How to Connect VGA to AV from a PC to a Modulator Transmitter

For older televisions equipped with RF Coax, connecting a VGA signal from a PC can be a bit tricky. This page provides detailed instructions on how to achieve this setup, including the necessary equipment and steps.

Using a VGA to Composite Converter Box

If you have an older television with RF coaxial inputs and a PC with VGA output, you will need to use a VGA to Composite converter box. These boxes can be found online for around $6 and are a cost-effective solution. Here’s what you need:

Steps to Connect:

VGA to Composite Converter Box: Purchase a VGA to Composite converter box. It converts the VGA signal to composite AV (Red, White, and Yellow) signals. USB Power: The converter box is typically USB-powered, so you will need a USB cable. Make sure you have a 1/8 to 1/8 audio patch for connecting the audio from the PC to the converter box. Power Source: Supply power to the converter box via a cheap wall outlet or a battery. Plug and Play: Connect the VGA cable from your PC to the VGA input of the converter box, then connect the composite AV cables (Red, White, and Yellow) to the corresponding ports on the television. Audio Connection: Connect the 1/8 audio patch to the audio output from the PC and the corresponding input on the converter box. Power On: Turn on the converter box using the provided power source. TV Tuning: Once everything is connected, tune your television to channel 3 or 4 (depending on the setup) to view the signal.

Alternative: Using an Old Stereo VCR

Another method to connect VGA to an older television is by using a old stereo VCR. This involves an additional step of RF modulation. If you own an old stereo VCR, you can use it to modulate the RCA composite outputs to RF signals before connecting them to the coaxial cable input of the television.

Steps Using a Stereo VCR:

RF Modulation Box: Use a RCA composite to coaxial modulator. The modulator will take the composite signals from the converter box and convert them to RF signals compatible with your television. Connectivity: Connect the composite AV outputs from the converter box to the input of the modulator. Coaxial Connection: Connect the output of the modulator to the coaxial cable input of the television. Channel Selection: Tune your television to the appropriate channel (usually 3 or 4) to view the signal.

Alternatively, you can purchase a standalone RCA composite to coaxial modulator for around $13. This device is smaller and more convenient compared to an old VCR.

Connecting VGA to AV Using a Modulator Transmitter

For some modern setups, a modulator transmitter is needed to convert the VGA signal into an RF signal that can be transmitted over coaxial cable. A modulator transmitter typically has a modern video input standard, such as HDMI or DisplayPort, and a socket to accept VGA.

Equipment Needed:

Modulator Transmitter VGA to AV Adapter Coaxial Cable

Steps to Connect:

Select Modulator Transmitter: Choose a modulator transmitter that accepts a modern video input standard like HDMI and has a VGA socket. VGA Adapter: Purchase a VGA to AV adapter to fit the modern video input of the modulator transmitter. Power Supply: Ensure the modulator transmitter is properly powered. Most transmitters require a separate power source, but some can run off USB power. Connect Audio: Connect the audio output from your PC to the modulator transmitter. VGA Connection: Plug the VGA cable from the PC into the VGA socket of the modulator transmitter. Output Connection: Connect the coaxial cable to the modulator transmitter’s output port. Power On: Turn on the modulator transmitter and power its compatibility with the television. TV Tuning: Tune your television to the appropriate channel to display the signal.

Conclusion

Connecting VGA to AV from a PC to a modulator transmitter involves understanding the compatibility of equipment and following the correct steps. While the initial setup may seem complicated, it is not too difficult if the right components are used. Whether you use a VGA to Composite converter box, a stereo VCR, or a modern modulator transmitter, ensure all connections are secure and powered correctly to achieve a successful connection.