Software
Houzz Logo Print
debbymc

Streaming connections.

10 years ago

Can someone explain how to connect Netflix, Roku, and other steaming devices to a TV? How do you change to different programs without connecting and disconnecting? I'm not computer illiterate, but the different methods of streaming have me confused. I would like to be able to use these services but am not sure which way to go.

Comments (12)

  • 10 years ago

    Thank you that helps.


  • PRO
    9 years ago

    Yea because you are new to streaming I would recommend purchasing an Apple TV at a nearby apple store and make an appt at the Genius bar to have one of the tech show you how to hook it up and use it.

  • 9 years ago

    If you are an Amazon Prime viewer, forget Apple TV.

  • PRO
    9 years ago

    True, but if you are just starting out on streaming then Apple has the supported needed to help people take baby-steps into streaming. I actually prefer the Roku myself for it's Amazon Prime and PLEX client features but that's a little more advanced.

  • 9 years ago

    When I switch from antenna to HDMI I get a menu displayed from the Roku. The menu lists Amazon, Pandora Hulu, Netflix, Plex, and about 10 other streaming services. I use primarily Amazon (free with Prime), where many shows and movies are free, while others require payment. The Roku has similar buttons to a VCR remote, so you can stop, start, and pause any show or movie you select.

    I also just set up a Plex server on one of my PCs, and was able to access it from my Roku. Since my son has made a digital copy on the PC of many of our DVDs (ripped), to take on a laptop when we travel, I am now experimenting with accessing my movies using Plex from my Roku. Overall the setup seems fairly simple, although I have to leave my PC on to act as a server. Plex also allows streaming of music, but I haven't tried loading anything from my own CDs yet.

    Bruce

  • 9 years ago

    Thanks, that sounds interesting. I've got the Fire Stick now and friends are recommending the Roku. Another question, I've heard people talk about a hack on the Fire Stick called Jailbreak. Is that legal? I've seen the instructions on the internet but wanted to be sure what is allowed and what is not.

  • PRO
    9 years ago

    Instead of keeping your computer on to use as a Plex Server, you can use one of the mid-range synology NAS drives as a Plex Server instead. Then you don't have to keep your computer on.


  • 9 years ago

    I am using one computer for both Plex and for my home file server. We are still in transition, but since my newer laptop has a relatively small SDD its nice to have a server (with all our files) that can be reached from any of our laptops. My wife also likes the convenience of having everything in one place instead of multiple versions of pictures and data files spread out over multiple laptops.

    Bruc

  • PRO
    9 years ago

    Sure you can setup Plex that way as well-- Plex server can run on all kinds of devices. I just prefer to use the Synology NAS solution-- specifically this one:

    https://www.amazon.com/Synology-DS416play-NAS-DiskStation-Diskless/dp/B01GB9ZJ3Q

    Please note that you must by the Hard drives separately.

  • 8 years ago

    Am I missing something here? All the input devices are connected to my TV. I use the INPUT button on the TV to change the source of streaming. For example, Roku is HDMI 1, cable box is HDMI 2, etc. Netflix is not a device and is accessible through Roku.

  • PRO
    8 years ago

    Nope. I just think there was some confusion about an app on a device vs the device itself-- at least that's what the original post was about anyway.

Sponsored