TV Won’t Let You Change Inputs? 7 Ways to Switch to Your Desired HDMI Source
Quick Fixes for You
- A soft reset, combined with checking and securing HDMI connections, can quickly solve input issues without needing advanced technical knowledge.
- If the remote is unresponsive, using the TV’s physical panel button or voice commands can effectively change inputs.
- For locked inputs, especially on hotel TVs, consider unlocking settings; perform a factory reset to address persistent problems.
This guide will walk you through seven tested and proven methods to fix the common issue of TVs not switching inputs, complete with demo images to ensure clarity.
Whether you’re struggling with a hotel TV or your home entertainment system, these quick fixes will get you back to your favorite shows and games in no time.
Let’s get started!
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1. Try a Soft Reset
Although it sounds straightforward, a soft reset is often the quickest fix for resolving issues with your devices.
Simply disconnect all devices in your setup from their power sources for at least 30 seconds before plugging them back in.
This can refresh your system and eliminate many common problems.
2. Check the HDMI Connection
A common issue that might prevent you from switching inputs is a loose HDMI connection. Make sure the HDMI cable is properly connected.
If necessary, unplug and then firmly replug the cable at both ends. Incorporating a soft reset after reseating your HDMI cable can also be beneficial.
Additionally, inspect the condition of your HDMI cable and consider replacing it if it appears damaged. Testing other HDMI ports on your TV is a good idea to rule out a faulty port.
If possible, try using the cable with different TVs to ensure the problem isn’t with the cable itself.
3. Ensure that Your Remote Is Working Fine – Try the TV Panel Button
If you’re having trouble switching inputs, the issue might stem from a malfunctioning TV remote.
In some cases, the remote’s input button could be the culprit, leading some users to purchase a new remote.
Before taking that step and incurring extra costs, it’s worth trying to change your TV input using the TV panel button itself, which is typically found just below the brand logo.
For instance, I’ll demonstrate with my LG TV.
Step 1: Ensure your TV is powered on before clicking the control panel’s Power button, commonly found right below the LG logo. This will reveal the options menu.
Step 2: Continue pressing the Power button to cycle through the menu until you highlight the Input option on the screen.
Step 3: Press and hold the Power button to select the Input option.
Step 4: Press the Power button again to confirm to switch the input. Repeat the process until the desired input is displayed on the screen.
4. Try Using the Voice Feature
Many modern TVs are equipped with a voice command feature, offering a quick and hands-free way to navigate your TV settings.
To use this, press the microphone (Mic) button on your remote control and clearly state your command, such as “Switch the input to HDMI 1”.
This straightforward method can efficiently change your TV to the desired input. If the TV doesn’t switch inputs, the input may be locked, a situation that I’ll address next.
5. Check If the Source Switch Function Is Locked
It’s common for hotel TVs to have restricted functions, limiting access to certain content or settings. This means that many features, including the ability to switch inputs, may be locked.
If you’re encountering difficulties with a hotel TV or cannot resolve the issue with the previously mentioned methods, consider looking for solutions specifically tailored to hotel TVs., check out this dedicated article instead for hotel TV-oriented solutions.
The article shows great methods with demo images for each step, here are the main solutions mentioned in the article:
- Unplug the Coaxial or Ethernet Cable
- Disable the Hotel Mode
- Use the TV Panel Button
- Unlock the Input
6. Try a Factory Reset
If you’re facing persistent issues with your TV, consider a factory reset as a potential solution.
This process will remove all data and apps from your TV, requiring you to set everything up again and reinstall your favorite apps.
Although it might seem like a big step, a factory reset can often fix even the most stubborn TV problems.
Here’s a simple guide on how to perform a factory reset for several well-known TV brands.
Note: you can click the hyperlink in the TV brand for a detailed guide with demo images.
| TV Brands | Instructions |
| Samsung | Settings > General > Reset > Enter PIN |
| LG | Settings > All Settings > General > System > Reset to Initial Settings > OK. |
| Sony (Google TV) | Settings > System > About > Reset > Factory data reset > Factory data reset |
| Roku | Settings > System > Factory reset > Enter code > OK > Start factory reset |
7. Contact the Manufacturer
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t resolve the issue, it might be time to contact the manufacturer directly.
They know their products inside out and are best equipped to help you troubleshoot any problems. Here’s how to get in touch with customer service for some of the top TV brands:
- Samsung customer service
- Sony customer service
- LG customer service
- Hisense customer service
- TCL customer service
Before you call, make sure you have your TV’s model number handy. It’s also helpful to briefly explain what troubleshooting steps you’ve already attempted.
This information will help the customer service representative understand your issue better and provide you with more efficient support.
Duy Anh is a seasoned technical editor specializing in helping readers troubleshoot TV, projector, and Wi-Fi issues. He’s always been drawn to logical problem-solving. His ability to approach matters from various angles with a neutral mindset enhances his technical expertise.