This guide is intended for PC users. Macs typically use a different adapter for video output. 

Projectors, when used correctly, can add an edge of interactivity to many lessons. However, there are times when one is not affordable/available. It’s at times like this when it is good to know how to put the TV to use as a classroom display. Its comparitively smaller size and price tag make it a good compromise for smaller budgets. This guide will show you what you need to connect your TV to your computer.

Connection Types 

Since computers and TVs vary, you will need to first be aware of what types of connections are possible. There are two main types of connections that you need to look for:

S-Video (lesser quality, not optimized for smaller text or high quality images)

VGA

Computer Output 

All computers will have a VGA output since it is what is used to connect the computer’s monitor. If your computer doesn’t have a second VGA output, and you want to have the screen displayed on your monitor as well as the TV, you will need to use a splitter. http://www.national-tech.com/specs/10h1-27708.htm

Most newer computers will have an S-Video output. S-Video is a lower quality, but it can also be the simplest solution if your TV has an S-Video input.

TV Input

Now that you know what outputs your computer has, it’s time to check the TV.  The simplest solutions will be if you can VGA output from the computer and VGA input on the TV, or S-Video output on the computer and S-Video input on the TV.  In these cases you will only need either a VGA cable or S-Video cable.

In the event that you only have VGA(computer) and RCA(Red, Yellow, White) on the TV, things will get a bit more expensive since you will need this adapter.

Making the Connection 

Once you have your cables and have them connected to each device you will need to change the appropriate settings. The TV will need to be on the appropriate channel. Most TVs will have an input button on the remote that will toggle between each input. Sometimes it will be labeled by it’s connection type(S-Video, VGA) but other times it will simply have generic names(input 1, input 2).

The computer will also need to know that there is another monitor.  If you have certain hardware on your computer it will give you output options after you right click on the desktop(output to external display). Otherwise, you will need to go to your control panel and go to the following:

Display Settings (XP) On this screen you will see two boxes. Each box represents a display. box the 2 in it is for your TV. Click on it and you should get some options. (Note: If you select where it says to extend the display to the other monitor, your TV will become an extension of your monitor and anything you want to display on it will need to be dragged to the far right onto it.

Windows Mobility Center (Vista) This simple solutions simply allows you to click “Connect Display”.

If all goes well, you should now be up and running. Other solutions? Leave us some comments.