How do you watch TV with a projector?
What do you need
HDMI
The options in this article only work if the projector has an HDMI input. You can find this connector on most modern projectors. Does your projector only have a VGA input? You can solve this with an HDMI to VGA adapter. Keep in mind that the projector might stand far away from the product, for example when you mount it to the ceiling. In this case, you'll need a long HDMI cable or wireless HDMI transmitter and receiver.
Speakers
Almost all projectors have no or moderate built-in speakers. That is why you usually need a separate speaker set to listen to a clear sound. The way in which you connect a beamer with speakers differs per model. Most projectors have an analog or digital audio output. Some devices can be connected wirelessly to a Bluetooth speaker. This is useful when the projector is suspended from the ceiling.
Television
Does your TV have a built-in DVB tuner or CI+ module? You'll send the TV signal to the projector via an HDMI cable. Please note, this only works if the TV has an HDMI output. An advantage is that you can play the audio via the speaker system of the TV. This means you won't need a separate speaker set. With the remote of the TV, you can switch between all the channels.
Digital receiver
Maybe you watch TV via a digital TV receiver of your provider, like KPN, Ziggo, or Telenet. You can easily connect this box to the projector via an HDMI cable. That way, you can watch TV programs on the large screen. You can use the remote of the TV to switch the channel.
Dongle or media player
With a Dongle or media player you add online apps and functions to the projector. The most famous examples are the Chromecast and Apple TV. In addition to streaming services such as YouTube, these devices give you access to apps that allow you to receive TV channels. You control all functions with an app for your smartphone or tablet. Check in advance whether the projector has the required connections. For example, a dongle often receives power via the USB output of the device.
Computer or laptop
You usually connect a computer to a projector to watch movies. You receive a large number of TV programs with the same ease, provided you have an internet connection. This is because many TV programs are available on the website of the channel. You take control of all functions with your mouse or keyboard.
