Steps to Connect My Home Theatre System to Computer
When it comes to home theatre installation, there are many steps involved. It isn’t like you just put the television on the stand, plug it in and instantly have high-quality sound and a crisp picture. No, for that outcome, you will still have to connect peripheral devices to the television, including any routers, speakers, video game consoles, media players and other items required.
Still, some people are simply not satisfied with the existing options for home theatre installations. They want to bring the power of a personal computer to bear with their home theatre system, which may significantly alter the sequence of events and complexity of the operation. Join smartSPACE Home Automations today as they break down the whole process.
Home Theatre Installation: Computer to System
1. Choose Your Routing Path
The first step in any home theatre installation involving computers is to choose your routing path. Many of the same functionalities available on your television will be available on your computer, so it helps to conceptualize which piece will go where. This is especially helpful when it comes to sound equipment, where having the wrong input-output can lead to significant technical difficulties.
Typically, we recommend routing as much as possible through your computer. One reason for this is the added complexity that comes with most PCs, meaning that if there is an issue with device communication, it is likely to occur with the PC and another device. Another good reason to follow this route is that you have more tools and functionality available to you, making potential fixes easier and more accessible than having to navigate the special confines of your specific television.
2. Find the Appropriate Connections
Once you’ve decided how you are going to route your home theatre system and computer, the next step is ensuring you have appropriate connections for all your devices. Many older speaker systems still employ speaker wire and outdated connections, so you’ll have to make sure that you can actually connect them to your PC if that is your intent.
Similarly, you will want to do away with any old AV equipment while you have the chance. Consider opting for HDMI or DVI cables for input and getting USB adapters for peripheral equipment.
3. Connection and Testing
Once you think your system is fully set up, you’re going to have to test it. You may want to do this by enjoying your favourite epic movie or an online match of some free-for-all brawler, but that might lead to more headaches. Instead, choose simple and straightforward samples that allow you to test the functionality of your equipment. All of this, simply stated, should be for testing, not as a way to enjoy your equipment just yet. That will come in due time.
4. Pathways to Improvement
Now, with all the testing and configuration out of the way, you can take a moment to congratulate yourself on a job well done! You may also have identified some areas for concern, such as poor sound quality or finicky connections. These you should address to enhance your overall experience.
Additionally, you may want to consider adding software to your computer to enhance your home theatre system. This could include intelligent sound mixers, open-source video software or media management systems (depending on the size of your library). Remember, a home theatre system is a great investment, but it can also be a project of improvement and discovery. Approach it with the right mindset, and you will be rewarded!
Benjamin Ortiz is a digital marketing expert. He currently runs an SEO agency and a survival gear review blog.
