Switching Monitors To Digital Input: Easy Steps To Follow

Switching to a different monitor input can be a tedious task, especially if you have to navigate through the monitor's settings. However, there are several methods to make this process easier. One way is to use the Auto Source or Auto Switch option in your monitor's OSD (on-screen display). This option automatically switches the input to the port with an active signal. Alternatively, you can use third-party applications like HP Display Center or Twinkle Tray to change the input source without using the monitor buttons or menus. If you have a Windows PC with a monitor that has DDC/CI capabilities, you can use the HP Display Center to change the input. For a quicker solution, you can also purchase an HDMI switcher or an HDMI splitter, which allows you to switch between different input sources with the push of a button.

Use an HDMI switch to connect to a monitor and TV

To use an HDMI switch to connect to a monitor and TV, you will need a device such as a computer or game console, an HDMI switch, and several HDMI cables. It is important to ensure that your switch and cables are rated for the resolution and frame rate you intend to display.

Firstly, power on your switch, and connect its input to the device you want to display. Then, power on your monitor and TV, and set their inputs to HDMI. Connect your monitor and TV to the switch's output ports using HDMI.

You can now change inputs on your TV or monitor to switch between displays. This is done on the display itself, either through its on-screen display or the direct input selection buttons on the device. The exact method for selecting an input will vary depending on your specific monitor or TV model.

Finally, turn on the device you are using to display content and select the input you would like on your switch to send the video signal to the chosen display.

Please note that an HDMI switch will not allow you to have multiple displays active simultaneously. Instead, it switches between different displays, allowing you to choose which single display to use with a given device.

Use VGA converters to convert VGA signals to HDMI ports

To convert VGA signals to HDMI ports, you will need to use a VGA-to-HDMI converter, as well as a basic VGA cable.

First, plug the VGA connector into the matching port on the back of your computer and tighten the screws (if applicable). Next, take the end of the cable with the HDMI connection and plug it into the appropriate port on a compatible display device.

Now, use the monitor's buttons to select the correct input.

It is important to note that VGA is an older technology, so this option may result in a loss of resolution. Additionally, while HDMI can transmit audio, VGA cannot. Therefore, if you are using monitor speakers, they will not be able to receive sound from your computer using this method, unless you purchase a converter with additional audio capability.

When using a converter, the signal of lesser quality will determine the final output quality. In this case, the VGA signal is the limiting factor of the final output signal.

VGA-to-HDMI converters are generally compact and inexpensive, with most averaging around $20.

Use ControlMyMonitor Utility to switch between input sources

The ControlMyMonitor utility is a helpful tool that allows you to change your monitor's settings from the command line or GUI. This is especially useful if you have multiple PCs connected to one monitor and want to avoid manually switching between input sources using hardware buttons. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use ControlMyMonitor to switch between input sources:

Step 1: Check System Compatibility

Before using ControlMyMonitor, ensure your hardware supports DDC/CI, and you have Windows Vista or a later version, including Windows 10. Unfortunately, Windows XP is not supported.

Step 2: Download and Run ControlMyMonitor

You can download the ControlMyMonitor utility from the NirSoft website. Once downloaded, run the utility to open the main window.

Step 3: Identify the VCP Code for Input Select

In the ControlMyMonitor main window, look for the line with VCP Code 60, which typically corresponds to "Input Select." However, this may vary depending on your graphics card and monitor, so ensure you identify the correct VCP Code.

Step 4: Determine the Current and Desired Input Source Values

The "Current Value" column in the ControlMyMonitor window indicates the active input source. To switch to a different input source, you need to determine the value of the desired input source. This can be done through trial and error or by referring to your monitor's documentation.

Step 5: Use Command Line to Set the Desired Input Source

You can use the following command-line syntax to set the desired input source:

ControlMyMonitor.exe /SetValue " [YourMonitorString] [VCP Code] [Value]"

For example, if you want to switch to input source 3, and your monitor name is "\\.\\DISPLAY2\\Monitor0", the command would be:

ControlMyMonitor.exe /SetValue " \\.\DISPLAY2\Monitor0" 60 3

Alternatively, if you're switching the input source of the primary monitor, you can use "Primary" instead of the monitor name:

ControlMyMonitor.exe /SetValue Primary 60 1

Step 6: Create Shortcuts for Easy Switching

For added convenience, you can create shortcuts with the appropriate commands to switch between input sources. You can even pin these shortcuts to your Start Menu or Taskbar for quicker access.

Important Caveat

One important thing to note is that ControlMyMonitor can only be used by the computer currently displaying on the monitor. So, if you switch the input from your desktop to your laptop, you'll need to use ControlMyMonitor from your laptop to switch back.

Connect input devices to the switch's input ports with HDMI

To connect input devices to the switch's input ports with HDMI, follow these steps:

• Ensure you have the necessary equipment: a device such as a computer or game console, an HDMI switch, and HDMI cables.
• Power on your switch and connect its input to your chosen device using an HDMI cable.
• Connect your input device to the switch's input ports using an HDMI cable.
• Power on your monitor and set its input to HDMI.
• Connect your monitor to one of the switch's output ports using an HDMI cable.
• Repeat this process for any additional input devices and displays you wish to include in your setup.
• Select your desired output on the switch to choose the active display.
• Ensure that both your TV and monitor are set to their HDMI inputs to enable seamless switching between displays.

By following these steps, you can connect input devices to the switch's input ports using HDMI and easily switch between different displays.

Use the HP Display Center app to change the input source

The HP Display Center app is a great way to change the input source on your monitor. This software is designed to enhance your productivity and viewing experience, allowing you to tailor your display settings to your specific needs. It is available for both Windows and Mac devices, with Windows users benefiting from an automatic download when connecting an HP monitor, while Mac users will need to manually download it from the Apple Store.

Once you have downloaded and installed the software, you can launch it and access the Input menu to change the input source. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Open the HP Display Center app.
• In the app, navigate to the Input menu.
• Within the Input menu, you will find the option to change the input source. Select this option.
• Now, you should be able to choose from the available input sources connected to your monitor. Select the desired input source.
• The app may provide additional settings related to the input source, such as speaker settings, which you can adjust as per your requirements.
• Once you have made your selections, confirm the changes, and your monitor should now be using the new input source.

The HP Display Center app also offers a range of other features to customize your display. These include adjusting display settings like sharpness, contrast, and brightness, creating colour presets, and accessing advanced settings like power-saving mode and firmware updates.

Frequently asked questions