The way that we can stream content on our TVs continues to change. Especially with newer models, streaming content is easier than ever.
It’s possible to hook external devices to your TV via its HDMI port. This can be a great option for you if you have downloaded content saved on an external hard drive and would like to watch it.
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Can I Connect My External Hard Drive to My TV via HDMI?
It is possible to connect an external hard drive to your TV, but first, check to see if your TV model can be paired with an external hard drive. Next, make sure that the hard drive has the right storage level as the TV might not be able to support a hard drive with a high storage capacity.
Connecting Your TV and Your External Hard Drive
While some TVs will have a specifically labeled HDMI port that is compatible with USB connections, not all do. If your TV has an HDMI port that is labeled USB/HDD, then there’s no need to test the other ports.
If your TV does not have a specifically marked USB/HDD port, there’s still a possibility that your TV is compatible with your external hard drive.
To test your external hard drive, plug it into one of the HDMI ports.
If your TV can provide enough power to your hard drive, you will see a light come on on your external hard drive — the same as when you plug it into your computer.
Then cycle through the TV inputs. If your TV supports your hard drive, once you find the right input, you will see the screen.
Connecting Your External Hard Drive Through Other Methods
Most of us these days have availed of a paid subscription for a streaming service. Depending on how updated your model is, it’s possible to connect your Roku or your Fire Stick to your external hard drive.
This can be a good solution if you already have too many attachments plugged into your HDMI ports.
Buying a hard drive adaptor is another option. When plugged into your TV’s HDMI ports, this will make it easier for you to use your external hard drive.
This is especially handy because, depending on your TV model, it can allow you to use your hard drive even if it isn’t typically supported.
If you don’t want to risk losing power to your external hard drive, which can cause you to lose files, you can connect your hard drive through another power source.
You can connect your laptop directly to your TV and in turn, connect the external hard drive to your computer.
I find this to be a useful method because I’ve got video files stored on my external hard drive that are only present there.
This means that if my TV was to suddenly lose power while I’m in the middle of watching something, I don’t risk losing that file.
Issues With Connecting
Occasionally, you can run into issues with connecting your external hard drive to your TV. This doesn’t always necessarily mean that your external hard drive isn’t compatible with the model of your TV.
You can check if there are any issues with your TV settings. The easiest way to do this is to open your TV’s settings menu, select General, and then Reset (before doing this, remove your external hard drive).
Once your TV has been reset, try testing your external hard drive again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Connecting My External Hard Drive to My TV via HDMI
Can I connect my 4 TB drive to my TV?
Some TVs will be able to accommodate a 4 TB hard drive, but they most commonly allow for only a 2 TB drive to be connected. Depending on the TV’s model and make, it’s possible you have wider range options. To find out what your TV’s compatibility range is, you need to read your TV’s manual.
How do pair an external hard drive with a TV?
An external hard drive can be used to play movie files that you’ve saved on other devices or to broadcast larger files that you wouldn’t be able to transfer with another method. Video files will all be accessible on your TV.
If I plug the external hard drive I’m using to my TV, will I lose any of the files saved in it?
External hard drives are typically used to save files and back up your computer, so losing those files is a valid fear. When it comes to connecting your external hard drive to your TV, it should not be done for extended periods as it risks damaging the drive and losing your files.
In Conclusion
Connecting hard drives with TVs is genuinely possible. That is if your TV and hard drive are compatible.
If they are, you will be able to access video files and play them on your TV.
Just be careful when plugging your external hard drive into your TV, because it draws power directly from the HDMI connection, prolonged attachment can cause the lifespan of your external hard drive to significantly decrease.
