Do you have an old TV that just hangs in the house? This article will show you how to turn any TV into a modern Smart TV that you can use to watch your favorite content from the internet. All it takes is a TV and a computer.
Step
Method 1 of 3: HDMI or VGA
Step 1. Decide whether to connect with an HDMI cable or VGA and audio cables
Most modern televisions come with HDMI ports: this is the easiest way to connect. But if yours is so old that you don't find a HDMI port on it, then look for a VGA port, and an audio port. Without a HDMI port, you will need both a VGA port as well as an audio port to turn your TV into a smart TV.
Step 2. Decide whether you will use an HDMI cable or a VGA and audio cable
Most modern televisions are equipped with an HDMI port. This is the easiest way to connect a television to the internet. However, if your television is too old-fashioned and doesn't have an HDMI port, then look for VGA and audio first. Without an HDMI port, you need both ports to turn your TV into a Smart TV.
Method 2 of 3: Pairing the TV to an Old Computer
Step 1. Prepare an old or unused version of a computer or laptop
These days, you can even use your smartphone or tablet PC. The goal is to find a system that you can use to connect to the internet.
- Do not forget. Your old TV doesn't have an OS and a browser (web browser). Old TVs do not have the ability to connect to the internet. Your old computer or tablet PC will perform the function.
- If you don't have a device to use, and don't want to spend a lot of money on a new computer, you can buy a cheap tablet PC with HDMI output.
Step 2. Connect the computer to the TV
If your computer or smartphone has an HDMI output, connect the device to the TV using a standard HDMI cable. Note that for small devices, you may need to use a mini or micro HDMI adapter.
If the system does not have an HDMI output, then you will need a VGA monitor cable and an audio cable to connect the internet to the TV. VGA cable serves to run video output, and audio cable to run sound output. The HDMI cable is capable of outputting both sound and picture, so it only requires one cable to perform its functions
Step 3. Connect the device to the internet and start browsing to your favorite sites
Use full screen mode for maximum results. Your old TV has just become a Smart TV!
Method 3 of 3: Adding Device
Step 1. Check if the TV can support USB
If you can, you can buy devices like Chrome Cast, Apple TV, and more.
Step 2. Buy Chrome Cast or Apple TV
This tool will allow you to stream movies and surf the internet. It will take your old television experience to a whole new level. All you have to do is connect the TV set with a USB or HDMI cable and then you are ready to do the things a Smart TV can do.
Tips
- When buying an HDMI cable, make sure to buy the latest version (ver 1.4). The latest version allows for faster data transfer and also supports Ethernet. For high quality data conductivity, be sure to purchase a cable that is 100% pure copper. Some cables are just armored cables. They tend to be cheaper, but their conductivity is not as good as pure copper wire.
- In stores, there are devices like Android TV boxes, Roku, and Apple TVs, specifically designed to turn your TV into a Smart TV. These devices are affordable and come with a remote control to make your browsing easier.
- With a high speed broadband connection, you can view videos in HD quality. Watch HD videos in full screen for a better viewing experience.
