Changing the input on your Samsung TV is a quick and easy process that allows you to switch between different devices connected to your TV, such as gaming consoles, streaming devices, Blu-ray players, or cable boxes. Whether you’re enjoying a movie, playing a game, or watching live TV, knowing how to change the input is essential for getting the most out of your viewing experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different ways to change the input on your Samsung TV.
Why You Might Need to Change the Input
Before we get into the how-to, let’s quickly cover some reasons you may want to change the input on your Samsung TV:
- Switching Between Devices: If you have multiple devices connected, like a gaming console (PlayStation or Xbox), a streaming device (Roku, Apple TV), or a cable box, changing the input will let you select the right device.
- Using HDMI Ports: Many modern TVs, including Samsung models, have multiple HDMI ports, and you may need to select the right one to display content from different sources.
- Switching to External Speakers: If you’re using a soundbar or external speakers, you may need to change the input on your TV to the appropriate HDMI ARC or optical input.
- Troubleshooting: If your TV screen is black, checking and changing the input can help determine whether the issue is with the device or the TV itself.
How to Change the Input on Your Samsung TV Using the Remote Control
The easiest way to change the input on your Samsung TV is by using the remote control. Here are the steps to follow:
Steps to Change Input Using the Remote:
- Turn on Your Samsung TV: Make sure your TV is powered on and displaying the home screen.
Press the “Source” Button on Your Remote: On most Samsung TV remotes, there is a dedicated button labeled “Source” (sometimes it might also say “Input” depending on the model). Press this button to open the input menu.
- For newer models, the button may be located on the left side of the remote or at the top, near the power button.
- For some remotes, the Source button might be labeled with an icon that looks like a TV screen with an arrow.
Select the Desired Input: Once you press the Source button, the TV will display a list of available inputs on the screen, such as HDMI 1, HDMI 2, TV, USB, and others.
- Use the arrow keys on your remote to navigate through the list of inputs.
- Highlight the input you want to switch to and press “OK” or “Enter.”
Enjoy Your Selected Device: After selecting the correct input, the TV will display the content from the chosen device, such as your game console or streaming device.
Quick Tip: If your Samsung TV is set to automatically detect and switch to a connected device (via HDMI-CEC), it may automatically switch to the correct input when you power on the connected device, such as a gaming console or streaming box.
How to Change Input Using the TV’s On-Screen Menu
If your remote is unavailable or malfunctioning, you can also change the input directly from the on-screen menu of your Samsung TV.
Steps to Change Input Using the On-Screen Menu:
- Turn on Your TV and navigate to the TV’s Home screen using the TV’s buttons or the remote.
- Press the Home Button on the Remote: If you don’t have a remote, you can press the physical buttons on the TV itself (located at the bottom or on the side of the TV).
- Navigate to “Source” in the Menu: Once you press the Home button, use the directional arrows on the remote to scroll to and select the “Source” option from the menu.
- Select Your Input: Just like using the remote’s Source button, this will display a list of connected devices. Use the up and down arrows to choose the correct input, and then press “OK” or “Enter.”
- Switch to the Selected Input: Your TV will automatically switch to the selected device.
How to Change Input Using the Samsung Smart Hub
If your Samsung TV is a smart TV, you can also switch inputs using the Smart Hub, which is Samsung’s central interface for apps, media, and other features.
Steps to Change Input Using Smart Hub:
- Press the Home Button on Your Remote: This will bring up the Samsung Smart Hub.
- Navigate to the “Source” Option: In the Smart Hub menu, you should see a section for “Source” or “Inputs.”
- Select Your Input: Scroll through the available options to choose the correct input for your connected device (e.g., HDMI 1, HDMI 2, USB, etc.).
- Confirm Your Selection: Select your desired input, and the TV will automatically switch to that source.
How to Change Input via the Samsung SmartThings App
For those who prefer to control their TV through their phone, the Samsung SmartThings app offers a convenient way to change the input. With this app, you can control a variety of Samsung devices from your smartphone.
Steps to Change Input Using SmartThings App:
- Download and Set Up SmartThings: If you haven’t already, download the Samsung SmartThings app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to pair your phone with your Samsung TV.
- Open the SmartThings App: Once paired, open the SmartThings app and select your TV from the list of connected devices.
- Navigate to “Control”: In the app, you’ll see a control panel with various options, including volume, power, and input.
- Select the Input Option: Tap on the “Input” button, and a list of available inputs will appear. Choose the input you want, and your Samsung TV will switch to the selected device.
How to Set Default Input on Samsung TV
If you always want your TV to start on a specific input (for example, HDMI 1 for your gaming console), you can set that input as the default.
Steps to Set a Default Input:
- Press the Home Button on Your Remote: Navigate to the Home screen.
- Go to Settings: Select the “Settings” option from the menu.
- Navigate to General Settings: Look for the “General” settings or “System” settings.
- Select “Startup Options”: Within the General or System menu, you should see an option called “Startup Input” or “Default Input.”
- Choose Your Preferred Input: Select the input you want your TV to default to whenever you turn it on, and press “OK.”
- Confirm Your Selection: Your Samsung TV will now always start on the chosen input when powered on.
Changing the input on your Samsung TV is a simple task that can be done in several ways: using the remote control, the on-screen menu, the Samsung Smart Hub, or even through the SmartThings app. Whether you’re switching between gaming consoles, streaming devices, or cable boxes, knowing how to quickly change the input ensures a smooth and enjoyable viewing experience. With these easy steps, you’ll never struggle to access the content you want to watch again!