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- to watch your photos and films on the TV
This is perhaps the use that most people are most familiar with.
Connecting a multimedia device (hard disc, key) to read its contents. Let me explain.
For example, if you have films stored on a hard drive, you connect it to the USB port behind the screen.
With modern TVs, you can play the film without any problems.
Especially if you use Android or have VLC as a player programme.
You can also listen to songs, view photos and even read books.
And it’s the same if you have your latest holiday photos on a USB stick. Connect it to the TV and start the photo slideshow.
It’s as simple as that. It also works with your Chromecast if you have one.
- how to connect a mouse and keyboard to the TV
What’s the point of connecting computer peripherals (keyboards, mice) to a TV USB port?
Well, it’s especially useful if you have a smart TV with built-in apps. You’ll understand.
Modern TVs are integrating more and more applications such as Google, Facebook, You Tube etc.
By connecting a keyboard to the TV, you can navigate these applications better.
Just like when you sit in front of your computer. For example, when you enter a password, you do it better with a keyboard than with the remote control. It’s easier, isn’t it?
The mouse makes it easier to scroll through web pages. Try browsing Google with a remote control and you’ll see… it’s not intuitive at all.
By connecting these devices, the TV offers the same experience as on a computer. Finally, you know that you can even connect a webcam.
This allows you to take video calls directly from your sofa!
- to charge your smartphone and PlayStation controller
Yes, your TV must be connected to a power source to operate.
But did you know that the USB ports on your TV can also supply power to other devices?
I’m thinking primarily of your iPhone or Android smartphone (Samsung, Xiaomi, etc.).
Connect the charging cable to the TV’s USB port for charging.
It also allows you to connect any other device that needs a power source. Take; Take LED strips for example. These are backlights that come in the form of strips and stick to the back of your TV. Basically, they create a colourful ambience that makes watching TV easier.
Now, you don’t need a power outlet nearby to power this strip. Plug it into the USB port of the TV and you’re done.
You get the backlight. Another very useful option for PS4, PS5 or Xbox gamers. If you are a console gamer, you always encounter the same problem. Our controllers discharge quickly.
The problem is that we don’t have enough USB ports on the console to charge them at the same time. Don’t hesitate to connect the cable of your controller to the USB port of the TV.
This gives you an extra option for charging; smart, right? Depending on the manufacturer and model, a TV can supply small devices with up to 5 V and 500 mA of power.
If it is an input that indicates 5 V 2 A or 2.1, the port can supply even more current. In concrete terms, this means that you can charge your mobile phone faster.
- how to update the TV software
Firmware, firmware, update… Quésaco just these few words?
Well, you don’t have to work at Fnac to understand what it is. Just note that your TV is equipped with firmware (or firmware).
It’s a type of programme that makes it work.
Most importantly, it allows the TV to evolve (via updates) by incorporating new features.
And this is where USB ports come into play. Because there are 2 ways to update this firmware. Or you can update the TV’s firmware via the Internet.
However, this means that the TV must be connected. You can either download the latest firmware for your TV model to your computer.
Download the latest firmware version from the manufacturer’s support website.
Then transfer the file to a USB flash drive and connect it to your TV.
A pop-up window will appear asking if you want to update the TV.
Click Yes. Your TV will automatically find the update file and start the upgrade process.
And off you go. Without having to connect the TV to the Internet, simply update the firmware like a pro.
Conclusion
And there you go; now you know what the USB ports behind your screen are for.
You’ve seen that it’s not just the HDMI inputs that are useful.
What’s more, these tips work on all TVs. Hisense, huawei, TCL, Sony, Samsung, Toshiba, Thomson, Panasonic, Philips … So from now on, don’t hesitate to use your USB ports!
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