How to make a TV out of a monitor and what is needed for this? Turning an old monitor into a TV

With the advent of more and more mobile and smaller gadgets, stationary computers began to lose their relevance in the apartment interior. However, the question arises as to what to do with the unwieldy but still working technique. In this regard, many are interested in how to make a TV out of, because there are not many of the first, and even if at home there is one in every room, another one will not interfere in the country or in.

How to make a TV from a computer monitor?

To do this, you will actually need the monitor itself, a TV tuner, a plug, a power wire, an antenna plug and a piece of antenna wire.

Manufacturing steps:

1. Remove the stand and the rest of its attachment to the monitor. The vacated space will be used to accommodate the TV tuner. A triangular stand should be placed under the upper edge of the tuner, which will provide a more convenient connection and routing of wires, as well as the correct direction of the IR receiver on the tuner.
2. Remove the main monitor mount and pass the ties through the remaining holes and fix the tuner body.
3. Install the counterpart of the wall mount on the monitor and at the same time insert pieces of plastic under the screws, which later will help to fix the wires. You can use a regular bottle to get plastic mounts.
4. Those who are interested in how to make a computer monitor a TV should lengthen the plug of the tuner's power supply through wires and a heat-shrinkable tube. Cut off the monitor power lead, and use a length of power lead and plug to obtain the lead wire.
5. To make it convenient to connect the television antenna wire, you can take out a small piece of antenna wire from the tuner with a plug at the end and fix it with a plastic mount.
6. Secure the tuner power supply with double-sided tape or glue.
7. Connect the wires from the power supply unit of the tuner, the power supply wire and the monitor power wire, insulate and fix with a plastic fastener.
8. It remains only to hang the wall part of the mount, hang the monitor and turn it on.

How else can you make a monitor a TV without a system unit?

Typically, most LCD monitors have an I / O interface called LVDS. After removing the cover from the monitor and exposing the insides, you can see that the connectors are on a separate board. It connects with other internals to provide a flexible ribbon cable that is similar to IDE hard drives. Those who doubt whether it is possible to make a TV out of a monitor should cast aside doubts and purchase an expansion card for this interface, which has a built-in video decoder. Such a device will make it possible to reproduce both analog and digital television directly without the use of all kinds of set-top boxes and a computer.

All that remains to be done is to take the purchased board and monitor to a service center for the repair of such equipment and pick up the finished TV. By connecting an antenna or cable TV wire to it, you can use it for its intended purpose. Those with the necessary knowledge and skills in the operation of audio-video equipment can solder a new board on their own, although this process is tedious and long, but it significantly saves money. It should be borne in mind that the pinout will have to be looked for for each specific model, and then the case will also have to be finalized, because the dimensions of the equipment will increase. In any case, you can get a ready-made TV and not spend money on buying it.

Determine the type of cable you will use to connect your computer to the TV. To do this, look at the back of your computer where the ports and connectors are located. The video connectors are located next to the USB ports, audio connectors and Ethernet port, or they are located on the discrete graphics card (under the audio connectors). There are three main types of connectors:

• HDMI. The modern standard for connecting HD devices, and most modern computers have an HDMI (rear) connector. HDMI carries both picture and sound. The HDMI connector is similar to an extended USB port.
• DVI. Digital connector with contacts. It has the shape of a rectangle and three rows of eight contacts each. DVI transmits only image.
• VGA. Old standard. It has the form of a trapezoid and three rows with 15 contacts. Do not use this connector if you have access to a DVI or HDMI connector, as the VGA connector provides poor picture quality. VGA transmits only the image and cannot display the picture in HD quality.

Determine the types of connectors on your TV. Most TVs have connectors on the back, but some may also be on the side of the TV.

• Most modern TVs have one or more HDMI connectors. This is the fastest, easiest way to connect your computer to your TV and provides the best picture quality. An HDMI cable is the only cable type that carries both video and audio signals.
• The DVI connector is not as common, but it can still be found in many modern TVs.
• VGA connectors are generally not found on HD TVs, but regular TVs do.

If the PC system unit is hopelessly outdated and is not at all suitable both for use as a music center and for upgrading it in order to “turn” it into a “TV”, then one more method can be advised.

To do this, you need to use the so-called external TV tuner for monitor (TV - television).

An external TV tuner is an independent device that is connected to the electrical network to the TV antenna, to the PC system unit and to the PC monitor.

More precisely, the external TV tuner for the monitor is connected as if in a break in the cable connecting the PC system unit and the PC monitor. Only this cable does not actually break, and the TV tuner is connected instead of the monitor to the PC system unit, at the same time the monitor is connected to the TV tuner.

The external TV tuner has a remote control. Connected to the mains, to the monitor, the PC system unit and to the TV antenna, this TV tuner becomes a regular TV, which is also controlled like a regular home TV using a remote control.

Using the remote control, such a "TV" can be turned on and on, you can increase and decrease the sound volume, switch and tune channels, adjust the brightness, contrast, color and other parameters.

Importantly, such an external TV tuner does not need a PC system unit for its work. The connection to the system unit is maintained if there is a desire to use this system unit in the future. Otherwise, it is enough to have an external TV tuner and a computer monitor in order to assemble a familiar TV from these two devices.

In the absence of a PC system unit, such a "TV" only needs a monitor and speakers, which should be connected to the corresponding connectors of the TV tuner. And then the PC system unit can be sent "to the dustbin of history."

By the way, some people use the option described above in order to the new computer monitor worked like a TV... More precisely, they buy a new cheap (liquid crystal) LCD monitor, and also an external TV tuner for the monitor is purchased for this monitor. Connect and use the computer monitor as an LCD TV, for example in the kitchen.

A very exotic option for using a morally obsolete computer running under no longer supported operating systems (for example, Windows 3.1) is that it can be used to safely access any Internet sites without fear of all kinds of viruses.

There are no viruses for outdated operating systems, and "new" viruses "do not take" them! True, the browsers of these obsolete computers are also outdated, and are not always able to display all the information contained on the sites.

As you can see, it is quite possible to extend the life of an old computer (laptop or stationary computer). At the same time, the joy of owning them can be prolonged, if it gives pleasure.

P.S. The article is over, but you can still read it.

For example, a TV is connected to show presentations on a large screen, to watch videos, or simply to replace a broken monitor. In this article, we will show you how to connect a TV as a monitor to your computer.

In order for the TV connection not to cause any difficulties for us, we need to understand a little with the theory. All modern TVs are equipped with HDMI digital video input. Thanks to the HDMI input, any TV can be At the same time, the process of connecting a TV is as simple as possible and available to anyone.

In addition, many advanced TV models are equipped with an input. If you have a TV with DVI input, then you can use DVI to connect the TV as a monitor.

Examine the back cover, as well as the side panels of your TV, for HDMI or DVI inputs. You can use either of these HDMI or DVI inputs to connect your TV to your computer.

After that, examine the rear panel of your computer and decide how you will connect the TV as a monitor. Several options are possible.

HDMI - HDMI. If your computer has an HDMI output, then you simply connect the output on the computer to the HDMI input on the TV. This is the easiest option if you don't know how to monitor.

DVI - HDMI. If the computer has only DVI output, and the TV only has HDMI input. Then you need a DVI to HDMI adapter. We connect the adapter to the DVI output on the computer and connect the adapter to the TV using an HDMI cable.

DVI - DVI. If your TV has a DVI input, then you can connect your TV by connecting the DVI output on your computer and the DVI input on your TV using a DVI cable.

After you have connected everything, you need to take the remote control from and switch the signal source to the HDMI or DVI input that you used.

As a rule, the button that is responsible for selecting a signal source is called "Source" or "Source".

Before making a TV out of a monitor, it is worth figuring out why such a need arises.

As a rule, such alteration may be necessary for the owner of an old LCD monitor who needs an inexpensive TV receiver for a summer cottage or kitchen.

There are many ways to solve the problem - from buying a special tuner or set-top box to connecting a mini-computer with Internet access to a TV.

Features of using the monitor as a TV receiver

The solution to the problem of converting a monitor into a TV is, as a rule, associated with liquid crystal models.

However, when it comes to embedding special boards in the case, the best option is a CRT monitor, which allows you to conveniently place all additional parts inside the case.

When using an LCD monitor, there are more ways to receive a television signal on the screen, however, in most cases, all elements will have to be placed outside.

The advantages of converting monitors into TVs include savings on buying a new TV set with an old and unused monitor.

At the same time, this process has much more disadvantages:

• The viewing angles of the LCD monitor are smaller compared to TVs. You can watch it only sitting right in front of the screen, which reduces the possible number of viewers.
• Older monitors are typically 15-19 inches in size. They are suitable only for a small space - even for a bedroom it is easier to buy an inexpensive 24- or 32-inch TV.
• The picture quality of most older monitors is inferior to that of TV sets. Especially if the device has been used for many years, and its matrix has lost some of its characteristics.
• Almost all monitors lack speakers, which requires the connection of additional external speakers.
• To alter the monitor, in some cases, you will need some experience in repairing electronic equipment. In its absence, you will have to contact the service.

On the one hand, converting a monitor into a TV is not always easy.

You will have to spend some time on this (during which you could just earn part of the amount for a TV receiver), the resulting picture turns out worse, and a decent amount may be needed to purchase additional parts.

However, the costs are still less than the purchase of a TV set, and some methods require virtually no investment or effort on the part of the user.

Monitors suitable for conversion

A good option for use as a TV for a kitchen or summer cottage are 17-19-inch monitors from Samsung, LG and Sony.

This opinion is expressed by both experts and amateurs, who have already succeeded in converting a peripheral device for a personal PC into a television signal receiver.

The quality of these particular models is higher in comparison with the products of other companies, and it is relatively easier to remake them.

More modern monitors with a diagonal of 20 inches or more can be converted into a TV - but economically unprofitable.

Firstly, they are quite suitable for their main purpose - for displaying images from a PC.

If there is no need for a monitor, you can even sell it, compensating part of the amount for the purchase of a TV.

The best option is color CRT monitors with a diagonal of 15 to 20 inches or more. But only if they retained their color rendition and clarity.

It is better not to remake models with a dull and dim image, but to throw it away, preserving your vision.

Connecting a TV box

One of the easiest, at first glance, ways to make a TV from a computer monitor is to buy, connect and configure a special TV set-top box.

Although it makes almost no sense to choose models that support analog broadcasting - by the beginning of 2019, they are going to completely replace it with digital.

This means that the best option would be to buy a DVB-T2 or Smart TV model that works when connected to the Internet.

DVB-T2 set-top boxes

The advantages of choosing this technique for converting monitors into televisions are:

• Affordable cost. A suitable option can be found for less than 1000 rubles. (for example, the Hobbit UNO model supporting the FullHD format will cost only 850 rubles);
• Easy connection and compatibility with the popular HDMI connectorwhich can be found on most LCD monitors released in the 2010s.
• Support for more than 20 channels. If it is necessary to increase the assortment, they buy DVB-C set-top boxes for cable TV or DVB-S for satellite.

In the absence of an HDMI port on an old monitor, the problem is solved by purchasing a special adapter - this increases the cost of rework, but there is no other way out in this case.

The issue with the sound that is missing from the monitor is decided by purchasing and connecting audio speakers to the set-top box.

However, some modern models are equipped with built-in, albeit weak, speakers.

Smart TV set-top boxes

"Smart set-top boxes" for TVs can also be connected to monitors.

Such devices as Mini PC Smart TV Box MXQ 4K Android cost about 1500 rubles. will provide not only TV broadcasting via the Internet, but also the ability to record video to the built-in storage.

This model has a ROM size of 8 GB - enough to save 1 to 4 standard size movies, depending on the format selected.

In fact, most Smart TV set-top boxes are mini computers designed specifically to connect to a TV.

All that is required for such a gadget to work with a monitor is an HDMI input or a special adapter to another connector.

The advantages of choosing this option include:

• the ability to watch not only TV shows, but also streaming videos (from YouTube and other social networks);
• support for working with various applications (primarily for Android OS, since most set-top boxes work on this platform);
• using the TV for communication in social networks and in video chats;
• e-mail correspondence and other opportunities available for owners of gadgets on Android OS.

Most smart consoles come with slots for microSD cards, which allows you to increase the storage space for recording video and other files.

Although with the main task - to ensure the display of TV channels - they are doing quite well.

The few disadvantages of choosing this option for turning the monitor into a TV include the weak sound of the built-in speaker of such models - although you can additionally connect audio speakers to increase the volume.

Purchase of a special board

The most difficult, but easy-to-use, way to make a TV receiver from any monitor is a built-in Universal LCD Driver Board.

Equipment may be named differently, depending on the manufacturer.

However, the principle of operation, advantages and connection steps are the same for most of these devices.

The advantages of using boards include:

• the ability to play not only analog broadcasting (which will soon be discontinued), but also digital;
• sound output without using additional adapters;
• control of the gadget using the remote control;
• compactness of all parts used for alteration, which are easily hidden in the monitor case.

The disadvantages of this option are problems with board placement in most LCD monitors.

An experienced specialist can solve them... Most non-professionals may not be able to cope with this, and then the board will have to be placed outside, which will make the appearance of the monitor not very attractive.

Stages of turning a monitor into a TV receiver

To embed the board into the monitor, you will need to the following actions:

• Prepare all the necessary tools and materials - a screwdriver, a soldering iron, a pre-purchased board, wires and cables, solder.

• Remove the cover from the monitor by unscrewing all the fasteners and carefully folding them in one specific place so as not to lose them until the end of the assembly.
• Find the expansion board by disconnecting it from the ribbon cable and being careful not to damage it. A damaged cable will make it impossible to continue further alteration of the monitor. Moreover, the device will stop working even as a display for a computer.
• Check the marking of the screen matrix, by which it will be possible, if necessary, to find a suitable firmware for the device, and select the correct voltage for it.
• Install a new one instead of the standard board. In the process of soldering, observe the pinout of the display cable.
• After fixing the Universal LCD Driver Board, set the appropriate voltage using the jumper, which can be found in the instructions for the board. Usually 12V is sufficient, which is suitable for most monitor components.

Most of these boards are equipped with IR receivers for remote control, some of them support this function as an option.

Before assembling the monitor, make sure that the sensor is turned on and determine its location - sometimes the infrared module can be located outside, being installed on the case.

The last stage is assembling the monitor back and putting it into operation.

Making a TV from a laptop display

A TV can be made not only from a standard monitor for a desktop PC, but also from a laptop display.

To do this, you need to buy another board, LA.MV29.P, and a controller suitable for it. Most of the steps for converting a display are the same as converting a monitor.

The list of differences is as follows:

• Depending on the model of the device, the voltage can be 3.3, 5 or 12 V.
• During the installation process, the jumper on the controller is switched and it is flashed using a special flash drive.
• It will not be possible to place even the most compact board inside a housing containing a matrix display.

The disadvantages of this method of converting the display into a television receiver are its small size.

Laptop screen diagonals are usually in the range of 14-15.6 inches, although laptops can be 10.1-inches and 17.3-inches.

In addition, to accommodate the resulting structure (screen and board), you will need a new, specially made case.

Connecting other devices

Mobile devices that can be connected to a monitor to enhance its functionality are not just dedicated TV boxes.

For the same purpose, you can use a tablet or smartphone on the Android platform.

But, if gadgets are connected to a modern TV set using Wi-Fi, they can only be connected to a monitor using a cable.

To use this method you will need:

• A mobile device with at least 512 MB of RAM (at least 1 GB is required for normal HD video playback).
• Adapter from microUSB (or another port on a tablet or smartphone) to HDMI. Some tablet PCs are already equipped with mini / microHDMI inputs; smartphones practically do not have them.
• Drivers and codecs installed on mobile gadgets.
• TV broadcast configured using a dedicated application or website.

You should know : Even models with broken screens are suitable for work, but capable of displaying an image on a monitor. Therefore, almost any mobile gadget and monitor with an HDMI port can be turned into a TV receiver. In the absence of a suitable connector, the adapter will not help, since it does not allow sound transmission.

In addition to smartphones and tablets, other gadgets can also provide connection to TV channels, including laptops and mini-PCs on any operating system (not necessarily Android, as on a TV set-top box - the platform can be Linux or one of the versions of Windows) ...

With their help, the old monitor turns not quite into a regular TV, but into a set, comparable in functionality to devices with Smart TV support.

The advantage of the symbiosis of a computer, smartphone, tablet and monitor is the ability to use gadgets for their main purpose (for calls, work or games).

The disadvantages are increased power consumption, maximum space requirements and a large number of cords.

However, in any case, it is advisable to buy a normal TV for an apartment, and such a system is also suitable for a summer residence or temporary options.

Summarizing

You should not throw out an outdated monitor, even if there is no way to use it to display information from a computer, give it to another user, or sell it.

The device is quite capable of serving as a spare TV - for this you will need to invest a certain amount of money and, possibly, make minor changes to the electrical circuit.

Other gadgets that you don't even have to buy will help with solving the problem of increasing the functionality of the monitor.