DVD player not working with TV

Figuring out why your DVD Player isn't working with your TV is a process of elimination, so work through the steps below to figure out the cause of the problem.

The problem could be:

• The connector cables/connections.
• The DVD disc itself.
• The DVD Player's optical reader (the lens which 'reads' the DVDs).
• The TV.

The connector cables/connections

Before doing anything, check all your connector cables. Make sure that all connections are in properly, and that the cables are in the right place.

One of the most important connections is the cable that runs between your TV and the DVD Player. If it isn't in place, then your TV can't read the information from the DVD Player and the film won't appear on your TV.

The DVD disc itself

Check for scratches, chips, smudges and any other marks. Test the disc isn't the problem by trying a different one in the player. If the new disc works, then the first one might need replacing.

The TV

Try changing channels. Lots of  TV's have a default channel specifically for DVD players. Have a look between the channels to see if the DVD menu appears.

On modern televisions, especially those connected to Digi-boxes or Sky Boxes, there's usually a 'Source' button on the remote control. Find it and go through until you reach the right setting for playing DVDs. To go back to watching normal TV channels after the DVD has finished, go back to the source button and change back to the original source.