Everybody loves to tune into a good movie rerun, or to flick through the channels to find a mid-week evening TV show to watch. But when it comes to streaming on-demand services, it can be a challenge to access them on a non-smart TV.
Many people assume you can’t access such services unless you have a smart TV. While owning a smart TV is recommended - and we would always advise you to upgrade your home entertainment system - streaming services like Netflix can still be used on non-smart TVs.
Today we’ll explore how to set up your non-smart TV to work with services such as Netflix.
What is a non-smart TV?
A ‘non-smart’ TV is a television set that doesn’t have the capability to connect to the internet and stream services directly to your TV set. Most traditional TVs from the early 2000s and before this time period are non-smart TVs. While we’d always recommend upgrading, smart TVs aren’t for everyone - which is fine! But that doesn't mean you should miss out because you’re opting to use a non-smart TV.
Cello Electronics has a whole section of our product line and website where we offer non-smart TVs. If you are thinking of buying a new TV, and don’t want to go smart, take a look at our comprehensive selection of TVs that includes TVs with built-in satellite tuners and Freeview boxes to TVs with in-built DVD players.
How do I get Netflix on my TV?
If you are using a non-smart TV, there’s one main method that you can use to get Netflix on your television set.
Most non-smart TVs will have HDMI ports in the back of the TV set itself. Before continuing, you’ll need to check what ports your TV has available. Much older TV sets may only have Scart connections. If this is the case, you’ll need to consider:
- Upgrading to a newer non-smart TV
- Upgrading to a smart TV
If your TV does indeed have HDMI ports in the back of it, then read on!
Connecting TV to a device via HDMI
If you have a laptop or a desktop computer that has access to the internet, you can set up your non-smart TV as an additional screen for your computer. This will allow you to view services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime on your TV using your computer.
You’ll need:
- A Netflix account
- A computer, such as a laptop, Mac, or desktop
- A HDMI cable
Step One
Set up your TV and your computer of choice so that they are close to one another. This is to allow you to connect them using the HDMI cable. Make sure both devices (your TV and your computer) are switched off.
Step Two
Connect the TV and the computer using your HDMI cable. It doesn’t matter what end of the cable goes into the TV and what end goes into the computer - they are used for point to point connections both ways.
Step Three
Turn on the power to the TV, then to the computer. After both devices are switched on, go to your TV settings and select the ‘HDMI’ input option. This will vary based on your TV, so if you are having issues navigating the TV’s settings menu then you’ll need to consult the TV’s manual.
Step Four
Go to your computer’s display settings, and choose the TV as your second screen. Make sure you select to ‘extend displays’. Again, much like the TV settings, these settings will differ between different computers. If you are having any issues accessing the computer’s display settings, there are plenty of YouTube tutorials that can help.
Step Five
Log in to Netflix on your computer, then drag the internet browser window onto your TV screen. Put Netflix into full screen mode and enjoy!
This can take some trial and error, as well as decent technical knowledge of both your PC and TV set. It is often best to consult a friend or relative that knows more about these setups than you do if you are struggling.
Looking to Upgrade? Choose Cello!
Be it a newer non-smart TV, or finally time to take the plunge with a smart TV, choosing Cello Electronics means you are choosing:
- A British company that manufactures all their branded TVs here in the UK.
- Free UK delivery on all TV orders
- A generous returns window to make sure you are happy with your purchase
- High-quality TVs made from only premium materials
- TVs at affordable prices, with financing options available
- A reputable UK market leader in TV manufacturing
If you need any assistance at all, our attentive and knowledgeable customer care team is available! Just drop us an email or give us a call.