How to connect a monitor to a computer via hdmi
Life and technical issues, as practice shows, arise different. But since the reader is interested in the topic of switching - connecting a monitor to a computer via an HDMI port and cable, then this issue needs to be clarified. We will do this step by step for better understanding. Let's start with the main thing...
The content of the article
HDMI - what is it?
HDMI is an interface standard, an element of interaction between a person and an electronic device, in this case through image transmission. The abbreviation HDMI stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface. The key word here is “multimedia”, which implies the transmission of not only high-quality pictures, but no less excellent sound. Therefore, this standard was mainly intended for connecting a PC to a TV. But you can also connect it to a monitor, the quality will not suffer.
Reference! This project was launched in 2002 and has been continuously developing since then.
Turning to history, we must remember the predecessor and alternative of the project:
- VGA
- DVI
For clarity, look at their main types of connectors:
Why basic? Because DVI and HDM ports and cables have subtypes. DVI has five of them, but this is not our topic. HDMI also has five. They are classified by type from Type-A (in the picture) to Type-B.
Important! The most common is Type-A, most likely the reader has it.Type-B is the near future, it will have higher screen resolution (pixels).
The remaining subtypes Type-C and Type-D are intended for small electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, microcomputers). This needs to be known and taken into account.
Let's look at each type in more detail:
- VGA - it all started with it, now it is morally and technically outdated. It is widely known and can now be built even into motherboards, without a video card. It's that widespread. True, to connect, you will need an old model cable.
- DVI is an interface designed only for image transmission, there is no sound here. It is widely represented on modern video cards.
- HDMI - as already mentioned - is a combined version with audio transmission. There are monitor models with built-in speakers; they will require this particular standard.
Note! The best solution would be to directly match the type of ports on the monitor and the computer. Any combination of cables and the use of adapters from one type to another leads to a loss of quality of the transmitted image. But sometimes there is nowhere to go, you have to sacrifice.
What do you need to prepare to connect?
First we need to decide what we already have in stock. To do this, turn the computer system unit or laptop and examine the presence of ports. One of the three types will definitely be found, and perhaps all at once. If you find an HDMI port, then the task is greatly simplified.
Next, look at the cable from the monitor; it or they come with it. If there is a male plug of the following type:
Then, congratulations, you already have everything you need. If not, then it’s too early to get upset; when examining the monitor, you’ll probably find an HDMI port. Almost all monitor manufacturers provide a variety of connections.In this case, you will need to go to the nearest computer service center and purchase a cable with double plugs - like in the picture. Then we simply connect the monitor to the computer with a cable.
If you have a mobile device with Type-C or Type-D micro connectors, you will need to find a cable with a transition from one of these types to Type-A. They can come with such devices, look for the box they come with. If not, then special purchase only.
The worst options would be:
- There is no HDMI port on the back of the system unit or laptop.
- There is no corresponding port and built-in HDMI cable on the monitor.
In this case, there are still options with adapters or cables with different types of plugs. This is the most budget option, but it will not be easy to find. Most likely, you will have to search and order online. As a more expensive but simple alternative, you can buy a video card that will definitely have such a connector.
A valid exception to the rule! Sometimes, if the monitor has the appropriate capabilities, everything connects perfectly via a USB cable.
Connection instructions
If you have chosen the right cable, and they also have options:
- Dad-dad.
- Dad mom.
- Various lengths.
Save the receipts if you doubt their accuracy, then there is always the possibility of replacement!
All that remains is to connect the monitor and computer with a cable.
Attention! To avoid equipment failure, always do this only in the off state.
Turn it on, if the monitor starts showing a normal image, then feel free to move on to the next steps. But if the “Check cable connection” or “No signal” screensaver appears, this does not mean that the cable or equipment is faulty. Typically, the monitor is configured to receive a feed from DVI by default.Then you need to go into the monitor settings and translate everything into the required format. To do this, the monitor has buttons on the front panel. We will not describe the entire process, since it is different for all manufacturers.
If this does not help, then you can change the resolution and frequency downward. It should work.
Further image problems need to be addressed in two places:
- Monitor software.
- Video card software.
It may also happen that the brightness and contrast of the user are not satisfied. This also depends on the current monitor settings. Very rarely, but it also happens depending on the video card settings. Start with the monitor, it’s easier to do it there, you just need to find the appropriate sections. Change the percentage to make it more acceptable to you. Don't forget that this can be done by switching the format from normal business style (saves energy and is less blinding), to gaming or watching movies.
It is more difficult to do this in the video card software. Through the control panel, find the properties of the video card and set the parameters you need. Make sure the card driver is loaded and working properly; if necessary, you can update it on the manufacturer's website.
A combination of the two approaches will give the best results.
Tips and tricks for connecting a monitor
The worst option would be a VGA-HDMI cable combination. The fact is that the VGA signal is analog, but the opponent is digital. If the monitor does not have a built-in adapter, then nothing at all may work, these are different universes! Connecting through a video converter can solve the problem.
What to choose: converter or card? It’s difficult to give advice here; these are questions of price for each product. After all, you can also find acceptable used options, where the price difference is reduced by orders of magnitude, but without a guarantee.The preferred option is with a card; the fewer connections, the higher the stability of the entire system!
Another tip relates to connecting a laptop; if it has the appropriate connector, then no problems are expected. Connect directly with a cable, press the key combination “Fn+F” and start the connection setup processes.
That's all, we wish you success!