I’ve always wondered what the USB ports behind the TV could really be used for?
It’s true that we hardly notice them and don’t use them often or at all!
However, these ports offer many features and are actually very useful.
Notice
Knowing how and why to use them radically changes the multimedia experience!
For my part, I am completely convinced.
By properly exploiting these ports, I discovered many options that I hadn’t even suspected.
Discover 4 tips for using the USB ports behind your TV. Look :
1. To view your photos and movies on the TV
This is perhaps the usage that most people are most familiar with.
Connecting a multimedia device (hard drive, key) to read its contents. Let me explain.
For example, if you have movies stored on a hard drive, connect it to the USB port behind the screen.
With modern televisions you can easily play the film.
Especially if you use Android or have VLC as a player program.
You can also listen to songs, view photos and even read books.
And it’s the same when you have your latest vacation photos on a USB stick. Connect it to the TV and start the photo slideshow.
It’s that simple. It also works with your Chromecast if you have one.
2. 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 is especially useful if you have a smart TV with built-in apps. You will understand.
Modern televisions are integrating more and more applications such as Google, Facebook, You Tube, etc.
By connecting a keyboard to the TV, you can better navigate these applications.
Like when you sit in front of your computer. For example, if you’re entering a password, it’s better to do so with a keyboard rather than the remote control. It’s easier, isn’t it?
The mouse makes scrolling through websites easier. 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 right from your sofa!
3. To charge your smartphone and PlayStation controller
Yes, your TV must be connected to a power source to operate.
But did you know that your TV’s USB ports can also power other devices?
I’m primarily thinking of your iPhone or Android smartphone (Samsung, Xiaomi, etc.).
To charge, connect the charging cable to the TV’s USB port.
It also allows you to connect any other device that requires 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 colorful ambience that makes watching TV easier.
Well, you don’t need a power outlet nearby to run this band. Plug it into the TV’s USB port and you’re done.
You get the backlight. Another very useful option for PS4, PS5 or Xbox players. 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 it at the same time. Don’t hesitate to connect your controller’s cable to the TV’s USB port.
This gives you an additional option for charging; clever, isn’t it? Depending on the manufacturer and model, a television can power small devices with up to 5 V and 500 mA of power.
If it is an input that shows 5V 2A or 2.1, the port can supply even more current. In concrete terms, this means that you can charge your cell phone faster.
4. How to update 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 keep in mind that your TV comes with firmware (or firmware).
It’s a kind of program that makes it work.
Above all, 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 options to update this firmware. Or you can update the TV’s firmware via the Internet.
But this means that the television must be connected. Either you can 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 then open asking if you want to update the TV.
Click Yes. Your TV will automatically find the update file and begin the upgrade process.
And here we 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.
Additionally, 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!