Can you hook up a computer to a tv without a s-video cable?

How to Hook a Computer to a TV Without an S-Video Cable

• Answer:

  Attaching your computer to your television can provide you with a much larger display at no additional cost, aside from the fairly inexpensive cables and adapters needed to make the connection. There are several different formats that can be used to translate a computer image to the "big screen." If you want to avoid using an S-video cable, you will need a television set that is capable of receiving a VGA or DVI input. Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You'll Need VGA or DVI cable Instructions Purchase a VGA (video graphics adapter) or DVI (digital video interface) cable depending on your television and your computer's input connection. VGA and DVI connections are two of the most common display standards for computer images. Note that a VGA cable is the most common alternative to the S-video attachment on the television, but newer sets might be equipped with a DVI link instead. A VGA input is a blue input with three rows of five pins per rows, whereas a DVI input is a white input with three rows of eight pins per row. Attach either the VGA or the DVI cable to the video card on the back of your computer (where the monitor cable would typically attach) and the other end to the VGA or DVI output on your television. Both types of cables screw into place, so ensure that they are attached fully and firmly to provide the highest quality signal. A poor signal can cause image flickering or other types of distortion, so take the time to set the cable up right the first time. Change your television set to receive input from either the VGA or DVI connection by using your remote control or the "Menu" button located on your set. Consult your instruction manual if you are having difficulty deciding on the proper method to use for your television set. Reboot the computer once the television is set to receive input on the appropriate channel, and the image should automatically display on the screen. If the image fails to display, check the connection on both ends of the cable and try restarting the computer again.