How do I?

[davefretwell]

Does anyone know how to connect a lap-top to a LCD TV that has a monitor connection.
I have the proper lead (I think) but nothing happens when I connect the lead to my TV and lap-top.
Do I need to change the settings in my system somewhere?

[Fadetoblack]

Have you tried the various AV buttons?

[davefretwell]

I have tried everything from the source menu e.g. TV, video, scart 1, scart AV , D-Sub (this is supposed to be the correct setting according to the TV set-up instruction book).

[Fadetoblack]

It's possible then, and I'm sorry for the poor advice, that you could have a wrong cable.

[Fadetoblack]

Actually that was poor advice...if the cable fits then it must be the right one. I just tried with my own laptop there and it seemed to work fine.

[GlosRFC]

There's a function key on the laptop that switches the signal from the LCD screen to an external monitor. If memory serves me right, it's the F5 key...the symbol looks like a square inside a larger square. Hold down either the ALT or the CTRL key and press F5...the laptop will toggle between its own monitor, no monitor, and an external monitor.

[GlosRFC]

Oops, that should've said own monitor, both monitors, and just the external monitor. And, for most laptops, it's the Fn (Function) key you hold down along with the F5 key usually although that can vary. A list of the key combinations for most manufacturers is here

You also sometimes need to reboot before it takes effect. If that's the case, it's important that your external monitor is turned on before you restart the laptop. That way it can recognise it and install any required drivers.

You might also have to play around with your graphic settings depending on the quality of the picture on the remote device. Try to match the laptop settings to the same as the monitor rather than the other way around. Easiest way is to go into Control Panel, Display, Settings then move the screen resolution slider to the left or right.

The last tip is to make sure that your laptop is running from the mains rather than on battery power. Most laptop batteries are low power and sometimes don't generate enough current to send a signal, especially if you're using a long cable. Also turn off any power savings as they can interrupt the signal too...again you can reach these through Control Panel.

[davefretwell]

Thanks for the information Gents I will give it a try.