Connecting TV to PC via wifi. Using your TV as a wireless monitor via Miracast and WiDi

Hello! In this article, we will look in great detail at the process of setting up a DLNA server on a computer or laptop that runs on Windows 7, 8, or Windows 10. We will set up DLNA for a TV, so that you can watch movies on the LG TV that are on the computer (and also look at photos and listen to music). And all this over Wi-Fi, or when connected via a network cable. In this article we will look at LG TVs with Smart function TV, or simply with DLNA support. By the way, Smart TV can be more old version, and the new Web OS, which runs all new LG TVs with support for smart functions.

In the case of DLNA, only the movie itself or photo will be displayed on the TV. Well, the music will play. The entire desktop, folders, etc. will not be displayed. To do this, you need to connect via HDMI, or wireless technology.

Setting up DLNA using Smart Share

The first way is this DLNA setup using proprietary Smart programs Share, which we need to download and install on the computer. You can download the Smart Share program from the official website: http://www.lg.com/ua/support/smart-share. The size is approximately 182 MB, the version at the time of writing is 2.3.1507.2802.

Download the archive with the program and start the installation by running the file setup.exe from the archive. Installation is very simple, there is a Russian language. Don't change anything, just click Next.

You can launch the program using a shortcut on your desktop. Smart Share, by the way, will start automatically when you turn on the computer.

Advice! Autostart is performed through the scheduler Windows jobs(Computer Management/Utilities/Task Scheduler/Task Scheduler Library/[File - SmartShare][Status - Ready][Triggers - When the computer turns on]).
When you delete this task, autoloading will no longer occur!

Thanks to TVZ, I suggested it in the comments.

After launching Smart Share, in the notification panel (bottom right corner) icon will appear. Click on it right click mouse and select .

Immediately set the switch to position ON And press the button Apply.

With this we open general access to files on your computer so that they can be displayed and opened on the LG TV. If you later want to close file sharing, simply set the switch to OFF.

Next, go to the main tab My shared files . Here you can specify which folders or drives will be available on the TV. That is, for example, we can add only one folder with movies, photos, or music. Or open access to a local disk.

By default, shared folders are already added. To add the folders we need, click special button, and select the folders or drives to which we want to share access. For example, I opened only the Movies folder, which is located on drive D. When you select the desired folders, click Ok. Then, click on the button Apply.

You can delete unnecessary folders, simply by highlighting it and pressing the special button. You can open access to new folders.

On the tab My device settings, you can change the name of your DLNA server that will be displayed on the TV. Or you can leave it as standard.

Well last tab Allow/block other devices. On this tab, you should see your TV. If it is turned on and connected to the same network as the laptop.

You can block desired device. If, for example, you have two TVs at home, and you do not want to share files with one of them.

That's it Smart settings Share. Press the button again Apply And Ok. If in the future you want to open new folders or delete them, you can do this in the settings, as I showed above. The Smart Share icon will appear in the notification panel.

We start watching a movie from a computer on an LG TV

After setting up the program, it’s time to launch a movie on the TV that is located on the computer in the folder we opened. Go to Smart TV (on old remotes, this is the blue button). Then, look for and select the item there Smart Share.

But new models with WebOS, it looks something like this:

If you haven't seen it on DLNA TV server, but Smart Share on the computer is configured correctly, and the computer and the TV are connected to the same network, then first try disabling the antivirus or firewall. Then check your Smart Share settings and restart your computer and TV. Also, be sure to make sure that the TV is connected to your router.

Open the folder we need and launch a movie, photo, or song.

That's it. By opening the tabs: Videos, Photos and Music, which can be seen on the TV, all content will be displayed, for example video, which will be found in all open folders on the computer.

Other Smart Share features: control movie playback on your computer

I showed you only the settings of the Smart Share program. There is also the ability to control the playback of videos, music, or viewing photos directly from your computer (laptop). To do this, just right-click on the program icon (bottom right corner) and choose Open Smart Share.

will appear small window, in which you need to select MOVIE, PHOTO, or MUSIC. In principle, it makes no difference. You can switch between types of content in the program itself.

A window will open with a list of, for example, Movies (if you selected the MOVIE tab). The program will display all the videos that were found in the folders that we added during the setup process (see above). To start watching a movie (photo, or song playback) on an LG TV, just right-click on the file we need and select Play with, And name of your TV. Let me remind you that it must be turned on and connected to the same network as the computer.

Playback will start immediately on the TV. A new window will appear on your computer in which you can control playback.

As you can see, it is not at all necessary to search for a movie on the TV itself.

There is a lot more in the program itself interesting features. For example, you can add movies to a playlist. Put them in a queue. It's all simple, I think you'll figure it out. If you ate anything, ask questions in the comments.

Possible problems when watching movies via DLNA on TV

The computer does not see the TV, and the TV does not see the computer. What to do? Check the connection on your computer and TV. They must be connected through the same router. Disable the antivirus or firewall on your computer (temporarily). Restart your devices.

While viewing big films Everything slows down and freezes, what's the problem? The problem may be that there is not enough speed. Very often, this is observed when watching films on Wi-Fi networks. Try connecting using network cable. If the films are very large, good quality, then you can watch them from external hard disk or flash drive. You can also connect via . Yes, not by air, but reliably.

In fact, the setup is very quick and easy. This is just me describing everything :) If you have any questions, ask in the comments. And don’t forget to share tips on the topic. How does DLNA technology work on your LG TV, how do you use it, what movies do you watch?

Modern technologies are steadily developing, and just a couple of years ago, Smart TVs with the ability to connect a computer) were a luxury. But today such a device can be seen in almost every average family. These devices have good synergy with a home computer, be it a laptop or a desktop unit.

And although many are already making full use of this smart innovation, not everyone has yet really figured out exactly how to connect a computer to a TV via WiFi. Of course, you can take the easier route and connect two devices via an HDMI cable, since everyone is equipped with such an interface modern TV and computer video card. But this method is not always acceptable, since not everyone has a TV located next to system unit, and the laptop may not be at hand. Among other things, all kinds of wires significantly limit your movement, forcing you to “dance” in close proximity to the PC. Therefore, wirelessly connecting a computer to a TV has its undeniable advantages.

Almost all of the methods that will be described below require a wireless protocol on the TV itself. However, almost the entire range of smart models is equipped with a Wi-Fi adapter. The methods for connecting a computer to a TV described in this article are applicable to operating systems Windows 7, 8, 10.

Playing video over Wi-Fi (DLNA)

This is one of the most common ways to connect a TV to a personal computer. In addition to having a Wi-Fi adapter, you need the TV itself to be connected to the same network as the computer, that is, a shared router.

If your device supports the Wi-Fi Direct function, then you can do without a router by simply connecting to the network in which the smart TV is located. Wireless connection of a computer to a TV is carried out through the smart device menu according to the same principle as similar devices with the Direct function.

Next, we need to configure our computer by specifying the correct DLNA server data, that is, open general access to the necessary folders. In such cases, it is enough to set in the parameters current network section "Home". IN basic settings section, the “Video”, “Music”, “Pictures” and “Documents” folders are already shared, but if not, then by right-clicking in the “Properties” menu, you can configure the corresponding section.

Conductor

One of the most quick ways find access to folders - this is open standard conductor“Windows”, then select “Network” and after the message “ Network discovery» Click on it and follow the simple instructions. If multimedia servers are displayed instead of this message, then most likely, you have already configured everything for further work.

Features of the models

Devices from Sony are equipped with a special proprietary software Bravia, where after going to the Home section, connected folders with videos, music or images will be visible. LG's software has a SmartShare menu item, where all public folders on the computer are also visible. For other device models there are similar applications, which work in a similar way.

It is also possible to control the TV via a computer (WiFi-DLNA). At correct setting You just need to select the servers and router in Windows Explorer required file, and then using the drop-down menu, click on the “Play on *TV name*” item. In this case, wireless broadcasting of the stream from the personal computer to the smart device will begin.

Note. Sometimes, even if your device supports MKV format, these files may not be playable via a DLNA connection. The simplest solution in this case is to simply rename problematic file V AVI extension, and then everything will work.

Wireless monitor (WiDi)

If in the previous case we were talking about how to play certain files from a computer on a TV, having gained access to them, then next we will look at broadcasting any image from the monitor of a personal computer or laptop to a smart device via Wi-Fi. Simply put - using the device as wireless monitor.

The main technologies used in in this case- these are Miracast and WiDi from Intel, and, judging by the latest data, the second has become fully compatible with the first. Connecting a computer to a TV via WiFi-WiDi takes place without the participation of a router, because synchronization occurs directly through “Direct” protocols.

Requirements

If you have a laptop or personal computer based on the third generation Intel, then most likely it is equipped with a proprietary wireless adapter and must support WiDi protocols in both Windows 7 and 8 versions. In some cases it may be necessary additional installation applications Wireless Display from Intel, which can be found on the brand’s official website.

If your computer was purchased with the Windows 8.1 operating system preinstalled and equipped with a Wi-Fi adapter, then most likely it supports Miracast technology. Previous generations of OS, alas, do not provide such support, but you can connect a computer and TV via WiFi using this technology if the smart device has a built-in Miracast adapter.

Connection

On your smart device, support for Miracast or WiDi technologies must be enabled in the settings. Basic parameters provide for enabling this function by default, and sometimes this item is simply not in the menu (the presence of the Wi-Fi module is sufficient). It is worth noting separately that on Samsung TVs this option is called “ Mirroring screen" and is located this item in the network settings section.

WiDi

By connecting your computer to the TV via WiFi via WiDi technology on the PC, launch the program and then find the wireless monitor in the list. In some cases, you may need to enter a security code that appears on the TV screen.

Miracast

To use the Miracast technology, you need to open the Charms panel, then select “Devices”, and then “Projector” (transfer to screen). Next, click on “Add wireless display” - and you can start broadcasting. In the event that last point the menu is not displayed, which means that your personal computer or laptop does not support Miracast protocols. The only thing that can help is updating the drivers of your Wi-Fi adapter, but if even after this step support does not appear, then you need to update the hardware, not the software.

It is worth noting separately that with the Miracast technology, no problems were noticed in the broadcast, while the WiDi protocols were often knocked out of the network, and the entire connection process was accompanied by minor, but unpleasant nuances such as rebooting devices or incorrect display TV models.

Connecting a regular TV via Wi-Fi

If you do not own a smart device, but your TV is equipped with an HDMI output, then you still have the opportunity to connect it to your computer wirelessly. The only thing that is needed for this enterprise is an additional gadget specifically designed for such purposes.

Most interesting devices this category:

  • Branded adapter from a famous Google search engine Chromecast, which will broadcast the contents of your PC or laptop to your TV with ease and enviable simplicity.
  • “Android mini” for PC is a device that resembles a flash drive that connects to an HDMI port and works with the system of the same name on the TV.
  • Compute Stick from Intel is an adapter on board which contains a mini Windows operating system for full connection and broadcasting via an HDMI port.

There are some less popular methods connecting your computer to your TV via wireless protocols(like USB or Miracast adapters), but due to their specificity they are not as in demand as the methods described above.

Smart TVs are already so smart that they can be used instead of conventional devices to access the Internet. They act as a partial replacement for a laptop or can complement a phone, but still do not lose their usual functionality and continue to show movies on a large and convenient screen.

But remember that there are many ways to turn a TV into a monitor. Using the content will thus be much more convenient, since the image will become larger, especially if you connect not a computer, but the same phone. Communication is carried out via Wi-Fi, which is very convenient, since you do not need to run wires and cables across the entire apartment or move the computer itself closer. Often such manipulations are performed for a specific purpose. It consists of watching a film on the big screen without going to the cinema. But this procedure cannot be performed if the TV is not equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi adapter, or cannot receive a signal.

Connecting a TV as a second monitor via Wi-Fi

This method is the most popular, but it will require more than Wi-Fi. To broadcast a picture to a TV, it must be connected to a router that uses a laptop. This is a very important condition, but for some reason users forget about it, which is why communication between devices is not established. But there are exceptions regarding TVs that support the function Wi-Fi Direct, on the screen of which the broadcast is carried out via wireless network. It’s not difficult to connect, you just need to have access to the Internet and the desire to understand the instructions. But you will have to work some magic on the laptop screen so that another device is given the right to share access to all folders and other information. As a rule, it helps to install the “Home” item on the network and add a TV to your home devices. To files that will open even without general settings You can include a folder with videos, music, images and documents. But if you need to open full access to all files, the instructions are as follows:

  • Select a folder by bringing it up on the display;
  • Right-click on it and select “Properties” from the list;
  • Go to the “Access” tab;
  • Set "Sharing".


But it takes a long time. To use your TV as a wireless monitor, you can use more simple method opening folders
.

  • Open Windows Explorer;
  • Item “Network”;
  • Disable the “Network Discovery and File Sharing” option by following the simple instructions.

If everything is set up, then it will take a couple of seconds, but if not, then you will have to use more detailed instructions. Here's how to connect a wireless monitor:

  • When DLNA is enabled, you need to open the TV menu item, which controls the broadcast of computer content to the TV.
  • Each device has its own connection. In particular, on Sony Bravia Home button is used;
  • Then the user needs to select a section - Movies, Music or Pictures to see the desired content on a large TV.

As for LG TVs, the instructions are slightly different for them, since you need to go to SmartShare, where the content is also located shared folders. In addition, it often happens that you cannot play files on your TV. This applies to films whose format is not suitable for such a procedure. If broadcasting to TV is difficult, you can try a little trick– on your computer, rename files from MKV to AVI. As a rule, this is enough.


Using your TV as a wireless monitor via Miracast and WiDi

Can be used with using WiDi. Above, the conversation was about how to transfer pictures, videos and other limited number of files to the screen, but use it as full-fledged monitor still not possible. But if you use the connection described below, the TV will turn into a full-fledged second monitor, which will show everything that the user can do on desktop computer. To connect a TV as a monitor, two popular technologies are used:

A wireless TV monitor is cool and modern, especially when it is also a Smart TV. That is, the functional potential of the technology has increased significantly compared to regular TVs, although they can also be used as a monitor. On TV simple type Of course, you need to connect other devices. But let's take a look using WiDi and Miracast for wireless broadcast.
This connection does not require a router, including one that works via Wi-Fi technology Direct.

  • If the broadcast will be carried out from a computer on which Intel processor, at least third generation, or it uses graphics Intel chip HD Graphics. Making a connection via wireless communication may be a problem. Sometimes devices don't connect. This is due to Intel WiDi support on Windows 7 and 8.1. To fix this, you will need to install Intel Wireless Display, but only if you go to the official Intel website;
  • If you have installed it on your laptop Windows version 8.1, and the TV is equipped with a Wi-Fi adapter, then connecting via Miracast will be successful. That's just self installation Windows 8.1 on a computer can be a problem, since the package is most likely incomplete;
  • A prerequisite is . But it is important that the model supports the technologies in question. If your device cannot connect to your PC, then you need to buy a Miracast adapter. However, most devices already have this addition, because manufacturers build it in themselves. And if you have to make a purchase, you can try installing Miracast during the flashing process.


Connect your TV as a monitor using Miracast

Connection is enough simple procedure, therefore, anyone who has at least an approximate understanding of technical nuances. So the connection looks like this:

  1. Before you connect your TV to your computer and use it as a monitor, you need to check the settings. In particular, this applies to Miracast or WiDi, the support of which is correct connection devices. It works by default, but if the settings are messed up, it's not surprising that the devices won't be able to work together. But there are cases when there is no such setting at all. In such a situation, the standard Wi-Fi module. Using the example Samsung TVs this function can be found in the network settings, in the “Screen Mirroring” section.
  2. To activate WiDi, you will need to run Intel program Wireless Display. It is she who finds the monitor to which you need to connect. But to safely carry out this procedure, you will need to enter a security code. You need to enter it in a special field that appears on the TV screen.
  3. In turn, you need to carry out the following manipulations on the computer:
  • On the right in Windows 8.1 you need to find Charms;
  • Next, you need to select the “Devices” section;
  • Then go to “Projector” or the “Transfer to screen” item;
  • Select "Add a wireless display".


What to do if items are not reflected

If you want to use your TV but don't know how to use this method because necessary points are not reflected, most likely, the matter is due to differences in device models. Perhaps the instructions for a specific TV will help, which can be downloaded directly to your phone so as not to search for documents. Updating the driver can also be of significant help. Wi-Fi adapter. You can read exactly how to do this on the official Microsoft website. In addition, users complain that it is more difficult to stream content from a laptop to a TV than from a computer. The problem could be:

  • In WiDi;
  • In Miracast;
  • There is no Internet connection;
  • Faulty router;
  • Incorrect settings on the TV;
  • If you are using a telephone, your connection settings may also be affected.

Using a regular TV as a monitor

As a rule, Smart TVs are not the cheapest devices, which is why many users want to turn a standard TV into a laptop monitor. As practice shows, connecting even these devices is not difficult. If the TV has HDMI input, then you can try to connect. There is a good chance that it will be successful. But will be required additional devices, in particular, an HDMI WiFi adapter for a TV. This way, you can forget about most of the wires that used to be tangled between your TV and computer.
Which adapter is suitable for the TV? Here are some good options:

  • Google Chrome cast. This Wi-Fi adapter is more suitable for LG, although it can be used on other devices;
  • Android Mini PC. Suitable for devices that run on Android. Therefore, phones and tablets connect perfectly with TVs, allowing you to control them with using WiFi via Android. The application used works with all TVs;
  • Intel Compute Stick. Another new product from Intel, which is practically a miniature computer. It can be connected to the TV input, and the equipment will start working in ideal mode.

In addition, the options described are not the only way. Someone was the first to think - I use the Internet for this, and not hundreds of cables and wires. The idea turned out to be great. But the main thing is to ensure high speed connection. Without the Internet, TV cannot work. Connection benefits:

  • No wires;
  • The connection is fast and gives access to the entire library of files on the computer;
  • There is access to files from other devices, for example, smartphones.

The question “how to transfer video from a computer to a TV” is relevant for all those who like to watch movies in good quality with “ big screen" In one of the previous articles we talked in detail, here we will look at connecting a TV to a computer via wifi.

However, before you synchronize your TV with your computer wirelessly, you should make sure that:

  1. 1. Your TV is equipped with “ wifi module» or supports wireless data transmission/reception via a third-party connection.
  2. 2. Connectable to TV.

How to connect a computer to a TV via wifi?

Now about the connection itself.

  1. Communication between a computer and a TV via wifi can be carried out using Miracast and WiDi technologies.

Accordingly, it is necessary that both devices support this technology.

Synchronizing a computer with a TV is not particularly difficult:

  • - In the network settings, enable “Miracast” or “WiDi” support (depending on the TV model), and the “wifi module” must be activated.
  • - Go to the computer.
  1. 1. When using "WiDi"

Open the "Intel Wireless Display" program - you will be asked to connect to the found monitors - mark your TV and click "Connect". After that it will appear on TV digital code, which will need to be entered into the program on the computer.

  1. 2. When using "Miracast"

Most relevant for Windows 8/8.1/10 operating systems.

Click on the “Device” button in the lower right corner of the screen, then “Projector” - “Add a wireless display” and add your TV in the same way as the previous method.

For Windows 10, the procedure is slightly different. Open "Settings" - "Devices" - "Connected devices" and click "Add device".

A few words about the advantages and disadvantages of these technologies:

  1. Broadcasting from a computer to a TV using WiDi:

  • - support high resolution- up to “4-K”;
  • - ability to use screen extension (second monitor).
  • - a relatively small number of devices support this technology;
  • - slight playback delays are possible.
  1. Connecting a TV to a computer via Miracast:

  • - multiplatform standard;
  • - connection is made directly.
  • - frequent unstable work;
  • - support (mostly) only new devices.

How to connect a computer to a TV via wifi using a “DLNA” server and the “Home Media Server” program?

Like the previous connection option, this connection of a TV to a computer via wifi is not particularly difficult: the program is intuitive and understanding it will not be difficult.

The main condition for synchronization is technology support from the TV and computer.

How to display a movie from a computer to a TV: setup steps

  1. Download and install the program " Home media server": it is free, but it is best to download it from the official website.

After starting the program, you will be asked to make initial settings:

The first step is to select “Device Type”, “File Support” and “ Color palette» programs.

In the next step, choose which folders will be available for viewing: check only what you need and click “Finish”.

  • - Carry out the proposed “Backup” of data;
  • - In “Settings” in the “Network” section, specify the name of your server to make it easier to find on the TV (by default it is “HMS Comp”);

To turn on the “Media Server”, click “Launch” - your TV will appear in the “DMR Playback Device” section - click “Play”.

  1. Now on the TV, open “Sources” (usually the “Source” button on the remote control) and select the server created using the program from the list.
  2. Next, you will be asked to select the desired file to play from the folder directory.

How to display video from a computer to a TV using Chromecast from Google?

It should be noted right away that this device is worth the money spent, and setting up the connection between the computer and the TV is done as follows:

  • - connect “Chromecast” to the “HDMI” connector on the TV, and the power cord to the network (or to a free “USB” port);
  • - on your computer in the Google Chrome browser, go to “chromecast.com/setup” and click on “Configure Chromecast device on this computer";
  • - the setup program will automatically detect the device - select it and click “Configure”: all you have to do is open the video of interest in the browser and click on the “Broadcast” button.

That, in principle, is all the most current opportunities connecting to a computer TV by means wireless transmission data.

IN this material We will set up connecting the TV to the computer via Wi-Fi. Let us immediately note that there are several options wireless connection, but we will focus on the most common method, based on DLNA. The choice of this technology is due to the fact that the vast majority of modern TVs from all well-known manufacturers have it.

It also assumes that your TV and computer (or laptop) initially contain a Wi-Fi module. Otherwise, you will need to separately purchase a router or Wi-Fi modem for them.

Some of you may not have a Russified TV, so after the Russian name of a menu item or inscription on the remote control, in parentheses we will give the same names in English.

Step by step - how to connect a TV to a computer via Wi-Fi

Let's get started. We pick up the TV remote control and look for the “Menu” button on it. Click it and go to the “Network” section. Next, on the remote control, press the triangular “Right” key, select “Network Settings” and press “Start”.

A window appears on the screen with a choice of connection type: wireless or cable. We are interested in the first item, so select it, press “Enter” on the remote control and press the “Next” button.

IMPORTANT: make sure that your computer router or modem is turned on and you remember to network password. Also make sure that the "visible to everyone" mode is activated.

TV starts searching. After a few seconds, it will see your modem (router) and display information on the screen, as shown in the figure below.

For TVs with Smart TV

If television device has a Smart TV and your PC already has a configured connection to the Internet provider, then the TV now also has Internet access. Choose Smart HUB, launch the browser and use it as on a regular computer.

Installing a media server

Great, we're almost done. There is only one step left - so that we can display images and videos from the computer to the TV via WiFi, we need to download and install the program on the computer home media server. This is necessary so that the TV has access to computer files. We use this particular program to be compatible with maximum number TV models and do not depend on a specific manufacturer.

We go to the official website of the media server and download the program archive. To install, we first need to extract it from the archive. Select it with the right mouse button and extract it to any folder.

Setting up a media server

Open the folder with the archive we unpacked and launch Setup.exe. Select the installation folder and click “Install”.

At the end of the installation process, launch the program. The firewall may try to block it, so you'll have to add it to the exceptions list.

When you first launch it, you will be prompted to add a media device. Click the "Cancel" button, we will do it necessary settings Later.

First, you need to select the folders that you plan to give the TV access to. To do this, click “Settings” and select the “Media Resources” tab. The default folders are not suitable for us, so select them all and click “Delete”.

A window may appear asking “Do you want to scan media directories?” If you click “Yes”, the program itself will scan the folders and add them to the list of resources available for viewing.

The next step is to add our TV as a display device. To do this, go to “Settings”, click “Devices” and see if our TV model is available. If it is, click “OK”.

If it is not in the list, click the “Search” button. In the window that appears, the question “Server startup required. Execute? Click “Yes”. The program will scan everything available devices Wi-Fi and will add them to the list. All you have to do is select your TV, click on the red circle on the left side and “OK” at the bottom right.