Looking for the best way to get video from PC/laptop to my home theater.?

Question

I want to watch videos from my Laptop (and possibly my other PC). I have a comparable Home Theater set up, and would like to have it run through my AV receiver to optimize the surround sound. What is the best (meaning simple and inexpensive) way to do this.

If it helps I am running a wireless connection between both my PC and laptop.

PS send links please for devices if possible.

TJ

Answer 1

There are several ways to do this, but it all depends on the outputs of you laptop and the inputs of your tv.

option 1) You laptop has HDMI out, and you TV has HDMI in (HD tv) use an HDMI cable

option2) Your laptop has VGA or DVI out, you tv has PC in VGA or DVI. if the laptop has VGA and Tv DVi, or the other way, use a VGA to DVI adapter.

option3) Your laptop has VGA or DVI out, Your tv has HDMI in. Use a dvi or vga to HDMI adapter.

These top options are the easiest and most simple way but require a fairly new HD tv and/or AV reciever. The following options are for if you have an older tv/  reciever.

option4) Use a VGA or DVI (depending on which output your laptop has) to RCA cable adapter. Hook the video (yellow cable) too your reciever/tv. For audio, use a headphone to stereo (RCA red and white) adapter. Hook one end into the headphone jack and one end into the reciever. Now use the tv as a second monitor.

Good luck.