The VGA connector is a popular means of transmitting video signals. Despite its known disadvantages, it has remained an option on many video devices.
Is this technology on the verge of going obsolete? Yes!
There are newer connectors with better video transfer technologies fast taking over the electronics markets. However, a lot of new TVs still come with VGA ports.
This article will tell you if all TVs have VGA ports. As a bonus, you’ll learn how to connect your computer to your TV via VGA. Keep reading!
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What is VGA?
The VGA (Video Graphics Array) connector was developed in 1987 and is considered old technology.
VGA was designed as the standard video connector for computers and other devices with graphics cards like TVs, game consoles, and projectors.
Most media devices have multiple connection ports, which allow them to connect easily with other devices. One of them is the VGA connector.
VGA can transfer high-resolution videos up to 2048 × 1536, but not without some loss of quality. It transmits analog signals which are susceptible to degradation and noise.
The VGA port is a 15-pin port at the back or side of a video device. This port is rectangular with a D shape, and it usually comes in blue or black colors.
There are two screw receptacles on either side of the port. You can recognize the VGA port with its symbol: a rectangle with a vertical line on each side.
What TV Has a VGA Port?
Do you want a TV with a VGA port? VGA is common in laptops and desktop monitors, so you may need it to connect your computer to your TV.
VGA ports are more common in older-model TVs, and we’ll explain why.
In comparison with newer technologies like HDMI, DisplayPort, and DVI, the VGA connector falls (more than a little) short.
For example, HDMI transfers high-resolution digital signals (UHD, 4K, etc.) at higher speeds. More importantly, it also transmits high-quality audio signals.
Due to its shortcomings, many manufacturers have stopped adding VGA ports to newer TV models.
However, some manufacturers continue to incorporate VGA, and you can find new TV models with VGA ports if you know what to look for.
First, we advise you to seek out reputable brands like LG, Sony, Samsung, Hisense, etc. These brands cater to a broad clientele and often incorporate legacy analog connector options.
After choosing a brand, you must check for the TV models with VGA connectors before purchasing one. Inspect the connectivity ports on the back or side of the TV to find the VGA port.
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Do Samsung TVs have VGA ports?
Samsung is reputedly one of the best brands to consider when purchasing video devices. They are known for TVs with quality displays for movies and video games.
Samsung has the highest number of TV models with a VGA port — even among the newer models. However, not all Samsung TVs have VGA ports.
You can visit the Samsung manufacturer’s website to browse through all the TV models and find those with VGA ports.
How To Hook Up a Computer To a TV With VGA
Do you want to connect your computer to your TV with a VGA cable? We assume that you have checked and confirmed that both devices have the VGA port.
This section details a step-by-step process to connect your computer to your TV with a VGA cable.
Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Locate the VGA ports on both devices.
Step 2: Plug one end of the VGA cable into the TV and plug the other end into the computer.
Step 3: Tighten the screws on both sides of the plugs to fasten the cable. If the cable is loose, the video may get glitchy.
Step 4: Connect your TV and computer to power outlets.
Step 5: Power on both devices.
Step 6: Set the video input source on your TV to VGA.
Press the Input or Source button on your TV’s remote repeatedly until the screen shows ‘VGA’ or ‘Computer.’
Step 7: Press Windows + P on your computer to go directly to the display settings menu. There are four options:
- PC Screen Only
- Duplicate
- Extend
- Second Screen Only
You can choose the one that suits you best.
Note: The VGA connector does not support hotplugging. Hence, it is best if you don’t plug or unplug the cable while the computer is powered on.
How to Use VGA With an Adapter
If your computer doesn’t have a VGA port, you can still use your VGA cable. You’ll need a VGA adapter that fits a video connector on the computer.
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There are different adapters for different connectors. Here are a few of them:
Steps to follow:
- Step 1: Plug the adapter into your computer.
- Step 2: Take a VGA cable, plug one end into the TV, and plug the other end into the adapter’s VGA port.
- Step 3: Power on your TV and computer.
- Step 4: Set the input source on your TV to ‘VGA’ or ‘Computer.’
- Step 5: Use the Windows + P keys on your computer to bring up the display menu and choose a suitable option.
How To Set Up Audio On a VGA Connection
The VGA connector only transmits video signals. If you are transmitting a movie, you have to send audio to your TV with an audio cable.
Most computers and TVs have an AUX audio jack. The 3.5mm AUX cable goes into this port and sends analog audio signals from the computer to the TV.
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Purchase a Dual AUX miniplug cable and follow the steps below.
- Step 1: First, connect your computer to your TV with VGA to transmit video.
- Step 2: Plug the AUX cable into the audio jacks on your TV and computer.
Note: If you have external speakers, you can send audio directly to them. Just connect the AUX cable from the computer to the speaker.
Conclusion
The VGA connector allows you to display your computer screen on a bigger TV screen. You can enjoy movies with friends and family or set up slideshows for work colleagues.
We hope the easy-to-follow steps in this article help you to set up your computer-to-TV VGA connection. Cheers!
Gabriella ‘Diogo is a content writer with a vested interest in tech hardware and equipment. She shares her knowledge and processes in an easy-to-grasp, lighthearted style. When she’s not testing or researching device performance, you’ll find her writing short stories or rewatching episodes of her favorite sitcoms.