Have you ever tried to connect a video game console or an AV receiver to your HDTV? If so, you must know be aware that you establish this connection using cords or wires. These cords are known as HDMI cables. HDMI stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface and renders with the best way to connect high high-definition video devices.
If you see desktops of old versions, they do not have any scope for an HDMI port. In that case, you might need to upgrade or use HDMI adapters for flawless video viewing. But what if you still want to view videos on old desktops? Is it possible? Yes, it is. But for that, you need to use HDMI cards. Here is a step-by-step guide for Adding HDMI Ports to Desktops with HDMI Cards. The information given in this blog will help you decide whether you should to upgrade or use an adapter to view HDMI on your PC.
What is an HDMI Card?
An HDMI card, also known as an HDMI capture card, is a piece of peripheral equipment that helps a user capture the audio and video signal of an HDMI source, such as a camera, gaming console, computer, etc., and stream or record the captured content on another device.
Mostly, to broadcast events live, stream live, or for the purpose of game capture, HDMI cards are used.
The HDMI cards work by receiving the signal in the form of HDMI input, converting it to a computer-readable format and forwarding the signal to the recording or streaming software.
These are the very HDMI cards that are necessary for every gamer, broadcaster, or content creator who wishes to live stream his/her quality video content.
Types of HDMI Cards
Internal HDMI Cards: Such cards are placed into a computer through pre-designed PCIe slots and can provide both high-level performance as well as low latency.
External HDMI Cards: These also work over USB or Thunderbolt ports and, therefore, do not need any internal installation.
4K HDMI Cards: These cards can stream and capture video in up to 4K resolution for your content in high definition.
1080p HDMI Cards: These are built particularly for seamless streaming and recording with a full high-definition 1080p resolution size, thus perfect for any one of the standard content-creation requirements.
Multi-Input HDMI Cards: These cards have more than one HDMI input port, enabling simultaneous video capture from multiple sources.
HDMI Upgradation
You do not need to buy a completely new computer just for using an HDMI converter. You just need to buy a couple of cheap priced components and an adapter which makes upgrading to an HDMI port easy. Thereafter, for making the most out of HDMI technology, you would need a graphics card. If you are not an avid gamer who needs high-quality game graphics, a budget-friendly card is enough to suffice.
You do not need to buy a new computer just to use an HDMI converter. You just need to buy a couple of cheap components and an adapter that makes upgrading to an HDMI port easy. Thereafter, you would need a graphics card to make the most of HDMI technology. If you are not an avid gamer needing high-quality game graphics, a budget-friendly card is enough.
Let us say if your budget is less than $50, you can purchase a solid graphics card having an HDMI port which is more robust than the originally integrated graphics card in your PC. As soon as you buy the graphics card, the next step is its installation. So, here is how you can go about it.
Let us say if your budget is less than $50, you can purchase a solid graphics card with an HDMI port that is more robust than your PC's integrated initial graphics card. As soon as you buy the graphics card, its installation is next. So, here is how you can go about it.
Step 1
As the first step, you can unscrew your computer’s case. Once you do that, you will be able to see the computer’s motherboard as well as and other parts.
Step 2
In case you have been using the inbuilt graphics card, you would easily be able to figure out the open PCI card slot. As soon as you find it, you can place your new graphics card into the PCI slot.
If you have been using the built-in video card, you will easily locate an available PCI slot. Once you have identified the place, you can fit your new graphics card into the slot.
Step 3
Once you place the card, you can put the computer’s case on and put the screws on.
Step 4
Next, you need to install the software of your video card and the drivers. The software usually comes with the card and starts automatically. In case, you do not have that, you can visit the website of the company and download the software compatible with your card model.
Next, you should set up the drivers and software related to the graphics card. The software is expected to be included with the card and will automatically install itself. If you don’t have this, you could search the company website and install the software relating to that specific card model.
If your TV or monitors have HDMI output, you can just buy an HDMI cord and connect them with desktop’s new HDMI port. If your TV or monitors have HDMI output, you can buy an HDMI cord and connect it to your desktop’s new HDMI port.
If both your television or monitors have the HDMI output, then you can purchase the HDMI cable and then connect it to the HDMI port of your newly purchased desktop.
How to Use an Adapter for Making the Most out of HDMI?
In case If you think that upgrading a desktop and meddling with PC components is a cumbersome process, there is another way out. You can enjoy an HDMI display by using an HDMI adapter. Let us say your old PC has an analog signal. This means that it depends on a VGA – a 3-rowed and 15-pin analog connector which that does not give an audio output and renders mediocre video quality. If you want a digital HDMI format for HDMI display, you can convert your desktop’s VGA signal into HDMI format.
Concluding…
It is extremely easy to add HDMI ports to your old laptop and desktop irrespective of the type of output they have. And if you want to stream online videos to your HDTV screens, these ports come of great help and provide you with all the flexibility you need. It is extremely easy to add HDMI ports to your old laptop and desktop, regardless of their type of output. If you want to stream online videos to your HDTV screens, these ports are very helpful and provide you with all the flexibility you need.
We hope the above steps answer answered your queries in the best way. Do you use HDMI cables? If yes, which are the ways in which they helped you establishing connections? Feel free to share with us. In case you have any more questions or concerns, get in touch with us on [email protected]. We hope the above steps answer your queries in the best way. Do you use HDMI cables? If yes, how did they help you establish connections? Feel free to share with us. In case you have any more questions or concerns, get in touch with us at [email protected].
FAQs:
1. How do I add an HDMI port to a laptop?
You can use a USB-to-HDMI adapter or a docking station with HDMI output to add an HDMI port to a laptop. These peripherals connect to a laptop's USB port and provide an HDMI output for external displays. Ensure your laptop's USB port supports the required data transfer rate for video output.
2. How do I know which version of the HDMI port I have on my laptop?
You can determine your laptop's HDMI version by checking the manufacturer's specifications or user manual or by looking for markings on the HDMI port itself. Some software tools can also identify hardware details, including the HDMI version. Alternatively, you can contact the laptop manufacturer for precise information.
3. Is it possible to add an HDMI port to a computer that doesn't have one? Is it ever a wise thing to do?
Adding an HDMI port to a computer without one is possible using a USB-to-HDMI adapter or a dedicated graphics card with HDMI output. It's a practical solution if you need to connect to modern displays or projectors. Ensure the chosen adapter or graphics card is compatible with your computer's specifications and operating system.
4. What are the types of HDMI ports available on PCs?
PCs can have various types of HDMI ports, including Standard HDMI (Type A), Mini HDMI (Type C), and Micro HDMI (Type D). The most common type on PCs is the Standard HDMI port. Each type varies in size and is suitable for different devices and use cases.
5. Can I use multiple monitors with HDMI ports on my PC?
Using multiple monitors with HDMI ports on your PC is feasible by utilizing multiple HDMI outputs available on your graphics card or using HDMI splitters. Modern graphics cards often support several HDMI outputs, allowing for an extended desktop setup. Ensure your PC's hardware supports the desired multi-monitor configuration for optimal performance.
