HDTV Setup Guide - Blu-ray Player and/or Games Console & HDTV
If you have made the leap to high-definition Blu-ray discs, the only way to get the full 1080p resolution of the discs onto your screen is to use an HDMI cable. If your HDTV predates HDMI, use analogue Component cables, but it's not the best way to do things.
If your older HDTV doesn't have an HDMI port, but has a DVI input that supports HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) then you'll get the same picture quality as an HDMI connection but will need to use a separate sound connector.
Current-generation high-definition games consoles such as the Sony PlayStation 3 and Microsoft XBox 360 can be connected to HDTVs in much the same way as Blu-ray players. In fact, the Sony PlayStation 3 is an excellent Blu-ray player itself and highly recommended. HDMI is the simplest and best way to connect up your gaming machine. If you have a Nintendo Wii, which is a standard definition device, then you will need to buy a Wii component video cable to get the best picture. There are also VGA cables for the XBox 360 if you're out of HDMI ports and want an excellent picture.
If you arrived at this page but have different equipment, go the the main page of the HDTV Setup Guide to find the setup that suits you.
Which Cables?
Confused about the names of cables? Here's a quick visual guide to help you figure out which connectors we're talking about. If you're not familiar with the technical terms, either click the words the difficult words for a definition or visit our HDTV Glossary.