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Resolved Question

TV's, VGA, and USB Ports

Nov 23, 2014 10:29AM PST

With VGA ports on TV's becoming more and more scarce, it has started to give me a little problem. I have a couple of devices that only use VGA output that need some love on the big screen.

Hence I wonder, since many TV's now have USB ports, if one were to say use a VGA to USB converter, would that work? Has anyone tried?


Thank you for your time,
- Kat

Discussion is locked

blackkat101 has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer

Best Answer

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I'm going with probably not,
Nov 23, 2014 11:38PM PST

That VGA to USB converter is probably not exactly that, it is probably a USB to VGA adapter.

Although you will get a multitude of hits using the term VGA to USB, reading the specs shows that they are designed to add a display to your computer, USB to VGA.

Notwithstanding that, the USB port on the TV is usually not equipped to receive video signals, just data from Drives and USB sticks.

Perhaps a better solution would be to use a VGA to HDMI convertor.
http://www.monoprice.com/Category?c_id=101&cp_id=10114&cs_id=1011404&gclid=CMaauc7Ik8ICFehAMgodYkgAvA

Connect the VGA output from your devices to this, then connect this to an available HDMI port on the TV.

P

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Thanks
Nov 24, 2014 1:46PM PST

I honestly didn't think of a VGA to HDMI converter.

The device in question is actually a Sega Dreamcast that gives its best picture through a VGA as it natively can handle that (first system ever to use the VGA cable) and it gives a better picture quality than through a set of component cables.

I really didn't think a VGA to USB cable would work, but some of my friends suggested it and I thought I'd ask around.


- Kat

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Answer
Adapters
Nov 24, 2014 3:33AM PST

Adapters have been around for yrs. since the 1st PC. You need to assure yourself exactly what you're getting and how it addresses your problem. It it does then go for it. I find that once you get into any adapter situation that lasts until the next problem crops-up. That's the nature of electronics in general but it generally if a big concern someone usually provides,just shop for it. I find also if you check online and use general terms that apply for your needs you get something out there. i only that works for ya and of course not too costly. But, beware of buying something too cheap they can be problematic to make it work or flat out don't all as advertized. yes, there are USB-to-VGA adapters or allowing a 2nd monitor to attach, but you're looking into a TV setup again, some TVs don't allow USB usage for everything unlike the PC. review your TV manual and verify what your USB port(s) allows.

tada -----Willy Happy