You Cannot Use a USB-to-HDMI Adapter on PS4! Try This Alternative

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In this guide, I’ll tackle a key issue for PlayStation 4 users: how to operate your console when the HDMI port is damaged. 

I’ll guide you through enabling Remote Play, an alternative that connects your PS4 wirelessly to devices like computers or smartphones, eliminating the need for HDMI. 

Let’s jump into the setup and explore the essential uses of the PlayStation USB port.

The HDMI Port in My PlayStation Is Damaged; What Should I Do Instead?

Finding that the HDMI port on your PlayStation 4 is damaged can be a gamer’s nightmare. This issue typically leaves you with limited options, the most straightforward being to send your console for professional repair to replace the HDMI port. 

Fortunately, there’s a simple solution: enabling Remote Play on your PS4. 

The remote play feature allows you to wirelessly connect to a device like a computer or smartphone, sidestepping the need for a functional HDMI port. 

I will demonstrate the setup using my MacBook and a PS4.

Here is how to enable remote play for your PS4:

Step 1: It’s advisable to activate this feature while your HDMI port is still functional. 

To enable the remote on PS4 you will need to go to Settings → Remote Play Connection Settings → select Enable Remote Play

Step 2: Download the remote play app on your computer, phone, or tablet. If you’re downloading the app for a computer, choose the correct version for your operating system (Windows or Mac).

The interface should look similar to the image provided below. 

To proceed, select the checkbox to agree to the PlayStation’s user license agreement and privacy policy, then click Download.

Step 3: Once the app is finished downloading, install and run the remote app, the interface of the app will look exactly like the image below

Step 4: To use the app, sign in using your PlayStation Network (PSN) account. 

Step 5: Before attempting to connect your PS4 console to your computer, ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. 

Step 6: Connect your controller to your computer using either a USB cable or Bluetooth.

For a Bluetooth connection: Press and hold the PS and Share buttons on your controller simultaneously. This puts the controller into pairing mode.

Enable Bluetooth on your computer. Once your computer recognizes the controller, select it to establish the Bluetooth connection.

Step 7: After completing the steps outlined above, you can connect your laptop to the PS4. To do this, select the PS4 option within the remote play app. 

The connection process will initiate and should only take a few seconds to successfully establish.

6 Key Uses of the PlayStation USB Port?

The USB ports on your PlayStation 4 are more versatile than you might think. Beyond just connecting your console to other devices, these ports serve a variety of essential functions.

Charging Controllers: The most common use of the USB ports is to charge your PlayStation controllers. It’s a convenient way to ensure your controllers are always ready for action.

Additionally, the USB ports allow you to continue using your controller as a wired device when the battery runs out, providing uninterrupted gameplay and the reliability of a constant power source.

Installing Software Updates: In specific troubleshooting scenarios, particularly when your PlayStation 4 faces issues with direct online updates, using a USB drive becomes essential.

This approach is especially useful when your PS4 cannot connect to the internet or when online updates fail to install properly, ensuring that your console’s software remains up-to-date and functional.

Transferring Photos and Videos: You can use a USB drive to transfer photos and videos to your PlayStation. This feature is great for customizing your dashboard or sharing your gameplay experiences with friends.

Charging Other Devices: While not its primary function, the USB ports can also charge other compatible devices, such as your smartphone, making it a handy feature in a pinch.

Backup and Transfer: Secure your game data by backing it up to an external USB storage device. You can also use these ports to transfer data between different consoles, ensuring you keep your progress and settings wherever you go.

Virtual Reality (VR) Setup: For those with a PlayStation VR, the USB ports are essential for connecting the VR system to the console, providing an immersive gaming experience.

Conclusion

In the dynamic world of gaming, technical hiccups like a damaged HDMI port on your PlayStation 4 can seem daunting. 

However, as we’ve explored, innovative solutions like Remote Play not only offer a practical workaround but also open up new avenues for gaming flexibility. 

By enabling Remote Play, you effortlessly transform your gaming experience, allowing you to play your favorite titles on various devices without the need for a direct HDMI connection.

This feature ensures that your gaming adventures are not halted by hardware limitations.

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