Connecting laptop to TV via hdmi. How to connect a laptop to a TV using a cable and Wi-Fi

Laptops have many advantages, but there is also a drawback - the screen is small. When it comes to watching videos or working with graphics, the diagonal of the monitor matters here. It is quite obvious that many users want to know how to connect a laptop to a TV via HDMI. It's easy to do, you just need to follow the instructions.

Port Definition

Users who want to know how to display an image from a laptop to a TV should be aware of the possibility of using not only wired, but also wireless connection. Both topics are quite extensive and require detailed consideration. The first option is the easiest to implement and many choose it. First you need to decide on the ports that are on the TV and laptop. Most often, manufacturers equip their products with the following interfaces:

Today there are two versions of HDMI - 1.4 and 2.0. All top TV receivers are equipped with ports of the new standard, and in budget ones you can also find 1.4. The differences between them are in the information transfer rate (10.2 Gb / s versus 18 Gb / s), as well as the number of audio channels. Connecting a computer to a TV using HDMI is quite simple and does not require drivers. However, keep in mind that 4K video playback requires HDMI version 2.0.

It is this connector that must be installed on each device that is planned to be connected. As for the cable, everything is simpler here and the user will need a wire marked “High Speed” to transmit a high quality signal.

If you plan to watch videos in FullHD resolution, then there are no such strict requirements for the interface.

To connect a laptop to a TV, in addition to the cable, you will need to configure both devices. If the laptop does not have an HDMI connector, then you can use a converter. However, this is not The best decision and it is worth giving preference to a wireless connection. This is how you can achieve good signal quality. To connect your laptop to your TV via cable, The user should pay attention to the following nuances:

  • Both devices must be turned off before connecting the cable.
  • One end of the wire connects to the laptop's HDMI output, and the other end to the same TV port. It should be noted that modern TVs are equipped with several connectors of this type and you can connect to any of them.

In principle, connecting a laptop to a TV via HDMI has already been completed, but in order for the devices to start working normally, they need to be configured. You should start with TV and for this you need a remote control. On it, press the "Input", "Source" or "Home" button, depending on the manufacturer of the device. For example, Samsung is most often the second option.

After that, a menu for selecting the signal source should appear on the screen. Many TVs automatically detect the active port, and it is highlighted in a different color. In such a situation, it is enough to confirm the choice. If this does not happen, you need to look at the marking of the connector to which the connection was made, and then select it in the menu.

After setting up the TV, you need to take care of the laptop. For this, one should free space desktop make click right click and press in context menu on the "Screen resolution" line. Then you need to select the TV in the "Screen" menu. There is also an easier option - press the Win + P keys.

After that, Windows will prompt you to select the dual monitor sharing mode. To view the video, most often select "Projector Only" or "Duplicate".

In the first case, the laptop display will turn off and only the TV will work, and in the second, the picture from the desktop is duplicated on the TV. Similarly, you can connect a TV set and a tablet.

Possible problems

Although this is the easiest way to connect a laptop to a TV, problems can arise. Most often, users are faced with the fact that the TV does not see the computer via HDMI. In such a situation, you need to go back to "Screen Resolution", and in the "Screen" menu, select "Multiple Monitors". A little lower is the option "Multiple screens", in which you need to set "Duplicate desktop". After completing these steps, the question of why the TV does not detect a laptop should not arise.

Also, sometimes there are problems with the resolution of the output signal on the TV, and it turns out to be not the one that the user expected to receive. In this case, you will have to configure the video adapter on the laptop. An NVIDIA video card will be used as an example:

  • By opening the context menu with the right mouse click on the desktop, you must select the "NVIDIA Control Panel" option.
  • On the left is a menu in which you need to click on the item "Change resolution".
  • After that, all used monitors will appear on the right. After selecting the second display, you should click on the "Settings" button, and then - "Create custom resolution".
  • In the window that appears, you will have to manually enable the desired resolution. After each change, you should click on "Test" to check the performance of the new settings.

If an AMD video card is installed in the laptop, then the setup process will be slightly different, but the algorithm of actions is similar. Sometimes there are situations when one family member wants, for example, to watch a movie on TV, and the second one wants to listen to his favorite music. As a result, the question arises how to separate the sound. The answer looks like this:

  • In the PC control panel, the "Sound" option is selected and "TV" is turned on by default.
  • is running Mozilla Firefox, and in the "Sound" option, "Speakers" must be checked.

This will allow you to create separate settings for each of the two processes. After that, you can turn on the player and listen to music.

Other Solutions

Not every user wants to use a cable to connect two devices. You can connect a laptop to a TV wirelessly using Miracast protocols or WiFi Direct , with which it is possible to connect directly, bypassing the router. However, in such a situation, each of the connected devices must support the appropriate protocol.

If the necessary modules are not built into the TV or laptop, you can purchase special adapters that connect to the USB connector. In addition, a home media server (DLNA), which must be installed on a laptop or PC, is also perfect for solving the task. All top TV models support this technology.

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. Also you can run computer games transmitting the image to the TV screen. Let's figure out how to connect a laptop to a TV - you need a special cable or a wireless connection setup.

Connecting a laptop to a TV via cable is easy:

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

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

Defining ports

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

  • HDMI is a modern interface that allows you to transfer video to high resolution and audio channel. Missing 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 to 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 that transmits only an analog video signal, without sound, the maximum resolution is 1600x1200 pixels. This type of port on a TV is often labeled as a PC; a standard computer monitor cable can be used for connection. An additional cable is required for audio transmission.
  • S-video - obsolete port, does not the best quality Pictures. Suitable for connecting with old TV, VHS video players.

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

Connecting and setting up

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

How to connect a computer with a wire to a TV: by right-clicking on the desktop, launch "Display Settings", in Windows 8 and younger, 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, distortion may appear with a large difference in extensions;
  • display only on one - the second display will turn off;
  • screen extension - the TV will become a second monitor, extending 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 by pulling them off the edge of the table - start the 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 prompted to choose the option to use the second screen - duplication or extension.

Via USB

Send video via USB ports will not work, 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 adapter to HDMI.

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

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

DLNA

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

  1. Connect both devices to the same router. In the TV menu, enter the "Network" item and mark your access point as the main one, enter its password.
  2. Create a server on your PC to access content for TV. In the "Network Sharing Center" as an active network, set the home.
  3. Find the folders with the files you are going to duplicate on the TV screen. By right-clicking on the folder, open "Properties" and go to the "Access" tab, in the advanced settings, activate the opening of access to content.

Simplify the creation of the server will help special program – « Home media server”, Share Manager, Samsung Share. The first is the most common, can transcode video and audio files, supports subtitles and digital television. For use:

  • download setup file from the developer's site;
  • install and open the application;
  • select your TV model from the list;
  • mark the folders in the directory, the files from which 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, on Sony - Home. To transfer a movie from a computer to a TV via Wi-Fi, click on desired file on the laptop, in the submenu, go to "Play to".

Windows 7 and 8 may experience problems transferring video to MKV format, they are not enabled for playback on another display. To display a picture in this case, you will first have to convert the files to AVI.

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

Miracast and WiFi

For these technologies, you do not have to open access to folders, but the laptop must meet a number of requirements in order to display a picture via Wi-Fi:

  • processor at least Intel 3;
  • pre-installed Windows 8.1 and above with Wi-Fi - for Miracast;
  • wireless adapter Intel HD Graphics - for WiDi;
  • the TV must support one of these technologies.

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

To connect via Miracast in Windows 8.1, expand the Charms bar and activate Projector in the list of devices. Choose to add a wireless screen.

Adapter

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

These small devices give your TV the full Smart TV experience. Also, individual TVs allow you to connect wifi adapter into their USB port, after which they can go to the home network.

Apple TV

The Apple TV lets you stream video from your computer to your TV. It's easiest to connect a Mac OS X laptop, but you can also set up transfer on a Windows PC.

How to connect a MacBook: connect Apple TV to a TV, connect a set-top box to WiFi networks. In the system settings of the PC, select "Displays", set Apple TV in the list - an image from the laptop will appear on the TV screen. If you want to transfer 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 a Windows PC, install branded iTunes. In the "File" menu, activate the "Home Sharing" item, the AirPlay icon will appear in the player. All movies and music in your library can be transferred to TV.

Conclusion

You can transfer an image 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. Wi-Fi connection eliminates unnecessary cords, after a little tweaking, enjoy the convenience of a second monitor.

Probably, many owners of portable computers have a desire to display an image from their laptop on a display with a large size and resolution. Such a screen is better suited for viewing high-quality photos and videos, and the graphics of modern games on it will look more beautiful and realistic. The most obvious and simple solution to the problem is to connect a monitor to the laptop from desktop computer. However, the ability to pair with a PC is also provided by all the latest TV models running their own operating systems. In this article, we will just tell you how you can connect a laptop to a TV in a wired way and without using wires (via Wi-Fi). Please note that we are not talking about simply broadcasting videos and photos from a laptop on a TV, but about full-fledged duplication of the desktop and all Windows functionality, i.e. using the TV as another monitor.

Connecting via HDMI cable

The HDMI interface is one of the most common means of connecting digital devices today. It can transmit audio and video to high quality and with minimal losses. Nearly all are equipped with HDMI connectors. modern models laptops and TVs. Other interfaces - VGA, DVI, Scart - are also used quite widely, but inputs / outputs of such formats are not available on all devices. For example, you are almost guaranteed to find the same DVI on any video card or monitor, but it is most often absent on laptops and TVs. Also, some TVs may not have a VGA connector, although laptops have one without fail.

Let's say right away that there is not much difference with which wire to connect the laptop to the TV. Whether it's HDMI, VGA or DVI, the sequence of actions and the final result are not much different. The only thing to keep in mind is that DVI and VGA interfaces can only transmit a video signal, so the sound will have to be connected using a separate audio cable.

Connecting wires and setting up the TV

So, let's begin. We will connect an HP laptop with Windows 10 preinstalled to an LG TV running webOS. This is what the HDMI connectors look like:

To connect we use HDMI cable 5 meters long. His photo is shown below.

Connection is carried out with the equipment turned off. We plug one end of the cable into the laptop connector, the other into the HDMI 2 connector of the TV.

Turn on both devices and wait Windows boot on a laptop. As for the TV, while it is broadcasting a TV program (the antenna cable has not been disconnected). We pick up the TV remote control and find the signal source control button. It is usually called Source or Input.

We press it and in the menu that appears on the TV screen, select HDMI-2.

After some thought, the TV should display the desktop of the laptop.

In our case, it slightly went beyond the boundaries of the TV screen. To fix the problem, it was necessary to go to the Settings on the TV (Settings button), then select the "Screen" item and set the "Screen Format" as "Original".

Now the image fits perfectly into the borders of the TV screen.

Setting up displays in Windows 10

Right-click on the desktop and select Display Settings from the context menu. Displays can be configured directly on the page that opens or by going to the advanced options using the link " Extra options screen."

The drop-down menu has several display options: "Duplicate these screens", "Extend these screens", "Show only on 1", "Show only on 2".

By default, duplicate mode is active. This means that the laptop and TV screens display the same thing. The second option provides for the ability to transfer the working windows of the programs between displays and broadcast their information on each of them. The purpose of the last two modes is clear - the picture will be displayed only on one of the two screens, the second will turn off.

Here, in the Settings, it is possible to set the screen resolution and make some other settings.

We will not focus on them, everyone will be able to experiment and adjust everything for themselves. We completed the main task - we connected the laptop to the TV via an HDMI cable.

Setting up displays in Windows 7

The above information on configuring displays is relevant for Windows systems 10, in which screen settings are made through the Settings utility. In Windows 7, all actions are performed in the Control Panel, although the essence of this does not change. Let's go to desired page configuration by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting "Screen Resolution".

The interface of the settings page will be slightly different than in Windows 10, but the meaning remains the same, so it will not be difficult to figure everything out.

Sound problems

The HDMI interface allows you to transmit not only video, but also sound. However, it may happen that you have connected and configured everything seemingly correctly, but the sound is not reproduced on the speakers built into the TV. To fix this problem, go to Control Panel - Sound. On the "Playback" tab, the TV should be selected as the default device, in our case LG TV.

If the device is turned off, then turn it on. If it is not displayed at all, then right-click on the window and check the box "Show disabled device". Then we turn it on and everything should work fine.

Using WiFi

Consider another way to connect a laptop to a TV, this time wirelessly using WiDi technology and a Wi-Fi network. Let us immediately state that this way only suitable for laptops built with Intel components. Plus, WiDi technology must be supported by your TV. Be sure to update your TV with the latest firmware, as older versions of the software may not be able to connect via WiDi.

Before proceeding directly to configuring a wireless connection between a laptop and a TV, you need to make sure that both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (one router). For LG, to check the connection, go through the settings menu to the "Network" section.

If the TV has not been previously connected to Wi-Fi, you need to set up the connection. The laptop shouldn't be a problem.

Each TV model will have its own WiDi toolkit location. LG has the following sequence of actions to access it:

- Press the SMART button on the remote control;

- Go to "Connection Manager";

- Select the item "Person. Computer (PC)";

- In the list, select the Intel WiDi item and click on the "Start" button on the right.

Now the TV is ready to connect a laptop, it remains only to perform the necessary actions in the Windows 10 interface.

We go through the Settings utility to the "Screen" section and click on the "Connect to a wireless display" link.

A panel will appear on the right, which, after a few seconds of searching, should display a TV, in our case LG webOS TV.

Click on it to start the connection and wait for the procedure to complete. If everything goes well, the panel under the name of the wireless display will show "Connected".

The TV will display the working Windows table laptop.

By the way, the projection mode can also be changed, as we did when connecting devices with an HDMI cable.

In principle, the goal is achieved, it remains only to check whether the sound works.

Finally, we note that if you want to connect your laptop to your TV in the most reliable and stable way, then, of course, it is better to use an HDMI cable. The wireless connection is prone to failures, and the image transfer may be delayed, especially in games.

If you have something to say about the topic covered in the article, write below in the comments.

There are many reasons why a PC is an indispensable device in Everyday life. It is used for both work and entertainment, and it is not limited to PC games. The range of its operation is large, and one of its advantages is the ability to watch TV channels. A laptop may well be a mobile TV - consider how to do this, and what can come of it.

There are several options for operating a laptop as a TV, but without any method is not possible. Therefore, first of all, it is necessary to provide access to this resource. Consider options for how you can use a laptop as a portable TV and ways to connect television.

  1. Using a PC as a mobile TV through Internet TV connections. For comfortable viewing of video, it is necessary to ensure the highest possible speed of connection to the Internet. AT search engine find online TV and start broadcasting.
  2. View cable television through a laptop through cable connection instead of antenna. Many providers provide the ability to view digital channels. It is enough to download the application, enter a login and password to your home TV - and you can watch the program not only through the TV, but also through a laptop, tablet, or phone.
  3. Use PC to play TV via external tuner T2. Before you can tune in to receive channels, you need to install a special software, which is attached on a disk complete with a prefix.

It should be remembered that you need to correctly not only to the TV, but also to the laptop. To download the application, install tuner drivers. After loading the media, it is advisable to restart the laptop to synchronize changes in the system. If everything was done correctly, a TV shortcut will appear on the PC desktop. Next, through USB cable T2 tuner is connected. Given that the corresponding software is running, the system determines the profile on its own. Once connected, you can start tuning channels to watch your favorite channels.

Benefits of connecting a T2 tuner to a laptop

On sale you can find a PC with a built-in T2 tuner, but these devices are very expensive. The cheapest and easiest way to use a laptop as a TV is to connect an external T2. The main advantages are not only the display of TV content on the monitor, but also a number of other advantages:

  • listen to radio broadcasts;
  • use laptop as recording device- while watching the channel, you can simultaneously put the video on record;
  • TV channel playback can be paused or, conversely, accelerated;
  • control the time, since under the video you can see the time of the viewed fragment, and its duration;
  • preview mode will allow you to see immediately what is being broadcast on other channels;
  • the resulting recording of a program or movie can be sent to other Internet resources, while pre-processing, making noise correction, improving picture and sound quality, and removing channel logos.

It should be noted that, but it is better to choose a combined type that allows you to broadcast analog and digital channels, since there are not so many of the latter.


When is it convenient to use a PC monitor as a TV

A laptop is convenient to use in many cases, and the ability to watch TV channels is no exception. First of all, it is a mobile technique that is easy to transport. The only problem is the small screen size. Through a PC, you can watch your favorite shows anywhere you can connect to a Wi-Fi network. When the TV breaks down he will be just a savior.

A very common occurrence in families is the "fight" for the TV. Some want to watch movies, others want to know the main events of the country. Children are always happy with cartoons. With one TV, it can be difficult to compromise and prioritize.

Useful laptop and in a one-room apartment. , the TV can work without problems and the channel can be broadcast through a laptop. At the same time, no one will interfere with each other.

Can a laptop be connected to a TV? What a stupid question? Of course you can. Moreover, this does not even require an HDMI or VGA cable. If your TV has Smart TV support, you can send a picture to it without any wires using a wifi connection! In a word, let's already find out exactly what methods of connecting a laptop to a TV exist, and which of them are the most convenient. Moreover, these methods are universal for any models of Samsung, LG, Sony and others.

Please note that you can now display a picture on absolutely any . Even the cheapest model will have an HDMI connector, which is found on all laptops (the only exceptions are older netbooks, which were tiny).

If the TV has support, then other types of connections become available. In particular, you can organize a media center on a laptop by sending video to a TV using DLNA technology. In this case, you can use, as mentioned above, the wireless method - it is not necessary to look for a network cable by inserting its ends into the LAN connectors.

How to connect laptop to TV via HDMI cable

The easiest way to connect your laptop to your TV is with an HDMI cable. The corresponding connector is available in every modern laptop computer. Yes, and LCD TVs are not deprived of them. Only monitors can be an exception to the rule - there may be no HDMI input on their rear panel, which is why you have to look for other options.

So, how to connect a laptop to a TV via HDMI? This will require, as you might guess, an HDMI cable. In the case of a laptop, the simplest accessory that supports one of the first versions of HDMI technology will do. It is unlikely that you will display a 4K image on a TV, and even in 3D.

The first step is to connect the cable. On the TV, you need to insert the plug into a free HDMI IN jack. The other end of the cord is inserted into the same laptop connector. There is nothing difficult in this, it is impossible to confuse anything - a portable computer is endowed with only one socket, where you can insert an HDMI plug.

If the TV is connected desktop computer, then the corresponding connector should be found on the back of the video card. It is possible that instead of a full-size HDMI, there is a mini-HDMI jack. There is nothing wrong with that, you just have to get hold of a suitable cable or adapter. If the computer has only a VGA connector, and the TV does not have one, then you will also need an adapter.

It is very easy to connect two devices with a cable. But the connection doesn't end there. Next, you need to make the TV display the picture received via cable. To do this, press the "Input" button on the remote control. A list of available signal sources will be displayed on the screen. Select the HDMI port that the cable is currently connected to. In the case of Smart TV, the system may independently suggest switching to the signal source that has become active.

Windows Settings

In general, the connection has already been made. You should see on the TV the picture that is displayed on the laptop screen. However, for a more convenient viewing, you can work on the settings.

To do this, pick up a laptop and press the combination "Win" + "X" on its keyboard. Or open the "Control Panel" and select "Windows Mobility Center". In the corresponding section, pay attention to the "External display" segment. Here, click on the "Turn off the screen" button.

At this point, another menu will pop up. In it you are waiting for several options for the operation of the TV screen and laptop:

  • "Computer only" - if you click on this item, then the signal transmission via HDMI will stop;
  • "Duplicate" - the standard option, in which the same picture is displayed on the computer and TV displays;
  • "Expand" - when this mode is activated, the TV turns into a second desktop, continuing the first one;
  • "Projector only" - clicking on this item will turn off the laptop screen.

You need to select the fourth item. You shouldn't be afraid. When you disconnect the HDMI cable from one of the sockets, the image will return to the laptop screen.

Also, with an HDMI-connected TV, it does not hurt to go to another settings menu. You can do this by right-clicking on a free area of ​​the desktop - then select "Screen Resolution" from the context menu. Here you need to choose the resolution in which the image will be transmitted to the TV. By the way, you can expand the desktop or duplicate it here.

That's all! Now you can put the laptop aside and start watching a video or something else.

Wired laptop to TV via VGA

If one of the devices does not have an HDMI connector, then you can think about how to connect a laptop to a TV via VGA. This is another connector that is often found in computer technology. It should be noted that VGA is less and less present in modern LCD TVs. Also, you should be aware that the picture is transmitted through VGA, but not the sound. That is, the sound will have to be transmitted to the TV or speakers with some other cable.

First you need to get hold of a VGA cable. It can be easily found in any store that sells computer components. The cost of such cords is usually half the price of the cheapest HDMI cable. The problem can arise if you need a very long wire - finding one is much more difficult.

If the VGA socket is present only on a laptop (or only on a TV), then you will have to go for an active adapter. This device converts analog signal in digital, or does it in reverse. You should look for it in the same store selling computer equipment. Can help and -, and the like. Some models are additionally equipped with a 3.5 mm audio jack, through which sound is received in addition to video.

When you get the right cable and (if necessary) an active adapter, all that remains is to insert the plugs into the appropriate sockets. Next, press the "Input" button on the remote control - a list of available signal sources will be displayed on the TV screen. Select the connector to which the cable or adapter is currently connected.

Windows Second Screen Settings

If everything is done correctly, then the laptop desktop will be displayed on the TV screen. However, the screen proportions may be distorted. If so, then go to the laptop and right-click on a free area of ​​the desktop. Select "Screen Resolution" from the context menu. Here, in the drop-down list, you need to select the name of your TV. Next, in the "Resolution" item, select the parameter that is the maximum allowable for the TV screen. In a word, make sure that the picture does not stretch or shrink.

Even lower in the menu that opens, you can find the item "Multiple screens". Here you can choose how the image will be displayed. That is, the following options are available:

  • The picture is simply duplicated;
  • The TV becomes a second desktop, expanding the first;
  • The picture is displayed only on a laptop;
  • The image is displayed only on the TV.

The most relevant is the fourth option, so that the laptop does not spend extra energy on displaying the picture. When you disconnect the VGA cable, the image will return to the laptop screen.

How to connect laptop to TV via DLNA

There is another way to connect a laptop to a TV. It consists in creating a DLNA server. However, this way you will not be able to display your desktop on the TV screen or watch YouTube in this way.

Instead, the TV will detect the media files that are stored in the computer's memory, being able to play them. That is, in this way you can watch videos and photos, as well as listen to music - if only it was all stored on the hard drive inside the laptop.

Please note that not all TVs can connect to a laptop in this way. DLNA technology is understood by absolutely all Smart TV-enabled devices. If the TV is not "smart", then check it for DLNA support in technical specifications listed on the manufacturer's website. And do not forget that the connection to DLNA is possible both via Wi-Fi and via a network cable (in this case, an Ethernet connector is used).

So, how to connect a laptop to a TV via Wi-Fi?

To do this, you will have to organize a DLNA server. This cannot be done only within operating system"". Starting with the "Home Extended" version, this feature is present, not to mention the "eights" and "tens". How is this done?

You should start by visiting the "Control Panel". Here you should go to the "Homegroup" section. You can also get to this section as follows: right-click on the notification icon in the notification area, then select "Network and Control Center public access”, and in the menu that opens, click on the item “Homegroup”.

Now you are in a window in which access rights to the homegroup are configured. Here you should click on the "Create a homegroup" button. The corresponding wizard will open immediately. Click the "Next" button, and then specify the types of files to which the remote access. It can be videos, pictures, music, documents, and even a printer. Click the "Next" button again.

At this stage, the system will generate a password that will be needed to connect to the homegroup. This password can be changed later. And after clicking the "Finish" button, you will be moved to the homegroup settings window. Everything here is up to you.

In particular, we recommend changing the name of the homegroup, as well as setting a memorable password. But most importantly: check the box next to "Allow all devices on this network, such as TVs and game consoles, to play shared content." It is after setting this checkbox that a full-fledged DLNA server will be created.

In general, the setup is complete. From now on, you will be able to access multimedia data from any device on the same Wi-Fi network - even from a tablet or smartphone.

And how to get access to videos and music from the TV?

It all depends on the manufacturer of the device and specific model. Some use the SmartShare app, other models use AllShare. Be that as it may, but you need to find the item " The local network”- this is where you will find the name of the previously created DLNA server. Of course, do not forget to connect to if you have not already done so. Of course, the laptop must be connected to the same network. However, such an option is also possible when the laptop is connected to a wire.

An interesting way to connect to a DLNA server is to use the mains. To do this, you need to buy the so-called Powerline devices produced by many manufacturers of network equipment. Such devices are inserted into sockets, after which it remains to insert the TV and router plugs into them.

In an application that supports DLNA, you will not see the usual file system. Instead, all media content will be divided into photos, music and videos. Next, you can choose different types sorting. There is nothing complicated about this, it makes no sense to talk about this process in all details.

It is not necessary to connect to the router when WiFi assistance. If the TV is close to it, then you can use network cable. This will have a positive effect on the data transfer rate, as a result of which you will be able to play videos with a very high bit rate.

FAQ

How to connect a laptop via cable without straining?

The easiest way to do this is with an HDMI cable. The rest of the methods, which are also discussed above, are still a little more complicated.

Is it possible to connect more than just a TV to a laptop via DLNA?

Yes, the DLNA server will be visible to everyone who is in home network WiFi. For example, a smartphone can get access to media data - all you need to do is download the appropriate file manager Or VLC Player.

What to do if the TV does not connect to the home network?

Check if he has such an opportunity at all. The absence of such is indicated by the fact that the TV does not have a built-in Wi-Fi module and an Ethernet connector. If the support wireless networks is present, then try entering the password again - it is possible that you made a mistake last time. An even simpler method of connecting to a router is to use the WPS button. However, budget routers are deprived of it. It will not be superfluous to read the instruction manual that came with the TV.

What is the best way to connect a laptop to a TV: wired or wireless?

Of course, connecting via HDMI is simplified to the limit, so this may seem like the best way. But we must not forget that a quality HDMI cable costs money. You should not buy a cheap wire, as soon it may simply fail.

If you don’t want to spend money, then it’s better to use a wireless connection by creating a DLNA server. And you can do without it by using a proprietary application from the TV manufacturer. Of course, this will only work if you have Smart TV support. Unfortunately, the cheapest TVs, devoid of an operating system, are left behind - they can only be connected to a laptop with a cable.

What exactly do you need to connect to a laptop?

This question is akin to a philosophical one. The output of the picture on the TV screen is needed for a more comfortable viewing, because the laptop is limited to 13-15 inches, while television display much more. And if the laptop is very powerful, then the TV can be used as a second monitor - this simplifies the work when editing video and editing photos.

Conclusion

Now you understand that there is nothing complicated in connecting a laptop to a TV. Most often, it is enough to insert the ends of the cable into the desired connectors. In a word, we can only hope that the article helped you in some way.