can be transferred to TV.

Conclusion

You can transfer images from a laptop to almost any TV. Wired connection is suitable for not the most modern models, even if the devices do not have matching ports - use adapters. A Wi-Fi connection will save you from unnecessary cords; after some minor adjustments, enjoy the convenience of a second monitor.