How to Connect My Computer to a TV Using a VGA Cable

by James Clark
VGA ports have 15 pins and are typically blue.

VGA (video graphics array) is a type of connection commonly used on computers and laptops for hooking up a monitor. The 15-pin VGA plug on each end of the cable connects to the holes in the port for transmitting a video signal. Relatively few TV sets are equipped with a VGA port, so you'll probably need an adapter cable to connect your TV to your computer. The adapter cable has an S-video or composite-video plug on one end for the TV connection.

1

Turn off the TV set.

2

Plug in the VGA cable to the matching port on the back of the computer tower or edge of a laptop. The two bolts on the cable plug turn clockwise to secure the cable to the port.

3

Insert the round plug on the other end into the matching video input on the TV set.

4

Turn on the TV set and push the video selector button on the remote control to connect with the computer through the VGA cable.

Warning

  • Standard VGA connections transmit video only.

Items you will need

References

About the Author

James Clark began his career in 1985. He has written about electronics, appliance repair and outdoor topics for a variety of publications and websites. He has more than four years of experience in appliance and electrical repairs. Clark holds a bachelor's degree in political science.

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