How to Hook Up a Nintendo Wii to a Laptop Screen

Maxwell Payne
How to use your laptop's screen as a monitor for playing the Nintendo Wii gaming system on.

The Wii gaming console connects to TV monitors. Computer screens can also be utilized as a TV when proper components are used. While desktop computers have PCI slots where a TV tuner card can be installed, laptops do not have space for such a component. However there are aftermarket USB devices that serve the same purpose.

Together with an RF converter and some cables, the Wii display can be viewed on a laptop screen. You can also use this setup guide on desktop computers as well.

In order to successfully connect the Wii to a laptop you'll need the following items: Wii with included video out cable, RCA to RF modulator or converter box, Standard coaxial TV cable, USB TV tuner adapter.

Connect the red, white, yellow video out jacks on the Wii's video cable to the matching colored jacks on the RCA to RF converter.

Connect one end of the coaxial cable to the RF out jack on the RF to RCA converter.

Connect the USB tv tuner adapter to an available USB port on your computer. Wait a few seconds for the device to be recognized. If the tuner adapter came with additional software, insert the CD and follow the on screen installation instructions. You may need to restart the computer after installing any drivers or software.

Connect the other end of the coaxial cable to the RF in jack on the USB tv tuner adapter. If the adapter has a switch, move it to the on position.

Turn on the Wii and wait a few seconds for the Wii display to appear on the laptop screen.

You may need to go into your computer's System settings and adjust the screen resolution and screen size. The Wii screen on your laptop screen may appear distorted, too small, or too large. Changing the resolution and video settings may correct this issue.

References:

Everything USB: Information on USB tuners [http://www.everythingusb.com/hardware/Graphics_and_Sound/USB_Video_Capture.htm]

Nintendo: Wii official website [http://www.nintendo.com/wii]

Published by Maxwell Payne

I write to entertain you, or at least to inform you.  View profile

4 Comments

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  • Jennifer Wagner7/21/2010

    I just sold my Wii. I didn't even know this coud be done!

  • Abby Greenhill7/21/2010

    Why would you want to use a small screen on a laptop?

  • Maxwell Payne7/21/2010

    I agree Allana, it seems like it would be awkward to play and use for long term use.

  • Allana Calhoun7/21/2010

    Interesting. I wouldn't think you'd want to use this as a long-term setup though. Your laptop may not appreciate it. :D

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