We’re all well-aware by now that both the iPad and iPad2 are the ultimate portable devices for viewing, transferring and sharing media; but what about those occasions when a much larger screen is beneficial to the entire viewing experience? You can stream videos from YouTube and movies from Netflix or your own hard drive – as well as play games – all by simply connecting your iPad or iPad2 to an HDTV via a wired connection.
Before we even begin though, you will need to make sure that you have the necessary cables to connect the iPad or iPad2 to your HDTV. Each of the following cables can either be purchased online (or offline) from the Apple store, or from a marketplace such as eBay.
- Apple Component AV Cable
- Apple Digital AV Cable
- HDMI Cable – Don’t let them convince you to buy the expensive cable. The cheaper cable works just as well as any expensive cable.
The component AV cable is required to connect the first generation iPad to your HDTV. All you need to do is to insert the component AV cable into the docking port on your iPad, while plugging the video and audio-out ends into the appropriate jacks on the HDTV. If you want to keep your iPad charged and powered-up during use, attach the USB cable into the other socket of the component AV cable, and you will be able to plug the other end into your iPad wall charger. Once connected, turn on your television and ensure you set it to the correct input. This will often be labeled as “Component” or “DVD.”
Launch the application on your iPad that you want to show on the screen. Keep in mind that the application will only appear on your HDTV if it is compatible with component connections. This cable is limited because it only routes the video or audio application (rather than exact mirroring) – though it is compatible with some games such as Real Racing HD, allowing you to choose between using the touch-screen and the tilt for aiming!
The digital AV cable has an HDMI jack that allows you to mirror what is shown exactly from your iPad2, onto the screen of your HDTV or monitor (and will work with some applications on the first generation iPad). Plug the digital AV cable into the docking port on your iPad2, and you will see that the other end of the adapter has two ports – one for an HDMI cable – the other for your iPad charger cable.
Plug one end of the HDMI cable into the adapter’s port, and the other end to your HDTV. You may find it necessary to adjust the settings on your HDTV to the correct HDMI input. This will vary depending upon your model of HDTV – though it will mirror automatically with the iPad2. For the first generation of iPad, you will need to launch the application prior to seeing it on the screen. Remember to plug in the charger to make sure your iPad or iPad2 is always powered-up and functioning while connected.
Once you’ve finished connecting your iPad or iPad2 to the HDTV, explore the many options you have in terms of viewing media and sharing it with others on a much greater scale.
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